Start With Basics
Oiling your sewing machine is a relatively simple and straightforward task that can help maintain its overall health and performance. Before you begin, make sure that your Brother sewing machine is shut down and unplugged. You should also begin by gathering all the materials you will need, including a sewing machine oil, sewing machine oil needle, and a clean rag.
Before you apply any oil, take a moment to check the areas of your Brother sewing machine that need to be oiled. Moving parts like arms and drive shafts should be particularly examined for signs of accumulated dust and grime. You can then use the oil needle to apply a few drops of sewing machine oil to these areas.
Sewing machine oil is more viscous than regular machine oil, which helps to make sure that your machine is properly lubricated without unnecessary build-up. Try to use a small amount, as too much oil can actually cause more damage than good.
Next, it is important to check the bobbin winder area, as this is a common spot for dust and thread accumulations. If you find any debris, use the needle to apply a few drops of sewing machine oil to this area as well.Finally, use the needle to apply some oil to the main shaft, so that the moving parts of the Brother sewing machine can glide and rotate easily.
Testing and Finishing
After you are done applying oil to all the necessary areas, you can use the clean rag to wipe off any remaining oil or dust particles. This is an important step, as it will help to make sure all the areas on your machine are free of any residue or debris.
Once you have wiped off the oil, it is a good idea to give the machine a few test runs to make sure that everything is working as it should. This will help to ensure that all the parts are properly lubricated and that oil is not causing any excess build-up. If the machine is working correctly, you can continue regular maintenance and use your Brother sewing machine as you normally would.
Though it may take some extra time and effort, routine oiling on your Brother sewing machine can help to extend its life and keep it in excellent condition. Oil also provides important lubrication, which will make sure that your machine functions properly and with optimal performance.
Additional Materials
In addition to the oil and needle, there are a few other materials you should use when oiling your Brother sewing machine. Before oiling, it is a good idea to use a small brush, such as a toothbrush or a scrub brush, to remove any loose dirt and dust that may have accumulated on your machine.
It is also wise to have a can of compressed air on hand when oiling your machine. This will allow you to blow away any lingering dust or debris that may have been missed while brushing. The compressed air can also be used to blow away any excess oil that may have been applied.
Oil vs Grease
When it comes to oiling your Brother sewing machine, it is important to remember that oil is vastly different than grease. Grease is thicker and heavier, and is not suitable for use on sewing machines. This is because grease can build-up, leading to corrosion and clogging that can seriously damage your machine.
Oil is the better choice when it comes to lubrication on sewing machines. It is thinner and more fluid, allowing it to coat parts more evenly. Oil also has a tendency to stay on the surfaces of parts, meaning that it will not build-up as easily or create a mess.
Using the Correct Oil
When you are ready to oil your sewing machine, it is essential that you make sure to use the correct type of oil. Brother recommends using their official Sewing Machine Oils for best results. These oils are specially formulated for use on their machines and will help to keep them running in top condition.
If you are unable to find the official Brother oil, you can also use a sewing machine oil that is available in most stores. Most of these are designed to be used on any machine, though they may not be quite as effective as the specialized Brother oils.
Frequency of Oiling
As long as you are using the right type of oil and have applied it properly, you should not have to oil your Brother sewing machine excessively. A good rule of thumb is to oil your machine after every 20 to 30 hours of usage. This will ensure that your machine has the necessary lubrication to function properly and last longer.
Though oiling your machine properly requires some extra effort, it is well worth it in the end. Regular oiling can help extend the life of your Brother sewing machine, as well as make sure that it is always operating at peak performance.