How to easily fix a stuck zipper with step-by-step tutorial

Maryal Miller Carter, USA TODAY
·3 min read

If you have an annoying zipper that sticks, you don’t have to put up with it! Without proper lubrication, friction between the zipper parts can cause sticking. But don’t retire that garment just yet. There’s one simple trick to fix it in a flash, involving two surprising items you probably already have at home.

With the help of a little bit of petroleum jelly and a trusty cotton swab, you can rescue your zipper from its snarled state and get back to smooth zipping in no time. Don’t have it on hand or worried about the potential mess petroleum jelly can create? Don’t fret! We’re sharing plenty of alternative methods that can unstick that zipper using other helpful household products. Here’s everything you need to know about how to easily fix and unzip a stuck zipper.

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How to fix a stuck zipper the easy way

Supplies:

  • Cotton Swab

  • Petroleum Jelly

Instructions:

  • Dip the cotton swab in the petroleum jelly, wiping off any excess.

  • Gently brush along the seam and head of the zipper.

  • Reapply petroleum jelly as needed for thorough coverage.

  • Move the zipper back and forth to distribute the jelly evenly.

  • For zippers encased with fabric, apply petroleum jelly to the exposed side.

If the potential mess of petroleum jelly deters you, here are some other easy ways to fix a stuck zipper:

  • Pencil Graphite: Rub the graphite tip of a pencil along the zipper teeth to act as a dry lubricant, helping to reduce friction and loosen the zipper.

  • Soap: Rubbing a bar of soap or liquid soap along the zipper teeth can provide temporary lubrication, making it easier to slide the zipper.

  • Candle Wax: Rubbing a candle or wax along the zipper teeth can provide lubrication similar to petroleum jelly, helping to ease the zipper's movement. The downside is that this can result in a mess similar to petroleum jelly.

  • Silicone Spray: Applying a small amount of silicone spray lubricant to the zipper teeth can help reduce friction and make the zipper glide more smoothly.

  • Vinegar: If the zipper is stuck due to corrosion or rust, soaking a cotton swab in vinegar and gently rubbing it along the affected area can help loosen the corrosion and free the zipper.

  • Warm Water: If debris or minor obstructions are causing the problem, soaking the stuck zipper in warm water can help expand the fabric and loosen it the jam.

  • Pliers: Carefully using pliers to grip and gently wiggle the zipper pull can sometimes help release it from its stuck position. This should only be used if other methods have failed, as it can damage the zipper if not done properly.

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This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: How to fix a broken zipper: Repair easily with this DIY guide