Cleaning and maintaining your sewing machine is key to ensuring it runs efficiently and long-term. Here are some detailed steps and suggestions to help you clean and maintain your sewing machine correctly:
1. Daily cleaning
Clean thread scraps: After each use, use a small brush or vacuum cleaner to clean thread scraps and dust from the surface of the sewing machine.
Check the needle plate: Remove the needle plate and clean the thread scraps and dust underneath.
2. Regular cleaning
Lubrication: Regularly add lubricating oil to the moving parts of the sewing machine according to the frequency of use of the sewing machine. Refer to the user manual for specific lubrication points and lubrication frequency.
Clean the bobbin case and shuttle bed: Remove the bobbin case and shuttle bed and clean the thread scraps and dust inside. Use a small brush and cotton swab for detailed cleaning.
3. Replace the needle and thread
Regularly replace the needle: Replace the sewing machine needle with a new one every time you start a new sewing project or after 8-10 hours of use.
Use high-quality thread: Choose good quality sewing thread and avoid using inferior thread to avoid excessive thread scraps.
4. Check and adjust
Check the presser foot pressure: Make sure the presser foot pressure is suitable for the fabric currently being sewn. Excessive pressure may cause the fabric to deform, and too little pressure may cause loose sewing.
Check the thread tension: Check and adjust the thread tension regularly to ensure that the upper and lower thread tensions are balanced.
5. Storage
Cover and dustproof: When the sewing machine is not in use, cover it with a dust cover to prevent dust from entering.
Storage environment: Store the sewing machine in a dry and clean environment, avoiding moisture and high temperature.
6. Professional maintenance
Regular inspection: Ask professionals to perform a comprehensive inspection and maintenance every year or every two years to ensure that all parts of the sewing machine are in good condition.
Detailed cleaning steps
1. Clean the outside
Turn off the power: Make sure the sewing machine is turned off and unplugged.
Wipe the surface: Wipe the outer surface of the sewing machine with a clean soft cloth to remove dust and stains.
2. Clean the needle plate area
Remove the needle plate: Use a screwdriver to remove the needle plate.
Clean the thread scraps: Use a small brush or vacuum cleaner to clean the thread scraps and dust under the needle plate.
Check the feed dog: Clean the thread scraps and dust on the feed dog to ensure that it moves freely.
3. Clean the bobbin case and shuttle bed
Remove the bobbin case: Remove the bobbin case according to the instructions in the user manual.
Clean the shuttle bed: Use a small brush and cotton swab to clean the thread scraps and dust inside the shuttle bed.
Check the bobbin case: Clean the thread scraps inside the bobbin case to ensure that it rotates smoothly.
4. Lubrication
Choose a lubricant: Use a lubricant specifically for sewing machines.
Lubricate moving parts: Add lubricant to the moving parts of the sewing machine according to the instructions in the user manual. Parts that usually need lubrication include the needle bar, shuttle bed, and feed dog.
Wipe off excess oil stains: After lubrication, wipe off excess oil stains with a clean soft cloth to avoid oil stains on the fabric.
Summary
Regular cleaning and maintenance of sewing machines can extend their service life and ensure sewing results and efficiency. You can keep your sewing machine in top condition by cleaning up thread scraps, lubricating it regularly, changing the needle and thread, checking the presser foot pressure and thread tension, and performing professional maintenance. Follow the instructions in your user manual and perform proper cleaning and maintenance to ensure your sewing machine operates efficiently for a long time.
