Just as in every other profession, sewers are always constantly looking for ways to bring down costs, whether it be maintenance or cost of production. The goal here is to make as much profit as possible on every project carried out. One of the ways they ensure this is by comparing alternatives.
Even though machine oil is somewhat cheap, yet, designers are still very much keen on finding an alternative in the bid to reduce or eliminate the cost from the overall cost build-up.
One of the most often considered alternatives to machine oil is cooking oil, and people always ask, can i use cooking oil as machine lubricant? You will find the answer to this question in this article and learn sewing machine oil substitute.
Can we use cooking oil on my sewing machine?
No, you cannot use cooking oil on your sewing machine.
Do not be so confident about the versatility of cooking oil to the extent that your conviction will lead you to apply it to your sewing machine. Whatever might be your reason for considering it as an alternative, it’s just not worth it because it can harm your machine.
Therefore, it is advisable that you only make use of oil that is specifically designed for sewing machines.
Cooking oil can clog the gear of your sewing machine and even damage the fabric you are working on. Automotive and 3-in-1 oil will have similar effects on your sewing machine, so you should stay away from using them too.
Can I use any oil for the sewing machine?
No, you cannot use any kind of oil on your sewing machine. The best oil to use on your sewing machine is the oil that is designed for them.
However, if by chance, you find yourself in a tight spot and you do not have access to machine oil, there are other perfect alternatives you can utilize. You will find out about them in the latter part of this article.
Can I use vegetable oil on my sewing machine?
No, you cannot use vegetable oil on your sewing machine. Well, in the past, you may have used cooking oil to prevent your knife or any other household tool made of metal from rusting.
If you try to pull the same stunt on your sewing machine, you may regret your action. This is because vegetable oil, in the long run, will form the residue, which may later clog the gear of your machine.
Therefore, it would be better to just good a nice pancake with your vegetable oil instead.
Can I use coconut oil on my sewing machine?
Yes, you can use coconut oil on your sewing machine. Omg! Is that a sigh of relief? I bet it is! Trust me. I know what it feels like to finally have a positive response after so many negative responses.
Yes, coconut oil will make a perfect substitute for sewing machine oil. Coconut oil is a naturally safe domestic lubricant you can use to lubricate your sewing machine.
Can I use olive oil for my sewing machine?
No, you cannot use olive oil on your sewing machine. You can rub olive oil on your body, stainless steel, or even your precious item like pearl without any harmful effects. In fact, olive oil will even improve their original condition.
However, do not allow the versatility of this oil to get into your head and apply it to your sewing machine. It will harm your sewing tool. They are too thick and viscous, hence making them unsuitable.
Can I use silicone oil on my sewing machine?
No, you cannot use silicone oil on your sewing machine. You may get away with using silicone oil as a hydraulic or thermic fluid oil, but if you expect the same outcome by using it on your sewing machine, you may be disappointed.
Silicone oil is just not designed for that purpose. If the oil is not properly mixed, it may jam your sewing machine since it can be too thick or sticky to lubricate your machine.
Can I use gun oil on my sewing machine?
No, you cannot use gun oil on your sewing machine. Making both gun oil and machine oil may seem the same because they are both mineral oil. But that does not make them close substitutes.
Can I use shredder oil on my sewing machine?
No, you cannot use shredder oil on your sewing machine. There are lots of oil that you can use as an alternative for your sewing machine. Shredder oil is not a perfect alternative. Too much of it can cause your machine to jam.
Can I use 3 in-1 oil on my sewing machine?
No, you cannot lubricate your sewing machine with 3 in-1 oil. 3 in 1 oil is designed for guns and therefore is not suitable for sewing machines as well as every other mechanical device. This is because they evaporate faster and will leave your machine with gummy residue.
Can I use clipper oil on my sewing machine?
Yes, you can use clipper oil as a lubricant for your sewing machine. Clipper oil is a low-viscosity oil and will make the perfect alternative for sewing machine oil. Interestingly, you can also use sewing machine oil for your clipper.
Can I use baby oil for my sewing machine?
No, baby oil is not an ideal lubricant for a sewing machine. Although baby oil is thin, it’s just not meant for that task. Using it as a lubricant on your sewing machine can affect its workings.
What can I use to oil my sewing machine?
The best oil you can use to oil your sewing machine is oil that is specially designed for them. If you can’t find them, you can also use close substitutes like clock oil, clipper oil, marvel mastery oil, Tri-flow oil, and white mineral oil.
Where should I oil my sewing machine?
Lubrication of a sewing machine is not as easy as it may seem. It could be challenging, especially if it is something you are doing for the first time. As a first-timer, you may be confused about what part to apply the oil to because not all the components need to be lubricated.
Apply the oil on the handwheel, thread the take-up lever, and the shuttle race of the machine. You can as well apply the oil to other moving parts of the machine.