Recommendations for operating the sewing machine. Oil for sewing machines. How to clean and lubricate a sewing machine

Greetings to all readers of my blog! Continuing the topic sewing machines, let's talk today about how to properly service them. Any equipment needs some care, which helps to extend its service life and reduce the likelihood of breakdown. If you just bought a home assistant yesterday, you probably think that you still have time to understand the intricacies. Although now is the time to learn how to lubricate a sewing machine and what you need to use for this. Correct and timely lubrication allows you to avoid many malfunctions.

How often should you lubricate your sewing machine?

Beginner seamstresses may believe that if they rarely use the machine, then it does not need lubrication. This is a common misconception that leads to quick failure. Even if the machine is idle, and especially when it is planned to be given a heavy load after a long period of inactivity, it is recommended to lubricate it. The operating manuals most often indicate the requirement to carry out the event at least once every 6 months. But when high loads it is possible more often, from 1 time every 3 months to 4 times a month. Experienced needlewomen intuitively understand when care is needed by the change in noise when sewing.

Do not start work immediately after lubrication. The machine should run for a while Idling so that the oil is evenly distributed and the parts are covered with an oily film.

In modern expensive sewing machines rubbing parts are made of artificial polymers with excellent characteristics slip and do not require lubrication. Carrying out such a “health” procedure on such models can completely ruin the equipment, so first of all you need to follow the attached instructions.

Basic rules of lubrication

To avoid damaging your sewing machine, you need to know how to lubricate it properly. First of all, I want to focus on what kind of oil you can use, since there are often cases when housewives improvise with vegetable oils. The answer here will be unequivocal: only machine (sewing) oil, which can be bought at any cutting and sewing store. You just have to make a choice based on manufacturers and price. Having an expensive, high-quality machine, you shouldn’t skimp on oil.

The next question that arises among craftswomen is “How to apply oil to the parts and in what quantity?” If you have a small oil can with a long narrow spout, then it will be very convenient to use. For hard-to-reach places, a 2 ml medical syringe with a needle is suitable. Our task is to apply oil to the surface of the parts. Oil consumption is very small; with regular care, a couple of drops are enough.


And finally, the third question is “Where is lubrication required?” It is necessary to treat the surfaces of all rubbing metal parts. Plastic parts cannot be lubricated. Detailed diagram lubricants for a specific model are outlined in the operating instructions, which should be followed. We pay special attention to the bobbin case and hook. However, in addition to preventive treatment, capital treatment should be carried out from time to time with the addition of parts under the body. To get to all components, you need to remove the top plastic casing. To understand which components need lubrication, run the machine at idle speed, so all the rotating and rubbing parts will be visible.

Now let’s take a closer look at the process itself and note some nuances.

Where to start and where to end

Before the procedure we will organize workplace: we lay a newspaper on the table, put a lamp for good lighting, prepare a lint-free cloth to remove excess oil, disconnect the machine from the power supply. Full maintenance of your sewing machine includes cleaning and lubrication. In this case, we first clean and then lubricate. During work, small lint and dust accumulate along the thread's path, which become compacted and slow down the process. If oil gets on such contaminants, it will only worsen the situation. Dust and small debris also settle on the parts inside the case. Therefore, lubrication must begin by cleaning all components and mechanisms using a cloth, a brush and a brush, which are often included with the machine. Try not to miss even the farthest corners.


To get to all components you will need to remove the plastic casing. You will find more information on how to remove the cover in the operating instructions. Before unscrewing, we mark each bolt on the body with a marker and put the corresponding numbers on the sheets of paper where the unscrewed bolts will be wrapped. This procedure seems time-consuming, but in the future during assembly it will not only save time, but also save your nerves. Next, unscrew all the bolts and remove the protective casing.

Now the areas for processing are clearly visible. Slowly rotate the flywheel and lubricate all moving parts. After finishing, connect the device to the power supply and run it at low speed. The machine should work quietly and smoothly, without extraneous noise. If everything suits you, then we put on the casing.

After sewing, always put it on the machine protective case. If it was not included in the kit, it will not be difficult to sew it yourself. It will protect the body and internal parts from dust accumulation.

You need to take care of your sewing machine from the first days of purchase. Don’t think that if the machine is new, it will work quietly for a year without lubrication. Before the procedure, be sure to read the instruction manual. After a long period of inactivity, do not start sewing without major processing. For long-term storage, you need to choose dry and ventilated places to reduce the risk of rust deposits on parts. If this happens, then before lubricating, you need to clean and polish the surfaces.


