Removing Sewing Machine Oil From Fabric
Have you ever found oil stains on your fabric, seemingly out of nowhere? If you have a sewing machine at home, chances are the spots are caused by oil seeping out of it. Unfortunately, the oil itself is not easy to remove. Depending on the fabric, the stain can be quite persistent and the success or failure of its removal rely mainly on the type of fabric, the amount of time that has passed since the stain occurred and the type of cleaning product you are using.
So how can you remove sewing machine oil from fabric? The best and easiest way is by using a commercial spot remover specifically designed for fabric and oil. This product is most often a clear liquid in a spray bottle. To use it, you simply spray it onto the affected area, wait for the recommended amount of time and then gently blot the moisture off with a clean cloth. To further enhance the cleaning process, repeat the process one more time and watch as the stain magically disappears.
If a commercial spot remover is not readily available, there are also other common household products that can be used. An effective combination of dish detergent, baking soda and vinegar, applied to the stain and allowed to rest, has proven quite successful in removing oily stains from fabric. As with a commercial spot remover, simply apply the mixture, wait and blot dry.
If the fabric you are dealing with is a very delicate one, like silk, it is best to seek professional advice and treatment. Delicate fabrics demand special detergents and solutions that regular cleaners might not be able to provide. In that case, take the fabric to a reputable dry cleaner and trust their judgement.
If the fabric is washing machine safe, then you can try using a machine wash instead. Start by pre-treating the area with a laundry detergent and allow it to soak in some hot water for at least 15 minutes. Then, pour some laundry detergent in the washing machine and proceed as usual. Depending on the severity of the stain, you may need to repeat the cycle one more time.
Tips For Preventing And Avoiding Sewing Machine Oil Contamination
Once you are done successfully removing the oily stains, there are some important tips you can follow to prevent them from happening again. If your machine is relatively new it is likely to be well lubricated, making it less likely for oil to seep out and cause contamination. However, in cases when the machine is older, you should always make sure to check the condition of the oil regularly.
If the oil appears darker or there are traces of dirt on it, the oil should be completely replaced with a quality lubricant. This is especially important when your sewing involves multiple layers of fabric, to avoid unnecessary strain on the machine. Additionally, when starting and stopping the machine, make sure to turn the presser foot lever upwards, away from fabric. This will help prevent any oil from spilling out.
When oil does come in contact with fabric, make sure to take care of the stain as quickly as possible. The longer the oil is left to set the more difficult it will be to remove, no matter what cleaning product you are using.
Identifying Different Types Of Sewing Machine Oil
Sewing machine oil is specifically designed to keep moving metal parts lubricated, ensuring a smooth operation. Depending on the type of machine, different types of oil can be used, each offering a different level of lubricity. The most common type of oil is light weight machine oil, which is suitable for all types of sewing equipment, while other kinds have been specially designed for high-speed embroidery machines and industrial machines. It is important to understand the type of oil your machine requires to prevent any damage caused by incorrect lubrication.
Another type of oil used in sewing machines is petroleum oil. This is a more stable oil and its properties remain unchanged for longer than most lubricants, making it ideal for applications that require constant running. Furthermore, petroleum oils usually come with specific additives, such as anti-corrosion agents and detergents, to make sure the machine runs efficiently and without any issues.
Finally, some machines also require a wax-like substance known as bar oil. Its consistency is much thicker and it has a higher viscosity than traditional machine oil. Bar oil is recommended for machines that sew through multiple layers of fabric or other fabrics with a tight weave, as it provides an extra layer of protection to the parts.
The Benefits of Cotton Heddle Oil
Cotton heddle oil is a natural lubricant, made from vegetal ingredients. It has numerous advantages over other types of oils, though its main advantage is the fact that it does not leave any residue on the fabric. Therefore, it is particularly useful for applications that involve working with delicate fabrics, such as silk, because it will not damage the fabric in any way.
Cotton heddle oil is also verylightweight, making it ideal for intricate pieces and small items. Furthermore, its low viscosity means it can easily penetrate inside the needle holes and other tight spaces, providing an extra layer of protection and lubrication. Finally, since it is biodegradable, it is also much better for the environment.
The Consequences Of Over Oiled Fabric
Though oil is very important in maintaining a correctly lubricated machine, too much of it can have devastating consequences on the fabric. Specifically, over oiled fabric can develop stains, or worse, it can become permanently discolored. If this happens, the fabric is ruined and nothing can be done to fix it.
In order to prevent this from happening, it is always important to carefully check for any residues of oil on the presser foot before starting the machine. This can be done with a white cloth and made sure it is clean, without any trace of oil. Additionally, it is recommended to keep a constant eye on the machine, making sure it does not become over lubricated.
Methods For Collecting Sewing Machine Oil
Having excess oil on the machine is not just a nuisance, it can also be a real fire hazard, so it is important to collect any overflowing oil. The most effective way is to use a special oil collection tray. Most sewing machines will already have one, making it very easy to collect any extra oil that might be produced.
If the machine does not have an oil collection tray, then simply use a cloth or a paper towel and collect any excess oil manually. This is slower and less efficient, but it can also help in detecting any leaks that might be present. Once the oil has been collected, it can be poured back into the bottle with the machine oil.
Sources For Quality Sewing Machine Oil
Anyplace where sewing machines are sold is also likely to sell sewing machine oil. These usually come in bottles of different sizes, so make sure to check the specifications of your machine before purchasing, to make sure the bottle is compatible. If not, look for a smaller size, as it is always better to buy less than what is needed, just in case.
For those who are looking for higher quality oils, online stores are usually a better option. There are a great variety of brands to choose from and some offer natural oils that are vegetable-based or mineral oils. This can be something to consider if you want to reduce your impact on the environment. Also, some shops offer specially formulated oils, designed for industrial machines and high-speed embroidery machines.
Disposal Of Sewing Machine Oil
In regards to oil disposal, it is important to note that most types of oil cannot be disposed of directly into the environment. To ensure proper disposal, it is better to take the bottle to a recycling center. In the case of light weight machine oil, it is usually best to take the bottles to a shop that works with small engines, so it can be properly disposed of.
If disposing of the oil is not possible, it is still possible to reuse the oil. Simply pour the oil from one container to another, making sure to filter it first. This will help in getting rid of any dirt and other particles that might be present and prevent them from entering the oil pool. Once it is filtered, the oil can be safely used again.
Storing And Maintaining Sewing Machine Oil
Before storing the oil away, make sure to check the state of the bottle, to ensure there are no cracks or gapes present. If none are present, shake the bottle vigorously to ensure the oil is evenly distributed and then store it in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight.
It is also important to regularly check the oil inside the machine, no more than once a month, to make sure it is correctly lubricated. If the oil appears to be dark, change it with a new bottle and properly dispose of the old one. This will help maintain the performance and condition of the machine and prevent any accidents caused by minor oil spills.
