Jackets, tents, backpacks, and more – zippers help us hold it all together. But when these simple tools aren’t opening or closing properly, it can be a real inconvenience. The last thing you want to see when you’re trying to close up your tent for the night is a broken zipper.
The video below will show you how, with just a pair of needle nose pliers, you can get that zipper back working properly in a pinch.
Taking care of the zippers on your gear is a good preventative measure as well. The first rule of good zipper care is not to overwork them. Overstuffing your pack can strain the closure, causing the teeth to let go or the zipper to pull away from the pack body. If trying to close a snug fit, pull the fabric together and then zip. If material gets caught n the zipper, gently back it out to release the snag. Never jerk or force it.
Clean your zippers regularly, especially after camping or a day at the beach. Dirt and sand can clog the teeth, making it hard to open and close the zipper, while salt from the sea can corrode the materials. Give your tent or pack a good shaking out to release any loose dirt, then clean the zipper with plain soap and water. This can be as simple as hand washing with a soft cloth, or gently brushing with an old toothbrush. Let the bag and zippers dry thoroughly before storing them away.
A little lubrication can go a long way to extending the life of you equipment. Paraffin wax, beeswax, or even a crayon are all excellent choices for keeping your zippers slick. Clean you zipper first, before applying any products, just so you can get the best coverage and don’t end up sealing in the dirt. Taking care of the zippers on your suitcases, jackets, and other travel bags can help you get the most out of your investment, and take some of the worry out of your trips.
Watch here for a quick and easy zipper fix!
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Featured Image from Marcus Urbenz/Unsplash
