Substituting Sewing Machine Oil
Sewing machines require oil to keep their moving parts lubricated, cleaned, and free from debris and abrasion. Without lubricant, friction from the overlapping moving parts will cause them to stick and eventually wear out. Lack of lubrication can also cause your machine to seize up and become unusable. If you’re looking for something to slick things up but don’t have any sewing machine oil on hand, here are some suggestions.
According to Bernina USA, a popular sewing machine manufacturer, the number one alternative to sewing machine oil is 3-in-1 oil. This handy oil is made with a blend of mineral oils, rust inhibitors, and solvents, providing well-rounded protection for machine parts. It is also affordable and easy to find at most hardware stores.
Some alternative options that may also work are coconut oil, baby oil, and canola oil. While these options may provide some measure of lubrication, they are more of a short-term solution and may not provide adequate protection in the long term. In addition, they may have a negative reaction with some of the plastics your machine is made of, potentially damaging it.
In general, it’s best to use sewing machine oil specifically designed for sewing machines. These oils are designed to not break down with heat and to keep the parts running smoothly without damage or clogging. While not always easy to find, some online retailers and craft supply stores stock it.
One downside to replacing sewing machine oil with alternative options is that whatever you use is likely not as long-lasting as a specifically-formulated product. This can lead to more frequent disassembling and cleaning, which may be inconvenient or difficult for some users.
When choosing a substitute for sewing machine oil, it’s important to check the label and look out for sketchy ingredients. Avoid petroleum-based oils as these are not only a poor lubricant but can do damage to your machine over time.
How To Properly ApplyOil
Once you have chosen the right oil for your sewing machine, the next step is to apply it properly. According to Bernina USA, you should always consult the manual that came with your machine first.
Once that’s done spritzing a small amount of oil into the parts you want to lubricate. If you’re applying oil to an area with a few small parts and don’t want to take the entire machine apart, use a small brush to apply a thin, even layer of oil. You can also apply it directly to the thread or fabric when sewing, though you should check to see if your machine is compatible first.
It’s important to note that you should never over-apply the oil. Excess oil can cause residue buildup and attract dust, dirt, and lint. This not only slows down the machine but can also cause unnecessary wear on the parts.
Why is Sewing Machine Oil Better?
Sewing machine oil, compared to other oils, has numerous benefits. These oils are designed and tested to comply with safety standards and maintain the lubricating and protecting qualities required for the optimal performance of a sewing machine. As such, they are less likely to clog, break down, or become sluggish over time.
On the other hand, regular oils tend to break down when exposed to heat or high speed. This can lead to a tacky, gunky substance that will slowly wear out the moving parts, leading to costly repairs or complete replacement. Sewing machine oil, if applied correctly, is also longer lasting and absorbs into the moving parts faster and provides superior corrosion protection.
Best Practices for Sewing Machine Maintenance
To ensure your sewing machine operates at optimal performance for years to come, you need to practice proper maintenance. This includes opening up your machine every so often and oiling each of the moving parts. It’s also wise to occasionally take it apart, clean it well, and re-oil it with a specifically designed product.
It’s also important to keep the machine clean and free from dust, dirt, and fibres that may have attached to the parts. Use a soft brush to gently brush off any dirt and debris, and then vacuum everything to get any remaining dust and lint. Finally, store the machine away from humidity and direct sunlight.
How to tell If You Need to Lubricate
Sometimes it can be hard to tell when a machine needs oiling. A good way to tell is when the machine is no longer performing as smoothly as it used to, or if you begin to hear excess noise from the moving parts.
Other signs can be a sewing machine that felt more responsive before and now skips stitches, jams, sticks, or slow to respond to commands. Furthermore, if it becomes difficult to thread the needle or remove fabric, this can also be a sign of insufficient lubrication.
Common Mistakes with Sewing Machines
When it comes to taking care of your sewing machine, one of the most common mistakes is neglecting simple maintenance procedures such as oiling and cleaning. As such, the machine may start to malfunction or its performance may degrade, resulting in costly repairs or replacement.
Some people try to put off cleaning and oiling their machines as long as possible, thinking these procedures are only something you do every few months. In reality, for optimal performance, you should open up and oil your machine about once per month, or when you notice any of the signs described above.
Another mistake is not taking safety considerations into account when opening up the machine. Make sure to always unplug the machine before taking it apart and be sure to wear protective gloves and face masks during the process.
Try Out Alternatives
If you don’t have access to specific sewing machine oil, there are alternatives that may work in a pinch, though they are generally more of a short-term fix. If you have to resort to using alternative options, it’s important to do your research first to make sure they won’t damage the machine.
Also, keep in mind that you should never over-apply oil to your machine. While the machine needs to be lubricated regularly, even if you’re using a specifically designed sewing machine oil, too much oil will attract dust, dirt, and lint, leading to clogged parts and general sluggishness.
Safety Considerations
When handling, cleaning, and oiling your sewing machine, make sure to always follow safety guidelines, such as wearing protective gloves and face masks, and unplugging your machine first. In addition, make sure to read the manual that came with the machine to be sure you’re using the right tools and supplies needed for the job.
If the manual isn’t available, you can often find it online by searching for the make and model of your machine. This is essential as it can provide you with detailed instructions on how to open up each part of the machine and what type of oil or lubricant to use, as well as how often the machine should be oiled.
Regular Maintenance
Finally, keeping up with regular maintenance is key when it comes to prolonging the life of your machine. A properly oiled and cleaned machine will last much longer and will enable you to produce superior results with each sewing project.
Make sure to check the manufacturer’s guidelines and open up and properly oil your machine at least once per month. Also, regularly brush off any dust and debris and clean your machine with a dry, lint-free cloth. By taking the right preventative measures, you can be sure your machine is always running at its best.
