Knowing How Long Your Printer Ink Will Last In Storage

2010-07-08

While today's printers are using printer ink cartridges that are capable of giving you more vibrant colors than ever before, properly storing printer ink cartridge is also becoming a necessity in both the workplace and in homes.

Many users are becoming increasingly confused as to the difference between a printer ink cartridge's 'shelf' life and 'storage' life. And while there may seem to be some similarities, there are indeed vast differences as to what a user needs to look at when purchasing their printer ink cartridges for their particular printer. The shelf life of these cartridges simply means that a manufacturer has put a date on which the merchandise should be sold by; not so much as to when it needs to be opened and used. Understanding what type of printer ink the printer needs actually determines how you will store it in a home or place of business.

For example, if the user is using a laser printer, most likely the printer will be using a toner based system. If the user is using a printer from a manufacturer like Canon or HP, then an inkjet system is being used.

In most cases, users are using the latter type of printer and storing printer cartridges require a little more care than if a toner based printer system is being used.

Proper storage of your printer ink cartridges can be simple and easy with minimal requirements. If you are not going to use the ink cartridge right away, store the cartridge that is still sealed and in the manufacturer's product box, in a cool, dry place. As long as the area where you are storing the cartridge is a place where there is no extreme heat or cold temperatures, the cartridge will perform fine when finally inserted.

If you have more than one type of printer, store each printer's print ink cartridges separately so that you do not get them confused. Even similar product numbers mean something to the printer it is referring to when it comes to these cartridges. Never store recently opened and used cartridges out in the open. These cartridges can become prone to leaks and could lead to stains on valuable surfaces. Always carefully discard the old cartridge that you are replacing. Discard used cartridges so that you do not mistake them as new replacements. Unless otherwise noted in the owner's manual, use only Original Equipment Manufactured printer cartridges. This helps keep your warranty in effect for your printer.

When in doubt, follow the manufacturer's suggested product guideline in storing your cartridges. Normally, the manufacturer will give you a temperature guideline for prolonged storage. When stored properly, printer ink cartridges will perform to manufacturer's specifications and provide months of reliable use and durability.