A Step-by-Step Guide on How to Use a Laminator Safely
A Step-by-Step Guide on How to Use a Laminator Safely
For those of us who regularly use a laminator, it’s an incredibly useful piece of kit, and once you get the hang of it, it’s also a very satisfying process.
Whether you're putting together a classroom display, keeping café menus spill-proof, or just extending the shelf life, it's a tool worth knowing.
If you’ve never used a laminator before, you're not alone. Here’s a down-to-earth walkthrough of how to get the best out of your laminator.
First, pick the right laminator
It’s not always best practice to simply commit to the first laminator you come across. If you're only laminating a few bits here and there, for example, business cards or posters, a small office and home laminator model will do the job. But if you're planning to laminate a chunk of documents each week, you might want something that’s designed for more regular use.
Ensure your pouch and paper are lined up
Laminating pouches come in different sizes and thicknesses. Thicker means tougher, so it’s good for anything that will get handled frequently. Once you've got the right size, slide your paper inside so it's sitting nicely and straight. Wonky paper equals a wonky result.
Let the machine warm up
Some laminating machines need a minute (or two) to heat up, while other ultra-fast laminators are ready in a matter of seconds. Most will alert you to their readiness via a light or beep. It is imperative that you don’t use the laminator before it is ready, as feeding in a pouch too early is a recipe for bubbles and, ultimately, a wasted product.
Feed it in gently
This is the stage that usually trips people up: always feed the sealed end first. Line it up straight and let the machine pull it through at its own pace. Make sure you keep your fingers back, and there is no need to push the document through; just let it slide.
Cool it while laid flat
As it slides out, resist the urge to pick it up too quickly. Lay it flat and give it a moment to cool, as this helps it stay flat instead of curling at the edges.
Power off when you're done
Once you’re finished, switch off and unplug the machine. Let it cool before putting it away, especially if it lives in a cupboard or drawer.
Safety and Ergonomics
Using a laminator probably isn’t going to wear you out, but if you're doing a batch job, you might feel it in your arms or wrists.
Best ergonomic practice while using laminators is as follows:
- Set it up somewhere comfortable, preferably at desk height
- If you’re laminating big quantities, switch hands from time to time
- Take short breaks to stretch your hands and wrists
- Spread out your tasks if you’ve got a lot to do
Want to see how the rest of your workspace stacks up? Try the Fellowes Healthy Workstation Assessment - a handy way to spot what might be throwing your setup off.
Keep your laminator in good condition
Our office machines require attention and care to ensure their longevity. Here’s how to keep things running smoothly:
- Run a cleaning sheet through it occasionally, as this helps keep the rollers clean
- Avoid feeding in thick or odd-shaped things unless your laminator guidebook says it can handle it
- Store pouches somewhere cool and dry
Follow these simple steps, and you will soon find you are the go-to laminating expert at your workplace. Once you’ve done it a couple of times, it becomes second nature, and your results will look far more professional.
If you’re in the market for a new machine or just want to stock up on pouches, check out the Fellowes UK Laminators page. We’ve got options for homes, schools, and busy office setups - plus everything else you might need to get started.