How to Un-jam a Paper Shredder: Tips and Tricks

Understanding how to un-jam a paper shredder can be a crucial skill, as mishaps with these machines can lead to frustrating situations and damage if not handled properly. Whether it's a minor jam or a stubborn blockage, follow these step-by-step instructions and tips to unclog your paper shredder without causing further harm.

Part 1: Fixing a Basic Jam

As soon as you notice a jam beginning to form, stop the shredder to keep things from getting any worse. This gives you a chance to assess the situation and prepare to fix the jam. Jamming signs include a slowing down of paper moving through the shredder, an outright stop, and whirring sounds.

Steps to Un-jam a Basic Jam

Empty the wastebasket: If the wastebasket is full, empty it. A full wastebasket can cause paper to get stuck because there's no place for the shredded paper to go once it's processed. Switch the shredder to reverse: Most modern shredders have an option to run in reverse. Switch the shredder to this mode carefully, ensuring your fingers or any tools are not near the shredder opening. Re-switch to auto/forward if needed: Reverse the shredder will usually clear a minor jam, but in severe cases, it may jam again. Unplug the shredder, switch it to auto/forward, and repeat the process. Be prepared to alternate between auto and reverse as needed. Reduce the load: Try shredding a smaller amount of paper to see if that resolves the issue.

If you still can't get the jam to clear, proceed to the next section for more detailed manual unclogging techniques.

Part 2: Manually Unclogging a Stubborn Jam

In cases where the basic methods do not work, you may need to manually clear the jam. Follow these steps with caution to ensure your safety.

Steps to Manually Unclog a Jam

Unplug the shredder: Ensure the shredder is unplugged to prevent accidental activation. Remove the top shredding portion: Most modern shredders come in two pieces. Removing the top portion can make it easier to access the paper slot and clear the jam. Use tweezers to pull out pieces of paper: Use tweezers to gently remove paper strips from the blades. Cut curled-up paper with a knife: Try to slice coiled strips of paper to make them easier for the shredder to process. Use a screwdriver or pliers for stuck pieces: Use metal tools to remove thick paper or plastic particles that are stuck in the blades. Feed heavy cardstock: Sometimes adding more paper can help clear a jam. Insert a stiff, rigid piece of cardstock through the paper slot to push the jammed paper through. Use shredder oil: If the jam is particularly stubborn, apply shredder oil to lubricate the blades and allow the paper to pass through more easily. Run in reverse once cleared: After making significant progress, run the shredder in reverse to see if this clears the remaining jam. Test the shredder: Shred a single piece of paper to ensure the jam is fully cleared and continue shredding.

Part 3: Avoiding Future Jams

Proactive measures can prevent jams before they become problematic. Follow these tips to save yourself time and effort in the future:

Steps to Prevent Future Jamming

Avoid overfeeding: Do not feed more paper into the shredder than it is designed to handle at once. Avoid fast-feeding: Wait a few seconds between paper loads to ensure each piece is fully processed. Avoid folding or wrinkling paper: Keep paper flat and square when feeding it into the shredder. Be careful with thick or hard materials: Shred thicker items like credit cards, CDs, and cardboard separately to avoid jams. Empty the bin frequently: Check and empty the wastebasket regularly to prevent paper from backing up and causing jams. Keep the cutting cylinder well-oiled: Add a few drops of oil to the blades each time you empty the wastebasket or at least a few times a month to keep them sharp and well-lubricated.

By following these steps, you can keep your paper shredder running smoothly and avoid the frustration of dealing with a jammed machine.