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Brother Printer MFC J491DW: How to Clean It Like a Pro

At a Glance

  • Locate the paper path cover, typically found on the front or side of the printer, and open it.
  • The printhead is the heart of your printer, responsible for delivering ink to the paper.
  • However, if you notice ink leaks or clogs, you can gently clean the contact points of the cartridges with a cotton swab moistened with isopropyl alcohol.

Are you experiencing blurry prints, paper jams, or streaks on your Brother MFC-J491DW printer? These issues can be frustrating, but often stem from a simple solution: cleaning. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the essential steps on how to clean your Brother MFC-J491DW printer, ensuring it runs smoothly and delivers crisp, high-quality prints every time.

Why Cleaning Your Brother MFC-J491DW is Crucial

Regular cleaning of your Brother MFC-J491DW printer is essential for maintaining optimal performance and print quality. Here’s why:

  • Clearer Prints: Dust, debris, and ink buildup can clog the printhead nozzles, leading to blurry or faded prints. Cleaning ensures smooth ink flow for sharp and vibrant results.
  • Reduced Paper Jams: Accumulated paper dust and fibers can cause paper jams, interrupting your workflow. Cleaning the paper path eliminates these obstacles.
  • Extended Printer Lifespan: Consistent cleaning prevents wear and tear on the printer’s delicate components, extending its lifespan and minimizing costly repairs.
  • Improved Reliability: A clean printer is a reliable printer. By removing obstructions and ensuring proper functionality, you minimize the risk of unexpected malfunctions.

Gather Your Cleaning Supplies

Before you begin, gather the following supplies to ensure a thorough cleaning:

  • Soft, lint-free cloth: This is ideal for wiping down surfaces and removing dust.
  • Isopropyl alcohol (70% concentration): This is a safe and effective cleaner for removing ink and debris.
  • Cotton swabs: These are precise tools for cleaning small areas like printhead nozzles.
  • Compressed air can: This is helpful for blowing away dust and debris from hard-to-reach areas.
  • Distilled water: Use this for rinsing cleaning tools and for a final wipe-down.

Cleaning the Exterior of Your Brother MFC-J491DW

Start by cleaning the exterior of your printer to remove dust and debris.
1. Unplug the printer: Safety first! Always unplug your printer before cleaning to prevent electrical hazards.
2. Dust the exterior: Use a soft, lint-free cloth to wipe down the printer’s exterior, including the top, sides, and front panel. Pay attention to areas around the paper tray and document feeder.
3. Clean the paper tray: Remove the paper tray and gently wipe it down with a damp cloth. Ensure it’s completely dry before reinserting it.

Cleaning the Paper Path

The paper path is prone to accumulating dust and debris that can obstruct paper flow.
1. Open the paper path: Locate the paper path cover, typically found on the front or side of the printer, and open it.
2. Remove any obstructions: Carefully remove any visible paper scraps, dust, or debris using a soft cloth or compressed air.
3. Clean the rollers: The rollers in the paper path can become sticky or dirty. Use a damp cloth to gently wipe them down, ensuring they are completely dry before closing the paper path cover.

Cleaning the Printhead

The printhead is the heart of your printer, responsible for delivering ink to the paper. Cleaning the printhead is essential for maintaining print quality.
1. Access the printhead: Follow the instructions in your printer’s manual to access the printhead. This may involve opening a specific compartment or accessing a hidden area.
2. Clean the printhead nozzles: Use a cotton swab slightly moistened with isopropyl alcohol to gently clean the printhead nozzles. Avoid applying excessive pressure.
3. Rinse the cotton swab: Rinse the cotton swab with distilled water and repeat the cleaning process until the cotton swab remains clean.
4. Allow the printhead to dry: Before closing the printhead compartment, allow it to air dry completely.

Cleaning the Ink Cartridges

While the Brother MFC-J491DW uses individual ink cartridges, cleaning them is not typically necessary. However, if you notice ink leaks or clogs, you can gently clean the contact points of the cartridges with a cotton swab moistened with isopropyl alcohol. Ensure the cartridges are completely dry before reinserting them.

Finishing Touches

After completing the cleaning process, perform the following steps:

  • Reconnect the printer: Plug the printer back in and turn it on.
  • Run a cleaning cycle: Most Brother printers have a built-in cleaning cycle. Consult your printer’s manual for instructions to initiate this cycle.
  • Print a test page: Print a test page to confirm that the cleaning process has successfully addressed any print quality issues.

Beyond Cleaning – Maintaining Your Brother MFC-J491DW

To keep your Brother MFC-J491DW printer running smoothly, consider these additional maintenance tips:

  • Use high-quality ink: Using genuine Brother ink cartridges ensures optimal print quality and reduces the risk of clogging.
  • Store ink cartridges properly: Store unused ink cartridges in a cool, dry place to prevent them from drying out.
  • Don’t leave ink cartridges out for extended periods: When not in use, always replace the ink cartridges in the printer to prevent ink from drying out.
  • Regularly check the paper: Ensure the paper you use is clean and free of dust or debris.
  • Avoid using the printer in dusty environments: Dust can accumulate quickly inside the printer. If you live in a dusty area, consider using a printer cover when not in use.

The Final Word: A Pristine Printer for Optimal Performance

By following these comprehensive cleaning instructions and implementing these maintenance tips, you can ensure your Brother MFC-J491DW printer delivers consistently high-quality prints, minimizing downtime and maximizing your printing experience. A clean printer is a happy printer, and a happy printer means happy printing!

Answers to Your Questions

Q: How often should I clean my Brother MFC-J491DW printer?
A: It’s recommended to clean your printer every 1-2 months or more frequently if you experience print quality issues.
Q: Can I use a damp cloth to clean the printhead nozzles?
A: No, using a damp cloth can damage the delicate printhead nozzles. It’s best to use a cotton swab slightly moistened with isopropyl alcohol.
Q: What if I can’t remove a paper jam?
A: If you’re unable to remove a paper jam yourself, consult your printer’s manual for instructions or contact Brother customer support for assistance.
Q: What should I do if my printer still produces blurry prints after cleaning?
A: If cleaning doesn’t resolve blurry prints, the printhead may be clogged or damaged. Contact Brother customer support for further assistance.
Q: Can I use a vacuum cleaner to clean my printer?
A: Avoid using a vacuum cleaner to clean your printer. The suction force can damage delicate components and potentially cause static electricity.

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About the Author
Davidson is the founder of Techlogie, a leading tech troubleshooting resource. With 15+ years in IT support, he created Techlogie to easily help users fix their own devices without appointments or repair costs. When not writing new tutorials, Davidson enjoys exploring the latest gadgets and their inner workings. He holds...