Examine the stapler you’re refilling to work out which method will open the stapler tray. Your product manual will also be able to help you determine which method of staple loading your particular standard staple will use.
Staples are held together gently in a stick or row by force or glue. This is to make their addition much easier. You may need tweezers to remove fresh staples from the stapler package if you find it hard to get your fingers in. If you have partial rows, you may add these as long as they slide into place easily. While it is possible to add single staples, this is not recommended.
If you’re not sure whether or not your stapler is completely closed, check and see if a staple is released when you press the magazine to the base. If the stapler wasn’t completely closed before, this might close it.
If your staples emerge bent, or they remain stuck inside your stapler, you’ll need to reopen the stapler. Usually, the alignment of the staples will be at fault. Remove the staples, and reinsert, making adjustments so that the staples are properly aligned with the magazine edges. Avoid stapling too many papers at once with a mini-stapler, as this can cause jamming or even break the stapler. Stick to the amount recommended by the manufacturer.
Medium and heavy wire staple guns generally load from the top, while most fine wire staplers are bottom load. You’ll want to make sure that the stapler is locked. If it’s an electric staple gun, make sure that it is unplugged. This is the easiest way to insure that you’re safe while using a staple gun.
If there are any staples remaining in the stapler, throw them away. Take this opportunity to clear your stapler of any dust or debris.
Make sure that the staples you are using are the right size. If they are too big or too small they can jam the staple gun.
Your staples should slide easily back and forth along the staple rail. No staples should be sticking up or leaning to one side. Mistakes are usually made in this step, when people try to load the staples facing the wrong way. Load a full sleeve of staples rather than multiple smaller groups to help prevent jams.
Be careful not to place your finger beneath the staple dispenser as you close it, or you may accidentally injure yourself. If your staple gun is electric, don’t plug it back in until you’ve completely closed it.
A manual staple gun takes a lot more pressure to activate than does an electric staple gun, so make sure that you account for that when you test it. If you squeeze the trigger too quickly the staple gun may move out of place.
The refill cartridge should be matched to the particular model of printer or copier you use. While the staples may be of similar size to each other, the cartridges are designed uniquely for your office equipment.
Look for any necessary tabs that you may need to press to release the cartridge. Refer to your product manual for more details on how to locate the finisher.
Slide the upper layer of staples out of the cartridge. Holding onto the knob, raise the guide again and return it to its original position.
You can usually recycle your used staple cartridge at an office supply store. Finish by holding onto the knob, raising the guide and sliding the fresh staple cartridge into position.
