When using a cartridge converter style pen, you want to experience luxury and a bit of class every time you write. For the most part, that is usually the case. But regardless of the type of cartridge you use, you’re bound to experience dryness at some point. This is when it pays to know how to fix a dry ink cartridge.

Even if you’re the type of writer that likes to keep extra cartridges at hand, having to dispose of a faulty ink cartridge each time you spot one can quickly become a costly issue.

Knowing how to repair a dry ink cartridge can be a major gamechanger.

By the time you’re through reading this guide, you’ll not only know how to fix dry ink cartridges like a seasoned expert, but you’ll also be able to get more out of your expensive ink cartridges.

How to Fix a Dry Ink Cartridge

Before trying any of the tactics we’ll be discussing here, you need to check a few things first. This is especially important as it’ll ultimately determine how effective the solutions will be.

Some things you need to establish first are that:

1. You’re Not Dealing With Expired Cartridges

Blockage issues resulting from expired cartridges are a fairly common problem. What’s worse, there isn’t anything you can do about it.

The best way to deal with this type of cartridge problem is to make sure that you check the expiration date of the black cartridge or colored ink cartridge when you purchase it. That way, you can keep track of how long your inks will last.

It would also be best to avoid cheap cartridges and cheap ink refill cartridges. A lower-quality fountain pen cartridge will dry out significantly faster, even if it’s at a constant temperature.

However, we should mention that your chances of fixing a cheap, dried-out cartridge are still quite high if you follow our tips.

2. You’re Using Compatible Cartridges

Not using compatible cartridges with your fountain pen can also simulate the same results you’d see if you were using a dry cartridge.

Make sure that the black ink cartridge or colored cartridge you’re using for your writing tool is actually the right fit before you try any fixing or cleaning solution.

3. You Understand the Risks

You must understand that fixing any ink cartridge problem on your fountain pen comes with the possibility of damaging the pen if you aren’t careful.

Because these writing instruments are fragile, you must take extra care when attempting even common troubleshooting solutions.

It’s also important to note that just knowing how to fix a dry ink cartridge isn’t enough. Make sure you’re ready to devote the necessary level of attention and care to deal with the restoration process.

Here are two effective ways you can deal with a dry cartridge problem.

Method One – By Applying Pressure to the Dry Ink Cartridge

One of the most efficient ways to deal with a dried-out ink cartridge is to apply gentle yet firm pressure to it.

This works because, in some cases, it’s just the ink at the opening of the cartridge that has dried out. It’s a scenario most commonly seen when ink cartridges aren’t refilled properly. 

So by applying pressure to the ink cartridges, you can encourage the ink to start flowing smoothly again. 

You can use this particular solution by loosening the pen grip and then applying light pressure with your fingertips to the far end of the faulty ink cartridge. Keep in mind that this process may vary slightly depending on the form of ink cartridge in question.

By doing so, you’re pushing ink into the feed of the cartridge.

Method Two – By Flushing the Entire System

Sometimes, the drying process takes out not just the cartridge but also the cartridge converter-style fountain pen itself. In cases like this, you employ the approach we’re about to highlight as it’s considerably more comprehensive and eliminates several other blockage issues, as well.

To use this method effectively, some supplies you need include a sink faucet, a cup of warm water or hot water, a sheet of paper towel, a dry lint-free cloth, or some cotton bud/cotton cloth.

Start by removing the cap and disassembling the pen body. After this, remove the dry cartridge from the fountain pen.

Once done, proceed to run water through the back of the pen’s grip section. Do this until the water runs clear through the grip section and out the nib.

After this, you can immerse the grip section in a cup of hot or warm water.

Then, use a bit of paper towel, dry lint-free cloth, or some cotton bud/cotton cloth to carefully wick out any excess water trapped in the pen’s nib. If you discover spots of ink while doing this, repeat the process of running water through the grip section.

Next, you’ll have to repeat the process of filling and then flushing water through the cartridge converter until it runs clear.

You can use the cotton cloth or sheet of paper towel to wipe any excess water from the exterior of the cartridge. Then, set aside the damp cloth or towel and wait for the cartridge to dry completely inside and out.

Once that’s done, refill it with ink, piece your pen back together, and it’ll be as good as new.

Bottom Line

As you can see, being the owner of a fountain pen comes with a lot of responsibility. In addition to knowing how to fix dry ink cartridge problems, you also need to learn a number of other things in order to maintain your pen properly and keep it in working condition. Luckily, this is one of the best places to get started.