Old ink pads from stampinup
 

my ink pads are at least 10 years old and I am having problems with them not inking stamps properly. I have re-inked them and it only helps a little. How long do ink pads really last before you have to replace them?

Are they the old style with the flip up lid? If so, give them another inking and store them upside down. It could be that the felt got too dry and doesn't "give" enough when you ink your stamp. I wouldn't give up on them yet.
Mary Beth

I have some that are at least nine yrs old. They all ink fine except my chocolate chip.. I don't know.....I've never read that ink pads wear out.

I was having trouble with my chocolate chip pad. Turns out I inked it a few times with craft! That said, it was always somewhat dry when I went to use it. I almost posted the same question you did!

It is a linen pad with the lid that flips over and stores upside down. I thought maybe re inkers got old. Anyone???

I was wondering if the re-inkers got old also. I was going to order the ones I don't have yet but not sure of there shelf life. My sister re-inked her black pad and the refill was purple and wrecked her pad.

You might also try a rehydrator. There may be plenty of ink, but the pad has just gotten too dry. Ranger puts out a product called Perfect Ink Refresher that I've used on my stampin spots when I need to.

I just bought ink refresher and I LOVE it! It worked wonders on my SU chocolate chip pad!