How to Clean Metal Sewing Machine Parts
A sewing machine, just like any machine that is used to create a product, must be cleaned regularly for it to work properly. A sewing machine gathers lint, dust and thread particles, which could prohibit the proper movement of the needle, gears or wheel. It is relatively easy to clean the machine with a cloth and cleaning solution. If the machine is cleaned after every use or at least once every 10 hours of use, it can last you a long time.
Things You'll Need
- Sewing machine
- White cloth
- Methylated cleaning solution
- Can of compressed air
- Lint brush
- Screwdriver
Instructions
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1
Unplug the machine's power cord from the wall power outlet.
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2
Pour a capful of methylated cleaning solution onto a white cleaning cloth.
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3
Remove the screws that are around the body casing on the back of the machine, the metal plate over the bobbin case and in the arm using the screwdriver provided in the sewing machine tool kit. Remove the casings or covers for each part of the machine.
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4
Carefully blow any lint, dust or debris from inside each open section of the sewing machine using the can of compressed air.
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5
Rub the parts of the machine with the cloth imbued with methylated cleaning solution. Carefully clean the shuttle and hook, each gear and the needle shaft and needle. The methylated cleaning solution oils the metal sewing machine at the same time as it cleans it.
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Use a lint brush to clean the places in the machine that are not metal but may gather dust. An example is the take-up lever and slot, which handle thread. These parts may gather dust and debris. Another place that needs cleaning between projects is the tension discs, which often gather debris from the thread.
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Check each section of the sewing machine to verify you have cleaned all essential parts and removed any debris or dust.
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8
Replace all casings and covers. Screw the screws back in with the screwdriver.
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Tips & Warnings
After cleaning the sewing machine, run a few stitches through a piece of scrap fabric to remove any excess methylated cleaning solution from the gears and needle.
References
- Photo Credit Hemera Technologies/Photos.com/Getty Images
