How to store ink cartridges?

Ink cartridges can be expensive, and spending money is never fun! Why learning to store ink cartridges properly is important. Since inkjet printers require liquid ink to print, it is important that we ensure that this ink does not dry out too quickly and is useful for as long as possible.

Ideally, you want to store your ink cartridges in their packaging, and in a cool, dry place. When you get a new printer and start using new ink cartridges, it is best to read the manual for both the machine and the ink to see how to store what specific ink you use.

Getting yourself acquainted with the correct collection of your ink cartridges ahead of time can prevent them from drying out too soon. Today, we take a look at how to buy HP ink cartridges online and how to store ink cartridges when not used by open cartridge storage.

buy HP ink cartridges online

General rules for storing ink cartridges

Whether you are storing HP ink cartridges in their packaging or have been opened, some general rules apply.

  • Store your cartridges in a cool, dry place
  • Keep your cartridges in a cool place (easy work in Australia!), Away from direct sunlight. A good place for storage can be behind a desk drawer.
  • Do not keep the cartridge next to you

The cartridges should be kept in an upright position for optimal storage. Ink can start to explode if placed on their side or sideways, and no one wants to clean up such dirt. If you have a multi-coloured cartridge, an ink leak can also mean a mix of colors that should not be mixed.

Reducing air circulation

Place the cartridge in a sealed plastic container or bag so that it is exposed to air. Air can cause problems for ink drying such as cartridges.

In its packaging

If your HP ink cartridges are still in their packaging, leave them there (ideally unless you need to load them into a printer to use them). It can be protected by storing the ink cartridges in their original packaging. The ink cartridge product may be the recommended storage method, so always be sure to read the boxes and apply the stated storage method where possible.

As a general rule, an ideal way to buy HP ink cartridges online is without opening it is in a sealed plastic bag behind a desk drawer, which is not exposed to direct sunlight.

In the printer

Printing regularly in a printer is a great way to make sure the cartridge dries quickly. If you don't have a picture or document that needs to be printed, printing a test page can be a great way to use a little ink and move things around.

Did you know that you won't print for a while? It would be best to remove the cartridges from your printer and store them as open cartridges (we will go into more details about the storage method for this). Make sure that you have kept your printers away from sunlight. Direct sunlight can be harmful to a printer, so keep your machine in a shelter.

Stored ink cartridges

If your HP ink cartridge is open and out of its packaging, take a look at the manufacturer's website to find out what is the best method of storage. As a general rule, if your ink cartridge is taken out of its original packaging, a good way to store it is in a small, airtight plastic container.

Keep the ink cartridge in an upright position. Be sure not to touch the cartridge nozzle. Place a damp piece of paper or cloth with the cartridge. Do not use plastic bags instead of containers to store your cartridges. Secure the cartridge nozzles to make sure they are not rubbed or touched.

Use of cartridges after storage

Check your stored cartridges before putting them in the printer. If the cartridges are in storage for a while, problems can develop, and you may not want to familiarize them with the printer when you can find a simple check.

When you are testing your cartridge, make sure you ignore it and take a look at the product. Is there any ink spread? Is the dust settled? Gently spread any ink and wipe off the dust. The print head should be moist.

Check the print head to make sure it doesn't dry out, wiping all the tissue in the head. Be sure to check the contact terminals how they should. If you need references, do a quick search to see how you can buy HP ink cartridges online.

If all this is done, put the cartridge in your printer and print the test page. Does that sound okay? Then you should be good at printing to your heart’s content! For more information to contact Ink House Direct.