Typewriter Care & Maintenance Guide

Typewriter Care & Maintenance Guide

 

Welcome to the ultimate care and maintenance guide for your typewriter. By following these simple yet effective steps, you can ensure your machine remains in excellent working condition for decades, delivering smooth, reliable performance.

 

Basic Care

 

1. Dust Prevention

 

Dust prevention tips

  • Keep your typewriter covered or stored in its case when not in use.
  • If dust settles, gently blow it out with an air canister or a soft brush.

 

2. Proper Storage

 

  • Avoid damp or humid areas to prevent rust and mildew.
  • If stored long-term, check periodically for musty odours and air it out if needed.
  • Ideal climate: 40–80°F (4–27°C) with 30–50% humidity.

 

Cleaning & Maintenance

 

 

Typewriter cleaning


3. Light Cleaning

 

  • Wipe exterior surfaces with a soft, dry cloth.
  • Use a soft brush or compressed air to clean between keys and mechanisms.
  • For chrome or nickel parts, use rubbing alcohol or a gentle metal polish.
  • Avoid wax on crinkle paint finishes—it may damage the surface.

 

4. Lubrication

 

  • Use lightweight oils (e.g., Liquid Bearings, sewing machine oil, spindle oil) sparingly.
  • Avoid over-oiling, which attracts dust.
  • Never oil the type bars or slugs.
  • Mineral spirits or specialised lubricants can help free stiff parts.

 

5. Ribbon Replacement

 

  • Replace the ribbon every few months or when the print becomes faint.
  • Later-model machines have simplified ribbon-loading—check your manual.

 

Handling & Operation

 

6. Carriage Use

 

  • Return the carriage gently—never slam it.
  • Check and reset margins periodically for smooth movement.
  • Lock or secure the carriage when transporting or storing.

 

7. Roller Care

 

  • Never leave paper clamped in the platen long-term—it can damage the rollers.
  • Use the paper release lever to release tension during storage.

 

Troubleshooting Common Issues

 

 

8. Drawband Issues

 

  • A slipping or broken drawband is the most common mechanical issue.
  • Usually a minor fix—it can be adjusted or replaced quickly.

 

9. Mechanical Problems

 

  • For sticking keys, uneven spacing, or carriage jams, start with cleaning and lubrication.
  • Persistent problems may require professional service or virtual support.

 

Professional Maintenance

 

10. Regular Check-Ups

 

  • Have your typewriter professionally serviced every few years, especially if heavily used.

 

11. Finding a Technician

  • Many cities still have skilled vintage typewriter technicians for repairs and restoration.

 

The Rhythm of the Keys

 

  • Regular use keeps your typewriter healthy—type at least a page every month or two.
  • This spreads lubrication, prevents stiff parts, and ensures smooth performance.

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

 

What basic maintenance do I need to do?

 

Very little! Keep it clean, covered, and lightly oiled (only when necessary). Avoid dust buildup and change the ribbon regularly.

 

How often should I change the ribbon?

Every 2–6 months, depending on usage and print darkness preference.

 

What if something stops working?

We offer virtual troubleshooting and support. Most issues—like a slipping drawband—are easy to fix with guidance.

 

Do I need to oil my typewriter often?

No. Over-oiling can cause damage. A light application every few years or when the machine feels stiff is enough.

 

What if my machine smells musty?

This often comes from old cases or covers. Air it out in a dry room and avoid damp storage spaces.

 

Can I store it long-term without damage?

Yes. Release roller tension, store in a stable climate, and check it every few months.

Based on 608 reviews
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Worked perfectly and great improvement ove...

Worked perfectly and great improvement over previous ribbon.

We. Are. Obsessed! The customer service, t...

We. Are. Obsessed! The customer service, the extra care and thought put into it because it was a surprise/gift was unexpected. Not only that, it came very well packaged, and with a manual copy and everything! We love it so very much, thank you thank you! Now we just need to figure out a name for it <3

Thank you for your kind words! We are so happy to hear that you are happy with your new Olivetti Lettera 35 Yellow Vintage typewriter. We always strive to provide excellent customer service and are thrilled that you appreciate the extra care we put into your surprise/gift. It was our pleasure to do bussines with You. Have fun naming your new typewriter and happy typing! :) P.S maybe good name is OLI? ; )

Absolutely love it! Types beautifully. Shi...

Absolutely love it! Types beautifully. Shipping took 3 months though.

Thank you for your assistance. Instruction...

Thank you for your assistance. Instructions included are a nice touch.

Slim. Racy. Shiny chrome fenders. If we're...

