If you’ve ever had to battle a stuck zipper, then you know how frustrating it can be. A broken zipper can keep you from getting into (or sometimes out of) your favorite clothes and accessories, and with too much rough tampering you run the risk of permanently ruining them. Luckily, it’s usually pretty easy to get those tiny parts moving again using only common household items. The next time you find yourself struggling with a stubborn zipper, simply reach for a pair of tweezers, a lead pencil or a makeshift lubricant.
StepsMethod 1Method 1 of 3:Freeing Obstructions in the Fabric
1Look for fabric stuck in the zipper. Sometimes, zippers may stop working because a bit of the surrounding fabric gets caught in the teeth. Inspect the garment or accessory closely for snags, folds, tangles and other signs of a hangup. These tend to be fairly easy to correct.[1]XResearch sourceSnags are usually to blame when a zipper completely refuses to budge.If there are no visible obstructions in the zipper teeth, you may need to try lubricating the teeth instead.
[2]XResearch sourceYou can also try dislodging the fabric from inside the teeth with the point of a safety pin.[3]XResearch sourceBe careful not to wrench on the fabric too hard, or you may tear it.Advertisement
1Find a pencil. Check your desk, backpack, briefcase or junk drawer for a graphite pencil. For best results, you’ll want to use a traditional wooden pencil rather than one of the mechanical variety—the broader tip will make it easier to get the graphite onto the zipper.[4]XResearch sourceGraphite naturally makes a very effective dry lubricant.[5]XResearch source[6]XResearch source Focus on the line where the teeth intersect, as this is where most zippers get jammed.Only apply a light amount of pressure to avoid breaking the tip of the pencil.The loose graphite particles will coat the edges of the teeth, making it easier for them to lock and unlock.[7]XResearch sourceDon’t attempt to force the zipper. This may result in damage to the fabric or the zipper itself.
1Grab a makeshift lubricant. Search your home for something you can use to reduce the friction between the slide and teeth of the zipper. This could be a bar of soap, a tube of chapstick or even a bottle of Windex—almost any type of smooth, slick substance will do the trick.[8]XResearch sourceSome other options include wax candles, petroleum jelly, crayons and lip balm.Since so many different improvised lubricants can be effective, you should have a solution close at hand whether you’re at home, work or on the road.[9]XResearch source[10]XResearch sourceDo your best to keep the lubricant away from the fabric itself in order to prevent staining and discoloration.Use a separate tool, such as a cotton swab, to smear on messier substances like Vaseline or olive oil.If you’re using Windex, spray it over the entire zipper area, then wait a few minutes before testing the zipper.[11]XResearch source[12]XResearch source Chances are, the lubricant will have worked and your zipper will now be as good as new. Otherwise, you may need to use a second application to get it zipping and unzipping consistently.Lubricants help clear the teeth of built-up dust and dirt, which is the leading cause of stuck zippers on older items.[13]XResearch sourceIf the zipper is still uncooperative at this point, take it to an alterations shop to have it repaired or replaced.[14]XResearch sourceNot only will a good cleaning remove lubricant residue from the item, it will also clean any remaining debris out of the zipper, renewing it and improving its performance for many more wears.Advertisement