I hope the recommendations in the article will be useful to you. Proper care will ensure comfortable sewing and long-term operation without breakdowns. There are many more interesting and informative articles planned - subscribe to updates. Perhaps your friends will also find this article useful - share the link on social networks. Happy shopping and new discoveries in the world of household appliances!

Thank you for your attention! See you again on my blog. Sincerely, Rostislav Kuzmin.

A sewing machine is a very sensitive household device. The slightest violations in the operation of its parts can lead to malfunctions or even serious damage. Every owner must pay Special attention sewing machine care and maintenance unit, namely cleaning and lubrication.

If you notice that your old sewing machine is starting to act up: it's skipping stitches, won't work properly... thin threads and deforms the fabric, which means it’s time to conduct a technical inspection. Let's look at the process of disassembling and cleaning parts from accumulations of dust and grease using the example of a regular Janome home sewing machine. Fundamental difference in internal structure

these devices do not, so the instructions given here are valid for all models. Of course, specific devices or devices may be added to individual devices, but these are special cases. Let's look at something that anyone can repeat at home.

What you need for work

  1. Use a lint-free cloth; any cotton rag will work just fine.
  2. Brush with hard bristles. Usually a toothbrush is used for these purposes, but art brushes also do an excellent job.
  3. Oil for sewing machines.
  4. WD-40, you can ask at car stores. This is a special substance with which the moving part of any mechanism is usually lubricated. It is sold in aerosol form.

How to lubricate homemade sewing machine in hard to reach places? Professionals usually use a 5 ml disposable syringe, which can be purchased at any pharmacy. Its needle allows you to penetrate into the smallest holes and dispense oil.

Step-by-step algorithm

Let's proceed directly to the procedure.

  1. Unplug the device from the outlet and remove the needle from the fastening - this will protect you from accidental injuries while working. After this, look for the screw on the front of the case; it is usually hidden under a decorative plug.

  2. Remove the plug and unscrew the screw using a screwdriver. Then you need to unscrew the fastening screws at the bar rack and pinion mechanism performing the functions of moving matter. The released plate must be pulled out and the space under it properly cleaned.

  3. The next step involves some hard work. It is necessary to remove dust from all connections that you can safely reach. Remove any old home sewing machine oil and apply a new coat. Carefully distribute the substance using an oil can. There will be enough for each connection two drops of oil. Blot the excess that flows down with a cloth and erase all traces left behind. To ensure even distribution of lubricants, rotate the drive wheel slowly.
  4. The next step is to release the shuttle fastening mechanisms and carefully pull it out of the socket. The operation is completely done manually; you will not need additional tools.

  5. Apply required amount lubricants on the video. This part must rotate well so as not to interfere with the movements of the shuttle. Also carefully process shaft mounting points. Some models may have felt and felt pads there, don’t be surprised and don’t rush to pull them out. These parts are designed to absorb any sewing machine oil that has leaked out of the unit.
  6. Check the functionality of the shuttle mechanism fastening clamps. They should move easily, not jam or create obstacles.

  7. Like previous nodes, it requires your attention carriage and plate that secures it. Simply pull the part out and clean off the old oil and dust. After this, the carriage is lubricated with a thin layer of fresh lubricant and put in place.

  8. Under the tissue mover plate usually the most dirt and dust. It gets there along with a piece of material that passes through the foot with the needle. Use a toothbrush and thoroughly clean out any debris that has accumulated while working. Pay special attention to rubbing parts - you must wipe off old deposits from them. How to lubricate our sewing machine in this place? Using a special oiler or syringe. In this segment, you need to be even more careful, because oil that has leaked into the wrong place will definitely end up on the threads, and then on the fabric of the product.

  9. Don't neglect and shuttle. Thoroughly clean all its elements from dust. A dry, hard bristled paint brush can help with this. Do not use a damp cloth or wipes with cleaning solution as this may damage sensitive parts.

A substance called WD-40 will serve you well in all this work. It perfectly removes old sewing machine oil and dust accumulated in the joints of mechanisms.

The procedure for cleaning a sewing machine can take quite a long time. If you are not ready to spend it or are not confident in your skills, it is better to call a specialist. Errors during assembly and disassembly, as well as careless handling of small parts can lead to problems in the future.

