How to Replace a Toner Cartridge in a LaserJet Printer

Co-authored by Mitch Harris

Last Updated: February 8, 2025

Laser printers eventually run out of toner after continued use. Being able to replace them swiftly and correctly lets you get back to work faster. If you want to learn how to replace a toner cartridge in a laser printer, follow these steps.

Steps

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Sometimes, during shipping, toner can settle in the toner drum, resulting in poor-quality copies. To prevent this problem, gently shake the cartridge. This helps fully distribute toner throughout the cartridge.
5
Remove the new cartridge from its packaging and pull off the sealing tape.
- While doing this, be careful not to touch the imaging drum on the bottom of the toner cartridge. Smudges on the drum can cause print-quality problems.
It should snap in place securely.
9
Your printer is ready to be used.
- Print a test page. Your computer will automatically recognize that a new cartridge has been installed. Most computers will ask you if you want to print a test page to ensure that the new cartridge is functional. Click "OK." The computer will scan the printer settings and eventually produce a printed page.

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What can I do if I pressed the wrong button on the testing page?

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There are a few types of reports that a printer can output; generally, at worst, you simply print out a page of specs, which still serves as evidence that the printer is working.

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What if I forgot to remove the sealing tape? Will it still print?

Tinkerer02

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No. If you forgot to remove the sealing tape, toner will not come out of the cartridge and it will not print.

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I changed toner cartridges without shutting off the printer. Now it won't turn on. Have I ruined my printer?

Suresh Singh Rawat

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Changing toner cartridges without powering off the printer is a common occurrence, and while it may not always result in a printer issue, it's good to understand the potential consequences. In many cases, replacing toner cartridges while the printer is still powered on doesn't cause significant problems. Modern printers are designed to handle cartridge changes without needing to be powered off, and they often resume normal operation seamlessly. If your printer doesn't immediately respond after cartridge replacement, don't panic. It will probably resume its functions shortly.

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Tips

If you get toner on your clothing, wipe off as much as you can with a dry towel. Remove the rest using cold water. Do not use hot water. It sets the stain.

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Don't throw away your old cartridge - these things are valuable! You can mail the old toner cartridge back to the manufacturer or return it to the store to be recycled. Some stores such as Staples and Office Depot will give you store credit which can be applied toward the future purchase of a new cartridge. You can also save your old cartridges and when you have enough of them, mail them off to a recycler such as tonerbuyer.com which will recycle your empty cartridges and pay you for them.

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