If you have ever put on your favorite jacket or pullover, only to find that the zipper won’t budge, you know how frustrating a snag can be. While bringing the garment to a professional for zipper repair is an effective solution, there are a few tricks you can try at home first. The following guide outlines some effective and crafty troubleshooting techniques. 

3 Zipper Repair Techniques for Stubborn Snags

1. Look for Fabric

If you were trying to pull the zipper shut in a rush, it’s possible a small portion of the fabric got caught in the teeth. Scan your clothing for any areas where the material appears misaligned. If you do notice an obstruction in the teeth, you can likely repair it at home. Start by taking hold of the fabric in one hand while grasping the zipper in the other. While gently pulling the material away from the teeth, move the zipper up and down.

2. Lubricate With a Pencil

If you can’t find any fabric in the teeth, the zipper may just need a bit of loosening. Find a sharpened pencil and rub the tip along the teeth. This dry lubricant should provide the zipper with enough of a coating to skim over the snag. Once you’ve covered the entire area, gently try moving the zipper up and down. 

3. Find a Natural Lubricant

If a dry lubricant doesn’t do the trick, you likely need something a bit stronger. Look for a wax- or jelly-based option, like soap, lip balm, or crayons. Just make sure you consider the type of fabric surrounding the zipper before applying the lubricant to avoid stains. Once you have the right material, use the same method as the pencil approach. 

If none of the above troubleshooting techniques work, professional zipper repair is the best course of action. The team at Sofia Shoe Repair Services will fix or repair zippers on shoes, clothes, and purses. Based in Rochester, NY, they have over 72 years of experience fixing a variety of shoes and garments. Visit them online to learn more about their services and call (585) 244-5907 to schedule an appointment for zipper repair.