How to Care for Zippers
The first mechanized closure was created by an engineer and introduced at the 1983 World's Fair in Chicago. Though the closure was a complete failure and did not resemble the modern zipper, it did inspire a Swiss American engineer named Gideon Sundbach to invent the metal closure we use today. It caught on quickly and was named the zipper after the sound the closure made when it was closed and opened. Today, zippers are in almost every item of clothing, luggage and purses. Though they are durable, most zippers require maintenance to help them last longer. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Never force the zipper. If something gets caught in the zipper's track simply back the zipper up and remove the obstacle before attempting to close it again. Forcing a zipper can cause the slider pull to break off.
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Use paraffin wax to lubricate the zipper. This will help the zipper close smoothly which will relive pressure from the slider pull, the slider and the zipper teeth.
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Use a toothbrush to brush the zipper with vinegar when it is stuck. The acid in the vinegar will help loosen any particles that have caused it to get stuck. This is also a useful trick if the zipper is rusted.
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Relieve tension on the zipper by pulling the sides of the cloth closed before zipping it shut. This is especially useful for luggage closures or for clothing that is too tight. Relieve tension by slowly closing the zipper. This will give you the time to ensure that nothing is in the zipper's way and that you are not overstressing the slider.
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Purchase a zipper care set at your local sporting goods store. These kits include brushes and cleaners that will remove dirt, grime and salt residue that can make zippers jam. These kits are especially useful for the zippers on sporting equipment or boats.
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Tips & Warnings
Always completed dry a zipper after washing it or getting it wet by hanging the item out to dry or blow drying the zipper.
References
- Photo Credit zipper image by Radoslav Lazarov from Fotolia.com
