Cleaning Up After A Printer Ink Cartridge Or Toner Accident And What Not To Do

2010-05-16

If you own a laser printer, it is highly likely that you have had an ink cartridge or toner mishap. If you haven't had an accident, consider yourself lucky, as ink and toner are not only toxic and difficult to clean up, but are also expensive. Pay close attention as we go over printer ink cleanup concerning an ink or toner spill, and most importantly, what NOT to do.

First and foremost, you need to know what you are dealing with. Printer ink cartridges are small, replaceable units that contain ink and usually a computer chip that allows it to communicate with the printer. Printer ink cartridges need to be replaced several times a year and are often pricey. Toner is tightly compacted powder used in laser printers and usually comes in a removable plastic tube.

In the event that your printer malfunctions and a toner spill occurs, turn your printer off immediately. Place a sheet of paper over your printer to prevent the loose toner from spreading. If your skin or clothes are covered with toner, do not use hot water to wash it off. Hot water causes the loose powder to fuse and become impossible to remove. Instead, use cold water and soap to remove the toner. If toner does not come out of your clothes after scrubbing it by hand, it is okay to throw it in the wash as long as you wash it in a cold water cycle. Next, carefully take out any removable parts of your printer. Leave in the toner cartridge to minimize additional spilling of powder. Use a home vacuum to suck up the loose toner carefully with the small attachments (that you would use to vacuum your car or those tough to reach areas in your home).

After vacuuming, use an air spray (such as a keyboard cleaner) to blow away any remaining powder. Next, take a cotton swab and rubbing alcohol to wipe down all moving components inside your printer. Remember to not turn your printer back on until you have replaced all components and until you have waited for all parts to fully dry. Once you put the printer back together, do a couple of test print jobs. Expect the first couple of sheets to come out spotted as the toner and ink cartridges realign and for a printer ink cleanup. If there is a smell of chemicals in your home, open your windows to allow your room to air out. Do not throw away ink cartridges away in normal trash cans; instead, take them back to an electronic store to be recycled.

Following these tips can help aid in cleaning up a messy ink spill.