Summer beckons with open roads, inviting cafes, and the allure of capturing experiences in ink. For fountain pen lovers, these adventures come with a responsibility — keeping your beloved writing tool clean and flowing smoothly. But bulky cleaning kits can be a burden in your travel bag. Here's where portable pen cleaning kits come in, allowing you to maintain your pen's performance without sacrificing space.
Why Clean Your Fountain Pen While Traveling?
Traveling exposes your pen to different environments, potentially impacting its performance. This is how a portable cleaning kit can help.
Prevent Ink Clogging. Heat and humidity can cause ink to dry faster, leading to clogging. Regular cleaning ensures smooth ink flow.
Maintain Performance. Dust and debris can accumulate in the nib, affecting writing consistency. Cleaning removes these obstacles for optimal performance.
Peace of Mind. Knowing you have a cleaning kit on hand allows you to write confidently, try new inks, and enjoy your pen without worry.
Assembling Your Portable Kit
Every item needs to earn its place when space is limited. Here are the essentials for your portable pen cleaning kit:
• Small, Leak-Proof Vials or Bottles. Opt for refillable vials or bottles with secure caps, ideally in sizes between 10ml-30ml. Label them clearly for "water" and "cleaning solution" (if you use one).
• Cleaning Solution (Optional). While some fountain pen users prefer distilled water for cleaning, a mild cleaning solution can be helpful for stubborn inks or longer intervals between cleanings. Choose a pen-friendly solution recommended by your pen manufacturer. A few drops of dish soap can also help.
• Blotting Paper. Absorbent paper helps remove excess ink and moisture after flushing. Look for pre-cut blotting paper sheets designed for fountain pens, or tear down a clean, lint-free cloth into small squares.
Cleaning on the Go
Here's a quick guide to using your portable cleaning kit:
1. Disassemble the Pen
Uncap your pen and remove the converter or ink cartridge.
2. Flush with Water
Fill the converter or cartridge with clean water and expel it several times until the water runs clear. For bottled ink, fill and expel a few more times to ensure thorough cleaning.
3. Dry the Converter/Cartridge
Use a clean, absorbent cloth to dry the outside of the converter/cartridge.
4. Clean the Nib (Optional)
If using a cleaning solution, follow the manufacturer's instructions. Dip the nib in the solution briefly, then flush thoroughly with clean water. For stubborn ink, consider using a nib cleaning tool very gently.
5. Dry the Nib
Blot the nib with a clean, absorbent cloth to remove excess moisture.
6. Reassemble and Enjoy
Reassemble your pen and test it on a piece of paper. Once satisfied, your pen is ready to write!
Tips for Traveling with Your Pen
Store your fountain pen in an upright position to prevent ink leaks. Pen cases with upright slots are ideal. It is also best to avoid extreme heat or cold can damage your pen; do not leave it in direct sunlight or extreme temperatures. If you are traveling by air, consider using a cartridge instead of a converter, and ensure it's not completely full to avoid leaks due to cabin pressure changes.
The Bottom Line
With a well-assembled portable cleaning kit, you can observe the best practices in fountain pen maintenance and cleaning and enjoy the freedom to write wherever your summer adventures take you. Remember, a clean pen is a happy pen, and a happy pen will fuel your creativity on your summer journey!
Written by EndlessPens Blogger Ramona Kabigting
