Perform a printer cleanup monthly, or as needed. The printer will need a clean if there are streaks on the labels, missing barcodes, or the labels are lightly printed on the right side.
Printers supplied directly from New Zealand Couriers include lint-free alcohol wipes, which are designed to print heads.
How to clean a thermal printer
Open the printer
- Press the side latches and lift the cover
- Open the print mechanism so the printhead is fully exposed
Remove the label roll
Remove dust and debris
- Check inside the printer for dust, dirt, or stuck label pieces
- Gently clean using a dry microfiber cloth
- Pay close attention to the rubber roller (platen roller), as labels can stick here
Clean the printhead and Sensor
- Use an alcohol wipe or a microfiber cloth lightly dampened with isopropyl alcohol
- Gently wipe across the thin strip (printhead) and sensor window
- Allow the printhead to fully dry (1–2 minutes) before continuing
Reload the labels
- Place the label roll back into the printer
- Feed the labels between the guiding tabs
- Adjust the guides so they sit snug against the labels (not too tight)
Close the printer
- Close the print mechanism firmly
- Close the top cover
- Press down until it clicks/locks into place
Test the printer
- Press the Feed button
Confirm a label feeds through smoothly and prints clearly
If labels don’t feed correctly after cleaning check:
- Labels are loaded straight and centred
- Nothing is blocking the sensor or roller
What to avoid
- Touching the printhead with bare hands or using abrasives
- Do not use sharp objects inside the printer
- Spraying liquids directly into the printer
- Operating the printer in direct sunlight or dusty environment