A printer that prints blank pages usually has an ink or toner problem, a clogged printhead or a wrong setting. Here is how to find the cause.
Last updated: October 30, 2026.
Check ink or toner
An empty or unrecognized cartridge can produce blank pages. Check levels and reseat cartridges. See how to check printer ink levels.
Remove protective tape
New cartridges often have a plastic strip over the nozzles or contacts. Make sure it was removed.
Clean the printhead
On an inkjet, dried ink can block the nozzles. Run a nozzle check and a cleaning cycle once or twice. See how to clean a printhead.
Check the paper and settings
Load paper correctly and choose the right paper type. Make sure the document itself is not blank, and try printing a test page.
Check the toner and drum on a laser
On a laser, a damaged or missing toner or drum unit can cause blank pages. Reseat them and follow the manual.
Try a different file or app
If only one document prints blank, the file or app may be at fault.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does my printer print blank pages after replacing ink?
Possibly the protective tape is still on, or the cartridge is not seated or recognized.
Can a clogged printhead cause blank pages?
Yes, especially on inkjets left unused.
Could it be a driver problem?
Possibly. Reinstall the driver if a printer test page is fine but documents are blank.
Bottom Line
Check cartridges, clean the printhead and test with a printer test page. See printer not printing fixes.
