Step-by-step instructions for clearing paper jams on HP, Canon, Epson, Brother, and all other printer brands.
By Glen Meade, TestMyPrinter Team · Updated December 2025
Follow these steps in order to clear most paper jams:
Press the power button and wait for complete shutdown. Unplug the power cord for safety.
Open front cover, rear access panel, and any side doors to access paper paths.
Pull out the paper tray completely and check for stuck paper underneath.
Use both hands to pull paper slowly in the direction of the paper path. Never yank.
Use a flashlight to inspect all areas. Remove any paper fragments with tweezers.
Close all doors firmly, plug in, power on, and print a test page.
Paper can get stuck at multiple points along the paper path. Check these areas systematically:
HP printers have multiple access points for paper jams.
Canon printers often jam at the output tray area.
Epson EcoTank and WorkForce printers have specific jam locations.
Brother laser printers require removing the drum unit for access.
Inkjet printers have unique jam characteristics due to their printhead design.
On inkjet printers, gently push the printhead carriage to the side if paper is stuck underneath. Never force it. If the carriage won't move, check for obstructions first.
Laser printers have a hot fuser unit that requires special care when clearing jams.
The fuser unit in laser printers can reach temperatures over 200°C (400°F). Wait at least 10 minutes after printing before attempting to clear jams near the fuser. Look for warning labels on your printer.
Sometimes the printer shows a paper jam error but no paper is visible. This is called a "phantom jam" or "ghost jam."
20-24 lb (75-90 gsm) for most printers
Separates sheets to prevent multiple feeding
Keep paper below the maximum line (75% capacity)
Keep flat, in original packaging, in dry location
Snug but not too tight against paper stack
Use distilled water or isopropyl alcohol on lint-free cloth
Use compressed air to clean paper path
Pickup rollers wear out - replace when shiny
Manufacturers often fix jam-related bugs
Prevents ink from drying and rollers from hardening
Dirty or worn pickup rollers are the leading cause of repeated paper jams. Here's how to clean them:
Use a flashlight to thoroughly check all paper path areas, including curves and hidden spots. Look for tiny torn pieces. Clean sensors with compressed air. If no paper is found, try opening and closing all doors several times, then power cycle the printer.
The paper may be incompatible with your printer, damaged by humidity, or stored improperly. Try a fresh ream from a sealed package. Also check that paper settings in your print driver match the actual paper loaded.
For best results, use paper within your printer's specifications (usually 20-24 lb / 75-90 gsm). Specialty papers like cardstock or labels require printers rated for that weight. Always check your printer's manual for supported paper types.
Clean pickup rollers monthly if you print frequently (100+ pages/week), or every 3 months for light use. Clean more often if you notice feeding issues or live in a dusty environment.
Replace pickup rollers if they appear shiny, hard, or cracked. Most rollers last 50,000-100,000 pages. Replacement kits typically cost $20-50 and include instructions. This is an easy DIY repair for most printers.
Print a test page to make sure your printer is working properly