Identifying Rust on Sewing Machine
Rust on a sewing machine is usually identifiable by its red-brown color and flaky formation. It is also sometimes mistaken for dust that collects on the sewing machine. Rust can be found on plastic parts or other metal components of a sewing machine. It is important to identify rust on a sewing machine in order to clean it thoroughly to prevent it from deteriorating the machine over time.
Why the Need to Clean Rust?
Rust on a sewing machine, if left uncleaned, can cause performance issues or even lead to permanent damage. According to Lorna Kring, an Authority Sewing Educator, “rust can hold in moisture, draw bacteria and can lead to corrosion and significant damage to the machine.” It is important to clean the rust to prevent any further deterioration to the machine.
Equipment Needed
In order to effectively clean off the rust on a sewing machine, the right equipment and materials are needed. Stainless steel wool pads and soft cloths, along with a mild detergent, are necessary for the task. These will help to gently scrub off any rust without causing scratches to the machine. For more abrasive rust, a fine grade sandpaper can be used as well.
Cleaning Process
The first step in the cleaning process is to turn the machine off and unplug it from the power source. This makes it safe to do the cleaning. Once the machine is unplugged, the cleaning process begins by wiping off the surface and checking for any loose pieces. The next step is to use the steel wool to gently scrub the rusty areas. The number of swipes should be kept to a minimum as over scrubbing can damage the metal parts of the sewing machine. This can be followed by rinsing the area with a mild detergent, or a combination of vinegar and baking soda. Lastly, the area is wiped off with a soft cloth to remove any moisture.
Preventing Rust Build-Up
It is easier to clean rust in small doses, rather than cleaning a large amount at once. So, it is important to maintain a regular cleaning process to prevent heavy rust build-up. According to Riz Rothstein, a sewing machine technician, “A sewing machine should be wiped down with a soft cloth every 6 months. This can help make the cleaning process easier and prevent rust from developing on the machine.”
Alternative Rust Remover Products
If the rust is difficult to remove with the process mentioned, it is best to look for alternative products that can be safely used to remove rust. Such products can be found from specialized manufacturers and sellers. Using such products can help to remove the rust from the metal parts of the sewing machine. These can be used in conjunction with the process mentioned above for a more effective and safer cleaning process.
Regular Maintenance
The key to keeping a sewing machine from rusting is to make sure that it is regularly maintained and cleaned. This is not only important for avoiding rust, but also to make sure that the sewing machine remains in the best functioning condition. To do so, cleaning should be done regularly, such as every 6 months, and any specific recommendations from the manufacturer, such as lubricating the machine’s parts, should also be followed.
Conclusion
In conclusion, rust on a sewing machine should be identified and promptly cleaned to prevent it from damaging the machine over time. The right cleaning materials, such as steel wool, soft cloths and mild detergents are needed to clean the rust without causing damage. Also, to prevent rust build-up, maintenance and cleaning should be done regularly. If the rust is too difficult to remove, alternative rust remover products can be used to get the job done.
