Changing filament on a 3D printer may seem like a minor task, but it’s one of the most crucial steps in ensuring smooth, uninterrupted printing. Whether you’re switching colors, upgrading material types, or simply reaching the end of a spool, learning how to properly change filament helps prevent clogs, preserves print quality, and keeps your printer in top condition. This guide will walk you through each step with practical tips and a beginner-friendly tone — so even if you’re just starting out, you’re in good hands.
Tools and Preparations Needed
Before you begin, gather a few simple tools: Filament cutters or scissors for clean, angled cuts, needle-nose pliers or tweezers to grip filament if it breaks, cleaning filament (optional) to clear old residue, and gloves (optional) for better grip and cleanliness. Also, make sure your printer is plugged in, functioning normally, and idle (not mid-print). Most importantly, always preheat the nozzle to the correct temperature for the filament you’re changing — around 200–210°C for PLA, 240°C for ABS, etc. This softens the filament inside and makes removal easier.
Step 1: Unload the Old Filament
Once your printer is preheated, access your printer’s menu and choose the “Unload Filament” option. If your printer doesn’t have that function, gently press the extruder lever and manually pull the filament out. Don’t yank. If the filament resists, wait a few seconds or increase the nozzle temperature slightly. Once removed, dispose of the filament properly, or store the remaining filament in a dry, sealed container with desiccant to prevent moisture damage. If any filament strands are left in the nozzle, you can run cleaning filament or a cold-pull method to clean them out.
Step 2: Trim and Prepare the New Filament
Next, take your new filament and check its condition. Cut the tip at a 45-degree angle — this helps it feed into the extruder smoothly. Make sure the spool is untangled and the filament runs freely. If you’re using a filament oiler or cleaning sponge, thread the filament through it before inserting. At this point, confirm the new filament is compatible with your printer’s current settings — don’t load ABS if the heated bed or enclosure isn’t ready.
Step 3: Load the New Filament
Insert the filament into the extruder intake hole. Push it in gently until you feel resistance. Use the printer’s “Load Filament” function from the menu. Watch the nozzle: when filament starts to extrude, let it flow for a few seconds to purge any leftover material or color. If the flow is inconsistent or bubbles appear, pull it out, trim the end again, and repeat.
Step 4: Test Print or Purge
Once you’ve loaded your filament, manually extrude about 10–15mm of filament using the printer’s control panel to ensure it flows cleanly. Run a small test print like a calibration cube to confirm the extrusion is clean and steady. Look for any signs of contamination (mixed colors, inconsistent extrusion) — this can happen if previous filament wasn’t purged properly. If needed, purge a bit more filament or run a cleaning cycle.
Troubleshooting Tips
Even a small error can cause bigger issues down the line, so here are a few common problems and solutions: Filament won’t load? The nozzle might be clogged — try heating a bit higher or using cleaning filament. Filament grinding or skipping? The extruder gear may be loose or dusty — clean it and check tension. Jammed hotend? Do a cold-pull or nozzle cleaning. Avoid using sharp tools that can damage internal parts. Stringing after changing filament? Adjust retraction settings or temperature in your slicer. Changing filament is also a great time to check your bowden tube, nozzle tip, and gear teeth for wear or filament residue.
Filament Change Best Practices
Here are a few best practices that experienced users swear by: Never let filament run out mid-print — your nozzle may clog, or the extruder might pull in air and grind itself down. Label and store filaments in sealed bags with silica packs to avoid moisture issues, which cause bubbling and poor extrusion. Use only quality filament for consistency in diameter and performance. Sub-par filament can clog nozzles, under-extrude, and even damage your printer. At FilaLab.shop, we offer premium PLA, PETG, ABS, and specialty filaments that are vacuum-sealed, moisture-protected, and designed for reliable prints. Whether you’re printing high-detail miniatures or durable prototypes, we’ve got the right filament for your machine.
Conclusion
Changing filament on a 3D printer is a simple but essential skill that every hobbyist and professional must master. By following the correct steps — unloading with care, trimming and prepping new filament, properly loading it, and running a quick test — you’ll keep your printer in peak condition and ensure successful prints every time. Don’t forget: quality filament makes a difference, and at FilaLab.shop, we’re here to support every stage of your 3D printing journey.