Optical encoder system designs and methods for use thereof in printing devices are disclosed which are directed to solving problems caused by contaminant matter accumulating on optical encoder strips as well as scratching of optical encoder strips. An embodiment includes a dispenser and a take-up mechanism. The dispenser includes an encoder strip having first and second lengths. The second length of encoder strip is substantially free of contaminant matter. The first length of the encoder strip is coupled to the take-up mechanism so that the first length of the encoder strip is positioned between the dispenser and take-up mechanism. The take-up mechanism is configured to advance at least a portion of the second length of the encoder strip from the dispenser to a position between the dispenser and take-up mechanism upon actuation of the take-up mechanism. An embodiment of a method in accordance with the present invention includes providing a first length of encoder strip to the printing device for use during printing that is substantially free of contaminant matter upon initial provision to the printing device. The method additionally includes removing the first length of encoder strip from use by the printing device and advancing a second length of encoder strip to the printing device for use during printing that is substantially free of contaminant matter upon initial advancement to the printing device. Modifications to these embodiments as well as other embodiments are within the scope and spirit of the present invention.