How to Prevent Paper Jams in Your Office Printer

Paper jams slow down work, waste supplies, and interrupt important printing tasks.
Most jams are avoidable when you choose the right paper, store it properly, and use your printer the way it was designed.

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1. Use the Correct Paper Type for Your Printer

Every printer is made for a specific type of paper.
Thermal printers require thermal rolls, while laser printers need bond paper that can handle heat.
Using the wrong paper increases the chance of curling, smearing, and jamming.

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2. Always Store Paper in a Dry, Cool Place

Paper absorbs moisture quickly.
When it becomes too soft or slightly warped, it feeds unevenly into the printer and causes jams.
Keep all paper—thermal, bond, or labels—in sealed packaging until you’re ready to use it.

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3. Fan the Paper Before Loading It

A quick fan helps separate sheets and reduce static.
This small step keeps pages from sticking together and prevents multiple sheets from entering the printer at once.

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4. Don’t Overfill the Tray

The paper tray works best when filled below the max line.
Overloading creates pressure on the feeding rollers and increases misfeeds.
A smaller, even stack results in smoother printing.

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5. Check for Damaged or Curled Sheets

Bent corners, wrinkled edges, and curled sheets almost always cause jams.
Remove them before loading new paper to keep the printer running smoothly.

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6. Keep the Printer Clean

Dust inside the printer interferes with the rollers that pull paper forward.
A quick wipe of the tray, rollers, and interior paths can dramatically reduce jam frequency.

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Why This Matters

Smooth printing saves time, prevents wasted supplies, and keeps your workflow moving without interruptions.
By choosing the right paper and maintaining your printer, you create a more reliable and efficient office environment.