Materials Needed
It is important to have the right materials before cleaning and oiling your kenmore sewing machine. You will need a soft cloth, petroleum jelly, sewing machine oil, Isopropyl alcohol, and a small brush for dusting. Additionally, you will need a screwdriver, tweezers, and a set of brushes to assist in cleaning the small areas of the machine such as the bobbin case and pressure plate. If a lint brush is unavailable, a small paintbrush can be used instead.
Safety Precautions
When cleaning and oiling your kenmore sewing machine, it is important to observe all safety precautions. Always unplug the machine before cleaning or oiling and never use water as this may damage the machine. Make sure all parts of the machine are dry before oiling. Do not attempt to disassemble the machine as this may cause damage, and only use products and supplies recommended by the manufacturer.
Cleaning
Begin the cleaning process by dusting the machine with the small brush or lint brush. This will remove debris that has accumulated over time. Next, use the Isopropyl alcohol to wipe down the entire machine, including all the metal parts, to remove any dirt, dust, or grime. Dry the area thoroughly before oiling.
Oil the Moving Parts
Once the machine is clean and dry, it is then time to oil the moving parts. Use the sewing machine oil for this step. Begin by adding a few drops of oil to the joints and moving parts of the machine. Use tweezers to help reach any hard-to-reach areas. Use the small brush or lint brush to spread the oil and then remove any excess. Make sure not to add too much oil in order to avoid any build-up.
Oil the Presser Foot and Thread Guide
Oil the presser foot and thread guide using the petroleum jelly. First, use the screwdriver to remove the presser foot and thread guide from the machine. Next, rub a small amount of petroleum jelly onto each piece and reattach them to the machine. Using petroleum jelly instead of sewing machine oil for this step helps to ensure that the pieces move smoothly.
Oil the Bobbin Case and Pressure Plate
The bobbin case and pressure plate need to be oiled separately. Using tweezers, remove the bobbin case and pressure plate from the machine. Oil each piece with a few drops of Sewing Machine oil and then use the small brush to spread the oil and remove any excess. Reinstall the pieces and secure them in place.
Clean the Needle Plate and Feed Dog
To ensure the smoothest stitches, it is important to clean the needle plate and feed dog. First, remove the needle plate and feed dog from the machine. Clean each part separately with a soft cloth and Isopropyl alcohol. Make sure to get into all of the creases and remove any residue. Once completely clean, reattach the needle plate and feed dog.
Storing the Machine
When the cleaning and oiling process is complete, make sure to store the machine in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Place the machine in its original case if available or purchase a machine cover. Additionally, an airtight fabric drawer liner can be used to keep the machine clean and protected from dust. Regularly cleaning and oiling the machine will ensure it runs smoothly for years to come.
Troubleshooting Tips
If you encounter any issues with your kenmore sewing machine, there are several tips you can try to diagnose and potentially fix the problem:
Check Threading
First, check to make sure the thread is properly threaded throughout the machine. Follow the instructions in the user’s manual to check each thread pathway.
Change Needle
Sometimes the needle may be bent or worn, making it difficult for the thread to feed through. In such cases, change to a new needle.
Inspect Bobbin Case
Make sure the bobbin case is correctly installed, as a misaligned bobbin case can cause the thread to become tangled.
Change Pressure Plate
If the pressure plate is worn or bent, replace it with a new one.
Oil Regularly
Regularly cleaning and oiling the machine can help to prevent a variety of issues, so make sure to oil the machine regularly.
Advantages of Cleaning and Oiling
Cleaning and oiling a kenmore sewing machine can help to maintain its performance and make it last longer. Regularly doing so can improve the machine’s stitching quality, reduce noise, and make the machine run smoother. Furthermore, cleaning and oiling the machine prevents dirt, dust, and grime from building up, which in turn helps to reduce dust and debris around the work area.
Conclusion
Cleaning and oiling your kenmore sewing machine is a simple process that can help to keep it running smoothly. Make sure all safety precautions are followed, have the right materials on hand, and take your time with the process. With regular cleaning and oiling, your machine will maintain its performance and last for years to come.
