Sewing Machine Maintenance 101: Show me how to clean my sewing machine

Sewing machines are the unsung heroes of the crafting world, helping us bring our creative visions to life with every stitch. To ensure your trusty machine continues to perform at its best, proper maintenance is key. In this guide, we'll walk you through the essential steps of sewing machine maintenance, from cleaning to lubrication, so you can keep your machine in top condition.

Step 1: Cleaning Your Sewing Machine

Clean Your Sewing Machine keeps your machines internal parts moving smoothly and prevents stitching problems.

• Start by unplugging your sewing machine to ensure safety.

• Remove the needle and presser foot for better access.

• Use a small brush to gently remove dust and lint from the machine's crevices: Main focus is on and around the feed dogs, the bobbin area, the needle bar, the take up lever and around the handwheel.

• Wipe down the exterior with a soft, lint-free cloth dampened with a mild cleaner.

• Pay special attention to the bobbin area, feed dogs, and tension discs.

• Reassemble the needle and presser foot once cleaning is complete.

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Step 2: Properly Lubricating Your Sewing Machine

There are many moving parts in a sewing machine, some metal and some plastic. Lubricating your sewing machine to keep the machine operating without wear and prevent parts from breaking down. Some machines use sewing machine oil while some use grease and oil.

• Consult your sewing machine manual to determine the lubrication points. Many machine have oiling holes along the machine, some do not and should only be piled by a professional or in the bobbin area once in awhile.

• Use high-quality sewing machine oil to lubricate moving parts.

• Apply a small amount of oil to the recommended areas, ensuring not to over-lubricate. (bobbin area is most important, the needle bar and on older machines oil anything that moves).

• Run the machine on a scrap piece of fabric to distribute the oil evenly, it will help catch any excess oil that drops down the needle bar.

• Wipe off any excess oil to prevent staining on fabrics.

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Step 3: Knowing When to Clean vs. Service

It's essential to distinguish between routine cleaning and professional servicing needs:

• Cleaning : Regularly cleaning your sewing machine, ideally after every few projects or when you notice lint buildup, is essential to maintain optimal performance. Lint and become compacted and cause problems with the machine and the stitch quality.

• Servicing : If you encounter issues like skipped stitches, unusual noises, or tension problems that persist after cleaning and troubleshooting, it may be time to take your machine to a professional for servicing.

By following these maintenance steps and knowing when to clean versus service your sewing machine, you can ensure it remains in prime working condition for years to come. Remember, a well-maintained sewing machine is a reliable partner for all your creative endeavors!

Sewing machines are more than just tools; they are companions in our creative journeys. By incorporating proper maintenance practices into our crafting routine, we can extend the life of our sewing machines and enjoy seamless stitching experiences. So, show some love to your sewing machine by giving it the care and attention it deserves.

Happy sewing!

Erin Gannon