--- title: How do I clean the terminal printer? description: Check out the ways to clear your terminal printer. To prolong the lifespan of your machine, it's important to maintain and clean the printer regularly. --- X [Skip to content](https://support.sekuremerchants.com/how-to-clean-the-terminal-printer#main-content) English Show submenu for translations ![sekure-logo-gif-b-m.gif\]](https://support.sekuremerchants.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Logos/sekure-logo-gif-b-m.gif?width=120&height=52&name=sekure-logo-gif-b-m.gif) - [Support Hub](https://support.sekuremerchants.com/) Open main navigation Close main navigation - [Support Hub](https://support.sekuremerchants.com/) - English Show submenu for translations - [Contact us](https://sekuremerchants.com/contact-us/) [Contact us](https://sekuremerchants.com/contact-us/) Hello. How can we help you? - There are no suggestions because the search field is empty. 1. [Support Hub](https://support.sekuremerchants.com/?hsLang=en) 2. [Maintenance & updates](https://support.sekuremerchants.com/maintenance-updates?hsLang=en) 3. [How do I care for the printer on my device?](https://support.sekuremerchants.com/maintenance-updates?hsLang=en#how-do-i-care-for-the-printer-on-my-device) # How do I clean the terminal printer? ## To prolong the lifespan of your machine and keep it running smoothly, it's important to maintain and clean the printer regularly Be sure to check the user's manual for any special instructions unique to your machine.   ### There are 3 common ways to clean a thermal printer 1. Isopropyl alcohol is commonly accepted as the safest cleaning method and the one that should be used regularly to keep your printer running smoothly.   2. Cleaning cards are used to clean the print head and remove buildup on the rollers but can damage the print head and rollers, so they should be used periodically, but not for routine cleaning purposes.   3. Print head cleaning pens are convenient and effective for quick cleanups and last for roughly ten uses before they need to be replaced.  For the purpose of this article, we will outline the steps in cleaning a thermal printer head with isopropyl alcohol.  #### What you will need:  - Isopropyl alcohol  - Lint-free cloth or Isopropyl alcohol swabs  #### Before you begin:  Remove any watches or jewelry that could scratch the delicate hardware inside your thermal printer head.  1. Turn your printer off.  2. Open the thermal printer by lifting the print head access door.  3. Gently blow any loose dust away from the print mechanism.  4. Using gentle but firm pressure, run your swab or isopropyl alcohol-dipped lint-free cloth over the printer head several times.  5. Allow printer head to dry fully.  6. Resume printing as usual.  #### Thermal ribbons with built-in cleaners  If you use a thermal transfer printer, you have the option to purchase replacement ribbons that come with a built-in cleaner. When you install a new roll and run it through, the cleaner strip will remove any buildup or residue from the print head, ensuring that your printer remains in optimal working condition. #### **How often should I clean my thermal printer?**  To maintain high-quality results and prevent damage caused by excess buildup, it's recommended to clean your printer head every time you change the label roll or ribbon. This ensures your printer functions properly for years to come. If you're interested in upgrading your terminal or want to learn more about how Sekure Payment Experts can enhance your business, contact us today. Sekure offers a wide variety of printers and terminals for merchants, including thermal printers.   - [Getting started with your equipment](https://support.sekuremerchants.com/getting-started-with-your-equipment?hsLang=en#main-content) - [Smart Terminal Mini (A77)](https://support.sekuremerchants.com/getting-started-with-your-equipment?hsLang=en#smart-terminal-mini-a77) - [Smart Terminal Mini (A60)](https://support.sekuremerchants.com/getting-started-with-your-equipment?hsLang=en#smart-terminal-mini-a60) - [Smart Keypad (A80) and Smart PINPad Pro (SP30)](https://support.sekuremerchants.com/getting-started-with-your-equipment?hsLang=en#smart-keypad-a80-and-smart-pinpad-pro-sp30) - [Smart POS+ (E700)](https://support.sekuremerchants.com/getting-started-with-your-equipment?hsLang=en#smart-pos-e700) - [Smart Terminal (A920)](https://support.sekuremerchants.com/getting-started-with-your-equipment?hsLang=en#smart-terminal-a920) - [Smart Flex (E600)](https://support.sekuremerchants.com/getting-started-with-your-equipment?hsLang=en#smart-flex-e600) - [First Data FD150 Terminal](https://support.sekuremerchants.com/getting-started-with-your-equipment?hsLang=en#first-data-fd150-terminal) - [Ingenico Desk 3500 Terminal](https://support.sekuremerchants.com/getting-started-with-your-equipment?hsLang=en#ingenico-desk-3500-terminal) - [Payments Hub Virtual Terminal](https://support.sekuremerchants.com/getting-started-with-your-equipment?hsLang=en#payments-hub-virtual-terminal) - [Payanywhere App](https://support.sekuremerchants.com/getting-started-with-your-equipment?hsLang=en#payanywhere-app) - [Authorize.net gateway](https://support.sekuremerchants.com/getting-started-with-your-equipment?hsLang=en#authorize-net-gateway) - [Cluster](https://support.sekuremerchants.com/getting-started-with-your-equipment?hsLang=en#cluster) - [Wellnessliving](https://support.sekuremerchants.com/getting-started-with-your-equipment?hsLang=en#wellnessliving) - [Payanywhere 2-in-1 card readers](https://support.sekuremerchants.com/getting-started-with-your-equipment?hsLang=en#payanywhere-2-in-1-card-readers) - [Payanywhere 3-in-1 card readers|](https://support.sekuremerchants.com/getting-started-with-your-equipment?hsLang=en#payanywhere-3-in-1-card-readers) - [Ingenico Move 5000 Terminal](https://support.sekuremerchants.com/getting-started-with-your-equipment?hsLang=en#ingenico-move-5000-terminal) - [Ingenico Desk 2600](https://support.sekuremerchants.com/getting-started-with-your-equipment?hsLang=en#ingenico-desk-2600) - [How do I manage online payments?](https://support.sekuremerchants.com/how-do-i-manage-online-payments?hsLang=en#main-content) - [Payments Hub virtual terminal](https://support.sekuremerchants.com/how-do-i-manage-online-payments?hsLang=en#payments-hub-virtual-terminal) - [I need help troubleshooting my equipment](https://support.sekuremerchants.com/i-need-help-troubleshooting-my-equipment?hsLang=en#main-content) - [Terminal not turning on](https://support.sekuremerchants.com/i-need-help-troubleshooting-my-equipment?hsLang=en#terminal-not-turning-on) - [Terminal not printing](https://support.sekuremerchants.com/i-need-help-troubleshooting-my-equipment?hsLang=en#terminal-not-printing) - [Slow equipment](https://support.sekuremerchants.com/i-need-help-troubleshooting-my-equipment?hsLang=en#slow-equipment) - [Device is frozen or stuck on processing](https://support.sekuremerchants.com/i-need-help-troubleshooting-my-equipment?hsLang=en#device-is-frozen-or-stuck-on-processing) - [Equipment isn't charging](https://support.sekuremerchants.com/i-need-help-troubleshooting-my-equipment?hsLang=en#equipment-isnt-charging) - [My device is not getting any data](https://support.sekuremerchants.com/i-need-help-troubleshooting-my-equipment?hsLang=en#my-device-is-not-getting-any-data) - [Device keeps getting signed out of