Zippers are ubiquitous in many everyday items. They are mainly found on clothing, but also on various textile products such as parasol covers, tents, lazy bags, camping tarps, and many others. Their usefulness is vast and endless.
Although simple to use and extremely practical, they can sometimes get stuck.
How can you fix this annoying situation?
Discover the best practices and tips in our article!
STEP 1
UNBLOCK A ZIPPER WITH EVERYDAY PRODUCTS
In case of emergency, it is possible to solve a zipper problem using basic products commonly found in any household. Here are some tips:
Pencil: Take a pencil and rub the graphite lead along the zipper. Operate the mechanism at regular intervals without applying excessive force. Repeat the process several times to improve effectiveness.
Iron: Use an iron to heat the zipper with steam. This method is effective and quick, helping to unblock the zipper by restoring its flexibility.
Soap: Rub soap vigorously along the entire length of the zipper. This action will facilitate its opening or closing. Note that candle wax can also have a similar effect, as can glycerin.
These simple solutions, accessible to everyone, can be lifesavers in case of an unexpected zipper jam.
STEP 2
USE A SPECIFIC PRODUCT
These quick-fix tips offer a fast and effective solution to temporarily resolve a zipper blockage. However, to ensure optimal durability or for quality maintenance, the use of specific products is highly recommended.
We use and recommend a Dry PTFE Lubricant (also known as Teflon), which can be used preventively or curatively. It stands out for its ability to penetrate quickly and act immediately.
The Dry PTFE Lubricant, as a non-stick coating, is perfectly suited for regular maintenance. Its additional advantage lies in its ability not to attract dust, thus helping to preserve the zipper’s quality over the long term.
STEP 3
SPRAY THE PRODUCT ON THE ZIPPER
If your fabric is new or valuable, prepare a protective cloth: Before starting, make sure you have a cloth handy to protect the surrounding fabric. Even if you use an extension tube for precise application, the liquid may spread around the zipper.
Spray over the entire mechanism: Apply the lubricant to the entire zipper mechanism, not just the stuck area. Make sure to cover the full length for effective action.
Move the zipper slider: After applying the product, operate the zipper several times until it opens and closes smoothly. This movement allows the product to distribute evenly and act on the entire mechanism.
By following these simple steps, you should be able to effectively unblock your zipper while preserving the surrounding fabric.