Stuck zip
Difficulty: Easy · Time: approx. 10 minutes
A stuck zip is usually not broken – either fabric has got caught or the teeth lack a little 'lubrication'. With patience and a household remedy it often runs again.
Yanking it is the most common mistake – that's when the fabric tears or the slider breaks. Better to work gently and with a lubricant.
What you'll need
- Caught fabric: just your fingers and patience
- Lubricant: graphite (pencil), soap, lip balm or candle wax
- Optional: small pliers for a loose slider
Step by step
- 1
Free caught fabric
If fabric is caught: do NOT pull. Gently ease the fabric back out of the slider while moving the slider back a touch.
- 2
Apply lubricant
Rub a soft pencil (graphite), soap or lip balm over the teeth – on both sides, at the sticking point.
- 3
Move gently
Move the slider slowly back and forth so the lubricant works in. Don't yank.
- 4
Check a loose slider
If the zip opens up again behind the slider, the slider is worn: gently squeeze its sides together VERY slightly with pliers, then test.
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Upload a photo →Frequently asked questions
- Which lubricant is best?
- Graphite (pencil lead) is great because it doesn't stain or stick. Soap, lip balm or candle wax also work. Avoid oil – it soaks into fabric and stains.
- The zip opens behind the slider
- Classic sign of a worn slider. Gently squeeze it with pliers; if that fails, replace the slider (sold separately).