How to Clean Your Sewing Machine

A clean machine is a happy machine. You don’t need to be a professional mechanic to help your machine run well. In this blog we will go over some basic tips for helping your sewing machine run smoothly.

In the video above, Carter gives a brief tutorial of what we lay out here in the blog. 

Good news! You don't have to spend a bunch of money to maintain your machine. The tools needed are ones you can even find lying around your house. 

These are common utensils used to clean machines:  

• Cloth/Rag 
• Q-Tip 
• Small Brush 
• Pipe Cleaner 
• Cotton Rounds

Most machines require a small screwdriver for removing the throat plate. Some machines even come with their own. You'll want to have these tools with you before digging in too far.

Before you start digging too much, please make sure you read your manual or watch a video. You need to have some confidence around your machine. Remember, whatever you take off, you need to put back together again.

You will be removing the:  

1. Needle 
2. Presser Foot 
3. Bobbin 
4. Bobbin Case
5. Throat Plate

Once these things are removed, you’ll be able to access some of the internal parts of your machine. Most people see dust, thread bits, debris from fabrics, and other small bits in there. It is important to get as much of that out as possible.  

While you have these pieces removed, it's also a great time to inspect components like your needle, presser foot, bobbin, etc. Catching a potential problem now will save your machine and your fabric a massive hassle down the road. 

Look for bends or nicks in the needle. Look for snags or spurs on the presser foot. And look for nicks or cracks on your bobbin. Shop needles HERE 

That’s it! 

Cleaning your machine should be easy and painless. Small things like this can go a long way for the machine's longevity and performance.

We recommend that you clean your machine as you’re able depending on how much you use it. Get in the habit of changing your needle often and giving it some general TLC. 

Think about getting a dust cover for the machine if it lives out on a table. Small things like this can also help keep it tidy and running well.

Share with us what you use to clean your machines and if there is anything specifically that you do to help yours run smoothly!