When you're stepping away from your sewing machine for an extended period, proper preparation is crucial to ensure it stays in top condition. Sewing machines are meant to be used, not to sit. To keep them moving properly, theres a few things to remeber on how to store your machine correctly, focusing on the essential steps of covering and oiling.

Long-Term Storage for Your Sewing Machine: Cover Up, Oil Down

A sewing machine is a finely tuned instrument. Like any precision tool, it needs specific care when it's not in use, especially for long-term storage. Whether you're taking a short break or retiring your machine indefinitely, neglecting these few simple maintenance steps can lead to costly repairs down the road.

The two most important tasks before putting your machine away are covering it and oiling it.

1. The Power of a Cover Dust is the number one enemy of a sewing machine. The tiny lint and fabric fibers generated during sewing, combined with household dust, can quickly accumulate in the machine's intricate mechanisms, leading to stiffness, skipped stitches, and eventual jamming.

Why covering is essential:

• Dust Protection: A cover acts as a shield, preventing dust and debris from settling inside the machine's moving parts.

• Moisture Defense: Covers can offer some protection against minor humidity fluctuations, which can lead to rust on metal components.

• Accident Prevention: A cover helps protect the machine from accidental spills or physical damage (like a bump from a vacuum cleaner).

What to use:

• Hard Cases: Many machines come with a plastic or hard-shell cover. This is the best option for maximum protection.

• Soft Covers: A fabric cover is excellent for daily use and adequate for long-term storage if stored in a clean, dry place. You can easily make your own!

• Avoid Airtight Plastic: While you want to keep dust out, avoid sealing your machine completely in an airtight plastic bag for extended periods, as this can trap moisture and encourage rust.

2. The Importance of Oiling Machines need lubrication to run smoothly. When a machine sits unused, the existing oil can evaporate or thicken, leaving the metal parts dry. This can lead to increased friction, noisy operation, and premature wear when you eventually start using it again.

Why oiling is key:

• Lubrication: Fresh oil ensures all moving parts slide past each other with minimal friction.

• Rust Prevention: Oil creates a protective barrier on metal surfaces, preventing rust from forming due to ambient humidity.

• Smooth Operation: Proper lubrication ensures your machine will run quietly and efficiently when you're ready to sew again.

How to oil:

• Check your manual: Always refer to your owner's manual for specific instructions on where and how to oil your machine. Not all machines use oil in the same way (some modern machines are "self-lubricating" and only require service center oiling).

• Use the right oil: Use only high-quality, clear, non-detergent sewing machine oil. Never use WD-40, cooking oil, or motor oil, as these can damage your machine.

• A little goes a long way: One or two drops in the designated spots are usually sufficient.

3. Bonus Storage Tips Before you cover and oil your machine, take a few extra minutes for these steps:

• Clean thoroughly: Use a small brush and/or a mini-vacuum to remove all lint from the bobbin case, feed dogs, and tension discs.

• Remove the needle and bobbin: This relieves tension on the tension springs and prevents the needle from rusting into place.

• Release tension: Some experts recommend leaving the presser foot in the "up" position to release tension on the presser foot spring.

• Store upright: Keep the machine in its normal operating position.

• Choose a dry location: Avoid storing the machine in damp basements or hot attics where temperature and humidity fluctuate wildly.

By following these simple steps, your sewing machine will be protected and ready to sew when you are.

Happy stitching when you return!

Erin Gannon