Sewing is an exciting and rewarding activity and having good maintenance of a sewing machine should help a tailor or seamstress take their skills to the next level. Cleaning and lubricating the sewing machine is an important but often overlooked process which, if done correctly and at regular intervals, can make sure it operates at its best.
The majority of sewing machine manufacturers recommend that the machine should be cleaned and lubricated every 3 months or after completion of any major sewing project such as a dress or a quilt.
The most important step in cleaning a sewing machine is to make sure that the machine is unplugged from the power outlet. This is essential for safety reasons and will ensure that the machine is not inadvertently turned on while it is being serviced.
The second step is to remove the bobbin case of the machine. This can easily be done by undoing the screws which are located at the bottom of the machine and lifting the case out. It is also a good idea to check the bobbin case for any lint or dust which may have accumulated over the last few sewing sessions.
Once the bobbin case has been removed and checked, the next step is to clean the bed of the machine. This can be done using a soft cloth which has been slightly dampened. The cloth should be used to wipe away any dust or lint which may be present.
After the bed has been cleaned, the next step is to lubricate the machine. This can be done with a high-grade oil, usually referred to as mineral oil or sewing machine oil. A small amount should be applied to the moving parts of the machine, such as the needle bar, the tension discs and the feed dog. It is important to avoid putting the oil directly onto the fabric or onto the bobbin area as this could cause damage to the machine.
Once the sewing machine has been properly cleaned and lubricated then it is time to put the bobbin case back in place and tighten the screws. The machine should also be tested to make sure that it is in proper working condition. If the machine is still having problems then it may be best to take it to a professional sewing machine repair shop.
Safety
To avoid damages and accidents, some basic precautions must be taken while cleaning and lubricating a sewing machine. It is essential that the machine is unplugged from the power outlet before cleaning or servicing. Protective gloves and eyewear should also be worn while servicing a sewing machine to prevent any injuries.
Also, caution should be taken when handling oils and other lubricants, as some oils can be corrosive and can cause damage to a machine if not applied correctly. It is essential that the manufacturer’s instructions are followed carefully when handling these materials.
Finally, when handling the bobbin case, extreme care should be taken as the spring-loaded bobbin case can be delicate and can easily be damaged if mishandled.
Maintenance
Not only should a sewing machine be cleaned and lubricated regularly, but it should also receive regular maintenance checks. This can include checking the belt tension and checking the internal workings of the machine, as well as checking for any loose threads or fabric build-up which can interfere with the machine’s functioning.
Regular maintenance of a sewing machine should also include a thorough examination of the needle and its properly tensioned, as well as checking the feed dog is operating correctly.
Finally, regular maintenance of the sewing machine should include the regular changing of the needles to ensure that the machine is able to work with its optimum performance.
Storage
When not in use, a sewing machine should be stored in a clean and dry place. It should be kept away from direct sunlight and heat, as these environmental factors can cause damage to the internal parts of a sewing machine.
The power cable should be unplugged before the machine is stored, and it should be regularly checked for any signs of wear and tear. Finally, the sewing machine should be regularly serviced and checked to keep it running in proper functioning order.
Troubleshooting Tips
If a sewing machine develops any issues, then it is important to troubleshoot the machine correctly. Minor issues such as a broken needle or the machine jamming can usually be easily solved by referring to the manufacturer’s instructions or troubleshooting guide.
However, for more serious issues it can be best to contact a professional repair technician for assistance. It is also important to note that any adjustments to the sewing machine should only be made by a professional repair technician, as any attempts to repair or adjust the machine yourself may invalidate any warranties.
Conclusion
Cleaning and lubricating a sewing machine should be done regularly to keep it running in optimal condition. It is important that the machine is unplugged from the power outlet before any servicing is done, and protective gloves must be worn while cleaning and lubricating the machine. Regular maintenance and troubleshooting should also be done to ensure that any issues are identified and rectified in a timely manner.
