How to clean Old Singer Sewing Machine?

Deborah Calyo
by Deborah Calyo
I have a Singer that is over 100 years old. It is in very good condition but needs to be cleaned. What is the best way, without damaging the gold decals?
  7 answers
  • Ath9102554 Ath9102554 on Sep 12, 2017

    Don't clean it with anything other than slightly damp sponge...LIGHTLY...or dust it...

  • Tonya Brooks Tonya Brooks on Sep 12, 2017

    I agree. Better yet, contact Singer and they would be the best resource.


    Great antique. I would have it appraised before doing anything to it (just a suggestion) because if you ever think of selling it, the natural wear and petena is part of the character and value as it helps collectors assess the value.

  • Fiddledd224 Fiddledd224 on Sep 12, 2017

    I would take it to an appraiser and see what they say before messing with it since you may lose value for tampering with its current condition.

  • Emily Emily on Sep 12, 2017

    Is this an electric machine? If you are speaking of the working parts it is a job for a professional. If just for the metal (those are not decals, which would be pieces of plastic or paper glued on) wash it with murphy's soap and water and wipe it dry.

  • Rose Broadway Rose Broadway on Sep 12, 2017

    Very gently go over it with a damp cloth you have dipped in warm water and dish soap. Do this as many times as you need to remove the years of built-up grime. Then go over with a cloth rung out with clear water. Lightly dry with a soft cloth. The gold paint is probably more durable than we think it is!

  • Deborah Calyo Deborah Calyo on Sep 14, 2017

    It is not electrified; just the good old foot pedal. I did have the cabinet restored. It looks great but he did leave a lot of the "love" it acquired over the years.