Zippers are notoriously prone for getting stuck in fabric.

Zippers are notoriously prone for getting stuck in fabric. 

ZIPPERS NOTORIOUSLY

While zippers add versatility and style to our clothing they can also be prone to getting occasionally stuck to the fabric or lining to which they are attached. Leather provides a particularly tough challenge due to the thickness of the fabric. If your zipper is stuck on a piece of leather, apply a gentle, fabric-safe lubricant to encourage the zipper to dislodge itself from the fabric without damaging the zipper or your clothing.

Things You will Need

Lead pencil

Cotton cloth

Apply the tip of a lead pencil to the teeth of the zipper liberally. The graphite in a lead pencil will act as a gentle, dry lubricant.

Place one thumb firmly on the leather directly above the zipper and wiggle the zipper backward and forward gently with the thumb and forefinger of the other hand. Determine which way the zipper will move more easily.

Place one thumb firmly on the leather above the zipper if your zipper moved more freely downward. Place your thumb firmly on the leather below the zipper if your zipper moved more freely upward.

Place the thumb and forefinger of the other hand on the zipper and place a moderate pressure upward or downward toward the free moving side of the zipper.

Repeat Step 4 until the zip slides away from the leather.

Hold any excess fabric away from the zipper the next time you zip up your leather item.

Tips and Warnings

Wipe the zipper down with a damp cotton cloth to remove any lead.