How Do I Clean the Printhead ?
Printhead clogging is a common issue in inkjet printers, especially after long periods of inactivity or when using pigment-based or UV inks. Proper cleaning helps restore normal ink flow, improves print quality, and extends the lifespan of the printhead. This article introduces several practical cleaning methods to help users troubleshoot and resolve clogging problems.
1、Basic Cleaning
(1) Tools Needed：Soft brush, cleaning solution (specialized for printers), vacuum pump or ink suction tool.
(2) Steps:
01 Clean the nozzle surface:
Dip the soft brush into the cleaning solution and gently wipe the exterior of the printhead to remove dried ink.
02 Remove residual ink:
Use a vacuum pump to draw out residual ink from inside the printhead to keep nozzles unclogged.
Best suited for routine maintenance and light clogs.
2、Automatic Cleaning（Applicable to printers with built-in auto-cleaning functions）
(1) Steps:
01 Power on the printer:
Connect to power and ensure the printer is functioning properly.
02 Select the cleaning function:
Access the printer’s control panel or driver software and locate “Head Cleaning” or “Auto Cleaning.”
NOTE: Different brands and models of printers may operate slightly differently.
03 Add the printhead cleaning liquid:
If the cleaning liquid needs to be added manually (some printers require manual injection), open the cleaning liquid injection port and pour the cleaning liquid in the prescribed amount. If it is included with the printhead cleaning device, add it according to the procedure.
NOTE: Some printers may require the use of a special cleaning fluid injection system to ensure that the cleaning fluid used meets the requirements of the equipment.
04 Perform automatic cleaning:
When the automatic cleaning function is activated, the printer will perform cleaning according to the set program. During the cleaning process, the printer will flow cleaning fluid through the printhead to remove ink residue inside the printhead.
05 Check the cleaning effect:
After cleaning, the printer will usually print a test page to check whether the printhead has returned to normal. If the printing effect is not satisfactory, you can try to repeat the cleaning, or use the manual cleaning method for deep cleaning.
3、Manual Cleaning（Recommended when automatic cleaning fails or for severe clogging）
Method 1: Syringe Flushing
(1) Tools Needed:
Syringe, cleaning solution, soft tubing, cotton swab or lint-free cloth
(2) Steps:
01 Connect the syringe and the printhead:
Connect one end of the hose or connecting tube to the syringe and the other end to the cleaning port or ink channel of the printhead. Make sure the connection is tight to avoid leakage of the cleaning fluid. Suck an appropriate amount of cleaning fluid into the syringe, usually about 10ml to 20ml. Use a dedicated printhead cleaning fluid and adjust the amount according to the degree of blockage of the printhead.
02 Inject cleaning fluid:
Slowly push the piston of the syringe and gently push the cleaning fluid into the ink channel of the nozzle. When injecting the cleaning fluid, be careful to apply uniform pressure to avoid excessive pushing and damaging the printhead. Gradually push the cleaning fluid and observe whether there is any ink residue or dirt being flushed out. If ink residue appears in the cleaning fluid, it means that the blockage is being cleared. If the printhead channel is severely blocked, it may be necessary to inject the cleaning fluid multiple times. Pause for a moment after each push of the cleaning fluid to wait for the cleaning fluid to dissolve the blockage.
03 Cleaning the printhead:
After injecting the cleaning fluid, you can use a cotton swab or non-woven fabric to wipe the surface of the printhead to remove possible dirt or ink residue. If the printhead is very dirty, you can repeat the steps of injecting the cleaning fluid until there is no ink residue in the cleaning fluid. After injecting the cleaning fluid, you can rinse the printhead again with appropriate clean water. Use a syringe to gently inject clean water to ensure that the inside of the printhead is clean and there is no residual cleaning fluid or ink.
Method 2: Soaking
(1) Steps:
01 Disassembling the printhead:
If the printer supports the removal of the nozzle, you can remove the printhead according to the printer manual. Note that you must be careful during the removal process to avoid damaging the printhead.
02 Immersion printhead:
Pour the printhead cleaning fluid into the container, making sure the liquid just covers the printhead. Be careful not to use too much cleaning fluid to avoid contact with the circuit board. Soak the printhead in the printhead cleaning fluid, usually for 15 minutes to 1 hour. This will help remove dried ink and other deposits.
03 Gently clean the nozzles:
Use a cotton swab or non-woven fabric to dip in the cleaning fluid and gently wipe the nozzle area of the print head. Avoid using excessive force to avoid damaging the printhead.
04 Flushing printhead:
After soaking and wiping, rinse the printhead gently with clean water to ensure that cleaning fluid and ink residue are completely removed.
05 Reinstall the printhead:
After cleaning, reinstall the printhead back into the printer. Make sure it is installed correctly and securely.
06 Check the cleaning effect:
After cleaning, reconnect the printhead and perform a print test to check whether the print head resumes normal jetting.
You can print a printhead test page to check the printhead's jetting effect and print quality.
4、Ultrasonic Cleaning (For severely clogged printheads only)
(1) How It Works:
Ultrasonic cleaning machines use high-frequency vibrations in liquid to break down dried ink particles and dislodge them from the printhead.
(2) Steps:
01 Prepare the Cleaning Solution:
It is recommended to use a specialized cleaning solution. If unavailable, pure alcohol can be used as an alternative.
02 Soak the Printhead:
Place the removed printhead into the ultrasonic cleaner. The liquid level should just cover the clogged nozzle area.
NOTE: Do not let the PCB board come into contact with the cleaning solution or distilled water.
03 Start Cleaning:
Turn on the ultrasonic cleaner and run it for about 3–5 seconds. Adjust the duration based on the severity of the clog.
04 Check the Results:
After cleaning, gently wipe the printhead surface with a tissue and perform a nozzle test.
If the ink output is still uneven, repeat the cleaning process.
05 Dry Completely:
This step is critical! Make sure the printhead is completely dry before reinstalling it in the printer, as moisture can cause a short circuit and damage the device.
(3) Cautions:
01 Do not clean for too long; it may damage the printhead.
02 Always dry thoroughly before reinstalling.
03 Ultrasonic cleaning is only effective for clogs—not suitable for already damaged printheads.
Tips
1、Performing regular light or moderate cleaning during daily use can effectively prevent printhead clogging.
2、Always use a cleaning solution compatible with your ink type (dye, pigment, UV, etc.).
3、Do not apply excessive pressure when injecting fluids—it can damage the printhead.
4、Avoid contact between cleaning fluids and the printhead’s circuit board.
5、Wear gloves and clean in a dust-free environment to prevent contamination.
6、Monitor nozzle output during cleaning and adjust methods as needed.
7、If not using a UV printer for a long time, remove the printhead, clean it with solution, and seal it with plastic wrap for storage.