On the Vintage and Antique section of the Board I've seen mention many times of synthetic TriFlow lubricant as being superior to sewing machine oil for lubrication. Other oils can harden into brown gunk over time. Old sewing machines were commonly wiped down on the outside with sewing machine oil to preserve them, which has created a dark brown gummy coating. I have many treadle machines waiting for a good cleaning. Sewing machine oil should dissolve the gunk on the outside without harming the beautiful gold decals, and I'll be using TriFlow inside.

I would think that if the sewing machine oil evaporated, then it would have to be water base. ???

Sewing machine oil is not the only type of liquid that evaporates. So does alcohol, paint thinner, gasoline... and those aren't water based. I found the information on a mechanic's website.

http://quiltdasher.blogspot.com

Good to know. We can never stop learning!

Did you also know that the sewing machine oil will spoil? Yes it does. It doesn't last very long. I have to buy oil every six months. That is what my sewing machine repair man told me.

Your sewing machine repair man wants your money. Sewing machine oil does not spoil. I have a clear bottle of sewing machine oil that is 12 yrs old, it's still as clear as the day I bought it.

I have never used anything but sewing machine oil. I am sure glad I never ran out and tried my husbands oil.

My sewing machine tech says you won't believe how many machines he gets in that are gummed up from 3 in 1 oil. Of course when they get the lecture when they pick up their machine. lol