Common Typewriter Mistakes

Owning a manual typewriter is one of life's great pleasures. These beautifully engineered machines are capable of lasting for generations, but like any precision mechanical instrument, they deserve proper care.

Interestingly, most of the typewriters that arrive at RR Typewriter Mart don't suffer from manufacturing defects.

They suffer from well-intentioned owners.

People who genuinely wanted to help their machines...

...but unknowingly made things worse.

The good news?

Almost every one of these mistakes is completely avoidable.

Here are the most common mistakes we see—and how you can avoid them.

Mistake 1: Not Using the Typewriter

Believe it or not, one of the worst things you can do to a manual typewriter is... nothing.

Many owners buy a beautiful machine, place it on a shelf, and never type another page.

Mechanical components are designed to move.

Long periods of inactivity allow dust to settle, parts to stiffen, and mechanisms to become sluggish.

Our advice is simple:

Use your typewriter.

Write letters.

Keep a journal.

Draft poems.

Practice typing.

A typewriter is happiest when it's being used.

Mistake 2: Leaving the Typewriter Uncovered

Dust is everywhere.

Leaving your manual typewriter exposed day after day allows dust to settle deep inside the mechanism.

Always cover your machine after use.

Better still, place it inside its original carrying case and cover the case as well whenever possible.

Mistake 3: Oiling Everything That Moves

One sticky key.

One bottle of oil.

A recipe for disaster.

Routine oiling is one of the most common causes of future problems.

Oil attracts dust.

Dust creates friction.

Friction causes sticking.

Instead of solving the problem, you've simply delayed it.

Clean first.

Diagnose second.

Lubrication should only be performed when genuinely required and preferably by an experienced typewriter technician.

Mistake 4: Using Household Chemicals

Many owners assume household cleaning products are safe because they're gentle enough for kitchen counters or windows.

Your typewriter isn't a kitchen counter.

Avoid using:

Alcohol
Glass cleaner
Soap
Surface sprays
WD-40
Silicone sprays
Household solvents

A dry cloth, microfiber cloth, and nylon brush are all you need for routine maintenance.

Mistake 5: Using Compressed Air

A manual typewriter is not a computer keyboard.

Compressed air may push dust deeper into the machine and can disturb delicate springs and linkages.

Instead...

Take five minutes.

Use a proper brush.

As we always say:

Don't be a lazy person—do some work.

Mistake 6: Forcing Stuck Keys

If a key doesn't move freely...

Don't force it.

Something is causing resistance.

Forcing the mechanism often bends parts that were perfectly repairable a few moments earlier.

Stop.

Inspect.

Clean.

If the problem continues, consult a professional.

Mistake 7: Becoming Your Own Repair Technician Overnight

Watching a repair video doesn't instantly make someone a typewriter technician.

Before removing screws or disconnecting springs, ask yourself one question:

Can I put everything back exactly the way it was?

If the answer is "I'm not sure," it's probably time to stop.

Mistake 8: Ignoring Small Problems

Most major repairs begin as very small problems.

A slightly sticky key.

A sluggish carriage.

An unusual sound.

A ribbon that doesn't advance correctly.

Small symptoms often become larger repairs when ignored.

Address problems early.

Your wallet will thank you.

Mistake 9: Poor Storage

Leaving a manual typewriter near a window, in a damp room, or uncovered for months at a time slowly shortens its life.

Always store your machine:

Clean
Covered
Dry
Away from chemicals
Away from prolonged direct sunlight

Good storage is one of the simplest forms of preventive maintenance.

Mistake 10: Carrying the Typewriter Incorrectly

Before moving your machine:

✔ Lock the carriage.

✔ Bring the margin stops together.

✔ Move the ribbon selector to Stencil.

✔ Use the carrying case.

Transport damage is often preventable with just a few minutes of preparation.

Mistake 11: Using the Wrong Ribbon

Not all ribbons are created equal.

A poor-quality ribbon can produce faded typing, wear out quickly, and even shed fibres inside the machine.

Choose a quality ribbon that's compatible with your manual typewriter, and replace it when it becomes dry.

Mistake 12: Thinking Old Means Fragile—or Indestructible

Some owners treat every old typewriter as though it will break if touched.

Others assume an all-metal machine is impossible to damage.

Neither approach is correct.

Treat every manual typewriter with respect.

Treat every antique typewriter with even more patience.

Age deserves understanding, not fear.

Quick Reference Guide

Mistake	Better Practice
Leaving it unused	Type regularly
Leaving it uncovered	Cover after every use
Oiling the machine	Clean first, oil only if professionally required
Using household chemicals	Use a dry cloth, microfiber cloth and nylon brush
Using compressed air	Brush the dust out gently
Forcing stuck keys	Find the cause instead of forcing the mechanism
DIY repairs without experience	Ask a professional first
Ignoring small issues	Deal with them early
Poor storage	Keep the machine clean, dry and covered
Incorrect transport	Lock the carriage and use the carrying case

Workshop Wisdom from RR Typewriter Mart

Most typewriters aren't damaged by age—they're damaged by good intentions.

A few minutes of proper care can prevent years of unnecessary repairs.

Respect the machine, and the machine will reward you with decades of reliable service.

The smartest typewriter owner isn't the one who repairs everything—it's the one who knows how to avoid causing problems in the first place.

Continue Reading

Even when you avoid every common mistake, your manual typewriter may occasionally develop a problem. Learning to recognise the warning signs early can save you time, money, and unnecessary frustration.

Next Guide: Signs Your Typewriter Needs Servicing – How to Identify Problems Before They Become Major Repairs.