Why storage matters
Paper and inkjet media respond to their surroundings. Too much moisture and paper can cockle, curl or jam; too little and it can become brittle or build up static. Dust and fingerprints on a coated surface show up as marks, missing ink or poor adhesion. Dented roll edges cause head strikes and wasted prints. Good storage costs nothing and saves a lot of frustration.
Where to store media
- Stable conditions. Keep media in a dry room at a steady, normal indoor temperature and moderate humidity. Avoid damp storerooms, cold garages and spots next to radiators or air-conditioning vents.
- Out of direct sunlight. Light and heat can affect coatings and some media over time.
- Off the floor. Store on shelves or racks, away from outside walls where condensation can form.
- In original packaging. Keep media in its box and wrapping until you need it, and reseal opened packs.
Storing rolls
- Store rolls horizontally, ideally supported by the core ends or in the original box, so the roll itself carries no weight.
- If rolls must stand on end, protect the edges and never stand them on an unprotected floor.
- Do not stack heavy items on top of rolls; pressure can flatten them or mark the surface.
- Use any end caps or plugs supplied, and keep the roll in its protective sleeve.
- Once a roll is off the printer, tape or clip the loose end and return it to its packaging.
Storing sheets
Store sheet media flat in its box, not on its edge, so it does not bow. Return unused sheets to their packaging rather than leaving them in a printer tray for long periods.
Before you print
If media has been delivered on a cold day or stored somewhere cooler, let it adjust to room conditions in its sealed packaging before opening. Opening cold media in a warm room can cause condensation on the surface.
Tip: Handle coated, photo and fine art media by the edges, and wear clean cotton or nitrile gloves for premium papers such as PremierArt. Skin oils can leave invisible marks that only appear once the ink goes down.
Quick reference
| Do | Avoid |
|---|---|
| Keep media in original packaging | Leaving rolls unwrapped on the printer |
| Store rolls horizontally, supported by the core | Standing rolls on edges or bare floors |
| Steady, dry, room-temperature storage | Damp, cold or hot locations |
| Let media acclimatise before opening | Printing straight from a cold van |
| Handle by the edges | Touching the print surface |
Finished prints
Store finished prints flat or loosely rolled, image side out, interleaved with clean paper if stacked. Let inks dry fully before stacking, rolling or laminating. For longer-term protection, see film vs liquid laminate.
The same care applies to CAD paper, graphics media, photo paper and Phototex wallpaper. For help choosing media, read choosing wide-format media.
Questions about media?
Call 01252 624411 or email sales@landoruk.com.