Last updated on December 9th, 2022 at 12:27 pm
How to Fix a Broken Zipper on a Backpack:
6 Simple Tricks
One of the most common and irritating issues that almost everyone has faced or is facing is zippers becoming non-functional. So, you are not the only one if your zipper has stopped working or is malfunctioning. Follow this guide on how to fix a broken zipper on a backpack and learn some of the effective methods to deal with general zipper problems.
First, you need to identify the cause of the issue, whether it is the zipper itself or the slider that has resulted in this problem. Depending on the reason, you can implement any of the techniques that best match the trouble.
Table of Contents
How to Fix a Broken Zipper on a Backpack
This section will discuss 6 different ways that you can go about fixing a broken zipper on your backpack.
Lubricate Stuck Zipper
If the slider on your zipper has stuck in one place and refuses to move, either way, the zipper might need some lubrication.
They are different approaches you can adopt to oil your zipper. You can start with graphite. Take a pencil (number 2) and thoroughly rub the area where the slider has stuck. Now check if you can move the slider.
If the slider is still reluctant to move, you can use a laundry soap to further lubricate the zipper. Take a small quantity of laundry detergent and add a little amount of water to make a solution. Use a piece of cotton to apply the mix to the zipper. Try again to move the slider.
There is yet another technique that you can use to lubricate the zipper. Take a candle or any other available wax and rub it on the stuck area and attempt to move the slider.
If the issue is intact, your zipper might not have a lubrication problem. Read on to implement other methods to fix the zipper.
Repair Bent Teeth Zipper
Lubrication cannot fix the problem if your zipper has bent teeth. Closely look at the area where the slider has stuck and check both sides of the zipper to locate twisted teeth.
Once identified, take needle-nose pliers and try to straighten the tooth or teeth to align it properly. Don’t apply force to avoid damage to the zipper.
Mend Off-track Zipper
If your zipper is a spiral of plastic, just align them accurately and pull the slider to the bottom. Now stitch some teeth at the end of the zipper to prevent it from becoming off-track again.
If your zipper is of a kind with separate teeth, select few bottom teeth and lock them correctly. Now pull the slider down and gently press both wings of the slider with pliers. This will help your zipper work for some more time.
Fix Broken Pull
If your slider has broken pull and you don’t want to replace it in near future, just find a paper clip and pass it through the hole. It will also work perfectly. You can also make a custom puller with any material of your choice to match the color of the slider.
Replace Broken Slider
If the zipper of your backpack is in good condition but the slider is completely out of order, you need to get a new one. Just cut the slider off from your zipper and take it with you to purchase the one that matches rightly.
Now remove the stops at the bottom of the zipper and slide the new slider onto it. If you are unable to fix the stops again, you have the option to stitch the bottom of the zipper to prevent the slider from coming off.
Change Broken Zipper
If you are left with no option but to replace the complete zipper, follow these steps to do it with ease in a perfect manner.
Carefully remove the broken zipper with the help of a knife or any other tool you are comfortable working with. Once done, take the new zipper, close it, and mark its center. Now align the center of the zipper with the center of the backpack where you are going to fix the zipper. Start off stitching from the center top of the backpack to the bottom on each side.
Take extra care while sewing to prevent gaps and uneven lines.
Also Read: How to Fix a Broken Backpack Strap
Conclusion
Sometimes we make simple things like how to fix a broken zipper on a backpack or repairing a backpack strap adjuster a cause of irritation for us by either ignoring them for being petty or showing laziness to search for proper solutions. The zipper issues highlighted above are prevalent and the techniques you learned in this post are also proven to work. You are only required to detect the problem correctly and use the appropriate method to counter it.
I hope this write-up has helped you come out of the frustration and headache triggered by a zipper and slider fault. If you are fond of decorating your backpack then read this guide on How to Put a Patch on a Backpack.
How to Fix a Broken Zipper on a Backpack: FAQs
Why do backpack zippers break?
Backpack zippers are one of the most commonly used components of a backpack, and they are also one of the most likely to break. There are a number of reasons why backpack zippers break, but the most common cause is simply wear and tear. Over time, the teeth on the zipper can become worn down and eventually break. Another common cause of zipper breakage is dirt and grime. If the teeth on the zipper become clogged with dirt, they can also break.
Fortunately, there are a few easy ways to prevent your backpack zipper from breaking. First, make sure to clean your backpack regularly and remove any dirt or grime that might build up on the zipper. Second, avoid overfilling your backpack so that the zipper isn’t under too much strain.
Can a backpack zipper be repaired?
If your backpack zipper is broken, you may be wondering if it can be repaired. The answer is yes, in most cases a broken zipper can be fixed with a little bit of know-how and some basic tools.
No matter what caused your zipper to break, there are a few things you can do to fix it. First, try using a pair of pliers to realign the teeth. If that doesn’t work, you may need to replace the zipper.
What do you do if your backpack zipper breaks?
If your backpack zipper breaks, there are a few steps you can take to fix it. First, try to find a replacement zipper that is the same size and style as the one that broke. If you can’t find an exact match, you can try a slightly smaller or larger zipper. Once you have the replacement zipper, remove the old zipper by carefully cutting it out with a sharp knife. Next, sew the new zipper into place, making sure to line up the teeth correctly. Finally, test the zipper to make sure it works properly.
If you don’t feel comfortable sewing the new zipper into place, you can always take your backpack to a tailor or seamstress to have it done.
How much does it cost to replace a zipper on a bag?
The cost of replacing a zipper on a bag will vary depending on the type of bag, the size of the bag, and the type of zipper. For a small bag, the cost may be as low as $5. For a larger bag, the cost could be $20 or more. If the bag is a designer bag, the cost could be even higher. The type of zipper will also affect the cost. A basic zipper may cost $5, while a more complex zipper could cost $30 or more.
Can you attach a zipper without sewing?
You can use fusible tape, iron-on adhesive, or Wonder Tape to attach a zipper without sewing. Fusible tape is a double-sided adhesive that can be used to attach fabric to fabric. It is available in a variety of widths and can be found at most craft stores.
Iron-on adhesive is another option for attaching a zipper without sewing. It is a bit more permanent than fusible tape, but can be easily removed with a seam ripper if necessary.
How to deal with a zipper that came off one side?
Check if your slider is made of a flexible metal before trying this. If it is, arrange a screwdriver with a flat head and pliers. Hold the slider with pliers on the side of the zipper that is on track. Insert the screwdriver into the slider from the opposite side to open it up. Once ready, drag the slider to the bottom and place the off track side of the zipper inside. Close the opened side of the slider properly and you are done.
In case your slider is made of plastic or non-flexible metal, you cannot use this method instead you have a better option of purchasing a new slider.
You can also try pushing the off-track zipper back in, be it metal or plastic, by applying graphite or any wax to the teeth of the zipper to make it more slippery.
Does plastic slider work on metal zipper
It will work if both have the same gauge. On the other hand, even with the same gauge, a metal slider will not operate on a plastic zipper.
How to fix the slider not closing the zipper?
Take pliers and gently press the wings of the slider to overcome the problem.
How to remove fabric stuck in slider?
Use some force to drag the fabric out with the help of pliers.