Slim. Racy. Shiny chrome fenders. If we're going back to the Fifties, I plan to fake it 'til we make it: typing recipe cards and indexes, letters and notes-to-self. Thank you for your service with a smile.

I would like to highly recommend this vend...

I would like to highly recommend this vendor, the product arrived as described and on time. I needed it to arrive by a certain time for a birthday gift and they were accommodating and responsive. The typewriter arrived on time and beautifully wrapped, even with a little typed “Happy Birthday” note. I'm very pleased with the purchase and would without question buy from them again - thank you so so very much!!!

My Olivetti typewriter was delayed in ship...

My Olivetti typewriter was delayed in shipping (through no fault of the seller) but when it arrived it was expertly packaged for shipping and arrived in excellent condition. When I contacted the seller about the delay in its arrival, the customer service immediately contacted the shipper and they were able to give me an updated estimate on the arrival date.
The typewriter is beautiful and fun to use.

One of the most amazing sellers I have eve...

One of the most amazing sellers I have ever worked with they packaged amazingly and made it so special for my wife birthday thank you so much would recommend to anyone looking for an amazing seller

Hi Gabriel Thank you so much for your kind words and for choosing to purchase from us! We are thrilled to hear that you had a positive experience and that you were happy with the packaging and overall service. We truly appreciate your recommendation and are always here to provide top-notch service. Thank you again for your supporting small family business and we hope your wife enjoys her new Olympia Monica typewriter. Have a great day! Sending ❤️ from Spain

Fantastic seller, would buy again!

Fantastic seller, would buy again!

Exactly what we needed. Thanks!

Exactly what we needed. Thanks!

This is an absolutely stunning typewriter!...

This is an absolutely stunning typewriter! It is in excellent condition, and the sellers included a Tolkien quote and a cute typewriter pin! It comes with an instruction manual, which was helpful as this is my first typewriter.

The shipping to the USA took approximately 1.5 months longer than predicted. I don't blame the sellers for this, as they posted the typewriter in the post VERY quickly. The wait was worth it. Fortunately this typewriter just for personal use - if purchased as a gift, buy VERY early.

The only bummer was the installed typewriter ribbon being almost completely dried out - I purchased a new typewriter ribbon today but am sad that I can't use my typewriter until it arrives.

The sellers are AMAZING. They have been very helpful and kind. This is the only shop I'd consider for purchasing a typewriter.

Ottimo venditore, descrizione oggetto fatt...

Ottimo venditore, descrizione oggetto fatta in maniera perfetta

The typewriter is great. Still learning ab...

The typewriter is great. Still learning about it and getting used to it. Happy overall.

Anita and Jacek were determined to make su...

Anita and Jacek were determined to make sure the typewriter arrived safely, and they took the time to call and troubleshoot some shilling issues. When the typewriter finally arrived, it was everything I hoped it would be. It was in beautiful condition and worked like a dream. I can't wait to get full use out of it!

Beautiful typewriter, wonderful service! A...

Beautiful typewriter, wonderful service! A+++

Parfait, je ne suis pas déçu, très heureus...

Parfait, je ne suis pas déçu, très heureuse même. Très bien emballé, respect de la livraison et qualité du produit impeccable.

The typewriter is gorgeous and it made my...

The typewriter is gorgeous and it made my Mom the happiest, she loves it.

This typewriter is absolutely amazing and...

This typewriter is absolutely amazing and it was immaculately packed. There were some issues with fed ex but it was nothing to do with the seller. The sellers are very kind and patient and had no problems accommodating me and kept me updated all of the way!

The whole experience was so outstanding th...

The whole experience was so outstanding that I don't know where to start. My typewriter is incredible, in extraordinary good shape, packaged with lots of care. I had the typewriter delivered to the hotel where I was staying in Madrid and the whole shipping process was very smooth and the communication with the store super efficient and friendly. I will buy from them again!

The product is very well crafted, it fits...

The product is very well crafted, it fits perfectly on my Olivetti Lettera 32

So nice that these are still out there! I...

So nice that these are still out there! I have a happy daughter typing away on her Baby Hermes. You have contributed to more written dreams and stories ;)

Love this dust cover for my typewriter. It...

Love this dust cover for my typewriter. It is very well made and the material is high quality and it will probably last a very long time. Very pleased!

Correspond parfaitement à la description e...

Correspond parfaitement à la description et à mes attentes.

Great quality and works perfectly Very ha...

Great quality and works perfectly
Very happy

Exactly what I needed. Came in a reasonabl...

Exactly what I needed. Came in a reasonable amount of time.