Are most pens safe to use on mail
Most pens are safe to use on mail, but there are some exceptions and considerations to keep in mind:
- Ink type: Most pens use water-based or gel ink, which is generally safe for use on mail. However, some pens may use oil-based or solvent-based inks, which can damage or discolor certain types of paper or cause stains.
- Pigment load: Some pens, especially those with high-pigment load or metallic inks, may bleed or feather on certain types of paper. This can be a concern if you're using a pen with a high-pigment load on a thin or absorbent paper.
- Pen tip material: Some pens have tips made from materials like metal, plastic, or ceramic, which can scratch or damage certain types of paper. For example, using a pen with a metal tip on a glossy or coated paper can cause scratches or marks.
- Specialty inks: Some pens, like those with fluorescent, glow-in-the-dark, or metallic inks, may not be suitable for use on mail. These inks can be difficult to read or may not be compatible with certain types of paper.
To ensure your pen is safe to use on mail, consider the following:
- Check the pen's packaging or manufacturer's website for information on the ink type and compatibility with paper.
- Test the pen on a small, inconspicuous area of the mail piece before signing or writing.
- Avoid using pens with high-pigment load or specialty inks on mail, as they may not be suitable for use on paper.
- Choose pens with water-based or gel ink, which are generally safe for use on mail.
- Consider using a pen with a soft, flexible tip to minimize the risk of scratching or damaging paper.
Some popular pens that are generally safe to use on mail include:
- Ballpoint pens (e.g., Bic, Pilot, Uni-ball)
- Rollerball pens (e.g., Pilot, Uni-ball, Parker)
- Gel pens (e.g., Sakura, Uni-ball, Pilot)
- Fountain pens (e.g., Pilot, Lamy, TWSBI) with water-based or gel ink
Remember to always test your pen on a small area of the mail piece before signing or writing to ensure the ink doesn't bleed, feather, or cause any other issues.