Introducing Clean Start: The Thermal Transfer Ribbon That Cleans as It Prints

Are you unknowingly damaging your thermal transfer printer?
If you’re like most users, the answer is yes.

At PaladinID, we’re excited to introduce a groundbreaking solution to one of the most common issues in label printing: printhead wear caused by neglecting routine cleaning. Studies show that over 90% of thermal transfer printer users—whether using Zebra, Datamax, Sato, or Intermec printers—do not regularly clean their printheads. This often leads to poor print quality, premature printhead failure, costly downtime, and unnecessary maintenance expenses.

That’s why we developed Clean Start™—a smart, innovative thermal transfer ribbon with a built-in cleaning system that automatically cleans your printhead each time you change the ribbon.

What is Clean Start?

Clean Start™ is a thermal transfer ribbon with an integrated cleaning card built directly into the ribbon leader. This means that every time you load a new ribbon, it automatically performs a quick, effective cleaning of your printhead—no extra steps required, no special tools, and no mess.

Whether you’re printing labels in a warehouse, manufacturing facility, or retail environment, Clean Start is designed to keep your printer running cleaner, longer, and more efficiently.

Available in All Ribbon Types

No matter your application, Clean Start is available across all ribbon formulations, including:

• Wax – Ideal for shipping and warehouse labels

• Wax/Resin – Perfect for barcode and compliance labeling

• Full Resin – Best for harsh environments and specialty applications

And the best part? Clean Start is compatible with all major printer brands, including:

• Zebra

• Datamax

• Sato

• Intermec

Why Printhead Cleaning Matters

Over time, debris and label adhesive buildup on the printhead can lead to:

• Reduced print clarity and barcode scannability

• Increased friction, which accelerates printhead wear

• Costly printhead replacements and service calls

By integrating the cleaning process into your ribbon change routine, Clean Start helps:

• Extend the life of your printhead

• Improve print quality

• Minimize printer maintenance

• Reduce downtime and operating costs

See Clean Start in Action

Want to see how it works?
We’re offering a free sample and demo, plus a helpful report on how Clean Start can extend the life of your printheads and boost print performance.

Put PaladinID’s 40+ Years of Labeling Expertise to Work for You

At PaladinID, we’re constantly looking for ways to make your labeling operations smarter, easier, and more cost-effective. Clean Start is one of those innovations that delivers immediate ROI—by protecting your printers, improving print quality, and simplifying maintenance.

If you’re using a Zebra, Datamax, Sato, or Intermec thermal transfer printer, you owe it to your printhead to try Clean Start™.

📞 Call us today at 888.972.5234, Email or schedule a Discovery Call below.