Quick answer
Faded print usually occurs due to an empty or dried-out cartridge, incorrect print quality settings, or a dirty printhead. First check the ink level and select a higher quality, then run printhead cleaning from the driver. If the problem persists, check the paper and possibly replace the cartridge.
How to recognize the problem
- Text is grayish and hard to read
- Colors are washed out or missing
- The print has streaks or light areas
- The same page looks faded on every sheet
Most common causes
Empty or dried-out cartridge
A cartridge with little ink or toner produces faded print. If the printer has not been used for a long time, the ink may dry in the nozzles.
Wrong quality mode
Draft or economy mode is selected, which uses less ink and prints faded pages. Setting the quality to a higher level usually solves the problem.
Dirty printhead or nozzles
Dried ink or dust has accumulated on the printhead or nozzles, so the jets do not work evenly. Cleaning the printhead from the driver restores uniform print.
Unsuitable paper
Textured, damp, or too thick paper does not absorb ink properly. Use paper recommended for your printer model.
Expired toner or ink
Toners and cartridges have a shelf life; after expiration, the chemicals may lose their properties. Check the date on the packaging.
Step-by-step fix
- 1
Check the ink or toner level
Open
Settings > Bluetooth & devices > Printers & scanners(Windows 11) orControl Panel > Devices and Printers(Windows 10), select the printer, and openPrinting preferencesorPrinter properties. Look for the consumable status. If the level is low, replace the cartridge or refill the toner. - 2
Select higher print quality
In the
Printing preferenceswindow, find theQualityorPrint Qualityoption and instead ofDraft, selectNormalorHigh. Confirm by clickingApplyandOK, then print a test page. - 3
Run printhead cleaning
In the printer driver (
Printing preferencesorPrinter properties), look for theMaintenanceorUtilitiestab. ClickClean printheadorCleaningand follow the instructions. The process may take a few minutes and use some ink. - 4
Print a test page
In the same menu, select
Print test pageorNozzle check. Compare the print with the sample on the screen. If there are still streaks or faded areas, repeat the cleaning once more. - 5
Check the paper
Make sure the paper is dry, flat, and of appropriate weight (usually 80 g/m²). Remove all paper from the tray, check for wrinkled sheets, and reload them.
- 6
Set the paper type in the driver
In
Printing preferences, select the correct paper type (e.g.,Plain Paper,Photo Paper). The wrong paper type can change the amount of ink the printer applies. - 7
Replace the cartridge or toner if necessary
If the cartridge or toner is old, or the consumable level is low despite refilling, replace it with a new one. The replacement procedure depends on the model; follow the manufacturer's instructions. After replacement, print a test page again.
- 8
Update the printer driver
Download the latest driver from the printer manufacturer's official website. Install it and restart printing. Outdated drivers may misinterpret quality settings.
If nothing helps
If you have checked the cartridge, cleaned the printhead, and selected high quality, but the print is still faded, the problem may be hardware: a worn printhead, a faulty toner transfer unit, or a dirty laser unit. In that case, do not disassemble the printer yourself. Note the model and symptoms, then contact service or IT support. For laser printers, faded print may also mean the toner is running out or the drum is worn; check the status in the printer software. If you use the printer in an office, try another cartridge of the same type to determine whether the problem is in the consumable or the device itself.
How to prevent it
- Print at least once a week so the ink does not dry out.
- Use original or recommended cartridges and toner.
- Regularly clean the printhead according to the manufacturer's instructions.
- Store paper in a dry place and avoid damp rooms.
When to call a professional
If you have tried all the steps and the print is still faded, or the printer shows a hardware error, contact IT support or an authorized service center. Disassembling the device yourself may void the warranty and worsen the problem.
IT infrastructure maintenance · Servers, networks, backup, security and helpdeskFAQ
Why is my print faded even though the cartridge is new?
A new cartridge may produce faded print if the protective tape or seal has not been removed; for inkjet printers, also check that the printhead has been cleaned.
How many times can I run printhead cleaning?
Manufacturers usually recommend a maximum of two to three consecutive cleanings. If there is no improvement after that, the cartridge probably needs replacement or service.
Can faded print be due to bad paper?
Yes, textured, damp, or too thick paper can prevent proper ink adhesion. Try plain 80 g/m² paper and check if the print has improved.