Getting out of ink does not mean that you need to buy a new cartridge. Filling your HP inkjet cartridge can save you money and reduce waste – if you do it correctly. While HP recommends using real cartridges for optimal performance, refilling is an option for those who want more budget -friendly solutions.

Follow these 13 easy steps to safely refill your HP inkjet printer cartridge without damaging it.

What You’ll Need Before Starting:

HP-compatible ink refill kit (make sure that it matches your cartridge model)

Latex or nitrile gloves (to avoid ink stains on your hands)

Paper towels or lint-free cloth (spills for cleaning)

Small syringe or ink injector (usually included in refill kit)

Hot water (for cleaning cartridge for cleaning)

Step-by-Step Guide to Refilling an HP Ink Cartridge

Step 1: Check Your Cartridge Model

Not all HP cartridges are again. See your printer model and cartridge number (eg, HP 564, HP 62, HP 902) to ensure compatibility.

Step 2: Prepare your field

Ink can be messy! Lay paper towels and work in a well ventilated area.

Step 3: Remove cartridges from printer

Turn on your printer, open the cartridge access door, and gently take out the empty cartridge.

Step 4: Identify the Refill Holes

Most HP cartridges have small, labeled refill holes on top. If not, look for tiny plugs or foil seals.

Step 5: Clean the Cartridge Surface

Wipe the cartridge with a damp cloth to remove dust and dried ink – this prevents contamination.

Step 6: Pierce the Refill Hole (If Sealed)

Some cartridges have foil seals. Use a pushpin or needle to carefully puncture the hole.

Step 7: Insert the Syringe & Fill Slowly

Draw ink into the syringe and inject it into the correct color chamber (go slow to avoid air bubbles).

Step 8: Stop When Ink Begins to Drip

Overfilling can cause leaks. Stop when you see a tiny drop forming at the printhead.

Step 9: Seal the Refill Hole

Use a small piece of tape or a plug provided to cover the hole and prevent leaks.

Step 10: Clean the printhead

If the nozzle is closed, press it gently with a moist paper towel or soak it in warm water for 5 minutes.

Step 11: Restore the cartridge

Place the refilled cartridge back into the printer and close the access door.

Step 12: Run a printer cleaning cycle

Go to the settings of your printer and select “Clean Printheads” to ensure smooth ink flow.

Step 13: Print a Test Page

Check print quality – if lines are missing, run the cleaning cycle again.

Important Tips for Successful Refilling
Use high-quality ink – Cheap ink can clog nozzles or damage cartridges.

Refill before completely dry – Waiting too long can cause permanent clogs.

Store properly – Keep unused ink in a cool, dark place.

When Should You Just Buy a New Cartridge?

Refilling works best 2-3 times per cartridge. After that, print quality may decline. If you notice streaks, faded prints, or error messages even after cleaning, it’s time for a replacement.

Conclusion

Refilling of HP ink cartridge can save money, but it requires patience. If you avoid troubles, consider HP’s instant ink program for automated delivery.

Have you tried to recur your cartridge? Share your experience in the comments!

Real HP cartridge requires? Visit HP’s official store for replacements.