Fits the Better Pack BP333 manual gummed tape dispenser. These brushes moisten the tape as it's being dispensed. If you find the tape is 'too wet' and requires a lot of rubbing to get it to stick to the box, the brushes may need to be cleaned.
We recommend removing the tank and brushes two weeks or so, and cleaning the brushes with a mild dish-washing detergent like Dawn. Avoid using detergents with moisturizing additives. To remove the tank lift the front edge of the tank over the edge of the retainer and pull out. If you have any problems wedge a flat head screw driver under the front edge of the tank and assist the lifting of the tank. Take the brushes and add a dab of soap and work into the brushes. Use the brushes to clean the tank. Rinse well and when putting the brushes back into the water tank, make sure the high points of both brushes are facing the same direction - to the front of the tank.
For dirtier or neglected brushes, submerge and soak them in water overnight. You can add a little vinegar to help the cleaning/soaking process. This should help break up any dried residue.
If after cleaning the brushes you are unable to remove any dried glues, replace the brushes. Good brushes work only when they are able to 'scratch' into the hardened dried glues so the water can penetrate and reactivate the adhesives on the tape. If the water does not penetrate the glues, the tape will slide and not stick to the carton surface.
Note: Be careful buying used or refurbished brushes. It's like buying a used paint brush, dried glues and damaged bristles will not properly moisten the tape or work as good as a new.
2) When should I replace the moistening brushes? If the brushes are full of dried glues, if the brushes are damaged, if the tape is getting wet but not sticking to the box, if the brushes look burnt are all indications they need to be replaced. Try to clean first, but as the most important function of the tape dispenser, it's vital the brushes work.
3) How do I maintain the brushes? A few drops of dishwashing detergent (without hand softeners) in the palm of your hand and then swishing the brushes back and forth to remove the dirt and grime build up. Rinse well.
4) Should I buy refurbished or used brushes? Moistening brushes are like paint brushes. Once the glues have dried in the bristles they are damaged. Removing the hardened glues will also remove bristles rending the brushes less effective. When adding the cost of shipping, used brushes are not a good buy versus the cost of new.