Lubrication Features

The biggest mistake is the idea that sewing machine oil needs to be applied in large quantities. In this situation, more does not mean better. During use on internal parts The device accumulates an impressive layer of dust, which gets there along with the fabric. Over time, this may cause problems with the advancement of the canvas. In addition, deposits of dirt on moving elements create a serious load on the device drive. An excessive amount of oil, applied by the generous hand of an ignorant owner, accumulates tiny pieces of matter, scraps of thread, and dust.

Falling into lumps, this mass accumulates in one place, causing problems with the sewing machine.

How to choose a lubricant oil Sewing machine oil has viscosity index . By using too thick, you risk not lubricating the internal parts of the mechanisms, which account for the main friction. Taking a more fluid one, you can again be left with nothing, because it will simply flow down, and the mechanisms again will not receive. Lubricant for the average household sewing machine should have a medium viscosity. Usually this indicator is indicated directly on the label. It is worth noting that oil for industrial sewing machines is sometimes not needed at all: high-quality professional units are equipped with an automatic lubrication system.

Which oil is the best? The one that comes with the machine. If it wasn't there initially, then choose special lubricant only himself best quality. Its cost can start from 100 rubles and more. It can be sold at with a special oiler and in a simple plastic bottle.

Don’t even think about using car or vegetable oil - this is strictly prohibited, as it has a detrimental effect on the functioning of the entire system.

Experts do not recommend saving in this matter. Cheap oil may smell unpleasant, dry out quickly, or clump together. It is not recommended to store this oil for a long time after opening. You can use it only if nothing else is at hand.

Correct sewing machine care, timely cleaning and sufficient lubrication with good quality oil are mandatory conditions for long and trouble-free operation.

During work on the shuttle device and under the fabric motor, a particularly large amount of textile dust accumulates. The same dust contaminates other mechanisms of the sewing machine. Therefore, the machine should be cleaned and wiped periodically. Cleaning is done using a cotton rag and a hedgehog or a pointed wooden stick. All parts of the mechanisms located in the front and sleeve parts of the sewing machine, as well as under the platform, should be wiped. All lubrication holes must be free of dust. The external paint of the sewing machine is wiped with a piece of absorbent cotton wool, slightly moistened with petroleum jelly and alcohol (two drops). When the sewing machine is not working, it should be covered with a hood or cover.

Sewing machine lubrication

After cleaning and wiping, the sewing machine is oiled. Excess oil must be carefully removed, without smearing, using a rag.

During operation of the sewing machine, all its mutually moving parts are subject to wear on rubbing surfaces. At proper cleaning and lubrication of these surfaces, the wear process slows down significantly. A dirty and poorly lubricated sewing machine runs hard and quickly deteriorates, requiring high repair costs.

To lubricate the sewing machine, it is recommended to use a special colorless machine oil. You can also use Vaseline oil (also a white transparent liquid). It is important that the oil is colorless, especially when sewing white and light-colored fabrics.

Under no circumstances should you lubricate the sewing machine with vegetable oils (for example, sunflower oil, as well as kerosene. Vegetable oils dry quickly, forming crusts on the surfaces of parts, which leads to heavy running of the machine. The machine has to be disassembled, washed and cleaned, and this is often difficult to do at home, the use of kerosene causes rust, which also leads to difficult cleaning of the machine.

Sewing machine lubrication done using a small oil can. The oil can and bottle of oil should be stored in such a way that the oil in them does not become contaminated.

2-3 drops of oil are introduced into each friction point daily, before work. If the sewing machine operates with long interruptions, then before work you must first check whether it needs to be cleaned, and then lubricate it.

In sewing machines with manual drive It is necessary to lubricate the drive device, for which it has special lubrication holes.

In sewing machines with a foot drive, the end supports of the crankshaft of the drive wheel, the end supports of the pedal swing axis and the connection points between the pedal and the drawbar and the drawbar with the crankshaft of the drive wheel are lubricated.

In electrified home sewing machines from the Kharkov and Tula factories, all lubrication points are painted with red paint. To lubricate the mechanisms located in the sleeve part of the machines, it is necessary to unscrew the nut at the reel rod and remove top cover. To lubricate the mechanisms located under the machine platform, you need to place the sewing machine on its side and open the bottom cover. To lubricate the guide rim of the sewing hook (shuttle), you must first move the needle bar to the extreme top position, then open the sliding plate on the platform and drop one drop of oil onto the rim. A metal box (crankcase) filled with machine oil is placed under the machine platform. It contains part of the shuttle mechanism. This oil needs to be changed annually. To do this, place the sewing machine on its side, unscrew the screw plug from the crankcase drain hole and drain the old oil. Then, after filling the crankcase fresh oil, closed again drainer screw plug.

