How Do You Fix a Zipper on a Coat
Fixing a broken zipper is a forgotten skill that can save you both time and money. Instead of tossing out your favourite coat and purchasing a new one, it’s more cost-effective and environmentally-friendly to repair your zipper instead.
In most cases, broken coat zippers are often caused by simple issues such as dirt or debris stuck in the teeth, misaligned teeth, or a worn-out slider. Whether your stubborn coat zipper keeps getting stuck or won’t stay closed, these common zipper problems are usually easy to fix at home with minimal tools and a bit of patience.
Here are different ways to fix your coat’s zipper depending on the specific issue you’re facing:
How to Loosen a Jammed Zipper
Does your coat’s zipper keep getting stuck no matter how carefully you try to zip it up? This common problem can be incredibly frustrating, especially when you’re in a hurry. Luckily, there are simple techniques you can use to free up that stubborn zipper and have it working like new.
What You’ll Need:
- Petroleum jelly or lip balm
- Tweezers (optional)
- A cotton swab
How to Lubricate Your Stuck Zipper:
- Prepare the Lubricant: Apply a small amount of petroleum jelly or lip balm to a cotton swab.
- Apply the Lubricant to the Zipper: Gently dab the lubricant onto the zipper teeth, focusing on the area where it tends to stick the most.
- Work the Zipper: Carefully move the zipper pull up and down to distribute the lubricant. If the zipper is very stubborn, use tweezers to gently align any misaligned teeth.
- Wipe Off Excess: Use a clean cloth or tissue to remove any excess lubricant from the zipper.
- Test the Zipper: Zip and unzip the coat a few times to ensure the zipper moves freely. Reapply the lubricant if needed.
Fixing a Separated Zipper
A separated zipper is another inconvenient and annoying problem, especially when you’re trying to stay warm on a cold day. It can make your coat unusable right when you need it the most. But did you know that fixing a separated zipper isn’t actually that difficult?
Here’s What You’ll Need
- Needle-nose pliers
- A small screwdriver
- A replacement zipper slider (if necessary)
How To Fix A Separating Zipper On A Jacket
- Examine the Zipper: Identify where the zipper teeth are misaligned or separated.
- Remove the Stopper: Use the small screwdriver to carefully remove the bottom stopper of the zipper.
- Reposition the Slider: Move the zipper slider to the bottom of the zipper, ensuring it aligns correctly with the teeth.
- Reattach the Stopper: Use the needle-nose pliers to reattach the bottom stopper securely.
- Try the Zipper: Zip and unzip the jacket a few times to ensure the teeth are meshing properly
How to Prevent Your Zipper from Sliding Down
Your coat zipper may experience a lot of wear and tear as you zip and unzip it countless times throughout the season. As a result, the locking mechanism of your zipper may become less effective, causing it to slide down frequently. This issue can be particularly annoying when you’re out and about, constantly needing to pull your zipper back up.
Here’s a quick and easy remedy on how to keep your zipper from sliding down:
What You’ll Need:
- A small rubber band or hair tie
- A keyring or zipper pull
What You Should Do:
- Thread the Rubber Band: Loop the rubber band or hair tie through the zipper pull.
- Secure the Zipper: When you zip up your coat, pull the rubber band or hair tie up and loop it over the top button or snap on your coat. This will keep the zipper from sliding down.
- Alternative with Keyring: Attach a small keyring to the zipper pull, then hook it over the top button or snap to keep the zipper in place.
Please note that this is a temporary remedy and it’s best to either replace your broken zipper slider on your own or bring it to coat zipper repair professionals for lasting results.
How to Replace Your Coat’s Zipper
Replacing your coat’s zipper is necessary, especially when the slider no longer grips the teeth properly. If your zipper keeps separating or won’t stay zipped, it’s time for a replacement. A new zipper ensures your coat stays secure and keeps you comfortable.
Surprisingly, replacing your coat’s zipper is a pretty simple process. Here’s a helpful step-by-step guide that even beginners can follow to restore their coat to perfect condition.
Here’s What You’ll Need:
- Replacement zipper
- Seam ripper
- Sewing machine or needle and thread
- Pins
- Fabric glue (optional)
- Scissors
Note: Remember that there are different kinds of replacement zippers, but if you’re unsure of what you need, opt for a universal kit.
Helpful Step-By-Step Guide On How To Replace A Zipper On Your Jacket
- Remove the Damaged Zipper: Carefully use a seam ripper to detach the old zipper from your coat.
- Prepare the Replacement Zipper: Ensure the new zipper is the correct length. Use the scissors to trim it to the right size.
- Align and Pin the Zipper: Place the new zipper where the old one was and pin it securely.
- Sew the New Zipper: Using a sewing machine or needle and thread, sew the new zipper in place. If needed, use fabric glue to reinforce the edges.
- Check the Installation: Zip and unzip to make sure everything aligns correctly and the zipper functions smoothly.
Additional Tips on How to Maintain Your Coat’s Zipper
If you want to keep your coat’s zipper to last longer, it’s important to know what you should do and what you should avoid. Here are some essential tips to help you care for your zipper and prevent common issues from happening again:
- Regularly Clean Your Coat: Cleaning your coat doesn’t just involve the fabric; it’s important to remove dirt and debris from the zipper teeth as well. Using a soft brush or a toothbrush, scrape off any debris stuck on the teeth, and then gently wipe the zipper with a damp cloth to keep it free from grime.
- Apply Lubricant on Your Coat or Jacket: Proper lubrication is the key to keeping your zipper from functioning smoothly. Apply a small amount of zipper lubricant, graphite pencil, or a bar of soap along the teeth and avoid using oils or greasy substances.
- Avoid Forcefully Tugging your Zipper: Ensure your zipper’s teeth are properly aligned before pulling and zip and unzip it slowly to avoid damaging the teeth.
- Store Your Coat Properly: Store your coat with the zipper closed to maintain its shape and prevent the teeth from bending. It’s best to hang your coat properly as well to avoid creases and damage to the zipper.
- Use Quality Zippers: If you need to replace the zipper, choose a high-quality one that matches the original specifications, as a durable zipper will last longer and perform better under regular use.
- Promptly Repair Minor Damage: Fix small issues like misaligned teeth or a loose slider immediately to prevent them from becoming bigger problems.
When You Should Go to a Professional
Although some DIY methods, such as the ones recommended above, may resolve some zipper issues, there are times when the best option is to seek a professional. If you are experiencing any of the following with your zipper, consider contacting the experts at Love Your Coat:
- Significantly Damaged or Missing Teeth: A professional can replace the entire zipper to ensure a proper fit and prevent further issues.
- Complex Repairs: For repairs involving lined or waterproof coats, a skilled tailor or seamstress has the expertise and equipment to handle the job.
- Persistent Problems: If you’ve attempted multiple failed DIY fixes, it’s time to consult a professional who can diagnose the core problem and offer a lasting solution.
- High-End, Vintage, or Specialty Zippers: High-end or vintage coats often have specialty zippers that may require unique tools or parts. A professional can handle the replacement without damaging your favourite coat.
- Warranty Repairs: Some coats come with a warranty for zipper repairs. Check with the manufacturer or retailer for free or discounted professional services to maintain the coat’s integrity.
Maintaining and repairing your coat’s zipper is not only cost-effective but also environmentally friendly. By fixing small issues early and following the preventive tips provided, you can ensure your zipper stays functional, and your coat remains in top shape.
Should you encounter more complex problems, professional help is always available to get your coat back to perfect condition.
