I use Connecting Threads cotton threads and yes, they are very linty but I clean my bobbin area every time I change my bobbin. I also love their polyester threads which are very strong. I've used my embroidery threads as my Innova seems to like most any thread I throw at it, even the metallic threads. Cleaning out the bobbin area is just a given thing along with cleaning off the rails from time to time and the wheels. Just part of the job of quilting. I keep scraps of batting to clean my rails and wheels with alcohol. Just use and throw away as it was a small scrap in the first place.