When they opt for a welcome bonus, many online casino players don’t know whether they’ve claimed a sticky or a non-sticky bonus. Most gamblers see an attractive offer and grab it before taking some time to check it out.
That’s precisely why we wanted to talk about sticky and non-sticky bonuses. We’ll learn more about them and see what separates the two in order to avoid confusion on your next online gambling adventure.
What is a Sticky Bonus?
A sticky bonus is an offer you can use for betting but can’t withdraw. When reading the terms and conditions, it’s typically described as a bonus used “for wagering only”. When it comes to its value, a sticky bonus can be worth just as a traditional one, with only a single yet crucial difference: you won’t be able to withdraw this bonus!
You need to play a sticky bonus differently from a traditional online casino offer to make the most of it.
Choosing a sticky bonus allows you to boost your initial balance, even before your gaming experience starts. Compared to a non-sticky bonus, it can give you significantly more money. It can offer up to 300% or even 400% on your initial deposit. This can boost your odds of winning, but we advise you to watch out. You’ll need more money to start with; otherwise, you can lose more than you can handle.
Let’s see how it works in practice. For example, your online casino offers a sticky bonus of $50 if you deposit $50. You deposit the needed sum and receive an additional $50 to start your playing experience with $100. Betting $100 can either get you an additional $100, or you’ll lose everything. If you win, you can withdraw everything except the bonus, meaning you’ll take $150 home. On the other hand, if you lose and quit playing, you’ll lose only the initial deposit of $50 you made.
What is a Non-Sticky Bonus?
A non-sticky bonus is a traditional type of offer. Also known as a parachute bonus, it’s cashable and can be cashed out as soon as the player meets its wagering requirements.
You’ll recognise a non-sticky bonus if your online casino allows you to withdraw your entire bankroll. Of course, provided you’ve met the bonus wagering requirement.
In most cases, players will pick a non-sticky bonus since it’s less complicated. More importantly, it allows players to cash out the bonus money and make a little profit at the same time.

Here’s an example. You deposited $50 and claimed a non-sticky bonus of the same value. It means you have $50 in real money plus an additional $50 of your bonus. First, you would have to play with the real $50, and you’ll be able to cash out at any moment since that money is not attached to the terms and conditions. However, if you start playing with the bonus money, you’ll have to meet the wagering requirements before withdrawing your winnings.
In short, sticky bonuses can’t be cashed out, while non-sticky bonuses are cashable and can be withdrawn without any problems. That’s the main difference between these two bonuses, and the crucial one.
