Cleaning and maintenance of fountain pen

A fountain pen, if properly maintained, can definitely be used for many years, which is why the Japanese call them “万年笔”, meaning “eternity pen.” Here’s a brief guide on how to take care of them:

1. No matter what ink you use, even if the ink manufacturer claims their ink has self-cleaning properties, there will still be impurities in the ink. After using two cartridges of ink, it is best to rinse it thoroughly with clean water, repeatedly drawing in and expelling the water until it runs clear. Then dry the nib before using it again. If you do not plan to use it anymore, make sure to expel the ink from the pen, clean it, and dry it before storing it. Do not let the ink dry out inside the pen naturally; otherwise, when you want to use it again, you may have to exert significant effort to clean it thoroughly.

2. If you find that the ink sac is tight, meaning the piston part needs lubrication, generally, just add a tiny bit of silicone oil to the edge of the piston, then gently twist the piston a little to complete the task. Be careful not to add too much; otherwise, the silicone oil may run into the nib, affecting the smoothness of the ink flow.

3. While writing, hold the pen with the nib (metal part) facing upward and the nib (feeder) downward, at a 45-degree angle to the paper; this is the best way to protect the nib and promotes better ink flow.

4. For the pen body, it depends on the material. If it is made of resin, it is easier to maintain—simply wipe it with a soft cloth. Avoid using alcohol or white spirit, as they can dissolve plastic materials, leading to corrosion and cracking of the pen body. If it is made of sterling silver, silver-plated, or gold-plated materials, and becomes oxidized or discolored, you can use specialized silver or gold polishing cloths to clean it. If you won’t be using it for an extended period, wipe it down and store it in a plastic bag to keep the metal part away from air, which can prevent discoloration. Additionally, do not use rubber bands to bundle pure silver; doing so may cause scratches that cannot be restored.

5. Unlike ballpoint pens, a good fountain pen requires only a light touch to write. Avoid pressing down hard; otherwise, the nib may split or become detached from the nib unit.