Getting Printer Ink Smears on Envelopes when printing-how to clean up?

[RaginCajun55]

Hi, when printing envelopes-the upper left hand corner is smeared with colored ink. I have tried to clean the print heads several times, and align them but it still happens. Is there a way to clean the printer physically to resolve this issue. On happens on envelopes, both plain and photo paper print normally. Thanks!

[Hawks_Eye]

Hi @RaginCajun55 

Welcome to the HP Support Community! 

Thanks for posting your query! We're here to help you get back up and running.

It sounds like the ink smearing issue might be caused by the envelopes' surface texture or positioning within the printer. 

Since photo paper and plain paper print fine, the issue is specific to envelopes. 

Let’s walk through a few steps to troubleshoot and physically clean the printer:

 

1. Inspect and Clean the Paper Path

There might be excess ink or debris on the rollers that’s smearing the envelopes. Here’s how to clean them:

Turn off the printer and unplug it from the power source.

Open the back access panel (if your printer has one) or look inside the paper path from the paper tray.

Use a lint-free cloth slightly dampened with distilled water or isopropyl alcohol to gently wipe the rollers.

Rotate the rollers manually while cleaning to ensure all surfaces are addressed.

Let the rollers dry completely before reconnecting and turning on the printer.

 

2. Clean the Print Area

Excess ink near the printhead area can transfer onto envelopes:

Open the printer's ink cartridge door.

Carefully inspect the area around the printhead and carriage for ink buildup.

Use a soft, damp, lint-free cloth to clean around the nozzles and any visible surfaces near the print zone. Avoid touching the actual nozzles.

 

3. Check Envelope Placement

Envelopes can sometimes feed slightly differently than standard paper. Try:

Aligning the envelopes properly in the input tray.

Adjusting the paper width guides to hold the envelopes snugly but not too tight.

Loading only a few envelopes at a time to avoid feeding issues.

 

4. Adjust Printer Settings for Envelopes

Ensure the printer knows you’re using envelopes, as incorrect settings can lead to smearing:

When printing, select Envelopes as the media type in the print dialog box.

Set the print quality to Draft or Normal rather than Best, as lighter ink use can prevent smudging.

 

5. Update Printer Firmware

Outdated firmware can cause quirks like improper envelope handling:

Click on the link below for instructions on how to update the firmware of your printer.

https://support.hp.com/in-en/document/ish_1776648-1643972-16

 

6. Experiment with Envelope Types

Some envelopes may have a slightly textured or coated surface, which can cause smearing. Try using a different brand or type of envelope that’s specifically labeled as inkjet printer compatible.

If this solution hits the spot, please come back and click "Accepted Solution" to help others find the answer. And if you'd like to say thanks, select "Yes" on the bottom left of the public post, as that would make our day! 

Take care, and have an amazing day!

Regards, 

Hawks_Eye

[RaginCajun55]

Hi, I tried to clean it per your instructions, no improvement. I do have the correct envelope settings as I always use the same size envelope. I did get some ink residue off the rollers, etc. when cleaning-but it apparently wasn't enough. Thanks for the tips. My software is also up-to-date.

[Hawks_Eye]

Hi @RaginCajun55 

We sincerely thank you for your patience and co-operation during this troubleshooting process.

I'm sending out a private message to assist you with the next course of action. 

In order to access your private messages, click the private message icon on the upper right corner of your HP Support Community profile, next to your profile Name.

Hope this helps! Keep me posted for further assistance. 

Please mark this post as “Accepted Solution” if the issue is resolved and if you feel this reply was helpful click “Yes”. 😊😊

Take care, and have an amazing day!

Regards, 

Hawks_Eye