Tried & True Consulting has received fewer and fewer requests for impact printers with black or two-toned ink, thermal printers continue to grow in popularity for those wanting to have receipts. The device tends to be less expensive, have fewer moving parts and provides greater useability. Over the last several weeks, several clients have asked us for tips and how to store thermal paper.
Here are some of our tips and tricks to ensuring you maximize your longevity for the thermal paper.
1. Avoid direct sunlight
You need to avoid direct sunlight or any UV light exposure. Thermal printer paper can degrade quickly when exposed to UV light, so make sure you store it in a dark and cool place to ensure its longevity. Also, keep away from fluorescent lights, which can cause fading and discoloration over time.
2. Keep thermal paper away from moisture
Moisture is the enemy of thermal paper as it will cause damage over time and can even render it unusable if not taken care of properly. To avoid this, ensure the room where you store your thermal paper has good air circulation and low humidity levels (less than 30%).
3. Store in an airtight container
It is best to keep it in an airtight container to prevent moisture and dust from entering the thermal paper. This will help preserve its chemical coating and prevent contamination from affecting its quality.
4. Check the expiration date?
Some thermal paper roll manufacturers do have an expiration date printed on the packaging. If you need to store thermal paper for longer than the recommended time frame (usually one to two years), consider purchasing sealed packages with extended shelf life. Avoid purchasing more paper than you can use within one or two years even if it is a “good deal”.
By following these tips on how to store thermal paper properly, you can ensure that your thermal paper remains in good condition and can print quality images and text.
However, even with proper storage conditions, it is important to keep an eye on your thermal paper rolls as they are still susceptible to fading, discoloration and other signs of degradation over time. So be sure to inspect them periodically and replace any rolls that show signs of damage or wear. Keeping your thermal paper stored properly will help you get the most out of it for longer.
When handling thermal paper, be careful to not spread hand cleaner (water or chemicals) on the thermal coating. Also, never fold or crease the paper when storing or printing, as this can cause damage to the surface coating, which can lead to poor printing results. Nevertheless, with proper storage and handling, thermal paper can be a great tool for printing, so follow these tips on how to store thermal paper.
Things to remember to avoid while storing thermal paper rolls:
- Avoid direct sunlight or any UV light exposure.
- Keep away from fluorescent lights.
- Do not expose the thermal paper to moisture.
- Do not fold or crease the paper when storing or printing, as this can cause damage to the surface coating.
- Never use damaged thermal paper rolls for printing. Always check them periodically and replace them if necessary.
- Do not store thermal paper for longer than the recommended time, frame one to two years.
- Avoid storing thermal paper in a location with extreme temperatures or humidity levels.
- Never store thermal paper in an open environment where it can be exposed to contaminants.
