A sewing machine is an essential tool for any home crafter or fashion enthusiast. Like any piece of equipment, a sewing machine requires regular care and maintenance to keep it running smoothly for many years. Proper cleaning and oiling will also help your machine produce even, quality stitches on all your projects.

Follow this comprehensive guide to learn everything you need to know about taking care of your home sewing machine.

Store Your Machine Properly

The first rule of sewing machine care is to keep it covered when not in use. Dust and lint are the enemies of any machine with moving parts. Get in the habit of keeping your machine under a dust cover or in a hard case whenever you’re not using it.

A dust cover is the easiest solution for most home sewers. Simply slip the cover over your machine after you finish your latest project. If you don’t have a fitted dust cover, you can improvise with a clean cloth or towel.

Storing your machine in a closet or cabinet also provides protection from dust. Wherever you keep it, make sure it’s in a clean, dry area with moderate temperature. Avoid damp basements or garages.

Use Quality Materials

You can prevent lint and residue buildup inside your sewing machine by using only new, high-quality thread. Old and bargain-bin threads tend to produce more lint, while quality threads minimize fuzz and deposits inside your machine.

While a higher price tag doesn’t necessarily mean higher quality, buying thread from a reputable brand sold at sewing and craft stores is a safer bet than extremely cheap bulk thread.

Clean Regularly

No matter how careful you are about dust and thread lint, you’ll need to clean your sewing machine on a regular basis. Plan to give your machine a thorough cleaning at least 2-4 times per year. Here’s a step-by-step process:

1. Unplug the machine and remove all accessories like the foot, needle, needle plate, and bobbin case. Having the accessories out of the way makes it easier to clean the interior.
2. Use a brush or pipe cleaner to remove lint, threads, and debris from the bobbin area, feed dogs, tension discs, and interior cavities. An old toothbrush or soft makeup brush works perfectly.
3. Avoid using compressed air or blowing your breath into the machine, as this can push debris further inside and introduce moisture leading to rust.
4. If stubborn debris remains stuck, use tweezers to gently remove it. Take care not to scratch any surfaces.
5. Wipe down external surfaces with a dry lint-free cloth.
6. Replace all accessories once everything is fully clean.

Some sewers recommend cleaning under the needle plate after each project. This may be overkill for occasional sewers, but daily users will benefit from frequent cleanings.

Oil Components

Most home sewing machines require periodic oiling to lubricate the internal moving parts and prevent friction. Refer to your instruction manual to see which components need lubrication and how often.

Common areas needing oil include:

• Bobbin case
• Needle bar
• Presser foot shaft
• Feed dog gears
• Shuttle hook race

Only use sewing machine oil, never regular household oils. Good sewing oil is clear and won’t stain fabrics. It’s formulated specifically to lubricate sewing machine internals. Purchase sewing machine oil at craft stores or online.

Before oiling, clean any built up gunk with a soft brush so the oil can reach the components. Place 2-3 drops of oil on each indicated spot. Then run scrap fabric through the machine to absorb excess oil.

Caution: Some newer computerized machines are self-lubricating and do not need manual oiling. Check manufacturer guidelines before adding oil.

Replace Needles

The needle does double duty on a sewing machine, piercing fabric fibers and guiding thread through each stitch. So it’s no surprise needles require frequent replacing.

Plan to change your sewing machine needle after every 1-2 projects, or after around 8 hours of sewing time. Some signs it’s time for a new needle:

• Skipped stitches
• Loose/looped threads
• Fabric pulling or damage
• Reduced sewing speed
• Loud noise while operating

Besides replacing dull needles, you may need different needle types to match your fabric. Follow these general needle guidelines:

• Fine needles (size 9-11) for lightweight fabrics
• Medium needles (size 12-14) for medium-weight fabrics
• Thick needles (size 16-18) for heavy fabrics

Keep a stock of universal needles for general sewing, and specialty needles for knits, denim, leather, etc. Changing your needle regularly is one of the most important maintenance tasks.

Annual Service Check

In addition to your own regular care, it’s wise to have your sewing machine professionally serviced once a year. The technician will clean internal areas difficult to access at home, lubricate gears, adjust timing and tension, and replace worn parts.

Think of this annual service like a tune-up for your car. It optimizes performance and prevents avoidable repairs down the road. Sewing machine technicians have specialized tools and training to keep your machine in peak condition.

Look for an experienced technician familiar with your machine brand. Manufacturer authorized techs complete training on that company’s models. Ask at your local sewing machine dealer for technician recommendations.

Follow Proper Usage Habits

How you use your sewing machine also impacts its longevity. Keep these proper habits in mind:

• Always turn the hand wheel toward you, not away, to avoid thread nesting.
• Pull up the bobbin thread before starting to sew for better thread control.
• Check power cords and foot pedal for damage from pets or wear. Replace damaged cords.
• Follow manufacturer guidelines for needle types and fabric weights.
• Don’t force fabric through the machine; let the feed dogs pull it naturally.
• Stop the machine before changing thread, needles, feet, etc.

Find an Experienced Repair Technician

If your machine needs major repairs, it’s vital to find an experienced professional you trust. Avoid home repairs unless you have training.

Manufacturer authorized technicians complete specialized training on repairing those machines. For example, Singer technicians undergo training to work on Singer machines.

Some independent technicians gain expertise across multiple brands from years of experience. Get recommendations from local sewing machine shops, if possible.

With proper daily care, maintenance, and repairs when needed, you can add years of life to your faithful sewing companion. Show your machine some love by following these tips, and enjoy smooth sailing through countless projects.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sewing Machine Care

Here are answers to some common questions about keeping your sewing machine in top working order:

How often should you oil a sewing machine?

Most home sewing machines need oiling every 3-6 months. Check your manual for the manufacturer’s recommendations. Over-oiling can attract dirt and leak onto fabrics.

Can you use WD-40 to clean a sewing machine?

Avoid WD-40 inside your sewing machine. It can dissolve lubricants and leave a sticky residue. Use compressed air or a soft brush to dust the interior.

Should you cover your sewing machine?

Yes, keep your machine covered when not in use to prevent dust buildup. A fitted dust cover or fabric cloth works well.

How do you clean under a sewing machine needle?

Carefully unscrew the needle plate and lift it off to access the bobbin case and feed dogs. Use tweezers and small brushes to remove embedded lint and threads.

What oil do you use for sewing machines?

Only use clear sewing machine oil designed specifically for sewing machine lubrication. Never use regular household oil.

How often should you change a sewing machine needle?

Change your needle after every 1-2 projects or after about 8 hours of sewing time. Use the appropriate size and type needle for your fabric.

Can you blow compressed air into a sewing machine?

Avoid blowing compressed air directly into the machine, as moisture can damage electronic components. Use a brush to dust instead.

Should you service a sewing machine every year?

An annual service by a trained technician keeps the machine working optimally. This involves cleaning, oiling, adjustments, and part replacement.

How do you clean an old sewing machine?

Use a soft brush and tweezers to gently remove built-up lint and gunk on an older machine. Wipe exterior with a dry cloth. Oil indicated spots per manual directions.

Conclusion

Caring for a cherished sewing machine doesn’t need to be complicated or time-consuming. By covering it when not in use, cleaning lint buildup, oiling components, replacing needles, and getting annual servicing, you can keep your machine happily humming for many years.

Show your sewing companion some TLC by implementing these tips. With quality care and maintenance, your sewing machine can become a treasured heirloom passed down to future generations.