How do you fix a zipper that separates on a backpack?

Quick Answer

There are a few ways to fix a separated zipper on a backpack:

• If the zipper pull tab came off, you can crimp it back on with pliers.
• If the zipper teeth came apart, you may be able to realign and crimp them back together.
• If the zipper is damaged beyond repair, you can replace the zipper.
• Apply wax or lubricant to help the zipper glide more smoothly.

What Causes Zipper Separation?

There are a few common reasons backpack zippers can come apart:

• Pull tab falls off – The pull tab is attached to the zipper slider with a crimped metal or plastic box. This crimp can come undone from tension or impact.
• Zipper teeth separate – With frequent use, the zipper teeth can spread apart, especially at the bottom stop.
• Fabric around zipper tears – Thin fabric or stitching around the zipper may rip, causing the zipper to detach.
• Corrosion – Metal zippers can corrode over time, causing the teeth to break or seize up.

How to Crimp a Pull Tab Back On

If the zipper still works fine but the pull tab came detached, it’s fairly easy to crimp it back on:

1. Locate the pull tab and the box that it attaches to on the zipper slider.
2. Use pliers to squeeze the sides of the box back together if needed.
3. Slide the pull tab back into the box, making sure the pin lines up with the hole.
4. Squeeze the box tightly shut with pliers to crimp it back onto the pull tab.
5. Test the zipper to make sure the tab is securely attached and works properly.

Fixing Separated Zipper Teeth

If the zipper teeth themselves have come apart:

1. Try to realign the zipper teeth so they mesh together again.
2. Use flat pliers or zipper repair tools to gently squeeze and crimp the teeth back into alignment.
3. Rub wax or lubricant along the teeth to help them glide smoothly.
4. Test the zipper to make sure the teeth align and close properly.
5. If you can’t get the teeth realigned, the zipper may need to be replaced.

Replacing a Broken Zipper

If the zipper is too damaged or corroded to fix, replacing it is the best option:

Supplies needed:

• Replacement zipper (get one at least 2 inches longer than the original)
• Zipper foot sewing machine attachment
• Sharp fabric scissors
• Needle and thread
• Pliers
• Screwdriver

Steps:

1. Carefully unpick the old zipper stitches and remove it from the backpack.
2. Detach any zipper stops, sliders or pull tabs from the old zipper to reuse on the new one.
3. Position the new zipper along the seam where the old one was.
4. Pin the zipper in place and use a zipper foot to neatly stitch along both sides.
5. Carefully trim away any excess zipper fabric.
6. Reattach any zipper stops, sliders and pull tabs.
7. Test the zipper to make sure it zips smoothly.

Replacing a zipper takes some work, but gives you a fully functional zipper. Take it slow and be careful when removing stitches and inserting the new zipper.

Ways to Prevent Zipper Separation

To help avoid zipper damage and separation in the future:

• Avoid overstuffing the backpack, which can strain the zipper.
• Don’t yank sharply on the zipper or let it slam shut.
• Apply zipper lubricant or wax to help it glide smoothly.
• Gently loosen stuck zippers rather than forcing them.
• Keep metal zippers clean and dry to prevent corrosion.
• Hand wash the backpack gently and air dry to reduce wear.
• Replace old or damaged zippers promptly.

Taking care of your backpack zippers will help prevent frustrations with malfunctioning or broken zippers down the road. But even with care, backpack zippers may need repairs over time.

Conclusion

Separated zippers are a common backpack malfunction, but they can be fixed. Crimping a detached pull tab back on or realigning separated zipper teeth may do the trick. For more significant zipper damage, replacing the zipper is the best solution. With some zipper care and prompt repairs when needed, your backpack zipper can stay functional for many years.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my backpack zipper keep separating?

Common reasons backpack zippers separate include:

• Pull tab falls off due to tension or impact.
• Zipper teeth spread apart from repeated use and strain.
• Thin fabric around the zipper tears.
• Metal zippers corrode over time.

Should I replace or repair my broken backpack zipper?

Try repairing the zipper first if the damage is minimal, such as reattaching a pull tab or realigning separated teeth. If the zipper is severely damaged, corroded, or keeps breaking, replacement is likely the better option for a long-lasting fix.

How do I pick the right replacement backpack zipper?

Look for a zipper about 2 inches longer than your original and made of durable material like metal or sturdy plastic. Nylon coil zippers are lightweight but not as sturdy. Make sure the replacement zipper matches the type of your original – chain, coil, plastic molded, etc.

Where can I find zipper repair tools and supplies?

Check sewing supply stores, fabric stores, hobby and craft stores, or home improvement stores for zipper repair kits, pliers, lubricants, and replacements. Zippers and tools are also available online through retailers like Amazon.

How can I prevent future backpack zipper damage?

Be gentle with zippers by avoiding overstuffing, not yanking or slamming, and lubricating frequently. Keep metal zippers clean and dry. Hand wash gently and replace worn zippers promptly. Taking care of zippers helps minimize wear and tear over time.

Summary Table

Zipper Issue	Likely Cause	Repair Solution
Detached pull tab	Crimp came undone	Crimp pull tab back on with pliers
Separated zipper teeth	Teeth spread from use	Realign and crimp teeth back together
Corroded or damaged zipper	Metal corrosion or excessive wear	Replace zipper

Additional Backpack Zipper Tips

• Zippers with larger, chunkier teeth tend to be more durable than smaller fine-toothed zippers.
• Nylon coil zippers are prone to snagging and breaking but are lightweight.
• Plastic molded zippers are sturdy but can become brittle over time.
• Look for backpacks with reinforced stitching around zippers for added strength.
• Waterproof zippers help keep dirt and moisture out of your pack.
• Zipper lubricants reduce friction and help prevent stuck zippers.
• Metal and plastic zipper sliders are more durable than glass sliders.

Taking care of your backpack and being gentle with zippers will maximize their lifespan. But even well-loved backpacks need zipper repairs eventually. With the right tools and techniques, you can get your separated backpack zipper working smoothly again.