Can Sewing Machine Oil Go Bad?

It is important to maintain your sewing machine so that it will last for years. One of the maintenance that you can do is to oil your machine. Oiling your machine at least once a week will ensure it is working in its best condition. One of the worries and wonders of sewers is can sewing machine oil go bad. Here’s the answer.

Yes, sewing machine oil can go bad and will expire eventually. On average, sewing machine oil can last for five years. However, if you do not store your oil properly, then it can lower its lifespan. It is best to store your oil away from direct sunlight or extreme temperatures.

In this article, you will learn all about sewing machine oil and how you can tell if it has gone bad or not. I will also talk about how you can prolong the lifespan of your sewing machine oil so that you can make the most of it. Lastly, I will also discuss the different alternatives you can use for oiling your sewing machines.

Sewing Machine Oil: What to Know

When it comes to sewing machine oils, they come in three varieties: natural, synthetic, and mineral. Every type serves the same function, and different sewers have their own preferences.

Mineral oil comes from petroleum, and it is inexpensive as well as easy to find. It is also odorless, colorless, and non-toxic. These are some of the reasons why it is popular among sewers. It is also affordable and can get the job done.

Synthetic oil is a bit more on the expensive side. It can also lubricate any plastic parts that might be present on your sewing machine. This is one of the assets of synthetic oil that a mineral oil can’t do. However, you would need to be careful as it does minimal damage when you over-oil your machine.

Natural oil is inexpensive and environmentally friendly. Now, some sewers choose this for good reasons, as it does the job. However, it’s not as effective as the ones mentioned above. So, if you choose to use this type of oil, you would have to keep a careful eye on your sewing machine.

Sewing Machine Oil Has Gone Bad: How to Know

Sewing machine oil should have a completely transparent or white as well as smooth texture. If you see any changes in color, texture, or odor, it means that your sewing machine oil is expired. Here are some of the things you need to look out for to know if your oil is expired:

• Dark or cloudy color
• Unpleasant odor
• Consistency is thicker
• Sedimentation is present
• Sewing machine makes noise when oiled

If you use expired oil on your machine, it can ruin it. You would need to invest in your machine as it’s not the same price as a bottle of sewing machine oil. When you apply bad oil, it can hold dirt, debris, and dust in the long run.

When this is present in your sewing machine, it can lead to it breaking in the future.

The Lifespan of a Sewing Machine Oil: How to Prolong It

The lifespan of a sewing machine oil can last up to five years. When you are careless in storage, it can reduce the lifespan of your oil. Make sure that you avoid placing it in direct sunlight or extreme cold.

When you place your oil in these conditions, it can affect the amount of air getting inside and out of the container.

Also, it is best to avoid condensation since it can encourage bacterial growth when the oil has contact with water. To avoid this, be sure to place the oils in containers. Make sure they are not damaged and they won’t mix with other types of oils that you may have.

Be sure to use a transparent container. It would be easy to tell whether the oil has gone bad or not. You can easily check for the signs that I’ve mentioned above and keep track of your oil if it has gone bad.

Mineral oils can last for about five years, while synthetic oil can have a longer lifespan. When it comes to natural oils, plenty of brands claim that they don’t expire. However, this is not true. Over time it can oxidize and will tend to evaporate.

If placed in damaged containers, it can speed up the evaporation process. The more oxygen gets into the container, the more it will reduce the lifespan of the oil.

Other Options for Sewing Machine Oil

If you don’t have access to any type of oil, there are different options that you can choose from. Sewing machine oils are usually made from petrochemicals. Now, the fuel of your car can be used temporarily, but then again, this is not safe and not recommended.

Petrochemicals can lead to respiratory problems when it’s inhaled excessively. This is one of the reasons why people stay clear away from mineral oil and mostly stick with natural oils.

You can also make natural oil from scratch by combining ⅓ cup of jojoba oil and a teaspoon each of ester as well as silicone oil.

You can also use bike lubricants that have Teflon, kerosene, and paraffin. Now, these ingredients can cause serious damage to the environment, so it’s not advisable to use them for long periods of time.

When all of the above is not available, you can use Vaseline as a temporary substitute. Since it’s not made with lubricant, make sure that you don’t use too much. It can also break your machine if used all the time.

White mineral oil is also known as liquid petroleum, and it can also be a substitute for your sewing machine oil. It is easier to find and way cheaper than the other options above.

Final Thoughts

A sewing machine is like an artifact, so make sure to take care of it. At some time or another, someone is going to look at you with awe since you keep your sewing machine in mint condition. Making sure that your oil is not expired is one way to prolong your machine’s life. Always ensure that you check for signs of your oil expiring, such as the odor, color, etc.