Blog · By The Packaging Vista Team · June 20, 2026
Greaseproof vs. Wax vs. Parchment Paper: Which Do You Need?
Greaseproof, wax, and parchment paper look alike but are not interchangeable – they resist different things. Pick the wrong one and your wrap fails or your bake sticks. This comparison is part of our custom printed papers guide.
Quick comparison
| Paper | Resists | Oven-safe? | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Greaseproof | Grease & oil | No | Fried and oily foods |
| Wax | Moisture | No (wax melts) | Wrapping, separating cold foods |
| Parchment | Heat & sticking | Yes | Baking and oven prep |
Greaseproof paper
Greaseproof is a dense paper that blocks grease and oil, so it keeps fried foods, pastries, and burgers from soaking through the wrap or box. It is not heat-resistant. See greaseproof paper.
Wax paper
Wax paper resists moisture thanks to its wax coating, making it good for wrapping and layering foods – but the wax melts in an oven, so keep it out of heat. See wax paper.
Parchment paper
Parchment is silicone-coated for heat resistance and non-stick performance, which is why it is the baking paper. If the paper goes in the oven, you want parchment. See parchment paper.
How to choose
Ask one question first: does it get hot? If yes, parchment. If not, choose greaseproof for oily foods or wax for moisture. For meats and deli, see our food wrapping papers guide.
Get the right custom food paper
Tell us your food and how it is served, and we will recommend a paper and print it with your brand. Start with our custom papers guide, then request your free quote or contact our team.