Maintenance procedures for a laser printer should be performed on a monthly basis. These procedures can also be used to correct printing problems such as streaking, gaps in printing, and toner smears on printouts.


NOTE: The information provided below is a general overview of how to clean a printer and recommendations for cleaning materials.  For best results, please refer to your printer manual/documentation for detailed printer maintenance instructions.


  1. Unplug printer.  For safety reasons it is best to let the printer to cool down before starting the cleaning procedure.
  2. Remove paper trays.
  3. Open printer and remove toner cartridge.  Place the toner cartridge onto a piece of disposable paper or newspaper. Be careful not to tip or shake the toner cartridge as this may lead to toner leakage.
  4. Clean the interior of the printer with a dry lint free cloth.  Many models of laser printers provide a brush inside the printer that can be used to gently remove toner from hard to reach areas.  If no brush is provided a clean, dry paintbrush can be used.
  5. Clean the rollers with a slightly damp cloth to remove dirt build up.


Laser Printer Cleaning Sheets can be purchased and are recommended in the maintenance of your laser printer.  Use these sheets to quickly clean the inside of a laser printer, the sheets are designed to remove excess toner and dirt.