Products and appliances

Sewing machines

Sewing machines

Sewing machines are fast and convenient for making and repairing clothes and other items. But take the proper precautions when using them to avoid any dangers they can pose. 

Electric sewing machines come in various types, each designed for different sewing tasks and user preferences. Mechanical ones are the most basic type and often the most affordable as they are usually simple to use.  

Computerised machines tend to be more precise and offer automatic needle threading, built-in stitches, and embroidery options but are more expensive. Serger sewing machines are designed for creating professional seams and edges and are often used for finishing garments and creating decorative effects.

Key points

  • Sewing machines must be fitted with a UK 3-pin plug and fuse. 
  • Keep sewing machines unplugged when not in use. 
  • Do regular checks of the plug and socket for burn and scorch marks. 
  • Read the manufacturer's instructions carefully and always follow them. 

Buying a sewing machine

  • Whichever you choose, buy from a reputable retailer rather than a third-party seller online, as the appliance may not have passed all the necessary safety checks. Make sure it is fitted with a standard UK 3-pin plug and fuse. 
  • You will find lots of online reviews of sewing machines but don’t rely solely on these as they can be faked by unscrupulous sellers. 
  • Look for machines with safety guards that prevent accidental needle pricks and protect against sharp objects. Many machines have user-friendly controls and easy-to-read indicators for safety features. 
  • Register your sewing machine so you can be contacted easily if there is a safety recall of your product. It’s also much easier to return a faulty item or order a repair if it’s registered. 

Using a sewing machine safely

  • Read through the entire owner’s manual, so you are familiar with specific operational instructions. 
  • Spend a few minutes inspecting the cord before use, to make sure it’s in good condition. 
  • Tie back long hair or loose clothing before starting to sew and don’t let fingers get too close to the feeder. 
  • Turn the machine off when threading the needle and when not in use – even better, unplug it. 
  • If you notice a burning smell, sparking, cracks or damage, or any unusual noises, switch the sewing machine off immediately and contact the retailer and/or manufacturer. 

ALWAYS

  • Do plenty of research first before buying.  
  • Buy a known and trusted brand from a reputable retailer. 
  • Register your sewing machine with the manufacturer.  
  • Keep long hair tied back when using a sewing machine. 

AVOID

  • Buying from third-party sellers online. 
  • Wearing loose clothing. 
  • Threading the needle when the machine is switched on. 
  • Using before the cord has been checked for signs of damage. 
  • Using a sewing machine if you notice any unusual smells or sounds. 

Stay safe with electrical products

Check your machine

If you notice, sparking, cracks or damage, or any unusual noises or smells, unplug the iron immediately and contact the retailer and/or manufacturer. 

If you have fuses blowing or circuit-breakers tripping when using the iron, stop using it and replace. 

Check the plug

Regularly check the plug and socket for burn marks, sounds of ‘arcing’ (buzzing or crackling) or if it feels too hot to touch.  

Protect with an RCD

An RCD (residual current device) in your consumer unit (fusebox) protects you from electric shocks should there be a fault with the appliance. If you don’t have RCD protection, use an RCD plug on the socket where the appliance is plugged in. 

Selected FAQs

If you’re unsure about an appliance or product, you’re not alone. These FAQs bring together expert advice and answers to the questions people ask us most, so you can feel more confident at home.

View all consumer faqs

It is recommended that periodic inspection and testing is carried out at the following times:

  • for tenanted properties, every 5 years or at each change of occupancy, whichever is sooner
  • at least every 10 years for an owner-occupied home
  • at least every 5 years for a business

The Landlords and Tenant Act 1985 requires landlords of properties with short leases to keep the electrical wiring in repair and in proper working order. We recommend landlords arrange for periodic inspection and testing to be carried out by a registered electrician at the relevant intervals shown above.

Periodic inspection and testing of the electrics should be carried out more frequently on the places and premises listed here:

  • 3 years for a caravan
  • 1 year for a swimming pool

Periodic inspection and testing should be carried out only by electrically competent persons, such as registered electricians.

First, you need to find out whether the electrician you used is actually registered. To do this, contact the operator of the scheme they have claimed to be part of, and they will tell you whether this is the case. If they are registered, the scheme operator can guide you through their complaints procedure.

If you find out the electrician misled you and is not registered, you should report this to your local Trading Standards Department as they are breaking the law. We would also recommend that you get an Electrical Installation Condition Report (EICR) carried out on your home; this will assess any work that has been undertaken and will act as sufficient documentation to certify that work. This needs to be carried out by a registered electrician and unfortunately will be an added cost for you.

Additional info

Household electric sewing machines typically consume up to 0.1kWh per hour, mechanical models usually consume a little less energy than computerised ones. Older models can consume more because they may be less efficient and industrial machines are more powerful and can consume as much as 1kWh per hour. 

Woman using a washing machine

Has your electrical product been recalled?

Electrical products are recalled more regularly than you might think, but the response rate to a recall is often worryingly low. This means there are potentially millions of recalled electrical items still in UK homes.

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