How To: Fix a Stuck Zipper

Is your zipper stuck on your favorite sweatshirt or jacket? It's not a lost cause! Fix a stuck zipper with just a few household items.

You Will Need:

• Tweezers
• A pencil
• Bar soap
• Lip balm
• Petroleum jelly
• Olive oil
• A cotton swab

Step 1: Start Tugging

Gently tug the lining or garment that is stuck in the zipper. Use tweezers if you cannot pull it out with your fingers.

Step 2: Use Pencil Lead

Rub the pencil lead against both sides of the zipper. The graphite will act as a lubricant.

Step 3: Use Household Items

Apply bar soap, lip balm, petroleum jelly, or olive oil to the zipper with a cotton swab.

Step 4: Wiggle Zipper

Wiggle the zipper once the product has been applied, working the product into the teeth of the zipper.

Trivia: Gideon Sundback invented the zipper in 1913.