Both ink and toner cartridges last for two years on a shelf when they are sealed and unopened.
Once used or opened, it will have a shelf life of 6 months.
Toner powder can degrade and ink sponge can degrade. This is why it is important to store ink cartridges as well as toner cartridges properly in order for them to last longer and with good printing quality.
How to Store Toner Cartridges
Toner degradation is sped up by light, heat and moisture. In order to store toner cartridges, they must be kept away from these factors.
- Store at room temperature only.
- Preserve toner cartridges in areas within 50% humidity to prevent clumping.
- Avoid putting the cartridges in direct natural and artificial lighting. Especially the drum.
- For best storage, store the cartridges in their original packaging to keep them clean and away from dust and dirt.
How to Store Ink Cartridges
Ink is designed to dry fast. This means they evaporate rapidly. With too much moisture, the dye in ink can separate, leading to poor print quality.
To prevent this, one should store ink cartridges away from light, heat and moisture.
- To prevent from evaporating, preserve ink cartridges at room temperature only.
- To prevent dye from separating, store the cartridges in rooms with 50% humidity.
- If the cartridges come with a cap, use them.
- Always preserve ink cartridges with the nozzles up. Prevent things from touching the nozzles.
- If storing used cartridges, keep them in an airtight plastic tub away from direct natural and artificial lighting.
- Maintain the right amount of humidity in the tub by placing a damp cloth or paper with the cartridges.