How Often Should You Replace Ink?

Running out of ink always feels sudden — but in reality, most ink cartridges give plenty of warning before they’re truly empty. Knowing when to replace your ink (and when not to) can save you money, prevent print issues, and extend the life of your printer.

So… how often should you replace ink?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. It depends on:

• How often you print

• What you print (text vs photos)

• Whether you use original or compatible cartridges

• Your printer model

For light home users, ink might last 3–6 months. For busy households or home offices, cartridges may need replacing every 4–8 weeks.

Signs your ink needs replacing

Don’t wait until nothing prints at all. Watch out for:

• Faded or streaky prints

• Missing colours

• Lines through text or images

• Frequent “low ink” warnings

Ignoring these signs can damage print heads and lead to more expensive repairs later.

Can ink dry out if you don’t print often?

Yes — and it’s more common than people think. Ink can dry out or clog nozzles if a printer sits unused for weeks. Printing a quick test page every 1–2 weeks helps keep ink flowing properly.

Pro tip: replace smart, not early

Modern printers are conservative with warnings. “Low ink” doesn’t mean “empty.” You usually still have enough ink for dozens of pages. Replace only when print quality drops or the printer clearly indicates replacement is needed.

Bottom line:
Replace ink based on print quality, not panic. And always make sure you’re using the right cartridge for your printer.