Gather your materials. You will need a soft cloth, a toothbrush, a rust remover solution, and some oil (such as sewing machine oil or mineral oil).
Begin by wiping down the entire sewing machine with a soft cloth to remove any visible dirt or debris.
Next, apply the rust remover solution to the affected areas using the toothbrush. Be sure to carefully follow the instructions on the rust remover packaging.
Allow the rust remover to sit on the rust for the recommended amount of time (typically 10-30 minutes).
Use the toothbrush to scrub the rust gently, applying pressure as needed. Be sure to scrub all areas thoroughly, paying special attention to any crevices or hard-to-reach spots.
Once you have removed as much rust as possible, wipe the machine down with a soft cloth to remove any excess rust remover solution.
Apply a thin layer of oil to the sewing machine using the cloth. This will help prevent future rust from forming and keep the machine well-lubricated.
Wipe down the machine one final time with the cloth to remove any excess oil.
You’re done! Your vintage sewing machine should now be rust-free and ready for use.