I had the same problem until I started using Sewer's Aid - a liquid silicone that I bought to held eliminate thread breakage when doing machine embroidery. It seems to work really well for that purpose, but I also rub my machine needle with my fingers with a tiny bit of the silicone on them. After using this product, if I do get any "gum" on the needle it just slides right off so easily. I love this stuff!!