LOL -- my DH just took my Pfaff apart and cleaned it! (bless him - saved me $90.00 and 3 week wait to get it back from the repairman!!!) He took it apart in places I'd NEVER dare take apart. Took it outside and used his air compressor to blow it out (the one that fills the tires on the car!!! I'ts gone TONS of power). The machine runs like a gem now!!!!! I like the pipe cleaner idea, too. I'll get some today and keep them on hand when I don't want him spending an hour on my machine!