Two bonuses can look identical on the promo page and pay out very differently at the cashier. The reason is usually one word in the terms: sticky.
This short guide explains what sticky and non-sticky casino bonuses are, shows the same session played both ways, and helps you decide which suits you.
What Is a Sticky Bonus?
A sticky bonus stays in your account while you play but can never be withdrawn itself. When you cash out, the bonus amount is removed and you keep everything above it.
You'll sometimes see sticky bonuses called phantom bonuses, because the bonus money disappears at withdrawal.
The Platinum Reels welcome bonus (250% up to $2,000) is a sticky bonus. In exchange, it comes with low 15x wagering and no maximum cashout.
Other Platinum Reels offers can be sticky too. Each bonus is clearly marked in the cashier before you claim it, so you always know which kind you're getting.
What Is a Non-Sticky Bonus?
A non-sticky bonus keeps your real money and bonus money separate. You play with your deposit first, and the bonus only kicks in if your real money runs out.
The big advantage: if you win with your real money before touching the bonus, you can usually withdraw those winnings straight away by forfeiting the bonus, with no wagering. That's why non-sticky offers are also called parachute bonuses.
Side by Side: The Same Session, Both Ways
You deposit $100 and get a 100% match ($100 bonus). Here's how two possible sessions end.
Session A: you win early
Your balance grows from $200 to $350 and you've completed wagering.
| Sticky | Non-sticky | |
|---|---|---|
| Balance at cashout | $350 | $350 |
| Bonus removed | −$100 | Not removed (typically) |
| You can withdraw | $250 | $350 |
If you won with your real money before using the bonus, a non-sticky offer often lets you cash out without finishing wagering at all, by forfeiting the bonus.
Session B: you lose your deposit first
Your real $100 is gone, and you keep playing on the bonus.
- Sticky: you were always playing on a combined $200 balance, so the bonus has been working for you from the first spin.
- Non-sticky: now the bonus takes over. You'll need to complete wagering before any bonus winnings become withdrawable.
In this scenario, the two types end up behaving much the same.
Which Is Better?
Neither is always better. It depends on the rest of the terms.
Non-sticky suits you if: you like the option to walk away with real-money wins at any time.
Sticky can still be the better deal if: the wagering is low, the match is large, and there's no cashout cap. A sticky bonus with 15x wagering and no max cashout can be worth more than a non-sticky bonus with 40x wagering and a tight cap.
Always judge a bonus by all its terms together: the match, the wagering requirement, the max bet, the cashout cap, and whether it's sticky.
How to Tell Which One You're Claiming
Before you claim, check the offer's terms for these words:
- "Sticky" or "phantom" means the bonus is removed at cashout.
- "Non-sticky," "parachute" or "real money played first" means balances are kept separate.
- "Bonus amount will be deducted on withdrawal" also signals a sticky bonus.
At Platinum Reels, the cashier shows whether a bonus is sticky before you claim it. Still not sure? Ask support before you deposit.
FAQ
What does sticky mean in a casino bonus?
A sticky bonus can be played with but not withdrawn. When you cash out, the bonus amount is removed and you keep your winnings above it.
Can I withdraw a sticky bonus?
No. You can withdraw the winnings it helped you make once wagering is complete, but the bonus amount itself is deducted.
Is the Platinum Reels welcome bonus sticky?
Yes. It is a sticky bonus with 15x wagering on deposit plus bonus and no maximum cashout.
Are non-sticky bonuses always better?
No. Compare wagering, max bet and cashout caps too. A sticky bonus with low wagering and no cap can be better value.
Choose Your Bonus With Confidence
Sticky or not, the best bonus is the one whose terms you understand. Compare every offer in our guide to online casino bonuses, then pick the one that fits how you play.
Players must be 21 or older. Bonus terms apply. Please play responsibly.
