Tools vary depending on the cartridge type. Select the refill kit by clicking on your printer model, as different printers use different inks. All cartridges comply with ISO manufacturing standards. Compatible cartridges are essentially filled reservoirs that feed ink to the printhead. The printhead is in the printer.
All printers have a 'cartridge cleaning cycle' though the word cleaning is used somewhat loosely.
You cannot use ink to clean ink. The cartridge cleaning cycle is mechanical and is intended to re-establish ink flow, typically after the printer has been idle for some time. To ensure both print quality and extend printhead life we have available 'cleaner cartridges'. Cleaner cartridges are used just like standard cartridges. Instead of ink, they contain a cleaning solution that thoroughly and safely washes the printhead.