Discover the Secrets to a Spotless Brother Printer MFC-J491DW: How to Clean Brother Printer MFC-J491DW Like a Pro!

Keeping your Brother MFC-J491DW printer clean is essential for optimal performance and print quality. Over time, dust, paper fibers, and ink can accumulate in the printer’s internal components, leading to jams, streaks, and blurry prints. By following these simple steps, you can ensure your printer runs smoothly and delivers crisp, clear prints every time.

1. Gather Your Supplies

Before you start cleaning, gather the following supplies:

• A soft, lint-free cloth
• Distilled water (avoid tap water as it can contain minerals that can damage the printer)
• Cotton swabs
• Compressed air (optional)
• A small, non-abrasive brush (optional)

2. Unplug Your Printer

Always unplug your printer from the power outlet before cleaning. This prevents electrical shocks and ensures your safety.

3. Clean the Exterior

• Dust the exterior: Use a soft, lint-free cloth to gently wipe away dust and debris from the printer’s exterior. Pay attention to areas around the paper tray, control panel, and ink cartridges.
• Clean the paper tray: Remove the paper tray and gently wipe it with a damp cloth. Allow it to dry completely before reinserting it into the printer.
• Clean the scanner glass: Use a soft, lint-free cloth to clean the scanner glass. Avoid using any harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.

4. Clean the Print Head

The print head is one of the most important parts of your printer, and it needs regular cleaning to ensure optimal print quality. Here’s how to clean it:

• Open the printer’s front cover.
• Locate the print head carriage.
• Use a cotton swab dipped in distilled water to gently clean the print head nozzles. Avoid pressing too hard, as this could damage the print head.
• Allow the print head to dry completely.
• Close the printer cover.

5. Clean the Ink Cartridge Contacts

The ink cartridge contacts can also accumulate dust and debris, which can interfere with the ink flow. Here’s how to clean them:

• Remove the ink cartridges.
• Use a cotton swab dipped in distilled water to gently clean the contacts on the ink cartridges.
• Allow the ink cartridges to dry completely.
• Reinstall the ink cartridges.

6. Clean the Paper Feed Roller

The paper feed roller helps to guide the paper through the printer. If it’s dirty, it can cause paper jams. Here’s how to clean it:

• Open the printer’s back cover.
• Locate the paper feed roller.
• Use a soft, lint-free cloth to gently wipe the roller.
• Allow the roller to dry completely.
• Close the printer cover.

7. Clean the Inside of the Printer

• Use compressed air to gently blow out any dust or debris from the inside of the printer. Be careful not to blow air directly at the print head or other delicate components.
• Use a small, non-abrasive brush to remove any stubborn debris.

8. Final Touches: A Sparkling Printer

After cleaning, plug the printer back in and run a test print to ensure everything is working properly. If you notice any streaks or other print quality issues, you may need to repeat the cleaning process or contact Brother support for assistance.

Time for a Fresh Start: Your Printer is Ready to Shine!

By following these simple steps, you can easily keep your Brother MFC-J491DW printer clean and running smoothly. Regular cleaning will not only improve print quality but also extend the life of your printer.

What People Want to Know

Q: How often should I clean my Brother MFC-J491DW printer?
A: It’s recommended to clean your printer every 2-3 months or more frequently if you notice any print quality issues.
Q: Can I use rubbing alcohol to clean my printer?
A: It’s not recommended to use rubbing alcohol or other harsh chemicals on your printer. These substances can damage the printer’s components.
Q: What if I’m still having print quality issues after cleaning my printer?
A: If you’re still experiencing print quality problems, you may need to contact Brother support for assistance. There may be a more serious issue that needs to be addressed.
Q: Can I use a vacuum cleaner to clean my printer?
A: It’s not recommended to use a vacuum cleaner to clean your printer. The suction power of a vacuum cleaner can damage the printer’s delicate components.
Q: How do I know if my print head needs to be replaced?
A: If you’ve tried cleaning the print head multiple times and are still experiencing print quality issues, it may be time to replace the print head. Contact Brother support for assistance.