Like any machine, typewriters require a certain amount of maintenance and

care to keep them performing well. In the day when typing classes were
common, students would learn how to care for a typewriter. Since those
days are long gone, I thought I would share a few tips on how to care for a
typewriter.

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. Dust your machine regularly. Take a lint-free cloth and dust the
exterior parts of your typewriter that can be easily reached.
4. Keep the carriage rails clean. Move the carriage to the extreme left
and right and wipe the carriage rail with a dry cloth.
5. Use a dry bristle brush and clean the type at least once every few
weeks. 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.
 6. Use a backing sheet when you type. Rubber hardens with age and
what used to be a firm 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.
1. 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.

2. 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.

3. 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.