How to Clean Your Laser Printer and Toner Cartridges

Posted by Rob Errera on 05/12/2023

Cleaning your laser printer is a simple way to extend its shelf life and improve its performance level.

Laser printers contain a lot of complex moving parts, most notably the toner cartridge, that need to be well-maintained over time to continue to perform their role in the laser printing process.

How To Clean a Laser Printer - Cleaning Supplies

All supplies can be found at any local hardware store or Home Depot.

1. Latex gloves. Latex gloves will keep your hands clean throughout the cleaning.

2. Toner Vacuum. Toner vacuums are specifically made for cleaning toner cartridges and have filters that are able to trap fine toner particles.

Toner vacuums are expensive, ranging from $200- $300, but are necessary to properly clean your toner cartridges.

☝ Never try to use regular vacuums when cleaning your toner cartridges, as you risk blowing toner into the air.

3. Activated toner cloth. The activated toner cloth is a special disposable cloth that attracts and traps toner particles. The activated toner cloth picks up whatever the toner vacuum leaves behind.

The activated toner cloth should be used once and thrown out.

4. Isopropyl alcohol/ aerosol spry duster. Never use rubbing alcohol. The cleaning formulas used to clean cd's, tape drives, ect. contain 99% isopropyl and are fine to use.

5. Mask. You want to fully protect yourself against toner particles entering your throat and lungs, which has the potential to cause respiratory tract irritation.

Toner inhalation has not been known to be the cause of any deaths, but why take any chances - always wear a mask when cleaning toner cartridges. Painting or sanding masks are adequate.

6. Paintbrush. Never use a toothbrush, as the bristles are too hard and too short. You will want to use a small paintbrush, about a half-inch wide, with a soft bristle.

7. Cotton swabs. Regular cotton swabs are fine.

Cleaning a Laser Printer Step-by-Step

1. Turn off your Laser Printer one hour prior to cleaning. The laser printer needs to cool down so you don't electrocute yourself.

2. Put on your mask and gloves and gather your supplies. It's time to clean your laser printer and toner cartridges.

3. Open the laser printer. To see the best way to open your laser printer, look at your printer's owner's manual.

4. Remove the detachable components. This includes the toner cartridge, the toner bottle, and the drum unit. Avoid touching the surface of the drum unit and place it in an area with no direct light, excessive heat, or humidity.

5. Wipe your toner cartridge(s) with the activated toner cloth. Remove excess toner while resting the toner cartridge on a second activated toner cloth.

6. Place the toner vacuum in the printer chassis, ensuring that it does not come into contact with any internal surfaces. Gently and slowly use the toner vacuum to remove any spilled toner from the internal components.

Take care to follow the manufacturer's instructions for operating the toner vacuum properly and safely. This will help effectively clean the printer and prevent any damage to its internal parts.

7. Clean hard-to-reach spots with a paintbrush. Remove all toner found in crevices, then use the toner vacuum to remove any dust or debris left behind.

8. Clean the corona wires. Take a cotton swab and lightly dip it in 70% isopropyl alcohol. Gently rub the corona wires with moistened cotton swab, ensuring to cover both the upper and underside of the wires.

Be cautious not to apply excessive pressure, as corona wires are fragile and expensive to replace. If necessary, use multiple cotton swabs to clean the wires thoroughly.

This will help remove any buildup or debris on the corona wires and ensure optimal print quality.

9. Clean the paper feed roller. Take a cotton swab and moisten it with 70% isopropyl alcohol. Gently rub the paper feed roller in a circular motion, using the moistened cotton swab to remove any toner buildup.

If needed, replace the cotton swab with a fresh one to ensure effective cleaning. Avoid using excessive moisture to prevent damage to the roller.

This will help maintain smooth paper feeding and prevent any issues caused by accumulated toner on the roller.

10. Reinsert all components and close the printer. You're almost there.

11. Clean and disinfect the laser printer's exterior. Remove all dust and debris build-up using an activated toner cloth and Isopropyl alcohol.

12. Turn the printer back on and reconvene use. You did it. You cleaned your laser printer and toner cartridges!

Laser Printer Cleaning Infographic

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Rob Errera

Rob Errera is an award-winning journalist embedded in the world of printers and printing supplies. Rob has nearly two decades of experience writing about cutting edge technology, business trends, and the ever-evolving industry of printing.