Are you wondering why your printer is no longer working properly? Have you thought about checking the ink absorber ? This often overlooked component can be the cause of many printing problems . In this article, we explain how to clean the ink absorber of your Canon printer and thus regain optimal print quality. Follow the leader !
What is an ink absorber and why should you clean it?

The ink absorber is an essential part of your Canon printer. excess ink print head cleaning cycles . With use, the ink absorber may become saturated , which may cause printing problems such as ink stains on printed pages or operational errors . Cleaning the ink absorber helps resolve these issues and ensure optimal print quality.
How to access the ink absorber of your Canon printer?
Before you can clean the ink absorber, you must first access this part. Here's how to do it:

- Turn off your Canon printer and unplug it from the electrical outlet.
- Open the top cover of the printer to access the ink cartridges and print heads.
- Locate the ink absorber: it is usually located in a corner of the printer, under the ink cartridges. It is a small rectangular sponge.

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Cleaning the Ink Absorber: Steps to Follow
Once you have access to the ink absorber, here is how to clean it:

- Carefully remove the ink absorber from its location. You can use tweezers or latex gloves to avoid getting your hands dirty.
- Place the ink absorber in a container filled with hot water and a few drops of dishwashing liquid. Let it soak for about 10 minutes for the ink to dissolve.
- After soaking, rinse the ink absorber with clean water to remove ink and soap residue.
- Wring out the ink absorber carefully by squeezing it between your hands or using a paper towel. Make sure to remove as much water as possible.
- Allow the ink absorber to air dry completely for several hours or until completely dry.
- Return the ink absorber to its original location in the printer, making sure it is seated securely.
- Close the top cover of the printer and plug it back into the electrical outlet.
- Turn on the printer and run a printhead cleaning cycle to make sure everything is working properly.
When should the ink absorber be replaced?
Cleaning the ink absorber can solve many printing problems, but there comes a time when it needs to be replaced. Generally, it is recommended to replace the ink absorber when the printer displays an error message indicating that the ink absorber is full or saturated. In this case, you will need to obtain a new ink absorber compatible with your Canon printer model and follow the manufacturer's instructions to replace it.
Canon ink absorber comparison table
Printer model Ink absorber reference Approximate price Canon PIXMA MG3650 QY5-0557 €25 Canon PIXMA MX922 QY6-0086 €35 Canon PIXMA iP7250 QY5-0557 €25 Canon PIXMA MX532 QY6-0080 €30
By following these steps and tips, you should be able to clean the ink absorber of your Canon printer and thus regain optimal print quality. Remember that regular maintenance of your printer, including cleaning the ink absorber, is essential to prolong its life and ensure optimal operation.
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FAQs
How do I know if my ink absorber is full?
It is often difficult to determine if the ink absorber is full without receiving an error message from the printer. However, there may be signs that the ink absorber is saturated:
- Error message on the printer screen or on your computer.
- Recurring printing problems, such as ink stains on paper.
- Degraded printer performance, including operational errors.
If you experience these issues, it is recommended to check the ink absorber and clean or replace it if necessary.
Can the ink absorber of other brands of printers be cleaned in the same way?
The process of cleaning the ink absorber may vary depending on the make and model of the printer. However, the method described in this article for Canon printers can also be applied to other brands, with a few differences:
- Location of the ink absorber: it may be located in a different location in the printer.
- Disassembly Procedure: The process for accessing the ink absorber may vary depending on the model.
- Ink absorber type: Some printer models use disposable ink absorbers that cannot be cleaned and must be replaced.
It is recommended to consult your printer manual or contact the brand's technical support for instructions specific to your model.
How to prevent ink absorber saturation?
Saturation of the ink absorber is inevitable with time and use of the printer. However, there are steps you can take to delay this phenomenon:
- Use only good quality ink cartridges compatible with your printer.
- Perform printhead cleaning cycles regularly to prevent ink buildup.
- Print regularly to prevent ink from drying out and accumulating in the ink absorber.
What is the average lifespan of an ink absorber?
The average lifespan of an ink absorber depends on several factors, such as how often the printer is used, the quality of the ink used, and regular maintenance of the printer. Typically, an ink absorber can last 2 to 5 years, depending on these factors. It is recommended to watch for signs that the ink absorber is full and clean or replace it accordingly.
Can I use alcohol to clean the ink absorber?
It is best to use warm water and a mild detergent to clean the ink absorber, as alcohol may damage some printer components. If you choose to use alcohol, be sure to use low concentration isopropyl alcohol (70% or less) and rinse the ink absorber thoroughly with clean water after cleaning to remove any alcohol residue.
How to reset the ink counter after cleaning or replacing the ink absorber?
Once you have cleaned or replaced the ink absorber, it is important to reset the printer's ink counter to avoid future error messages. The reset procedure varies depending on the printer model. Check your printer's user manual or manufacturer's website for instructions specific to your model.
Can compatible or generic ink absorbers be used to replace the original ink absorber?
It is possible to use compatible or generic ink absorbers, but it is recommended to use ink absorbers specific to your printer model to ensure optimal operation and avoid possible compatibility issues. Be sure to check reviews and product specifications before purchasing.
Are there any eco-friendly alternatives to the traditional ink absorber?
Currently, there is no direct ecological alternative to the traditional ink absorber. However, there are certain practices you can adopt to reduce the environmental impact of using the printer:
- Print only when necessary and use double-sided mode.
- Recycle used ink cartridges.
- Choose energy-efficient and environmentally friendly printers.
How to prevent ink from drying on the ink absorber?
To prevent ink from drying on the ink absorber, follow these tips:
- Use the printer regularly to avoid dry ink buildup.
- Perform printhead cleaning cycles from time to time to remove excess ink.
- Store the printer in a place free of moisture and dust to prevent the ink from drying out.
What are the risks if I continue to use my printer with a saturated ink absorber?
Continuing to use a printer with a saturated ink absorber can cause several problems:
- Deterioration of print quality: ink stains and marks on the paper.
- Damage to internal printer components due to excessive ink buildup.
- Recurring error messages that may disrupt normal use of the printer.
- Risk of ink leaking, causing damage to work surfaces and surrounding objects.
It is strongly recommended to clean or replace the ink absorber as soon as you notice that it is saturated, in order to preserve the performance and life of your printer.
Conclusion
Taking care of your printer's ink absorber is essential to ensuring optimal print quality and extending the life of your device. By cleaning or replacing the ink absorber regularly and following the advice in this FAQ, you can keep your printer running smoothly and avoid common problems associated with a saturated ink absorber.