Chapter 15
Cleaning screens after a print run
Keep the Stencil. Clean. Inspect. Store for Reuse.
Routine cleaning keeps your screens in top condition
Proper cleaning after each print run removes ink from the non-image areas, keeps the mesh open, and helps maintain stencil quality for future use. Follow the correct procedure for your ink type and use recommended cleaners and tools.
1. Remove excess ink
After printing, use a plastic scraper or squeegee to remove excess ink from both sides of the screen. Return usable ink to the container.
- Use a clean, dedicated ink spatula.
- Remove as much ink as possible.
- Keep ink out of the wash area drain.
2. Wash the screen
Use the appropriate press wash or ink cleaner for your ink type. Clean both sides of the screen, focusing on the non-image areas. Use a soft brush and a gentle scrubbing motion.
- Use the correct cleaner for your ink.
- Use a soft brush (not metal).
- Clean both sides of the mesh.
- Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
3. Rinse thoroughly
Rinse both sides of the screen with clean, low to medium pressure water until all cleaner and ink residue are removed. Ensure the mesh is open and free of cleaner buildup.
- Use clean, fresh water.
- Rinse from the print side first.
- Avoid excessive pressure that could damage the stencil.
4. Dry the screen
Allow the screen to air dry completely in a clean, dust-free area. A dry screen helps prevent contamination and keeps the stencil in good condition.
- Store screens vertically or at an angle.
- Avoid direct sunlight and high heat.
- Ensure the screen is fully dry before storing.
5. Inspect the screen
Check the mesh and stencil for any remaining ink, pinholes, or damage. Make sure the mesh is open and the stencil is intact for future use.
- Look for ink in non-image areas.
- Check for mesh damage or wear.
- Verify the stencil edges are clean and undamaged.
6. Store properly
Store clean, dry screens in a clean, dust-free area. Keep them vertical and supported to prevent warping, mesh distortion or damage to the stencil.
- Store vertically in a screen rack.
- Keep in a cool, dry environment.
- Avoid stacking screens with wet or tacky stencils.
Additional Cleaning Tips
- Always use the correct cleaner for your ink type (plastisol, water-based, discharge, etc.).
- Clean screens after every print run.
- Use soft brushes and non-abrasive tools.
- Keep the wash area organized and free of dried ink buildup.
- Do not use harsh solvents that can damage the stencil or mesh.
- Proper cleaning extends screen life and maintains print quality.
Pro Tip
A clean screen prints better, lasts longer and saves time. Make screen cleaning part of your standard shutdown procedure at the end of every job.
Complete screen reclaim process
Remove Ink, Stencil and Haze. Prepare for New Emulsion.
A clean, properly reclaimed screen delivers better prints
Reclaiming a screen removes all ink, emulsion and residue so the mesh is clean and ready for new emulsion. Follow the steps below in order and use the correct chemicals, tools and safety equipment. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for each product.
1. Remove remaining ink
Use a plastic scraper or squeegee to remove as much ink as possible from both sides of the screen. Return usable ink to the container.
- Remove all ink from the mesh and frame.
- Use a dedicated ink spatula.
- Keep ink out of the wash area drain.
2. Apply stencil/emulsion remover
Apply an emulsion/stencil remover to both sides of the screen. Allow proper dwell time as recommended by the manufacturer to soften the emulsion.
- Use the remover designed for your emulsion.
- Apply evenly to both sides.
- Follow recommended dwell time.
- Keep the screen wet during dwell time.
3. Pressure wash the stencil
Use a pressure washer with a fan tip to wash the stencil from both sides of the screen until all emulsion is removed and the mesh is open.
- Use medium pressure (not too close).
- Wash from the print side first.
- Continue until all emulsion is gone.
- Inspect to confirm the mesh is open.
4. Remove ghost images (if needed)
If ink stains or ghost images remain on the mesh, use a ghost/haze remover formulated for screen mesh. These products help remove stubborn stains and improve mesh openness.
- Use a quality ghost/haze remover.
- Scrub both sides of the mesh.
- Allow proper dwell time and rinse thoroughly.
- Use only when needed (not required on every screen).
5. Degrease the mesh
Use a screen degreaser to remove any remaining oils, inks, chemicals and contaminants. A clean, degreased mesh helps new emulsion adhere properly and produces sharper, higher quality prints.
- Use a dedicated screen degreaser.
- Scrub both sides of the mesh.
- Rinse completely after degreasing.
- Handle with clean gloves to avoid recontamination.
6. Final rinse
Rinse both sides of the screen with clean, low to medium pressure water to remove all chemical residue. Ensure the mesh is open and free of cleaner buildup.
- Rinse thoroughly with clean, fresh water.
- Make sure no chemical residue remains.
- Inspect the mesh by holding up to light.
- Allow water to drain completely.
7. Dry completely
Allow the screen to dry completely in a clean, dust-free area. A fully dry screen prevents contamination and ensures proper adhesion of new emulsion.
- Store vertically or in a screen rack.
- Avoid direct sunlight and high heat.
- Ensure the screen is 100% dry before recoating.
8. Inspect the mesh
Inspect the mesh for cleanliness, openness and any damage. Check for remaining ink stains, broken threads or mesh wear. Only recoat screens that are clean and in good condition.
- Hold the screen up to a light source.
- Look for stains, pinholes or damage.
- Repair or replace if needed.
- Ensure frame and mesh are clean and dry.
9. Ready for new emulsion
Your screen is now clean, open and fully reclaimed. It is ready for a new emulsion coat and your next job.
- Handle with clean, dry gloves.
- Keep in a clean, dust-free area.
- Coat as soon as possible to prevent contamination.
Important Reclaiming Tips
- Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for all chemicals.
- Use the correct products for your inks, emulsions and mesh type.
- Wear proper PPE (gloves, eye protection, apron) and ensure good ventilation.
- Keep your washout area clean and organized.
- Proper reclaiming extends screen life, improves print quality and saves money.
Pro Tip
If ink stains remain after reclaiming, use a quality ghost/haze remover. These products are designed to remove stubborn ink stains without damaging the mesh. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for best results.
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