Cartridge: HP 74 or 74XL

Type: Sponge

Ink Volume:

  • HP 74 – 8ml
  • HP 74XL – 24ml

Cartridge Color: Black

Materials Required

  • Empty or Partially Filled Cartridge
  • Black Refill Ink
  • Disposable Glove
  • Paper Towel
  • Syringe and Needle
  • Printhead Cleaning Wipes

1. Before beginning, ensure that the cartridge is refilled on top of a non-absorbent, easy to clean material (like a sink).

2. Partially remove the identification label from the top of the cartridge until all the holes are revealed as in the provided reference picture below (Note: Peel the label starting from the top left or top right)

3. Fill the syringe with the proper amount of ink (8 ml for the HP 74 and 24ml for the HP 74XL). For a standard 3cc syringe, you may need to fill it up to 3 times. (Note: 1ml = 1cc)

4. Insert the needle no more than an inch into any hole (they all lead into a single, central ink chamber) as shown in the picture reference. Avoid wiggling or shaking the needle during this process to reduce potential damage to the cartridge. Once inside, slowly inject the ink as to make sure that it does not overflow due to residual ink on the cartridge sponge. If the ink begins to spill out from the top of the cartridge pull the syringe back ½ ml and stop.

5. It is normal for the printhead to drip excess ink for a short time. During this period do not allow the printhead to have direct contact with an absorbent material such as a paper towel as this will cause the cartridge to continue leaking. Wait until the dripping has ceased before dabbing off excess ink from the printhead with a soft cloth or a towel.

6. Use the provided Printhead Cleaning Wipes to clean the bottom of the cartridge. If you run out of the provided wipes, you may use a damp cotton cloth with water or rubbing alcohol to achieve a similar result.

7. Seal the top of the cartridge using the original identification label.

8. Insert the cartridge back into the printer. It is normal for the printer to display a low ink notification after the refill process. This does not affect the cartridge’s ability to print. For more information regarding this and steps to disable this notification see our FAQ for a step-by-step tutorial.

9. Print 5 to settle the cartridge and test for printing irregularities. Alternatively, you may print a color picture or a black text document to test the  color or black cartridge, respectively. It is also recommended to run the Alignment Tool or Cleaning Tool from the printer. Most printers with an LCD display will have this option available in the settings menu. Printers without a display will generally have this setting under Printer Preferences/Settings from the PC/Mac.

10. If you are having trouble with the refill kit please refer to our comprehensive troubleshooting guide or contact us by SUBMITTING A TICKET (Click Here).