How to Stop Ballpoint Pens From Leaking?

If you’ve ever been the victim of an unfortunate ink spill, then it might comfort you to know that you aren’t the only one. Many people who have carried ballpoint pens in their pockets have experienced leaks at least once. You may be wondering why this happens in the first place; after all, ballpoint pens are ever so convenient and reliable for everyday use. You may have put the cap on and closed it tight, and yet your ballpoint pen still leaked. Here, we’ll talk about what makes ballpoint pens leak and how to stop them from leaking. 

Common causes of leaks in ballpoint pens

There are several common causes that may lead to ballpoint pen leaks. Here are a few: 

Change in temperature

Ballpoint pens are more likely to leak when the temperature is higher. This explains why people who walk with pens in their shirt pockets always seem to experience leaks. Heat liquefies the ink from its viscous state, making it flow more easily and more likely to spill out of the tip or other pen parts.

Capillary action

Pens work through capillary action. This means that ink is drawn out of the tip without the help of gravity and onto whatever surface the pen touches. This can happen even if the pen is pointing upwards.

Scratched or damaged pen tip

When you write with your pen at too much of an angle, the part of the pen holding the ball can eventually wear out. This causes the pen tip to get scratched and ink to leak out. If you drop your pen onto its tip, this can also cause damage that leads to leaks. 

Manufacturing defects

Manufacturing defects can occur, and these may be another culprit of pen leaks. This is especially true when you purchase pens from cheaper brands that aren’t meant to last. While external conditions play an important role, the caliber of a pen also matters.

Position

Generally, it is recommended to keep pens in a horizontal or vertical position. Keeping a pen in a tip-down position may lead to leaks.

Storage

Storage is also important in avoiding leaks. Ballpoint pens are best kept in a cool, dry place to avoid heat. Pens should also be capped or retracted. 

How to remedy a leaking ballpoint pen

There are several things you can do to fix and avoid leaking ballpoint pen leaks. Here are a few tips:

• Do not keep pens in your pockets. Always ensure that you store them away in cool places, away from direct sunlight and body heat. 
• Always store your pens in a proper case or holder with the tip facing upwards or with the pen lying horizontally.
• Always retract the pen’s tip or replace the pen’s cap after using it to avoid leakages due to capillary action or friction.
• When traveling by plane, store your pens in a Ziploc bag to avoid any accidents that may happen as a result of changing air pressure.
• Inspect your new pen for any damages or manufacturer defects before using it. Discard and replace your pen if it is scratched or deformed in any way. 

And there you have it! Ballpoint pens may be convenient to use, but they also require some level of care and maintenance, similar to fountain pens and rollerball pens. Storing fountain pens and ballpoint pens properly is a must. And no matter if you’re working at a desk or on the go, it may be best to invest in a quality pen case, such as one from Lochby.  

Happy writing! 

Written by EndlessPens Blogger Ramona Kabigting