After lubrication, the sewing machine should be wiped clean with a soft cotton cloth and put into operation without thread and bobbin case with the presser foot raised. Then the sewing machine is threaded, a piece of fabric is placed under the foot and the operation of the sewing machine is checked for the quality of the stitching.

You will need

  • - machine oil;
  • - bristle brush or brush;
  • - soft lint-free cloth;
  • - tweezers;
  • - screwdriver.

Instructions

Before starting lubrication, the sewing machine must be thoroughly cleaned, removing scraps, accumulated dust and dirt particles, and remnants of old oil from the main components of its mechanism. Remove the top and side housing covers, unscrew the needle plate using a screwdriver or . Remove the hook from the hook mechanism, the bobbin from the hook and clean it inside and out. Pay special attention to cleaning the shuttle mechanism, gearbox, its rotating and movement mechanism. Also clean all easily accessible bushings where friction occurs between moving parts.

Cleaning is done with a special hard brush or brush included with the sewing machine or with the one that is most convenient for you for cleaning. To clean wide surfaces, use a clean cloth that does not leave lint on the surface of machine parts. Use tweezers to remove dirt from hard-to-reach places.

Lubricate car special machine. Using the neck of an oil can or syringe, carefully apply a small drop of oil to all parts and components of the machine that are subject to friction. Make several rotations of the flywheel toward you so that the oil is evenly distributed over the surfaces of the rubbing parts. Excess oil blot with a cloth. After this, return all the parts removed from the machine to their place and secure them well.

Sewing car lubricate depending on the frequency of its use. If you sew on it daily, then lubricate it once a week. For less intensive but regular use - 1 time per. If used rarely, lubrication is required once every six months. Be sure to lubricate car after a long period of inactivity.

note

The use of oils other than those intended for lubrication of the sewing machine is prohibited because it will damage the machine. For example, vegetable oil dries out very quickly (in 2-3 days) and disables the machine. Good machine oil should have a light color. Do not use oil after the expiration date.

Helpful advice

It is very convenient to use a disposable syringe to lubricate sewing machines. A long thin needle can be used to lubricate any hard-to-reach machine parts. When using a syringe, oil is consumed very sparingly.

Related article

After purchasing a new sewing machine, the main thing is not to forget to study the included instructions for caring for it. Otherwise, the working mechanism can be damaged and the joy will be overshadowed.

New car, as a rule, is usually coated with lubricant. Before you start working, you need to remove it with kerosene. Place two drops of kerosene into the places that need to be lubricated according to the instructions. If there is no kerosene, flushing with machine oil is allowed. Wash all parts that are not covered with paint. After treatment, let the machine idle (without thread) to allow any remaining lubricant to drain out. Then wipe the machine with a soft cotton cloth.


Engine oil must be in a special oil can. The nose is inserted as deep as possible, a couple of drops are dripped. The shuttle mechanism also needs lubrication. Don't forget about the parts that are under. For better rubbing of parts and uniform lubrication, it is necessary to rotate the flywheel several times after applying it.


Before you start sewing, you need to drop 2 drops of oil into the shuttle and make a stitch on the unnecessary fabric. Before each sewing session, wipe off dust and check for lubrication. If you rarely sew, then one lubricant is enough for a month.


Sometimes the machine needs intensive cleaning. For the cleaning rack transfer, you need to put the needle case in the upper position, remove the presser foot. Move the slide plate, unscrew and remove the needle plate. Then tilt the bobbin case ring and remove the hook. For ease of operation, you can tilt the machine body back. Remove dirt with a special brush. If you don't have one, a toothbrush will do. Be sure to remove dust and grease from the pan.


Next, you need to lubricate the car while idling at low speed. Be sure to take care to lubricate the flywheel by injecting two drops of oil into the lubrication hole of the sleeve. The propulsion system, footrest parts (on a foot machine) and cone studs are also lubricated.

Video on the topic

The sewing machine is the main working tool of the needlewoman. You must select equipment carefully so that it has all the necessary functions. The device must be comfortable to use. In order for the machine to serve for a long time, it is necessary to regularly perform its maintenance: cleaning, lubrication, adjustment. These procedures ensure quality work technology.

