How to fix stringy and messy TPU 3D prints

Question: Why is my TPU 3D print stringy and messy?

Answer: Stringy and messy prints with TPU usually come down to incorrect print settings or filament handling. First, reduce your print temperature by 5–10°C; TPU often prints well between 210°C and 230°C, but too hot causes excessive stringing. Next, increase retraction settings: raise retraction distance slightly (e.g., 2–3mm) and speed (30–40mm/s) to help prevent oozing. Also, slow down print speed to around 20–30mm/s to give the filament time to cool and reduce stringing. Make sure your nozzle is clean and your filament dry, as moisture can cause bubbles and stringing. Enable combing or coasting features if your slicer supports them, which can reduce travel moves and oozing. Finally, check travel moves—minimise unnecessary moves over open spaces to reduce stringing. By adjusting these settings step-by-step, you should see cleaner TPU prints with less stringing and mess.