How to Fix Dry Muji Pens: A Step-by-Step Guide
Introduction
Have you ever bought a pack of Muji pens only to find them all dry for no apparent reason? Don't worry, you're not alone. This can be frustrating, but with the right steps, you can revive your beloved stationery. In this guide, we'll walk you through the process of fixing dry Muji pens, including checking packaging dates, testing pens, and storing them properly.
1. Check the Packaging Date
Sometimes, pens dry out if they've been on the shelf for a long time. Before you rush to contact customer service, check for any manufacturing or expiration dates on the packaging. If the pens were bought recently, they might still be usable. On the other hand, if it's been months since they were purchased, the issue might not be due to expiration. It's worth noting that Muji is known for high-quality products, so the likelihood of this being the case is relatively low.
2. Test the Pens
Not all pens dry out in the same way. Sometimes, certain types of paper can absorb ink differently, leading to a situation where the pen doesn't seem to work. Try using the pens on different types of paper, such as lined paper, plain paper, or even a glossy surface. If the pen works on one type of paper but not another, it might be the issue with the specific paper you're using. This test can also help you determine if the ink is simply not flowing as intended.
3. Revive the Ink
If the pen is still dry, there are a few methods you can try to get the ink flowing again. For gel pens, gently tap the tip on a piece of paper or give the pen a good shake. This can help the ink move from the cartridge to the tip. For ballpoint pens, try scribbling on a piece of paper vigorously; this often loosens up any clogs and gets the ink flowing again.
4. Store Properly
To prevent pens from drying out in the future, it's important to store them properly. Store the pens horizontally or with the tip facing down to keep the ink flowing toward the tip. Keeping them in a cool, dry place is also a good idea. This helps maintain the ink flow and prevents it from drying out.
5. Contact Customer Service
If the pens are still dry and you suspect a manufacturing issue, consider reaching out to Muji's customer service. They may offer a replacement or refund if the pens are confirmed to be defective. It's always a good idea to have your purchase receipt handy before getting in touch with the company.
6. Check Return/Exchange Policy
If you purchased the pens from a store, check their return or exchange policy. Many stores will accept returns or exchanges within a certain timeframe, usually within 7-14 days. Keep the receipt and packaging as they might be required for a return or exchange. Remember, while online purchases often have more lenient return policies, in-store purchases might have certain time limitations.
Additional Tips
In rare cases, you might encounter a situation where the pen is still not working after trying the above methods. If that's the case, you might want to try disassembling the pen to check for any deeper issues. Be cautious and use appropriate tools to avoid damaging the pen further.
As an anecdote, there is something called centrifugal force that can be applied to some pens to get the ink to the tip. However, this method should be used with care, as excessive force can lead to ink explosions or damage the pen.
Personal experience also offers insights. A friend once had a TRU RED retractable gel pen that faced issues due to their penchant for fidgeting. Holding the pen by the tip and spinning it in a circular motion with their wrist can force the ink to the tip, but it's not recommended as it can lead to ink explosions or staining.
Another personal example involves a Muji pen that initially worked fine in the store but dried up at home. After trying several tricks, including running the pen on paper, cleaning the nib, and shaking it, the pen still didn't work. The last resort was to disassemble the pen, which resulted in the pen working again as good as new.
Remember, unless the pens are totally dry, you can get them to work by using any of the tricks listed above. Try these methods before resorting to more drastic measures. Additionally, try to get the pen exchanged within the return period if you have the option.
Hopefully, one of these solutions helps you get your pens working! Trust the quality of Muji pens and don't give up too quickly.