Every so often our customers request information about the shelf life of their cartridges and how to store them correctly. Generally, the fresher the cartridge the better, but they can be kept for a while if stored correctly.

With this is mind, how long can an inkjet cartridge last for if stored correctly?

There are two types of compatible cartridges; they are called compatible and remanufactured. Generally these two types fall under the same heading on our website (compatible). For the purpose of this article, we must distinguish the two different types as different rules apply to these cartridges.

First lets start with compatible inkjet cartridges

Compatible cartridges are brand new copies of original cartridges. They were made by a different company other than the original manufacturer. These cartridges, often referred to as ink tanks, feature a simple design which consists of an ink reservoir, computer chip and ink exit hole. Because these cartridges have no print head they can last for at least a year. Some compatible cartridges come with an expiry date of two years. These cartridges last longer than remanufactured cartridges because they do not have a print head which can become blocked over time. The ink stays completely in the reservoir chamber of the cartridge which removes common problems which can be found with remanufactured cartridges.

Normally, compatible cartridges come with a vacuum sealed ink valve at the bottom of the cartridge and sealed vent on the top which you take off when unpacking the cartridge. The cartridge itself is either sealed in a plastic or vacuum polyethylene or anti-static plastic bag for extra longevity.

Remanufactured cartridges

Now lets take a look at remanufactured cartridges which have a shelf life of about three to four months if you’re looking to get good quality prints. Remanufactured cartridges can last longer in storage but it depends on the quality of the cartridge as there are many grades of remanufactured cartridges. Remanufactured cartridges have a more complicated design than compatibles as they have a printhead integrated into the body, sponge and electrical strip. The printhead is normally sealed over with tape and comes with a protective clip for storage and shipping. These cartridges have small vent holes at the top of the cartridge are necessary to allow ink flow. Remanufactured ink cartridges come in a sealed plastic bag to prevent accidental ink contamination during shipping.

Because of the addition of a printhead in remanufactured cartridges, ink which sits near or in the printhead can block the printhead nozzles as it becomes thicker due to water evaporation from the ink. This results in poor print quality and will eventually prevent the cartridge from printing at all.

How to store your compatible and remanufactured cartridges.

• Keep them out of direct sunlight and away from heat. A desk drawer could be ideal depending on temperature.
• Be sure to store your cartridges in the upright position. This keeps remanufactured cartridges in ideal condition.
• Keep them in their original packaging until you need them.
• When possible, avoid storing your cartridges for extended periods of time to get the best results from them.