How do I oil my embroidery machine?

Oiling your embroidery machine depends on its make and model. Some machines require regular oiling, while others are factory-lubricated and should not be oiled by the owner. Always check your machine's instruction manual before applying oil.

Step 1: Turn off and unplug your machine

Turn off the embroidery machine and unplug it from the electrical outlet before cleaning or oiling it. This prevents the machine from starting accidentally while you work.

Step 2: Remove the embroidery hoop and bobbin

Remove the embroidery hoop, fabric, and bobbin. Open the bobbin or hook area according to your machine's instructions so you can access the parts that require cleaning or lubrication.

Step 3: Clean the bobbin and hook area

Use the cleaning brush supplied with your machine to remove lint, loose thread, and dust around the bobbin case and hook area. Clean away lint before applying oil.

Step 4: Locate the oiling points

Check your machine's manual to identify the exact points that require lubrication. Some machines require oil on the hook race or designated points around the bobbin area. Other machines have different lubrication requirements or do not require owner-applied oil.

Step 5: Apply sewing machine oil

If your manual instructs you to oil the machine, use only the sewing machine oil recommended by the manufacturer. Apply the specified amount to the designated points. Never pour oil into the machine or lubricate parts that are not identified in the manual.

Step 6: Remove excess oil and reassemble

Wipe away excess oil with a soft, lint-free cloth. Reinstall the bobbin case and any covers you removed, following your machine's instructions.

Step 7: Test your machine

Follow the manufacturer's instructions for running the machine after oiling. Check that it operates normally and that excess oil does not transfer onto your fabric or thread.

How often should you oil an embroidery machine?

The recommended schedule varies by machine. Some models require oiling after a certain number of operating hours or after regular use. Others are factory-lubricated and should be serviced by an authorized technician. Follow the maintenance schedule in your machine's manual rather than applying a schedule intended for another model.

Important oiling tips

  • Use only sewing machine oil approved by the manufacturer.
  • Never use cooking oil, household oil, WD-40, or general-purpose lubricants.
  • Do not oil every moving part. Lubricate only the points specified in your manual.
  • Avoid applying too much oil because it can stain fabric and attract lint.
  • If your manual says your machine does not require owner-applied oil, do not oil it yourself.
If you are unsure where to apply oil, consult your machine's manual or contact an authorized service technician. The correct procedure can vary significantly between embroidery machine models.

Source of information

With over 200,000 customers and a private Facebook group with more than 2,000 members, we have heard just about every embroidery question and troubleshooting problem you can imagine. This question has come to us directly from customers by email, through our Facebook page, and in our private Facebook group.

Have another question? See all the answers in our machine embroidery designs FAQ.