Canon cartridge refilling basics, part 4: refilling the right way

Steps

1. 1

   Step 1: Keep the sponge saturated

   These cartridges were not designed to be refilled. They refill well when the sponge is kept saturated with ink and is not disturbed.

   • A cartridge refilled before it runs empty does not build up foam in the sponge.
   • It behaves like a new cartridge refill after refill.
   • You can refill it more times before it needs flushing.
   • It protects the printhead.

   Watch: Proper refilling of Canon cartridges (part 4 of 5) Video: Proper refilling of Canon cartridges (part 4 of 5) (youtu.be/v0hsiUlgoKY)
2. 2

   Step 2: Seal the air vent, then refill

   With the air vent blocked, very little ink moves when you take the refill plug out.

   1. Put a piece of tape over the air vent hole. You can also hold your thumb over it.
   2. Remove the refill plug.
   3. Refill the reservoir slowly.
   4. Push the refill plug back in firmly.
   5. Remove the tape.

   TipFor the full fill procedure for your cartridge, including sealing the outlet and resetting the chip, follow the refill guide for your printer.

3. 3

   Step 3: Check the sponge before you print

   Only use a cartridge when the sponge looks like it does on a new one.

   • The sponge should look evenly saturated.
   • If part of the sponge looks faded, or has pockets that will not fill, do not use the cartridge.

   CarefulA cartridge with a faded or patchy sponge may still print, but you risk damaging the printhead.