Prints Not Sticking to Bed

If your 3D print isn't sticking to the bed, there could be several reasons for this issue. Here are some common causes and solutions:

1. Bed Leveling Issues

   1. ​Problem: The bed may not be perfectly level or calibrated, causing inconsistent first-layer adhesion.

   2. Solution: Recalibrate or re-level the bed according to your printer’s manual. Make sure the distance between the nozzle and bed is consistent across the entire surface.

2. Dirty or Contaminated Bed​

   1. Problem: Dust, oils, or leftover filament can prevent proper adhesion.

   2. Solution: Clean the bed with isopropyl alcohol or another appropriate cleaner to remove contaminants. For some surfaces, a specialized bed adhesive may also be helpful. See down below for more information regarding bed cleaning.

3. Incorrect Bed Temperature

   1. Problem: The bed may not be at the optimal temperature for the filament you’re using.

   2. Solution: Check the recommended bed temperature for your filament and adjust the printer’s settings accordingly.

4. Nozzle Height Issues

   1. Problem: The nozzle may be too far from the bed, preventing the filament from sticking properly.

   2. Solution: Adjust the nozzle height so that it is at the correct distance from the bed. Typically, the nozzle should be close enough to lightly squish the first layer of filament against the bed.

5. Filament Quality or Type

   1. Problem: Low-quality filament or using a filament that is not well-suited for your bed surface can cause adhesion problems.

   2. Solution: Use high-quality filament and ensure it's appropriate for your printer and bed surface. Some materials might require different bed surfaces or adhesives.

6. Bed Surface Material

   1. Problem: The type of bed surface you are using may not be optimal for the filament.

   2. Solution: Consider using different bed surfaces or adhesives designed for specific filaments. For example, PEI sheets or glass plates might improve adhesion for certain materials.

7. Inadequate First Layer Settings

   1. Problem: Incorrect settings for the first layer, such as speed or extrusion rate, can affect adhesion.

   2. Solution: Adjust the first layer settings in your slicer software. Slowing down the first layer speed and increasing the extrusion width can help.

8. Environmental Factors

   1. Problem: Drafts, temperature fluctuations, or humidity can affect adhesion.

   2. Solution: Ensure the printing environment is stable and free from drafts. Consider enclosing your printer if environmental factors are a concern.

Bed Adhesion Aids

• Importance: Some filaments benefit from additional adhesion aids like glue sticks, painter's tape, or specific bed adhesives.

• Troubleshooting:

• Check Adhesion Aids: Ensure that any adhesion aids used are applied correctly and are in good condition. Replace or reapply as needed.

By addressing these potential issues, you should be able to improve the adhesion of your prints and reduce the likelihood of them not sticking to the bed.

Cleaning the Bed

Cleaning the bed of your 3D printer is crucial for several reasons:

1. Improved Adhesion: A clean bed ensures that the first layer of your print adheres properly. Contaminants like dust, oils, or leftover material can interfere with adhesion, leading to print failures or poor-quality prints.

2. Better Print Quality: A clean bed helps maintain a consistent distance between the nozzle and the print surface. This consistency is vital for achieving accurate layer heights and preventing issues like warping or layer separation.

3. Longer Bed Life: Regular cleaning can help prevent the buildup of materials that might cause damage over time. For example, leftover filament or adhesive can harden and become difficult to remove, potentially affecting the bed's surface.

4. Prevention of Print Failures: Residue or debris on the bed can lead to issues like incomplete prints, poor adhesion, or even nozzle clogs if the debris gets carried into the nozzle.

5. Maintaining Print Accuracy: A clean bed helps ensure that the print starts from a level and clean surface, which is essential for achieving accurate and consistent results.

To clean the bed, you typically want to use a gentle cleaning solution appropriate for the bed material (like isopropyl alcohol for glass or specific cleaning agents for other types of surfaces - Dawn dish soap works well) and a soft cloth or sponge. Avoid abrasive materials that could scratch or damage the bed.

The frequency with which you should clean the bed of your 3D printer depends on several factors, including the type of prints you're making, the material you're using, and how often you print. Here are some general guidelines:

1. After Every Print: For best results, it's a good practice to give the bed a quick wipe-down with isopropyl alcohol or another appropriate cleaner after each print, especially if you're working with materials like PLA that can leave residue.

2. Regular Maintenance: If you're printing frequently, a more thorough cleaning every few prints or once a week might be beneficial to remove any buildup or residue that might accumulate over time.

3. When Switching Materials: If you're changing the type of filament or material, it's a good idea to clean the bed to ensure that any residues from the previous material don’t affect adhesion.

4. When Experiencing Print Issues: If you notice issues with print adhesion, such as warping or incomplete prints, it could be a sign that the bed needs cleaning.

5. Before Major Prints: For larger or more critical prints, cleaning the bed just before starting can help ensure the best possible adhesion and print quality.

In general, keeping the bed clean helps maintain consistent print quality and prolong the lifespan of the bed surface. If you’re unsure how often to clean, monitoring the performance of your prints and the condition of the bed will give you a good indication.