session](https://support.sekuremerchants.com/i-need-help-troubleshooting-my-equipment?hsLang=en#device-keeps-getting-signed-out-of-session) - [How to force stop the terminal?](https://support.sekuremerchants.com/i-need-help-troubleshooting-my-equipment?hsLang=en#how-to-force-stop-the-terminal) - [Payanywhere card reader not connecting](https://support.sekuremerchants.com/i-need-help-troubleshooting-my-equipment?hsLang=en#payanywhere-card-reader-not-connecting) - [Card reader cannot read cards successfully](https://support.sekuremerchants.com/i-need-help-troubleshooting-my-equipment?hsLang=en#card-reader-cannot-read-cards-successfully) - [Card reader lost connection with my phone/tablet](https://support.sekuremerchants.com/i-need-help-troubleshooting-my-equipment?hsLang=en#card-reader-lost-connection-with-my-phone-tablet) - [Card reader isn't responding](https://support.sekuremerchants.com/i-need-help-troubleshooting-my-equipment?hsLang=en#card-reader-isnt-responding) - [Forgot or reset your password](https://support.sekuremerchants.com/i-need-help-troubleshooting-my-equipment?hsLang=en#forgot-or-reset-your-password) - [How do I restart or reboot my terminal?](https://support.sekuremerchants.com/i-need-help-troubleshooting-my-equipment?hsLang=en#how-do-i-restart-or-reboot-my-terminal) - [Clover troubleshooting](https://support.sekuremerchants.com/i-need-help-troubleshooting-my-equipment?hsLang=en#clover-troubleshooting) - [Square troubleshooting](https://support.sekuremerchants.com/i-need-help-troubleshooting-my-equipment?hsLang=en#square-troubleshooting) - [First Data troubleshooting](https://support.sekuremerchants.com/i-need-help-troubleshooting-my-equipment?hsLang=en#first-data-troubleshooting) - [Heartland troubleshooting](https://support.sekuremerchants.com/i-need-help-troubleshooting-my-equipment?hsLang=en#heartland-troubleshooting) - [Ingenico troubleshooting](https://support.sekuremerchants.com/i-need-help-troubleshooting-my-equipment?hsLang=en#ingenico-troubleshooting) - [Bank of America troubleshooting](https://support.sekuremerchants.com/i-need-help-troubleshooting-my-equipment?hsLang=en#bank-of-america-troubleshooting) - [Maintenance & updates](https://support.sekuremerchants.com/maintenance-updates?hsLang=en#main-content) - [How do I care for the printer on my device?](https://support.sekuremerchants.com/maintenance-updates?hsLang=en#how-do-i-care-for-the-printer-on-my-device) - [How can I update software on my device?](https://support.sekuremerchants.com/maintenance-updates?hsLang=en#how-can-i-update-software-on-my-device) - [Equipment care](https://support.sekuremerchants.com/maintenance-updates?hsLang=en#equipment-care) - [Receipts](https://support.sekuremerchants.com/maintenance-updates?hsLang=en#receipts) - [Find my response & error code](https://support.sekuremerchants.com/find-my-response-error-code?hsLang=en#main-content) - [General Codes on your POS](https://support.sekuremerchants.com/find-my-response-error-code?hsLang=en#general-codes-on-your-pos) - [First Data specific error codes](https://support.sekuremerchants.com/find-my-response-error-code?hsLang=en#first-data-specific-error-codes) - [Merchant services](https://support.sekuremerchants.com/merchant-services?hsLang=en#main-content) - [Funding](https://support.sekuremerchants.com/merchant-services?hsLang=en#funding) - [My payment expert](https://support.sekuremerchants.com/merchant-services?hsLang=en#my-payment-expert) - [PCI Plus](https://support.sekuremerchants.com/merchant-services?hsLang=en#pci-plus) - [Rates & fees](https://support.sekuremerchants.com/rates-fees?hsLang=en#main-content) - [My statements](https://support.sekuremerchants.com/rates-fees?hsLang=en#my-statements) - [Pricing](https://support.sekuremerchants.com/rates-fees?hsLang=en#pricing) - [Processing & transactions](https://support.sekuremerchants.com/processing-transactions?hsLang=en#main-content) - [View payment and fee information](https://support.sekuremerchants.com/processing-transactions?hsLang=en#view-payment-and-fee-information) - [High volumes and transactions](https://support.sekuremerchants.com/processing-transactions?hsLang=en#high-volumes-and-transactions) - [Accepting payments](https://support.sekuremerchants.com/processing-transactions?hsLang=en#accepting-payments) - [NFC Payments](https://support.sekuremerchants.com/processing-transactions?hsLang=en#nfc-payments) - [How to process a refund or void a transaction](https://support.sekuremerchants.com/processing-transactions?hsLang=en#how-to-process-a-refund-or-void-a-transaction) - [Quickbooks integration](https://support.sekuremerchants.com/processing-transactions?hsLang=en#quickbooks-integration) - [My profile with Sekure](https://support.sekuremerchants.com/my-profile-with-sekure?hsLang=en#main-content) - [Tax information](https://support.sekuremerchants.com/my-profile-with-sekure?hsLang=en#tax-information) - [Managing my account](https://support.sekuremerchants.com/my-profile-with-sekure?hsLang=en#managing-my-account) - [I need to close my account](https://support.sekuremerchants.com/my-profile-with-sekure?hsLang=en#i-need-to-close-my-account) - [Equipment](https://support.sekuremerchants.com/my-profile-with-sekure?hsLang=en#equipment) - [Refer-a-friend](https://support.sekuremerchants.com/my-profile-with-sekure?hsLang=en#refer-a-friend) - [Home](https://sekuremerchants.com/) - [Equipment](https://sekuremerchants.com/equipment/) - [Starting a new business](https://sekuremerchants.com/new-business/) - [Resources](https://sekuremerchants.com/blog/) - [Rates](https://sekuremerchants.com/rates/) - [Meet your Payment Experts](https://sekuremerchants.com/meet-your-payment-expert/) - [Newsletter](https://sekuremerchants.com/blog/) - [Contact us](https://sekuremerchants.com/contact-us/) [![Chill listening crop-3](https://support.sekuremerchants.com/hs-fs/hubfs/Logos/Sekure_Knowledge-base_Logo-footer-tm.png?width=125&height=55&name=Sekure_Knowledge-base_Logo-footer-tm.png "Chill listening crop-3")](https://sekuremerchants.com/) Support Hub Copyright © 2025, Sekure Payment Experts ```json { "@context" : "http://schema.org", "@type" : "Organization", "address" : { "@type" : "PostalAddress", "addressCountry" : "United States", "addressLocality" : "New York", "addressRegion" : "NY", "postalCode" : "10018", "streetAddress" : "104 W 40th Street, 5th floor " }, "alternateName" : "Sekure Merchant Solutions", "areaServed" : { "@type" : "GeoCircle", "geoMidpoint" : { "@type" : "GeoCoordinates", "latitude" : "40.733231", "longitude" : "-73.991119" }, "geoRadius" : "150 km" }, "description" : "credit card payment processing experts for all types of merchants", "email" : "info@sekuremerchants.com", "image" : "https://blog.sekuremerchants.com/hubfs/Hero/blog-sekure-hero.jpg", "logo" : "https://4438792.fs1.hubspotusercontent-na3.net/hubfs/4438792/Sekure%20Logo%20Full-1.png", "mainEntityOfPage" : { "@id" : "https://support.sekuremerchants.com/how-to-clean-the-terminal-printer", "@type" : "WebPage", "description" : "Check out the ways to clear your terminal printer. To prolong the lifespan of your machine, it's important to maintain and clean the printer regularly." }, "naics" : "522320", "name" : "Sekure Payment Experts", "sameAs" : [ "https://www.facebook.com/sekuremerchants", "https://twitter.com/sekuremerchants", "https://www.linkedin.com/company/sekure-merchant-solutions", "https://www.instagram.com/sekure_merchant_solutions/" ], "telephone" : "1 (866) 710-7384", "url" : "https://sekuremerchants.com/" } ```