How to fix a broken zip: 5 mistakes to avoid - Clip&Zip

So maybe you wanted to do the right thing and fix your broken zip yourself, but found things didn’t quite go to plan. To help you out, we’ve compiled the five most common mistakes people make when carrying out zip repairs at home, so you can fix your broken zips, stress-free.

With the right tools and a little know-how, anyone can fix a broken zip and prolong the life of their clothes and accessories.

Mistake 1. Getting the zip type and slider size wrong

Every zip has its own characteristics, zips come in plastic, metal, nylon and invisible styles, and, more importantly, they also come in different zip sizes (3, 5, 8 & 10). If you try to fix your broken zip with a slider that doesn’t fit properly, there’s a good chance that it will slip badly, put pressure on the teeth or not close properly.

Clip&Zip tip: find out how to choose the right slider for your zip.

Mistake 2. Forcing the zip, even if it sticks.

We all do it, if something’s stuck, we push harder. But on a zip this can bend the teeth, break the slider or completely ruin the zip.

Clip&Zip tip: if the zip isn’t sliding well, stop. Look for dirt, jammed fibres, or a damaged slider. Clean, straighten or replace what you need to without forcing anything.

You can use products like our maintenance gel to help keep the teeth of your zip in good condition. The slider will then be able to open and close it without getting stuck or coming off.

Mistake 3. Trying to fix a broken zip without preparing it first.

If you’re fitting a new zip slider, preparation is key: a misaligned or dirty zip will prevent the new slider from working properly.

Clip&Zip tip: before you start fitting, check that the two rows of teeth are facing each other. Clean them with a soft brush or cloth and smooth the area to make it easier to insert the Clip&Zip slider.

Mistake 4. Forgetting that some sliders open laterally

Often people try to fix a broken zip by sliding a classic slider onto a closed-end zip. This just doesn't work. Clip&Zip sliders are designed to open sideways, allowing for quick, easy fitting.

Clip&Zip tip: make sure you’re using a slider that’s fit for purpose, especially for bags, jackets or suitcases. The side opening can be a real time saver!

5. Thinking you’ve fixed your broken zip without testing it first

Once the slider is in place, it’s tempting to believe that the job is done. But without testing your fix under real conditions, you won’t know until it’s too late that the repair is only temporary.

Clip&Zip tip: get zipping! Move the slider up and down the length of the zip several times. Check the part you’ve repaired (e.g.; pocket, trouser fly, bag) and test the zip’s strength.

Fixing a broken zip yourself is an ingenious and simple hack... as long as you avoid these classic mistakes! With the right products (such as our sliders or zip boxes) and a little bit of concentration, you can prolong the life of your favourite items and consume more sustainably.