Using force may permanently damage the print head.
Use tweezers to reach narrow areas. Pull even more slowly when using tweezers, and alternate tugging from the left and right ends of the paper. Whenever possible, pull in the direction the paper would travel through the printer. If there’s no way to avoid tearing, grab the paper from both ends of the jam. Try to catch hold of all torn pieces.
If you don’t have your printer manual, search online for “manual” and the name of your printer model.
Some models have a knob that will enlarge this slot, making removal easier.
Many printers have a basic way to remove the back panel and/or the input tray, which are good places to start. Check for movable access panels on the back, and a plastic tab deep inside the input tray.
Close all access panels and return all trays before you print again.
Some printer models recommend waiting at least thirty minutes.
If you can’t reach the paper, use wide grip tweezers.
It’s best to follow user manual instructions. Do not try to force the mechanism. Many models use rollers attached with a “hole and pin” latch. Push down on the pin to release the roller.
This may be worth trying again later in the process, if you have managed to remove some paper but still can’t print.
Warning: Do not reach into the printer while it is still on. This can cause serious injury. Some drawer-style trays can be fully removed. Look for a release catch. It may help to use a mirror when checking trays and panels in the back. If possible, have the printer moved away from the wall to allow for more access.
For added safety, unplug the printer.
If you cannot remove it, contact the people in charge of the office printer’s repair.
If the readout has an error message, consult the user manual to interpret it.
If it’s a laser printer, wait 10-30 minutes before reaching inside (or up to an hour for some models). Parts inside can get dangerously hot.
If you do not see the rollers, try turning the paper upside down, or opening a back or side panel. You may need to check the manual to figure out how to remove these panels. If your roller is clearly broken, that’s the source of your problem. Refer to your printer manual or contact the manufacturer to find out whether your roller is replaceable.
Laser printers contain toner particles that can irritate lungs. Wear a mask that filters fine particles, and buy a special toner cloth that picks up most of these particles. Moisten it with 99% isopropyl alcohol. [2] X Research source (Some rollers crack when exposed to alcohol. You may want to check your printer manual for advice, or use distilled water instead. )[3] X Research source Inkjets printers are easier to clean. Use any lint-free cloth (such as microfiber) and moisten it slightly with isopropyl alcohol, or distilled water if you don’t want to risk damage. For extremely dirty feed rollers, use a special rubber rejuvenator product. Read all safety instructions first. These products can cause serious skin and eye damage, and corrode plastic parts of the printer. [4] X Research source
Toner cloth tears easily. Move slowly to avoid leaving shreds behind that can clog your printer.
Warning: The “output rollers” on the laser printers get hot enough to cause burns. These are actually “fusers” which bake the ink onto the paper. Warning: These rollers are close to delicate machinery, and on laser printers they require special treatment. It’s best to refer to your printer manual for precise cleaning instructions.
