How to Fix a Broken Zipper

People don't take the time to appreciate the modern conveniences of things like zippers. As a matter of fact, we rarely think about such things until they break. When you have a broken zipper, you may feel like there's nothing that can be done to save your favorite piece of clothing. It can be frustrating. But before you say your last goodbyes to that that jacket or pair of pants, try these tips to fix a broken zipper.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Hairspray
• Sewing needle
• Thread
• Velcro dots
• Button
• Elastic
• Bar of soap
• Cooking oil
• Aerosol multi-purpose lubricant
• Cotton swab

Your Fly's Open!

1. The zipper that constantly unzips itself can be a nuisance. For a quick fix, spray your zipper with a spritz of hairspray.

2. If hairspray doesn't seem to do the trick, you can sew three Velcro dots alongside the zipper.

3. If you're not a fan of Velcro dots, there is an alternative. Sew a button at the top of the zipper. Fasten an elastic hoop to the zipper. The hoop can be placed over the button, thus ensuring that your zipper will not unzip.

Take Your Coat Off and Stay a While!

1. Have you ever been trapped in your own clothing because you can't get a zipper undone? Instead of asking everyone in a crowded room to unzip you, here's a tip to help treat that sticky zipper: multi-purpose lubricant. Apply multi-purpose lubricant to a cotton swab and apply it to your zipper.

2. If you don't have a can of lubricant in the household, dab a cotton swab in cooking oil. Apply it to the zipper very carefully. You do not want to stain your clothing with oil!

3. If that fails and you're still a hostage in your own clothing, try a bar of soap. Gently rub the bar of soap up and down the zipper. This should do the trick!