How to clean a fountain pen with a built-in piston mechanismUpdated 10 months ago

Pens with internal-filling mechanisms can be a little tricky to get completely clean again. It helps when you write with a pen that can be disassembled to access the barrel or behind the piston mechanism (like a TWSBI).

1. Submerge the nib and feed in cool water.
2. Fill the pen like you would with ink, only with the water.
3. Flush out the pen in a sink or separate cup.
4. Repeat until the water inside the pen's body is clear.
5. Let air dry on a paper towel.

To help expedite the cleaning process, fill the piston pen with water and shake it gently to agitate the residual ink inside. Please see the manufacturer's instruction manual for advice if the pen can be disassembled to access the barrel directly or behind the piston head.