A sewing machine may require oil for lubrication depending on its type and model.
By using this method correctly, not only home sewing machines but also industrial machines will be able to perform and last longer.
Coconut oil is one of the plant-based sew machine oils that makes a great alternative to petroleum-based products, such as motor oil.
You’ll learn everything you need to know about sewing machine oil alternatives in this article, along with how you can oil your sewing machine at home.
You’ll also learn general tips on the ingredients and lubrication of sewing machines, as well as how to maintain your sewing machine.
Oil for Sewing Machines:
Products made from petroleum:
Historically, sewing machine oil was made from petrochemicals, lubricants derived from petroleum. Petroleum and minerals are common ingredients in these natural lubricants. These chemicals are commonly used as industrial lubricants but have been found to pose risks if exposed in excess. You should avoid skin contact and eye contact if you plan on using such lubricants as sewing machine oils.
Listed below are some natural substitutes for sewing machine oil:
The oils used in sewing machines can range from natural, safe to household lubricants. In addition to olive, coconut, and silicone oils found in the kitchen, you can also create alternative sewing machine oils from these items.
- You can experiment with different amounts of these oils to see how they affect your sewing machine as they are all-natural and relatively inexpensive.
- Start by introducing a few drops of each ingredient to your sewing machine while lubricating to check if any unwanted effects will occur. When using natural sewing machine oil, you should only use a small amount at a time in order to prevent damage to the machine.
The chemistry of industrial sewing machine oils is very similar to that of the oil used in home sewing machines, it’s just that many of them contain harmful heavy minerals and other harsh chemicals that are hazardous to both the human body and the environment. It is not recommended that homeowners use industrial oils or lubricants since they contain oils with harsh chemicals like Teflon.
Here are some guidelines for oiling your sewing machine
If you are going to use sewing machine oil, it is a good idea to research the ingredients and the steps you need to take to prepare your machine for lubrication before beginning the oiling process. The cleaning process, tools, and equipment you might need, as well as any additional parts/spares, are included.
- As each sewing machine has its own unique features, it is always wise to check the user manual.
- Check the manufacturer’s website or search the model name and make of your sewing machine if you don’t have a manual for your sewing machine.
- For cleaning, use lint brushes or stiff brushes like toothbrushes, soft fabrics, and dust cleaners. Small spaces need to be accessible by the sewing machine without damaging them.
- Prior to using sewing machine oil, it is crucial to clean the machine.
- Make sure the spare parts you use are compatible with the model or manufacturer of your sewing machine.
- As a lubricant, you may use any products or ingredients you like using compressed air will also be helpful in removing dirt and lint from hard-to-reach areas.
Make sure the machine is clean
In order to prevent obstructions, remove all extra parts and materials before you begin. Disconnect the machine from the power source before removing excess thread, the stitching plate, needles, and hooks.
Clean the machine inside and outside by using compressed air. The machine must be free of debris and dirt before it is lubricated, as dirt and debris will mix with the oil and remain behind.
- You should hold the compressed air can at a distance of about 6 inches/15 cm from the components you are cleaning, at a shallow angle that will blow dirt away from the machine instead of deeper inside it.
- Cleaning the large surfaces and small spaces of the machine can be done with a soft cloth or a piece of fabric.
- Using a damp cloth may be helpful to remove stubborn dirt.
- After cleaning the sewing machine, make sure it is thoroughly dried.
Oiling and lubrication
Coconut oil, for example, should only be applied a few drops at a time. A constant buildup of oil on the inside of the sewing machine can make cleaning difficult as well as cause the machines to run slower.
All the machine’s moving parts should be oiled. It is vital that sewing machine components be lubricated if they rub against each other when the machine is in operation.
- You can rub away excess oil carefully and gently if you have used too much oil.
- For lubricating the shuttle hook on your sewing machine, place a few drops of oil in the hook race. If it is kept lubricated, the small parts inside the bobbin hook won’t rub together and wear out the machine.
- In order to have the oil evenly distributed, once the lubricant has been applied, each part must be manually moved once it has been oiled.
Here are a few tips
You should always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for lubricating, cleaning, and repairing your sewing machine if you are uncertain at any stage.
- You will not need to lubricate your sewing machine if the manual for your model indicates that sewing machine oil is not required.
- Take it one step at a time when disassembling your sewing machine. To prevent overly complicated processes or to avoid breaking or losing machine parts
For your sewing machine to continue performing at its best, make sure that it is regularly cleaned, wiped, and lubricated.
Caution
To prevent injury when working on moving parts and needles, make sure the sewing machine is disconnected from a power source during the cleaning and lubrication process.
It is important to check when thinking about other common alternatives to sewing machine oil, despite the fact that a variety of natural and mineral-based lubricants will work as sewing machine oil ingredients. WD40 and car oil, for example, should not be used.
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Final thoughts
From what has been described thus far, sewing machine oils are derived from naturally occurring ingredients, lubricants, and minerals. It is completely your choice as to whether you use a natural or custom-made oil with your sewing machine.
The performance and longevity of a sewing machine are dependent on regular oiling. It is best to follow your sewing machine’s manual and avoid industrial or dangerous chemical cleaners and oils when cleaning and oiling machine parts.
