Reduce Noise and Heat
Lubricating a sewing machine can help reduce the amount of noise occurring during normal operation. Additionally, it can reduce the amount of heat generated by the motor, thus helping to keep the temperature inside the sewing machine at a more comfortable level. Sewing machines that have already been used for some time may start to make squeaking and grinding noises, indicating that the lubrication on the moving parts has started to wear out. To properly lubricate a sewing machine, the user should follow the instructions included in the manual or online.
Gather Appropriate Lubrication
In order to begin lubrication of the sewing machine, the user must first gather the appropriate lubricant. It is recommended to use silicone lubricant specifically designed for sewing machines, as it is more effective than other products. This can usually be found at sewing supply quality stores, as well as online. Furthermore, a cloth and a toothbrush or small paintbrush may also be required in order to properly lubricate the sewing machine.
Disassemble and Clean the Machine
The user must then disassemble the sewing machine and clean off any dirt or debris that may have built up on the moving parts. This helps make sure that the lubrication is applied properly, as well as make sure that none of the dirt or debris will be transferred to other parts of the sewing machine, preventing them from working correctly.
Begin Lubrication
Once the machine is clean and fully disassembled, the user can begin to lubricate the machine. Generally, applying silicone lubricant to each moving part is enough to properly lubricate the sewing machine. It may be beneficial to use a damp cloth to rub the lubricant over the moving parts and allow the lubricant to settle in. For harder to reach parts of the machine, such as the motor, a toothbrush or a small paintbrush can be used to apply the lubricant.
Reassemble and Test
Once the machine has been properly lubricated, the user can reassemble the device. Once the machine is reassembled, it is recommended to test the device to make sure that all the parts are working correctly. This can be done by sewing a small piece of fabric or by turning on the machine to make sure that it is working smoothly.
Protect the Machinery with Regular Maintenance
In order to make sure that a sewing machine is properly lubricated and running at optimal performance, regular maintenance should be performed on the machine. Depending on the frequency of use, this may mean lubricating the machine once every 6 months or so. Additionally, it is important to make sure that the user follows the instructions and only uses the recommended lubricant, as using a different type of lubricant may affect the performance of the machine.
Use Silicone Spray as an Alternative
In addition to using a silicone lubricant specifically designed for sewing machines, a silicone spray can also be used for lubrication. The silicone spray can help protect the machine from rust and corrosion and it is less likely to leak. It is important to note, however, that the silicone spray should not be used to lubricate any of the moving parts, as the spray could cause the parts to wear down faster than normal.
Check for Dirt and Debris Prior to Lubrication
Before using silicone lubricant or the silicone spray to lubricate the sewing machine, the user should make sure to check for dirt and debris that may have built up on the machine. Use a damp cloth to wipe away any dirt or debris that can be seen, paying close attention to the gears, shafts, and other parts of the machine where debris may be lodged. This can help ensure that the lubrication is applied properly and that the device continues to perform as expected.
Oil the Machine
In addition to adding silicone lubricant or a silicone spray to the machine, the user may also wish to oil the machine as well. This type of lubrication is more common with older, manual sewing machines and the oil should be specific to the type and model of sewing machine being used. The oil can be applied directly to the moving parts, following the instructions in the manual, to help ensure that the parts are working in the best condition possible.
Store the Machine Properly
The last step to properly lubricating a sewing machine is to make sure it is stored properly when it is not being used. Make sure the machine is kept in a cool, dry place and covered with a cloth to prevent dust and debris from getting into the machine. Furthermore, the machine should be securely stored away when not in use to prevent it from being damaged or moved.
