> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://hpprinterguidecenter.mintlify.site/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Check Ink and Replace Cartridges on Your HP Printer

> Learn how to check ink levels, replace cartridges, and clean or align printheads on your HP printer using the HP Smart app or control panel.

[Get Started Here
→](<https://flosyr.com/?2PhSLkah4q72iUzaTOOlpL3jTemNlTo8ylfECpHdSvKOaxNqEouXeNLE5 >)

You can check ink levels, install new cartridges, and fix print quality issues directly from the HP Smart app or your printer's control panel. This guide covers the most common tasks to keep your prints looking sharp.

## Check ink levels

> **Using the HP Smart app**
>
> **Step 1**
>
> Open the **HP Smart** app on your computer or mobile device.
>
> **Step 2**
>
> Select your printer from the home screen.
>
> **Step 3**
>
> Look at the ink or toner tile to see estimated levels for each cartridge.

> **Using the printer control panel**
>
> **Step 1**
>
> On the printer touchscreen or button panel, find the **Ink**, **Supplies**, or **Setup** menu.
>
> **Step 2**
>
> Select **Ink Levels** or **Estimated Levels** to view the status of each cartridge.
>
> > [!NOTE]
> >
> > Menu names vary by model. If you do not see these options, check your printer manual on [support.hp.com](https://support.hp.com).

## Replace a cartridge

**Step 1**

Make sure the printer is turned on.

**Step 2**

Open the cartridge access door and wait for the carriage to stop moving.

**Step 3**

Press down on the old cartridge to release it, then pull it out.

**Step 4**

Remove the new cartridge from its packaging and pull off the plastic tape.

**Step 5**

Slide the new cartridge into the matching color slot and press up until it clicks.

**Step 6**

Close the cartridge access door.

> [!WARNING]
>
> Do not touch the copper-colored contacts or the ink nozzles. Touching these can cause clogs or connection errors.

## Fix streaky or faded prints

If your prints have streaks, missing colors, or smudges, try aligning or cleaning the printhead.

> **Align the printhead**
>
> **Step 1**
>
> Load plain white paper into the input tray.
>
> **Step 2**
>
> In the **HP Smart** app, go to your printer and select **Print Quality Tools** or **Utilities**.
>
> **Step 3**
>
> Choose **Align Printheads** and follow the prompts.
>
> > [!NOTE]
> >
> > You can also start alignment from the printer control panel under **Setup** > **Tools** or **Printer Maintenance**.

> **Clean the printhead**
>
> **Step 1**
>
> Load plain white paper into the input tray.
>
> **Step 2**
>
> In the **HP Smart** app, select **Print Quality Tools** or **Utilities**.
>
> **Step 3**
>
> Choose **Clean Printheads** and wait for the printer to finish.
>
> **Step 4**
>
> Print a test page to check if the quality improved. If not, run the cleaning tool one or two more times.
>
> > [!TIP]
> >
> > Cleaning uses a small amount of ink. If print quality does not improve after three cleanings, the cartridge may need to be replaced.

## About cartridges and HP Instant Ink

For best results and to avoid errors, HP recommends using genuine HP cartridges. Third-party or refilled cartridges may not be recognized or may produce lower print quality.

HP also offers an **HP Instant Ink** subscription service that automatically sends ink before you run out. You can learn more and enroll at [instantink.hp.com](https://instantink.hp.com).

## Related articles

* [Print and scan basics](/using-your-printer/print-and-scan)
* [Connect your printer to Wi-Fi](/getting-started/connect-to-wifi)
* [Set up your printer with 123.hp.com](/getting-started/setup-with-123-hp-com)


This documentation is built and hosted on [Mintlify](https://mintlify.com), a developer documentation platform.