How to Refill a Brother Ink Cartridge

By Tielle Webb

Overview

Brother International Corporation has been making printers and other office machines since 1954. If you own a Brother printer, you know you have a solid, quality machine from an established and trusted manufacturer. You can save money using your Brother printer by refilling the ink cartridges rather than purchasing new ink cartridges when your ink runs out. You cannot refill all ink cartridges in the same manner, however, so it;s a good idea to learn how your Brother printer cartridge should be refilled.

How to Refill a Brother Ink Cartridge

Step 1

Put down a thick layer of newspaper or paper towels on the area where you want to refill the ink cartridge. The ink is likely to drip and might even spill, so protect the area from stains.
Step 2

Turn the Brother ink cartridge upside down. Look for two distinct holes. The "exit hole" is the hole through which the ink discharges. It may have a dark colored plug in it. The other hole is a "vent hole."

Step 3

Hold the Brother ink cartridge with the exit hole facing you. Cut a piece of electrical tape large enough to completely cover the exit hole and slightly wrap around the sides of the cartridge. Cover the hole with the tape, making it airtight.
Step 4

Turn the ink cartridge right side up. Use the screwdriver to pry off the plastic handle from the cartridge top. Poke through the foil-like seals covering holes under this lid using the refill kit's syringe (see Resources below).
Step 5

Fill the syringe with ink and push it into the first hole. Squeeze ink into the cartridge through this hole until full. Repeat with the next hole.
Step 6

Cover the holes completely with electrical tape. Make sure the tape makes an airtight seal. Replace the top of the cartridge. Hold the cartridge over a trash can or sink and turn it upside down to make sure it does not leak (a few drops is normal), then replace it into your Brother printer.

Skill: Moderately Easy
Ingredients:
Ink cartridge refill kit
Newspapers or paper towels
Electrical tape
Scissors
Small flathead screwdriver
Tip: You may also want to wear latex gloves to protect your hands from ink stains.
Warning:
Refilling ink cartridges may void your warranty.

More Essortment Articles