How to clear the printer queue

Many people don’t realise that it’s possible to cancel a print job, even when a document has already been sent to print.

Whether you no longer need a document, you need to make changes and don’t want to waste a print run, or your printer queue has become stuck due to a corrupt print, it’s important to know how to stop both active and pending printing jobs quickly.

Here’s our guide to everything that you need to know about clearing the printer queue.

Clearing printer queue Windows

If you need to clear a printer queue and you’re using a Windows device, follow these simple steps:

1. Step one

First, go to your Windows taskbar. In the bottom right-hand corner, right-click on the printer icon.

If the printer icon is no longer visible at this point, it means that, unfortunately, it’s too late to stop the printing as the process has already begun and printing is underway.

2. Step two

Next, you’ll need to ensure that all active printers are open. Select the relevant active printer in the dialogue box and then choose the job or jobs that you want to cancel.

3. Step three

Once you’ve chosen the relevant job(s), click ‘document cancel’ and confirm that you want to cancel the print job.

4. Step four

Click ‘yes’ to confirm that you want to cancel the print job.

5. Step five

Now, all you need to do is wait until the print job disappears from the print job queue.

Clearing printer queue Mac

If you have a Mac device, the process for clearing the printer queue will be slightly different. Follow the steps below.

1. Step one

First, double-click on the printer icon on your desktop. A window should then pop up showing you all the print jobs that are currently in the queue to be printed.

2. Step two

Once the pop-up window has appeared on the screen, simply select the name of the job, or jobs, that you want to cancel and clear from the queue.

3. Step three

Click on the pause icon, followed by the trash icon. The relevant jobs will now have been cancelled.

How to avoid documents becoming stuck in the print queue

It’s not uncommon for documents to become stuck in the printer queue from time to time, and we all know how annoying that can be, especially if you’re pushed for time and need to print to meet a deadline.

One of the main reasons why print jobs get stuck in the printer queue is due to an outdated printer driver, so it’s important to ensure that you keep your driver updated at all times. Regular servicing is also recommended to help prevent any issues before they become a problem.

Here at Perfect Colours, we offer a range of support services, including repairs, services and training for businesses working across a diverse range of sectors.

To find out more about our services, or for assistance with your printer, get in touch with one of our expert engineers.