HP advanced Photo paper does it have an expiration date

[jimc7546]

I was wondering if an unopened box of printer paper can be used after a long time in storage

[Nal_NR]

Hi @jimc7546,

Welcome to the HP Support Community. 

I'd be glad to help you! 

Yes, unopened boxes of printer paper can generally still be used after long periods of storage, but it’s important to ensure the paper is still in good condition. Here are 3-5 steps to check if the stored printer paper is still usable:

1. Check for Moisture or Humidity Damage:

• Ensure the storage area was dry and the box was not exposed to moisture or high humidity, which can cause the paper to curl, warp, or stick together.
• Open the box and feel the paper to see if it has retained its smooth texture. If the paper feels damp or crinkly, it may not feed properly in the printer.

2. Inspect for Discoloration:

• Look at the edges of the paper. Over time, paper exposed to light or improper storage may develop yellowing or discoloration, which can affect print quality.
• If the paper is still bright white or its original color, it is likely still usable.

3. Test a Few Sheets:

• Load a few sheets into your printer and print a test page. Check for any paper jams, misfeeds, or poor print quality that may indicate the paper has degraded over time.
• If the paper feeds smoothly and prints well, it should be fine for regular use.

4. Check for Curling or Waviness:

• Lay the paper on a flat surface to check if it has curled or become wavy. Warped paper may cause jams or uneven printing.
• If slight curling is present, try flattening the sheets by storing them under a heavy object before using them in the printer.

5. Ensure Proper Storage for Future Use:

• If the paper seems fine, ensure it is stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain its quality for future use. Consider using a sealed container or keeping the paper in its original packaging for protection.

Following these steps will help you determine if your stored printer paper is still usable without affecting the performance of your printer.

Hope this helps! Keep me posted for further assistance

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