Sewing Machine Oil: Which Machines Need It, and Which Must Not Be Oiled
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"Oil your sewing machine" doesn't apply to every machine, and the makers disagree. Here's what each says.
What each maker says
| Machine | Oiling guidance |
|---|---|
| Brother sewing/embroidery (models on its list, e.g. XM2701, CS6000i, CS7000X, SE600, PE535, LX3817) | Must not be oiled by the user |
| Brother 3034D/4234D sergers | Oil moving parts once or twice a month for normal use; weekly if used more. Clean lint first. |
| SINGER, manual calls for oil | Daily use: weekly. Weekly use: monthly. Monthly use: every three months. |
| SINGER, manual doesn't mention oil | Pre-lubricated at the factory. SINGER says 2 to 3 small drops in the bobbin area and on the needle bar won't harm the machine. |
Note the conflict: SINGER says a few drops in the bobbin area are harmless on its machines, while Brother says not to oil the bobbin case on its models. Follow your own machine's manual.
Cleaning lint
Brother's cleaning page (for its SQ9285 and related models) says sewing quality suffers if dust collects in the bobbin case and to clean it periodically. Its steps: turn off and unplug the machine, remove the needle, presser foot and holder, needle plate cover and bobbin case, then brush or vacuum the dust out of the race. Brother also says not to use a bobbin case that's scratched. For sergers, New Mexico State Extension suggests a brush, canned air, a vacuum or a hair dryer.
If your manual calls for oil
New Mexico State Extension says to oil only the areas the manual recommends, use oil made for machines, and avoid over-oiling. Brother says to clean lint off before oiling. SINGER also recommends a tune-up by a qualified technician every 3 to 4 years.
Two oils on Amazon, by their listings: Sewable's clear oil comes with a telescoping zoom spout and is listed as non-staining and non-gumming. Lange & König's set is a light mineral oil (ISO VG-10) with two precision applicators and lint brushes.
Sewable Sewing Machine Oil with Zoom Spout
- 4 fl oz clear oil with telescoping zoom spout, per the listing
- Listed as non-staining and non-gumming
- Made in the USA
Lange & König Sewing Machine Oil Set
- 3.4 oz light mineral oil (ISO VG-10), per the listing
- Two precision applicators (1 and 1.5 in.)
- Detail brush and 4 silicone lint brushes included
FAQ
Do Brother machines need oil?
Many must not be oiled by the user. Check your manual.
How often for SINGER?
Only if the manual calls for it: weekly to every three months depending on use.
Sergers?
Brother's 3034D/4234D: once or twice a month.