What is a substitute for sewing machine lubricant?
There is no substitute for a good quality sewing machine oil.
One of the biggest causes of problems with sewing machines is that
oil has been used that turns to gum or even a varnish like film
with age.
Sewing machine oil is a white mineral oil, meaning it is clear
and has no smell. The oil has a light viscosity and will not
collect on the machine's gears. It is usually marketed as machine
or sewing machine oil. Cooking oil, car oil, and 3-in-one oil
should not be used as substitutes.