Regular cleaning of a serger is essential for ensuring machine longevity and smooth functioning. When using a serger, thread and fabric are pulled through the machine leaving behind thread, dust, and lint debris. Debris buildup can lead to machine malfunctions such as skipped, uneven, and looped stitches as well as snapped thread. Cleaning your machine yourself has several benefits including saving you money and saving you time waiting for your machine to be cleaned by a professional. Follow these simple steps to confidently clean your machine yourself!

Supplies

Required:

Phillips or flat head screwdriver
Cleaning brush
Q-tips
Canned air
Microfiber cloth
Brother 1034D serger

Optional:

Magnetic Phillips or flat head screwdriver
Micro vacuum attachment kit
Sorting tray or organizer
Lamp or battery-operated light for increased visibility

Step 1: Warning: Disconnect Power Supplies Before Cleaning

Turn off serger and disconnect it from any power supplies.

Warning:Failure to disconnect the serger from power sources can lead to injury to oneself and/or damage to the machine.

Step 2: Remove Detachable Parts

Remove any thread from the spool pins and remove the trim tray.

Step 3: Unscrew and Remove Front Panel

Slide the front cover open to reveal the front panel and remove the screw pictured in the second image above. Next, pull the front panel up and slightly left to avoid damaging the latch outlined in the last photo above.

Note: Remember or label where each screw goes for reassembly as the screws are different sizes.

Step 4: Unscrew and Remove Material Plate Cover

Remove the bed extension. Then, unscrew three screws outlined in the pictures above. Finally, remove the material plate cover.

Step 5: Spray Out Inside of Serger With Canned Air

Spray inside serger with canned air to move debris out of machine or vacuum with micro vacuum attachments.

Caution: Spraying out sewing machines with canned air without first removing the front and side panels may damage the machine by pushing dust and lint further into the machine and motor.

Step 6: Remove Additional Debris From Inside Machine

Remove additional debris from inside of machine with Q-tips, cleaning brush, or tweezers as necessary.

Step 7: Clean Removed Parts

Spray out the trim tray, front panel, bed extension, and material plate cover with canned air.

Step 8: Clean Outside of Machine

Wipe down external parts of serger with a microfiber cloth.

Step 9: Reassemble Serger

Reattach material plate cover, extension bed, front panel, and trim tray. Plug serger back into power supply.

Step 10: Use Serger!

You finished cleaning your serger! If you want to continue learning how to service your own machine, see how to oil your Brother 1034D serger here. Otherwise, you are ready to start your next sewing project!