How do you get a zipper back on track?

It’s as easy as gently moving the zipper up and down on the track to readjust it.

Try spritzing it with WD-40 to oil it up.

Gray sweater with broken zipper being fixed

The Spruce / Georgia Lloyd

If you could’t get them to mesh, mark the spot where a problem aligns the teeth.

The teeth may be damaged at that spot and will never align properly.

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Materials and tools to fix a broken or stuck zipper

The Spruce / Georgia Lloyd

How to Unstick a Zipper

Zippers can get stuck for several reasons.

This will provide more power and control.

Or, use the safety pin to shut the gap temporarily.

Pliers removing bottom stop from bottom of zipper band

The Spruce / Georgia Lloyd

When to Replace Your Zipper

Sometimes, nothing will save a broken zipper.

Rather thantossing the garment, replace the zipper yourself or hire a tailor to help you.

This method is particularly worthwhile if the garment is expensive or in good shape otherwise.

Pull tab brought to bottom of zipper

The Spruce / Georgia Lloyd

Replacing a zipper is usually inexpensive.

Be careful not to crush the slider.

Take off the item to put the zipper back on track.

Zipper teeth realigned smoothly on mesh

The Spruce / Georgia Lloyd

Do not force the zipper, but gently move the zipper up and down on the track.

Once back on track, use WD-40 to get it moving easily.

Yes, it’s possible for you to fix a zipper that splits open.

Pull tab slid up to top of zipper

The Spruce / Georgia Lloyd

New stop created at bottom of zipper with thread

The Spruce / Georgia Lloyd

Stuck zipper while being pulled up

The Spruce / Georgia Lloyd

Gray jacket zipped up with fabric moved away

The Spruce / Georgia Lloyd