How to take care of a Typewriter?
Recommendations on how to take care of the typewriter
- Always keep your typewriter covered when not in use.Typewriters tend to collect dust which over time will create problems like sticking type bars. Try to keep it covered as much as possible. (Dust Cover)
- Avoid liquid correction fluid.Liquid correction fluid is messy and tends to drip on the platen and paper bail rollers. Correction tape is a better option.
- Dust your machine regularly.Take a lint-free cloth and dust the exterior parts of your typewriter that can be easily reached.
- Keep the carriage rails clean.Move the carriage to the extreme left and right and wipe the carriage rail with a dry cloth. Recommended to be done monthly or when needed.
- Use a dry bristle brush and clean the type (Key Slugs)A small amount of denatured alcohol can be used to clean the type if it's been a long time between cleanings. Just be careful and keep the alcohol off the painted surfaces of your machine. Recommended to be done depending on frequency of usage & when you see accumulating ink on the keys heads.
- Use a backing sheet when you type.Rubber hardens with age and what used to be a soft rubbery platen is now likely to be quite hard. A second sheet of paper will not only provide a better impression but also helps to protect the platen and type slugs.
- Recommended paper type. To preserve your platen for the coming years and print a clearer type, we recommend using papers that are between 85gsm & 115gsm in thickness.
- Ribbons. Depending on which typewriter you are using, ink ribbons are available on our website for around 3£ and don’t worry as they are always available. No specific type of ribbon is recommended as newly produced spools are nearly all the same.
- Room temperature is always recommended as too hot will damage and melt the rubber parts with age of the typewriter; or too cold would affect the metal and mechanism of the typewriter.
Most important, if you need any help or support, we are more than happy to help.
Thank you.
Prepared by Mr & Mrs Vintage Typewriters.
Comments
The content is soo nice
Very useful tips ! Thank you !