How to Clean Lexmark All in One Printers

How to Clean Lexmark All in One Printers thumbnail
ADF Auto Document Feeder

If you own a Lexmark all-in-one printer that scans, faxes and prints, there will most likely come a time when you need to clean the various parts that keep this useful machine operating smoothly.

Things You'll Need

  • Lint-free cotton cloth
  • Soft cloth
  • Isopropyl alcohol
  • Q-Tips
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Instructions

  1. Physical Cleaning Methods

    • 1

      Clean the cover and glass area. With a soft cloth, wipe the cover of the unit and then the glass itself. Fingerprints and residue can be stubborn, so if necessary use some alcohol or a neutral cleanser. Wipe the glass without putting too much pressure on the surface. Make sure to wipe away any excess liquid.

    • 2

      Clean the touch screen; this is where you will use the lint-free cloth (cotton is best) simply dampened with water. Again, wipe off any excess liquid.

    • 3

      Clean the ADF (automatic document feeder), where most problems develop. Lift the ADF unit up till it un-clicks from its position. Now using the lint-free cloth and some isopropyl alcohol, clean off the rollers that are used to feed the paper. You can gently turn each roller while cleaning so that you cover all of the roller.

    • 4

      Make sure that the rail that transports the scanning lens across the unit is clean by using isopropyl alcohol. A Q-Tip or two will be perfect for cleaning this area.

    • 5

      The steps outlined above should be repeated for preventative maintenance only every six months or when necessary.

    Software Cleaning Methods for Print Quality Only

    • 6

      Clean the print heads if your print quality is deteriorating by accessing the computer. Open any word processor or notepad application. From "File," choose "Print" and then look for the "Properties" tab.

    • 7

      Select the "Print head" menu, then the "Clean Print Heads" utility and let the unit go through the cleaning procedure.

    • 8

      If the actions in Step 2 do not help you can remove the print cartridges and try a gentle wiping of the cartridge with your lint-free cloth and a small amount of water(see Resources below).

Tips & Warnings

  • Clean the document glass surface regularly with a dry, clean lint-free cloth.

  • Switch the unit off when not in use as this may prevent ink from being dried out in the print cartridge.

  • Unplug the unit before performing any cleaning methods.

  • Do not apply too much pressure to rollers, glass or touch screen areas if present.

  • If cleaning does not improve printing output, replacement parts might be necessary.

  • If unit sounds strange beneath glass and rollers do not attempt to disassemble. Cleaning will not fix strange sounds. Parts might be worn out.

  • Only All-In One printers with a flatbed scanner will have rails to attempt cleaning.

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