"Sewing machine oil"
 

Is there really any difference between "sewing machine oil" and just regular oil from the hardware store, like 3-in-1 oil?

Thanks!

Yes. Only use oil especially made for sewing machines. Don't take a chance.

Holice answered it well.

Sewing machine is lighter and more refined than hardware oil. It doesn't tend to harden and get gummy like less refined oils do.

Sewing machine oil evaporates. That's why machines have to be oiled frequently. If regular oil is used it will not evaporate so lint and dust will build up in the oil. Sewing machine oil is crystal clear. If the oil has a tint of color it is too old to use.

Only use sewing machine oil!

I agree with all here -- you might not notice an issue right away but it will create an issue.

Huge difference! If you get sewing machine oil on your fabric (and how can you avoid it?) it will wash right out.

Thanks for asking this question--good information to know!

DO NOT use 3-in-1 oil!!!! It contains parafin and will harden and gum up your machine! I remember my mother using 3-in-1 oil and her vintage Singer 401 was full of brown hardened oil with the stitch selector frozen.

Use only sewing machine oil (or I use Tri-Flow oil that has teflon).