Print cartridge storage and handling

Follow these guidelines to help maintain HP print cartridges and ensure consistent print quality:

Install the cartridge on or before the Install by date, which is printed on the cartridge package.

When you remove a photo print cartridge from the printer, store it in a print cartridge protector to prevent the ink from drying out. If you do not have a print cartridge protector, you can use an airtight plastic container to protect your print cartridge. For more information, see Installation instructions.

Keep all unused print cartridges in their original sealed packages until they are needed. Store print cartridges at room temperature (15° to 35° C or 59° to 95° F).

Do not remove the plastic tape covering the ink nozzles until you are ready to install the print cartridge in the printer. If the plastic tape has been removed from the print cartridge, do not attempt to reattach it. Reattaching the tape damages the print cartridge.

CAUTION: Always turn the printer off with the Power button before you unplug the power cord or turn off a power strip. This allows the printer to store the print cartridges properly. When you store the printer, always leave the active print cartridges inside the printer.

Print cartridge protector

If you have purchased an HP photo print cartridge, you can store it in the protector that comes with the print cartridge. If you do not have a print cartridge protector, you can use an airtight plastic container to protect your print cartridge.

To insert the print cartridge into the print cartridge protector

Slide the print cartridge at a slight angle into the protector, and snap it securely in place.

Maintain print cartridges

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