Laser printers, photocopiers and some fax machines use a powder called Toner for printing text and images on laser and photo paper. On the contrary, inkjet printers use liquid ink rather than toner.

Previously carbon powder was used for this. Manufacturers using modern technology produce disposable cartridges that are sometimes refilled by generic cartridge manufacturers. Due to technological advancement and in order to improve the quality of printouts, the individual carbon particles are mixed in a polymer. These polymer particles melt in heat, which makes it bind to the fibers in the paper. Two main parts of the laser printers are the printer toner and the drum. The drum is charged with electrostatic energy for the toner to be attracted. The drum is negatively charged and the toner is positively charged. The drum transfers the toner to the paper. The toner contains special wax that melts and dries in a matter of milliseconds. When the toner is transferred, the fuser applies heat and pressure to make a long-lasting image.

It is better to wash your hands with cold water if you stain them with toner. Hot water tends to set the color on the surface.