Printers use two different substances to print documents and designs. Those two substances are toner and ink. Both printer ink and toner have advantages, but today, we will focus on toner, specifically whether toner expires and the best practices for preserving your toner.
What Is Printer Toner?
Printer toner is a powdery substance used to print documents on most laser printers and MFPs (Multi-Function Printers). Toner is different from ink because ink uses liquid to print documents. In contrast, you can expect to use ink for most inkjet printers. There are a few things to keep in mind when printing with toner.
For starters, you can only print on standard paper sizes when printing with toner. This may be an issue for some professionals working in industries that print with various materials. However, toner is sufficient for business professionals to print standard documents. Another key thing to remember with toner is that it does not dry out, unlike ink cartridges.
This is important because ink is a leading cause of many printer malfunctions and issues. For instance, ink clogs, spillage, and more can create devastating results for your documents. Furthermore, if left untreated, ink spillage can significantly damage your device to the point where you may have to replace it.
You do not have to worry about these issues when using toner. Furthermore, toner often includes a higher speed or PPM (Pages Per Minute) than ink. Using printer toner can provide fantastic results for the right industry and work as a truly efficient and fast print solution.
So, Does Toner Expire, and How Do I Preserve It?
In short, no toner does not expire. This is a relief for many businesses, as ink cartridges expire, often at a fast rate. However, although toner does not expire, there is still a shelf life on most cartridges that should be considered. If you want the best results for your print jobs, using your toner cartridge within the listed shelf-life range is best.
Most manufacturers list toner cartridges’ shelf life between one and two years. You can still use these cartridges outside the shelf-life range; just know you will not produce the best results. Still, for most businesses, knowing you can rely on these cartridges to produce high-quality results with a shelf life of one to two years is beyond impressive.
One of the greatest strengths of toner not expiring is that buying in bulk becomes more efficient and cost-effective. For instance, when you buy ink in bulk, you buy cartridges, knowing they will eventually expire. Although ink cartridges have a shelf life, they are often less forgiving than toner. Ink requires specific conditions to last the shelf life, and spoilage of ink when not in the proper conditions is quite common.
In contrast, toner is powdery, so you can preserve it by storing your toner in a dry, cool place to ensure optimal shelf life. When you buy in bulk, you do not have to worry about the left-over toner ever expiring, as it is made to withstand the toughest conditions while still performing optimally within that 1–2-year range.
Invest In Laser Printer Toner at BDS Today!
Did you know that your local print partner, BDS, offers printer toner to local New England and Florida businesses? Our supply replenishment program is the perfect solution for busy business professionals who do not have the time to refill their devices themselves. With our unique program, the BDS team can monitor and replenish your toner levels, so you do not have to!
Our high-quality supplies guarantee superior print quality at an attractive price. Our customer service puts us in a league of our own, and we ensure that when you partner with us, you will be delighted with the result! With over 40 years of experience serving our local communities, we are proud to be your number one leading local print partner.
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