All Printer Paper is Not Created Equal

In today's fast-paced world, organizations rely on their printers for daily productivity. When there are paper jams or other issues with printing, you can experience unnecessary downtime. Paper selection and paper storage play an important role in the quality and efficiency of your printing projects. All printer paper is not created equal, and understanding the nuances of paper quality can significantly impact the final output. In this blog, we'll explore why quality matters and provide insights into what businesses and schools should look for when choosing and maintaining printer paper.

The Importance of Paper Quality

When it comes to printing, the paper used is just as vital as the printer itself. The right paper enhances the overall presentation, readability, and durability of your documents. Poor-quality paper can lead to issues such as ink bleed, curling, and paper jams. Here are some key factors that highlight the significance of paper quality.

Professional appearance. Quality paper provides a smooth, clean surface that results in sharp, clear text and images. This professional appearance reflects positively on your brand or institution.

Durability. High-quality paper is more resistant to wear and tear. It can withstand handling, filing, and binding without becoming brittle or discolored.

Enhanced ink absorption. Quality paper is designed to absorb ink evenly, preventing issues like smudging, bleeding, and feathering. This is crucial for areas of your company like sales and marketing, who need to produce high-quality, vibrant documents.

Reduced printer maintenance. Inferior paper can cause paper jams, misfeeds, and premature wear on printer components. Quality paper reduces the likelihood of these issues, resulting in fewer disruptions and lower maintenance costs.

Key Considerations for Choosing and Maintaining Quality Printer Paper

• Weight and thickness. When choosing paper, consider its weight, usually measured in grams per square meter (gsm). Heavier paper (higher gsm) is sturdier and often more suitable for professional documents and high-quality prints. Standard office paper typically ranges from 60-90 gsm. Always check your printer’s manual to see which weights are acceptable for your device.
• Brightness and opacity. Brightness refers to how well the paper reflects light. Higher brightness levels result in crisper text and more vibrant images. Opacity, on the other hand, measures how much light passes through the paper. Higher opacity prevents text from showing through from one side to the other.
• Finish and texture. The finish of the paper affects how ink adheres to the surface. Common finishes include matte, which provides a non-reflective surface, and gloss, which gives a shiny finish. Texture, such as smooth or textured, can also influence the final print quality.
• Compatibility with printer type. Consider the type of printer you're using. Laser printers and inkjet printers have different paper requirements, so choose paper that is compatible with your specific printing technology.
• Proper paper storage. Where you store your paper has an impact on your paper quality. Paper needs to be stored in a cool dry place and away from sun, heat, and humidity. Ideally, paper should be stored in an area that has a controlled relative humidity of 35-55%. Less than this can dry out the paper causing static electricity that can create paper misfeeds. More moisture than this can cause paper curling and paper jams.
• Paper age. No one wants to have a big printing project and realize they have run out of paper. It can seem more cost effective to purchase ahead in large quantities, but it’s recommended to only have a two-to-three-month supply on hand to ensure your paper maintains the best print quality.

Quality Matters with Every Print

In the world of printing, the quality of the paper you choose can make a world of difference. By considering factors such as weight and compatibility with your printer, businesses and schools can ensure their printed materials are of the highest quality. Invest in the right paper, and you'll see an improvement in the professionalism of your documents along with less disruptions from printer maintenance issues.