The short answer
Toner rubs off labels when the printer's fuser isn't hot enough to melt it into a thicker sheet. First make sure your labels are laser-compatible (waterproof vinyl and clear gloss are inkjet only; the paper labels work in both). Then set the paper type to Labels, Heavy or Cardstock so the printer runs slower and hotter.
If toner sticks to plain paper but flakes, smudges or wipes off your labels, the printer isn't broken. A laser printer melts toner onto the page with a heated roller called the fuser. A label sheet is thicker than copy paper, so at the plain-paper setting the fuser doesn't get it hot enough, and the toner sits on top instead of bonding.
Step 1: Check the labels are laser-compatible
- Paper labels (kraft, recycled, white matte, pastel and other uncoated colors): work in laser and inkjet printers.
- Waterproof vinyl and clear gloss labels: inkjet only. Toner won't bond to them, and the heat can damage the sheet and your printer. Use an inkjet printer for these.
The label type is listed on the pack and on the product page. Not sure? Email us your template number and we'll tell you.
Step 2: Set a heavier paper type
The paper type tells the printer how hot and how fast to run the fuser. A heavier setting slows the page down and adds heat, so the toner melts in properly.
- Windows: in the print window, click Printer Properties (or Preferences) and set Paper Type or Media Type to Labels. No Labels option? Choose Heavy, Thick or Cardstock.
- Mac: in the print window, open the menu that shows Media & Quality or Printer Features and set the media type the same way.
- Some laser printers also have a paper type setting for each tray on the printer's own screen. Set the tray you're using to match.
Print one label sheet, wait a minute, then rub a printed area with your thumb. If it still smudges, try the next-heaviest setting.
Step 3: Feed it the short way
- Use the manual or bypass tray if your printer has one. Its straighter path suits thicker sheets.
- Some printers have a rear output door that gives a flatter exit; open it for label sheets.
- Print one sheet at a time and let each one cool before stacking.
Step 4: Check the printer
- Toner low or old: a nearly empty or very old cartridge can print faint and powdery. Try a fresh one.
- Toner also rubs off plain paper: the fuser itself may be wearing out. Check your printer maker's support site; on many models it's a replaceable part.
- Cold room: a printer in a cold garage or workshop runs a cooler fuser. Let it warm up, or move it somewhere warmer for label jobs.
Still flaking?
Work through the printer troubleshooting checklist, and print a test page on plain paper to check alignment while you're at it (how to print labels that line up).
Still stuck? Email customerservice@dashleigh.com with your template number and your printer model, and we will help.
