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What Can I use to Clean my Sewing Machine?

What to use and what not to use on a sewing machine.

A big part of taking care of a sewing machine and learning how to do it properly is finding the right information. Quick Google searches and online Facebook groups have many discussions that will debate what to use and what not to use. Here is a quick guide that I personally recommend on all of my sewing machines. You may find some of the items on this list can be controversial and others may not like it, but this is my preference and what I use in my everyday repair shop.

 

Many old machines like the Vintage black machines, have paint with gold decals in a protective clear finish over them while some machines have only paint. Often the clear protective coat is gone, and the paint is very fragile. Here at Sew 4 Life we are not purists, we use chemicals to clean our machines, because... Well, they need them. We know how to and where to use them and no machine has been harmed in our care. Here is a brief overview of products that we do and do not recommend.




NO -> Use water to clean your machine -> water will cause damage to the lacquer paint and destroy the decals. Many water-based cleaners can get underneath the paint and cause chipping and rust. Oil based products are recommended.


NO -> Harsh chemicals or household cleaners directly on the machine or any painted parts-> Windex, 409, Bleach, Pine sol, household cleaners, Degreaser, WD40, Baby wipes, Dish soap, they will destroy the machines paint and the decals will disappear forever. Some of these gentle cleaners may be safe to use on metal or plastic parts (please view our cleaning guide for more information).


YES -> Sewing Machine Oil -> The only liquid you should use on your vintage machine is sewing machine oil. Sewing machine oil is safe to use on the outside of your machine. It was designed to act as a lubricant and a cleaner and will actually break down debris. Mineral oil can be used as a substitute.


NO -> Food grade oils -> vegetable oil, canola oil, coconut oil, olive oil. These oils are only meant for cooking purposes, they do not have the same qualities as pure sewing machine oil and often have additives -> they will cause more problems -> will harden over time when mixed with lint and dust.


 YES -> Grease -> some machines need grease on their gears, gear boxes and in the motor. ALWAYS check your machines manual before adding grease. Any clear non-lithium synthetic grease is safe to use, Tri Flo grease, Singer Machine Lubricant, Sew Retro Vintage Machine Grease, Sew Gear and Motor Lubricant, Super Lube. Vaseline is also a lubricant that may be used as a substitute in some areas.

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