Do Unused Laser Toners Dry Up?

It's important to note that toner cartridges typically have an expiration date or at least a recommended shelf life that’s provided by the manufacturer. This date is usually based on factors such as; toner quality, optimal performance and potential issues that can arise over time. While unused toner cartridges can be stored for a reasonable amount of time, it's generally recommended to use them within their specified shelf life for optimal printing results. 

If you have some unused toner cartridges that you have been storing, you may be wondering whether they will dry up. This is a common concern among laser printer owners and all types of cartridges will degrade over time. To help you get the most out of your laser toners, below we have put together some helpful information about storing unused toner cartridges. 

What Happens to Unused Toner Cartridges Over Time?

Toner cartridges for laser printers don’t typically "dry up" in the same way that ink cartridges can dry out. Unlike ink, toner is a dry powder and it won’t evaporate. However, while toner cartridges won’t dry up, other factors can impact the usability and quality of unused laser toner cartridges over time.

Commonly, toner powder can clump or become unevenly distributed. This can affect print quality and potentially cause damage to your printer. It's typically best to store toner cartridges upright and in their original packaging to reduce the risk of clumping. Keeping your unused toner cartridges for long periods can result in them being unusable.  

How do You Keep Your Laser Toners in Good Condition?

When you have some cartridges for your laser printer that you don’t yet need to use, there are a few things you can do to keep them in the best possible condition. This can help to improve their performance when you’re printing documents in the future. 

• Store Cartridges Properly - Before you use new cartridges, make sure you’re keeping them in their original packaging and a cool, dry place. It’s beneficial to store toner cartridges somewhere out of direct sunlight too and you should avoid high humidity areas. This can help to protect your cartridges from dust, moisture and light exposure.

• Avoid Exposure to Air - Ideally, you should minimise the exposure of cartridges to air to prevent the toner from clumping. Only remove the protective tape or cap when you're ready to install the cartridge in your printer. If you ever need to partially use the cartridge, make sure you seal it tightly again with a plastic bag to protect it from air exposure.

• Handle Cartridges with Care - Whenever you’re handling or installing toner cartridges, you need to be gentle with them and avoid excessive shaking. Rough handling and dropping your cartridges can cause damage and lead to toner leakage. You may find that you’re unable to use damaged cartridges in your printer. 

• Print Regularly - Once you get around to using your toner cartridges, printing something regularly can help to keep the toner flowing and prevent it from settling within the cartridge. If you have a printer that isn’t frequently used, it’s beneficial to print a simple test page of text every week or so to keep the cartridge in good condition.

Sell Your Unused Laser Toner Cartridges Online 

If you’re worried about the longevity of your toner cartridges and you don’t think you will get a chance to use them before they get clogged up, contact us at Trade Your Toner today. We purchase printer cartridges and we make it very straightforward to get rid of any printer consumables that are no longer of use to you. 

Selling your unused laser toner is a great way to make some extra cash from the cartridges that are collecting dust in storage. Our experts will evaluate your cartridges and quote you a competitive price, and if you’re happy to go ahead, we can arrange a collection as soon as the next day. You can always turn to us in confidence whenever you want to sell your printer cartridges before they become unusable.