A failed print job is usually stuck in the Windows print queue, not in the printer itself. Try these steps in order.
1. Cancel the Print Job Normally
Open Settings → Bluetooth & devices → Printers & scanners.
Select your printer.
Click Open print queue.
Right-click the failed print job and choose Cancel.
To remove everything waiting to print, choose Cancel all if that option is available.
If the job disappears, try printing again.
2. If the Job Says “Deleting” but Never Disappears
Sometimes Windows tries to delete a print job but gets stuck.
Turn the printer OFF.
Restart your computer.
After Windows has completely restarted, turn the printer back on.
Check the print queue again.
In many cases, restarting both the computer and printer will clear the stuck job.
3. If the Print Job Is Still Stuck, Clear the Windows Print Spooler
The Print Spooler is the Windows service that manages print jobs. If a job becomes corrupted or stuck, you may need to clear it manually.
Press Windows key + R.
Type:
services.msc
Press Enter.
Find Print Spooler in the list.
Right-click Print Spooler and select Stop.
Next:
Press Windows key + R again.
Enter:
C:\Windows\System32\spool\PRINTERS
Press Enter.
Delete all files inside the PRINTERS folder.
Do not delete the PRINTERS folder itself.
Then:
Return to the Services window.
Right-click Print Spooler.
Select Start.
Turn your printer back on if it is still off.
Your Windows print queue should now be completely cleared.
Which Method Should You Use?
Always try canceling the print job normally first.
If that does not work, restart the printer and computer.
Use the Print Spooler method when a print job simply will not disappear or remains stuck on messages such as Deleting, Error, or Printing.
These steps work with most printers connected to Windows 11, including printers from Brother, HP, Canon, Epson, Lexmark, and other manufacturers.
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