There are three main types of zippers on the market today. Let’s explore these different types of zippers in detail and learn how to effectively fix a broken zipper.
The 3 Most Common Types of Zippers
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Plastic Zippers
Plastic zippers, also known as nylon, coil, or polyester zippers, are made of plastic and have teeth made of polyester cord. They come in various sizes, making them suitable for different backpack sizes.
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Waterproof Zippers
Waterproof zippers, also known as Vislon, Derlin, Resin, or fish-tooth zippers, are made of POM plastic. These zippers are popular not only for backpacks but also for other items such as jackets, bags, and pants.
How to fix a broken zipper
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Metal Zippers
Metal zippers are typically made of brass, nickel, or aluminum and are commonly used in backpacks today. Backpacks often feature this type of zipper.
Common Issues with Zippers
- The zipper is stuck and cannot be pulled up.
- The zipper can be pulled up, but the locking mechanisms do not align properly.
- The zipper does not stay locked.
How Zippers Work
Understanding how zippers work is crucial to knowing how to fix a broken zipper. Each zipper tooth has two strips with hooks and indentations positioned alternately. When the slider is pulled from the base, the two strips interlock in the slider’s channel at the correct angles.
For a zipper to function properly, the hooks must be the same size and shape as the indentations and precisely positioned on the strips. When the strips are interlocked, they create a secure, convenient, and challenging-to-separate connection, except when the slider is pulled in the opposite direction to separate the strips.
8 Simple Ways to Fix a Broken Zipper
1. Use a Pencil Tip to Lubricate the Zipper
First, check for any threads or fabric caught in the zipper. Then, rub the pencil tip against the zipper teeth, as shown in the image. The graphite will act as a lubricant and help the zipper glide smoothly. Rub it back and forth until the zipper moves. After that, pull the zipper up and down a little and repeat until the zipper functions smoothly.
2. Use a Candle
A traditional remedy for a stuck zipper is to use a candle, which is old but effective. Simply rub the end of the candle on the zipper teeth, and you’re good to go.
3. Use Soap
Mix a small amount of soap or detergent with water, and then soak a cloth in the solution. While moving the zipper up and down, rub the damp cloth on the zipper.
4. Use Lip Balm
Lip balm is a must-have for many women, but using it to lubricate a zipper may sound unusual. However, a small tube of lip balm can easily be applied to the entire zipper. Rub the lip balm on the entire zipper, and then pull the slider up and down several times to distribute it evenly.
5. Fixing Misaligned Zipper Teeth
If the zipper is not straight or the locking mechanisms do not align after zipping, do not move the slider. Instead, use pliers to adjust the teeth. Pay attention to each section of the zipper teeth. If any teeth are out of alignment, use the pliers to gently push them back into place so that they all line up straight.
6. Broken Slider
When the slider of a zipper breaks, it becomes difficult to pull the zipper up and down. In this case, use a paper clip or similar object, such as a key ring, as a replacement slider. Simply slide it gently through the slider channels, and you’ll have a new zipper.
7. Zipper Head Stuck in Fabric
The zipper head may get caught in the fabric or threads when closing or opening the zipper. Gently move the zipper head back to its original position and remove any trapped threads or fabric. When sewing a zipper into fabric, be careful to avoid situations that may cause the zipper to get stuck.
8. Fixing a Separated Zipper
There are several reasons why a zipper may break or separate, such as:
- Low-quality zipper
- Frequent use leading to wear and tear
- Clogged with dirt, caught threads, or impacted by other objects
- Quick pulling causing the slider to break or the zipper to separate
Fixing a separated zipper is actually quite simple. Here’s what you need to do:
- Step 1: Pull the slider to the end of the zipper (bottom stop).
- Step 2: Remove the bottom stop, usually made of lead, with a sharp pair of pliers.
- Step 3: Hold one end of the zipper tape and thread it through the other side of the slider. Then, hold the stop in place and slowly pull the slider up to see if it works. If the zipper functions normally, simply reinstall the stop.
We hope that this article has provided you with some useful tips for fixing zippers on bags, jackets, backpacks, and more. These simple tricks will help you quickly and effectively handle unexpected problems with your zippers.
Good luck!
8 Simple Ways to Fix a Broken Zipper When Faced with a Problem
Broken Zipper When Faced with a Problem’>Zippers have become extremely useful in our daily lives, with wide-ranging applications from shoes to clothing, tents, sleeping bags, backpacks, wallets, and even suitcases that require zippers. For those who use products with zippers, it is certain that they will encounter issues with stuck or damaged zippers. So, how can these problems be fixed? In this article, meohay.vn will share some quick ways to repair broken zippers. Feel free to reference our suggestions.