It is necessary to know how to lubricate a sewing machine as it affects the performance level of the equipment. After the procedure, all parts function more easily. With the help of lubrication, the mechanisms are protected from rapid wear. Treating the machine with oil reduces noise.

Why do you need lubrication?

A sewing machine is a complex device because many mechanisms interact during sewing. If cleaning and lubrication are not carried out over a long period, creaking, noise, and broken threads appear. Lubrication is necessary for:

  • long service life;
  • making quality stitches;
  • easier movement;
  • less noisy operation;
  • easy setup.

Old machines should be lubricated every three months, but for new ones one procedure every six months will be enough - it all depends on the intensity of work. If the equipment is used continuously, it will be noticeable when oil is required.

What is required for the job?

How to lubricate a sewing machine? Before you begin the procedure, you should prepare everything you need for work. You will need:

  1. Machine oil. It is sold at a hardware store. 100 g of product will be enough.
  2. Medical syringe. This tool is convenient to carry out work, since it will be possible to process even hard-to-reach places.
  3. Brush. It is used to remove dust and threads.
  4. Screwdriver. The tool allows you to unscrew some parts while lubricating.
  5. Napkin. Required to eliminate excess fluid.
  6. Film. It will protect the floor from dirt.

This set of devices is required to perform high-quality work.

Preparing for lubrication

Every sewing machine needs preparation for the procedure. You can lubricate it with oil only after removing dust, since a lot of lint collects during sewing. Equipment must be cleaned and wiped down regularly. It is advisable to use cotton cloth and a brush.

It is necessary to remove dust from the front and sleeve parts of the device, as well as under the platform. All excess must be removed from the lubrication holes. The outer side should be wiped with absorbent cotton wool treated with petroleum jelly and alcohol. If the equipment is not in use, it must be covered with a cover or cap. These were preparatory procedures. Next, we will tell you how to lubricate your sewing machine with oil.

Which oil should you choose?

When the preparation is completed, you can begin to treat the device with oil. All excess must be removed with a flap. What oil should I use to lubricate my sewing machine? For this, a special colorless liquid is used. But Vaseline oil will do. During operation, the product should not stain clothes.

Do not use vegetable oil or kerosene. The first product dries quickly, causing crusts to form on the parts, which causes heavy operation of the equipment. The car needs to be disassembled, washed, cleaned, and this is quite difficult to do. At the same time, kerosene promotes the formation of rust and makes cleaning more difficult.

Lubrication procedure

How to lubricate a sewing machine so that it works for a very long time? You need to use an oil can, which should be stored so that the liquid is clean. Add 3 drops of oil to each friction area daily. If the equipment has not been used for a long time, you must first check whether cleaning is required.

Be sure to treat the drive mechanism, if any. There are special lubrication holes for this purpose. If the drive is foot driven, then you need to lubricate the end supports of the crankshaft of the wheel, the axles of the pedal, as well as the areas of their connection with the drawbar and the drawbar with the crankshaft.

In the electrified equipment of the Kharkov and Tula plants, the lubrication areas are painted red. To process the mechanisms in the sleeve part, you will need to remove the top cover. To process parts under the platform, the machine is placed on its side and then the bottom cover is opened. The equipment also contains a metal box or crankcase containing engine oil, which must be changed every year.

Janome machine lubrication

Each equipment has a special structure. Therefore, lubrication principles may differ. At long-term operation devices require preventive maintenance. At least the main parts need to be oiled. How to lubricate You should carefully read the instructions, and also look at the drawings on the rules for performing the work. The oil for the equipment is already in the required container. First of all, you need to remove the plastic case. To do this, simply unscrew the screws. Already inside you will see holes for oil, as well as rubbing parts.

Brother machine lubrication

Equipment of this brand also comes with instructions. How to lubricate a Brother sewing machine? Processing of metal components that have friction will be required. 1 or 2 drops of the product will be enough. It is applied to the rotating units, after removing the bottom cover.

The oil should be drawn into a syringe and then applied in small drops. This will allow the equipment to function more quietly and easily. After use, the equipment should be wiped with a soft cloth. It can then be used without thread or bobbin with the presser foot raised. When the threads are threaded, you can check the quality of the stitching on the unnecessary scrap. And then the machine will be suitable for further comfortable work.