Having an old-fashioned treadle sewing machine base means you are part of a long lineage of seamstresses who relied on this robust piece of equipment to sew clothing, bedding and other fabric items. While the mechanical workings of this classic machine remain as reliable as ever, you might need to invest some time and elbow grease into cleaning your treadle sewing machine base in order to ensure it runs smoothly. Here are some tips on how to clean a treadle sewing machine.
One of the first tasks when cleaning a treadle sewing machine is to remove loose dirt and debris. Brush out the surfaces, drawers and areas around the machine with a soft brush. Use a sofa brush for the larger areas, and an old toothbrush for the hard-to-reach spots. It’s also a good idea to vacuum to get out any dust and dirt that may have found its way into small nooks and crannies.
Hit the grime and grease spots next. Use a soft cloth, some warm water and mild soap to get your sewing machine squeaky clean. Use the cloths to wipe out the slots the wheel goes through and gentle wipe the wheel itself – don’t forget the drive wheel. Nowadays, you can use a product like WD-40 to make the wheel turn smoothly once again. Make sure to wipe off any excess with a dry cloth.
Next, take a look at the belt and if required, give it a good cleaning with a damp cloth too. This is a great opportunity to inspect the belt, ensuring it is not frayed, torn or rotten and tighten it up if required. As the belt is a key component in the treadle sewing machine’s operation, it’s important to maintain its condition..
In order to keep your thread from snagging and jamming the machine, clean the bobbin case and bobbin. Remove the bobbin case from the machine and then clean the inside of the bobbin case and the bobbin by using a sharp pencil or something similar to remove any lint or fuzz. If required, you can use a machine oil to lubricate the bobbin hook race.
Finally, you need to give the machine and surrounding area a good polish. This can be done with a soft dry cloth. Make sure to use a lint-free cloth in order to avoid any fluff going onto the moving parts of the machine, disrupting its operation.
Preventing Rust
One of the primary concerns when cleaning a treadle sewing machine is preventing rust. Rust can build up and lead to function problems. Care must be taken when cleaning the machine that no moisture comes into contact with the metal parts, as this can lead to rust. If rust is an issue, use a rust-removing product to get rid of the rust and then thoroughly dry the area.
You can also take preventative measures by sealing the iron parts of the machine with an appliance wax. Make sure to apply the wax to all the iron parts, paying attention to any parts that come into contact with the other parts of the machine, as these is more likely to succumb to rust.
Furthermore, if your sewing machine is stored in a basement or other high-moisture area, make sure to cover it with a protective cover. This cover helps to stop moisture from getting into the machine, and making rust and other components problems more likely.
Keeping the Machine Lubricated
In order to ensure continual smooth operation, it is important to keep the treadle sewing machine well-oiled. Minor oiling should be carried out after every cleaning. For a more significant oiling, each part of the machine should be lubricated according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This usually involves applying a few drops of light machine oil onto the spindles, cams, feed dogs and shuttle. Once each part is oiled, make sure to reassemble the machine properly and tighten up any screws.
To conclude, regular cleaning and oiling of your treadle sewing machine can go a long way in maintaining its smooth and efficient operation. Care should also be taken to avoid moisture, which can lead to rust and other minor damage. This can extend the life of your machine, allowing you to continue to create beautiful items with it for years to come.
Removing the Whole Machine
If you need a more in-depth cleaning, you may need to remove the whole machine from its base. Follow the manual instructions from the manufacturer for the specific model to be able to safely remove the machine from its base. Doing so allows for a thorough clean and inspection of the internal mechanisms. Pay particular attention to the main shaft, the main parts and the main wheels. When reassembling the machine make sure to secure the treadle the frame properly, when the machine is placed back on the base.
Conduct Regular Inspections
To finish, it is important to inspect the treadle sewing machine regularly and check for any signs of wear that may indicate a problem or a need for cleaning. Check the condition of the drive belt, the tension of the treadles, the cleaning of the feed dogs, the presence of rust or mould and the level of oil. If these parts are in good condition, the machine is ready for use.
A Checklist for Cleaning
Cleaning a treadle sewing machine can feel like an overwhelming task. To make the process simpler and easier, consider doing the following tasks every time you clean your machine:
- Remove loose dirt and debris with a soft brush and vacuum
- Wash with a mild soap and wipe dry
- Clean the bobbin case and bobbin
- Oil the moving parts
- Polish the machine and surrounding area
- Inspect the drive belt and other components
- Prevent rust by sealing the iron parts of the machine
- Cover the machine in high-moisture environments
- Remove the machine for a deeper clean if necessary
Keeping the Bed Free of Dirt and Debris
In order to maintain both the aesthetic and the ultimate operation of your treadle machine, it is important to keep the bed of the machine clear from all dirt and debris. Even the smallest stone or scrap of fabric can damage the needle plate and bobbin area, leading to a complex repair. Therefore, it is important to clean the bed and to inspect it before every use.
You can use a lint-free cloth and some warm water and mild soap to give the bed a wipe. Make sure to dry it off with a cloth before replacing any other parts and pieces. In addition, inspect the area around where the needle goes in to ensure there are no pieces of lint, which can break your needle.
Protecting the Bed Plate
The bed plate should also be protected. To do this, add a protective layer, such as a felt pad, between the bed plate and the spinning wheel. This will offer an extra layer of protection and will reduce the risk of damage to both the bed plate and the spinning wheel over time.
If the bed plate is damaged, you may have to replace it and a felt pad can help to protect this valuable part from any future damage. If you plan to replace the bed plate, take into account the model and type of treadle sewing machine in order to ensure you purchase the correct bed plate.
