Welcome to the forum, it's always good to see new names popping up here. It sounds like an exciting time for you.
Speaking personally, I don't use any lubricants. My headstock bearing is sealed for life, so doesn't need it, and I don't get rust on my bed or tailstock. I guess that much depends on how frequently you use your lathe - if it's in use a lot, and the atmosphere in your workshop isn't too damp, you shouldn't need it. On the other hand, if you have a high moisture content and an orange film does build up, try a dry-spray, like aerosol molybdenum, or even aerosol 'White' silicone lubricant available from most large garages or car-spares shops.
Les