Here's our Number 1 Top Easy Cleaning Tip!
Use a Nylon Paint Brush!
Most overlockers / sergers come with a small brush to clean it. These brushes work but they are usually very small and with a very short handle. You can replace these with a larger paint brush. The advantage of the paint brush is that you can chose one with a long handle to reach into the machine.
We recommend you choose one that has nylon bristles as the static electricity will attract the bits of fluff and lint to stick to it.
Read on for more important Overlocker / Serger cleaning advice and tips!!
As with all machines, an overlocker / serger requires proper, regular maintenance to function effectively and to continue to work cleanly.
The Importance of Cleaning an Overlocker / Serger
Overlockers / sergers produce more lint and fluff than a sewing machine because of the cutting function and therefore need a little more cleaning. There are several reasons why it is important to clean and maintain your overlocker / serger.
Improved Performance
Regular cleaning of an overlocker ensures that the overlocker / serger runs smoothly, with minimal friction and resistance. Accumulated lint, dust, fluff, thread off-cuts and fabric debris in the machine can eventually cause the moving parts to stick, slow down, or even stop working altogether. If the parts start to stick because their movement is impaired by the fluff and lint then the quality of stitches can become impaired or uneven.
Proper cleaning of the machine ensures that it operates at its optimum level, producing high-quality and consistent stitches
Extended Lifespan
An overlocker / serger that is well-maintained will last far longer than one that is not looked after. Regular cleaning will help to prevent premature wear and tear of the machine's moving parts.
Accumulated dirt and debris in the machine can cause damage to the delicate components, such as the blades, loopers, and needles, leading to costly repairs and replacements. Problems may occur for example if a needle starts to go slightly out of alignment because of debris or the blade becomes blunt and starts to rip instead of cleanly cut the fabric.
Your Own Better Health
Overlockers / sergers produce a lot of dust, lint, and fabric debris that can be surprisingly hazardous to your health, especially if you are allergic to these particles or to dust.
Lots of modern fabrics contain chemicals or are chemically treated in some way and the dust from such fabrics may contain chemicals.
Regular cleaning of the machine helps to reduce the amount of dust and lint in the air, creating a safer and healthier working environment for you.
The Build Up of Gunge!
If you don’t clean the lint, dust and fabric debris but you do oil the machine, the oil can collect the particles and turn into a sticky gunge. This massively effects the ability of the machine to work well, it becomes very much harder to clean, adds significantly to the wear and tear and may also end up leaving dirty stains on your garments as you sew.
Cleaning an Overlocker
To clean your overlocker / serger you really have to read your machine manual to understand exactly what you can remove and what needs to be cleaned. However there are few main principles to follow, common to most overlockers / sergers.
Power Off!
Most importantly, unplug the machine before you start cleaning your overlocker! Make sure it is properly unplugged from the power source. There are moving knives and needles as well as mains electricity, so before you put your fingers inside the machine disconnect the power to ensure there are no electrical accidents while you are working on the machine
Remove the Needles and Threads
You will need to remove the needles and thread from the machine to be able to access the inside components easily. You can do this by loosening the screws that hold the needles in place and pulling them out. You don’t need to take the screws completely out, usually just loosening them is good enough. As you loosen the screw hold the needle to prevent it dropping down. Make sure to store the needles safely away from children and pets.
Clean the looper and Knife Blade
Use a small brush or a clean, dry cloth to remove any debris or lint from the looper and blade. Make sure you clean the entire length of the looper and blade, including the underside.
Clean the Feed Dogs and Tension Disk
Use a soft brush to remove any debris or lint from the feed dogs (the differential) and tension discs. Make sure to remove any thread tangles that might be caught in these areas.
Clean the Exterior
Use a damp cloth to wipe the exterior of the machine, including the control panel, foot pedal, and power cord. Remember, the power cord should be disconnected from the machine and not plugged in to the power socket before you clean it. Don’t leave the power cord wet and be sure it is properly dry before you plug it back in.
Replace the Needles
Once you have finished cleaning the machine, replace the needles, re-tighten (but don’t over tighten) the screws and then re-thread the machine as usual.
Extra Tips For Keeping Your Overlocker Clean
Vacuum Cleaning Your Machine
We've heard of people doing this. Whilst this is certainly a way to remove all the debris, you run the risk of vacuuming up any lose screws or needles that are not fully tightened. You can put some light mesh fabric (e.g. part of a pair of tights) over the vacuum and secure it in place with an elastic band. Should a screw or needle come lose you will catch it in the mesh. Use a plastic end or hand attachment and take care not to damage your machine!
Damp Cloths
Be careful if you are using a damp cloth not to leave any damp in the machine. Stainless steel can rust over time and so potentially can any other metal parts in the machine such as screws. Not only do you risk preventing the machine from working properly but you also risk rust stains on your work.
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