How to Identify HP 67 Black and Tri-Color Cartridges Before Opening the Package

Question:
I bought a two-pack of HP 67 ink cartridges, one black and one tri-color. My color cartridge needs replacing now, but the black one does not. How can I tell which one is which before opening the foil bag? I'd like to avoid unpacking the black cartridge until I'm ready to use it.

Answer:

1. Check the Foil Bag Labeling

   • Each cartridge in the two-pack is sealed in its own foil bag, which is labeled on the outside.

   • The black cartridge will be marked "67 Black" or may show a black square icon.

   • The tri-color cartridge will be marked "67 Tri-color" or may display three colored dots (cyan, magenta, yellow).

2. Use Light for Confirmation

   • If the text or icon is hard to read, you can gently hold the sealed bag up to a light source. The black cartridge tends to look darker and slightly heavier inside the foil compared to the color cartridge.

3. Best Storage Practices

   • Your instincts are correct-leave the black cartridge sealed until your printer actually needs it. The foil bag helps preserve humidity around the printhead sponge and prevents drying.

   • Store the sealed cartridge upright (label side up, copper contacts facing down) in a cool, dry place. Avoid sunlight, moisture, and heat.

4. Shelf Life

   • HP cartridges are designed to last about two years sealed from the date of manufacture. As long as you keep the black cartridge in its original bag, it should remain fresh and ready to install later.

For a more detailed breakdown of HP 67 cartridge storage, compatibility, and troubleshooting, you can check out our guide: Everything You Need to Know About HP 67 Ink Cartridges (https://bchtechnologies.com/blogs/blog/everything-you-need-to-know-about-hp-67-ink-cartridges-a-comprehensive-guide).

Addressing printer issues and cartridge care can be complicated because of how sensitive ink and electronics are. That's why we don't provide remote troubleshooting or step-by-step support for every cartridge issue. However, we do offer an in-person evaluation and repair service (https://bchtechnologies.com/printer-repair-service). This service is first-come, first-served, and it may take a few weeks before we can work on your device. Our repairs can be for the full printer or specific parts, but since our rates aren't the cheapest, we recommend starting with self-help solutions and tutorials. A great place to start is our YouTube channel (https://youtube.com/@bchtechnologies). Use the search icon next to the "About" tab to find videos by topic, or let YouTube suggest related guides.

Thank you again for your support and for thinking ahead about proper cartridge care. You're absolutely right-keeping the black cartridge sealed is the best way to preserve its quality until you need it.