When I first started sewing, I had no clue how important it was to keep my sewing machine clean and taken care of.

It looked nice sitting on my desk, and I thought it was super tough. But a few months later, I noticed some strange noises and skipped stitches. That’s when I figured out that cleaning my machine regularly could really help it last longer. Here’s what I learned from my own experience, and I hope it helps you too!

1. Dust and Lint Build-Up

First off, sewing makes a lot of lint. Every time you sew, tiny threads and bits of fabric gather inside and around your machine. If you don’t clean it out often, these dust bunnies can cause problems like jams or uneven stitches. Here’s how to fix it:

• Clean Often: Try to clean your machine after each big project or at least once a month if you sew a lot.
• Use a Brush: Get a small brush (usually provided with your machine) and gently sweep out the lint from the place where the bobbin is and around the feed dogs.

2. Oiling the Machine

Another important part of taking care of your machine is oiling it. Some newer machines oil themselves, but others still need a little love. A well-oiled machine works better and is less likely to break. Here’s what I do:

• Check the Manual: Always look at your machine’s manual first to find out what kind of oil to use and where to apply it.
• Use a Little Oil: A small amount goes a long way. I just put a drop or two in the right spots and run the machine for a few seconds to spread it around.

3. Check Needle and Thread Quality

Using the wrong needle or thread can really mess up your machine. I learned the hard way that:

• Change Needles Often: Now, I change my needle after every big project or if I see skipped stitches.
• Use Good Quality Thread: Spending a bit more on high-quality thread makes it easier to sew and reduces lint and dust inside the machine.

4. Store Properly

When I was a beginner, I would just throw a cover over my machine when I finished sewing. But I’ve learned that:

• Use a Dust Cover: A good dust cover helps keep dust away. If your machine didn’t come with one, you can try sewing a simple cover yourself!
• Avoid Sunlight: Keep your machine in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, as heat can damage the parts inside.

Final Thoughts

By adding these simple cleaning and care habits to my sewing routine, I’ve made my machine last longer and work better. It’s impressive how a little effort goes a long way! Taking care of your sewing tools not only saves you money in the end but also makes sewing more enjoyable. Happy sewing! I hope your stitches are always neat and your machine runs smoothly!