I subscribe to the theory that I store (mind you that is when you are absolutely not going to be touching Babe (sewing machine) my machine the way it came shipped to me new from the factory --- cleaned, lubed, piece of fabric, needle down, presser foot down, fresh silica gel pak (to absorb moisture somewhere in with machine in its plastic wrapping inside the styrofoam and in its box, upright and in a non extreme environment (i.e. living qtrs. closet rather than unheated basement, garage, or attic). Regular after the project I just put the fabric, needle down and presser foot down under its dust cover or in its tote. Transporting with the needle and presser foot down also helps prevent stuff in the hook and bobbin area. Similar to my way of thinking to keeping a blank cd/dvd in a computer drive while moving it to protect the optical burner/lens. As for my sewing machines, if I haven't used them for a few weeks or months etc. I bring them to the sewing spot of choice, find a spare place to set them up, come back after they have adjusted to being out of confinement and proceed to sew through for a few minutes and check to see about oiling, cleaning etc. Normally that has already happened, but doesn't hurt to check. As for the "self-lubricating" machines, if they haven't been used steadily I will put a drop or two of oil in the bobbin area and run the machine. Mom. Dad and several home ec teachers and machine dealers and service people taught me well.