How to Fix a Backpack Zipper

A backpack is only as good as the sum of its parts. For instance, if the bags’ straps are uncomfortable, you'll never wear it when you go out for long periods. Or if there's a hole in the seams, it doesn't matter that the fabric is water-resistant nylon; the bag's content won't be able to remain dry. If the zipper breaks, it can render the bag completely unusable.

As durable as the zipper is, it can also be temperamental in various ways. Luckily, a broken zipper doesn't necessarily mean you have to buy a whole new bag in its place. There are ways you can make zipper repairs yourself and save your favorite work or school bag. Let's explore how a zipper can malfunction and how you can restore it.

Your little ones need a school bag that’s as fun, carefree, and sturdy as they are. Kipling school bags start with the basic robust styles and features our bags are so famous for and are finished with lashings of playful patterns and color.

Fix a backpack zipper pull tab

The zipper pull (also called slider) is the part of the zipper that helps you close or open the bag. The tab is the piece you hold onto to make the process fast and easy. If the tab breaks, technically, the zipper is still usable – it just becomes more annoying.

Thread a thin zip tie to replace the tap and connect it to the zipper pull. Any metal twist tie lying around your house can also do the trick, like the ones you get with new chargers. Simply thread it in and twist the two parts to keep them together.

You can also buy replacement pull tabs or a cute monkey keychain to put on the pull.

Repair a backpack zipper that separated

Sometimes, the zipper doesn't close when you've had a bag for a long time, whether it's a Kipling Seoul backpack, a crossbody bag, or a carry-on. It doesn't matter which direction you pull it; it will always open back up.

While it's incredibly irritating, this issue is also simple to repair. The problem is usually a result of overuse, which makes the slider loosen up. Since it's loose, it's not strong enough to clamp the teeth together.

A pair of pliers will do the trick here. Clamp them on either side of the slider, and ensure it's tight around the zipper track. Do this in stages to ensure you don't break the zipper. Tighten a bit on each side and see if it fixes the problem – if the teeth still break loose, tighten the bottom of the slider some more.

Fix a slider that has come off one side

Another common zipper malfunction is when the slider comes off one track altogether. Instead of interlocking the teeth on both sides, the zipper slides on just one side and leaves the bag wide open, with the contents fully exposed. While this issue is slightly more complicated than the previous ones, it can still be repaired at home with these steps:

Step 1: Drag the slider to the very bottom of the zipper, where it would sit when the bag is open.

Step 2: With a sharp pair of scissors, cut between the teeth on the opposite track, as close to the edge as possible.

Step 3: Reattach the slider onto the teeth from that cut and close the zipper.

Step 4: Take a needle and thread, and sew a strong loop around both sides of the teeth where you made the cut. This will serve as a new stopper to ensure the slider doesn't come off the tracks again.

How to fix a zipper on a backpack with a new slider

In extreme situations, the slider can come off the zipper entirely and break beyond repair. There's also a way to fix this, but you'll need a few tools to get this job done.

First, you'll need to buy a new zipper pull from a fabric store. Worst case, you can buy a full zipper and remove the slider. Second, you'll need pliers. Third, you'll need a flathead screwdriver.

Step 1: Put the screwdriver at the bottom of the zipper slider and expand the opening.

Step 2: Attach the slider to the tracks on both sides of the bag.

Step 3: Use the pliers to clamp the bottom of the slider back down.

Step 4: Drag the slider to the bottom and try to zip the bag. If it doesn't stay zipped, tighten the bottom of the slider a little more.

When all else fails

If you tried some or all of the methods above, and they all failed, maybe it's time to give up on this backpack repair. Or, as a final attempt, if it's a backpack that you genuinely love and cherish, you can try to find a local tailor. They typically have a lot of experience with fixing zippers and have better tools for the job. If they can't repair the existing zipper, they can take it apart and sew in a whole new one in its place.

If you decide it's time to say goodbye to that backpack, there are many other new and improved options for you. Browse Kipling backpacks to get a new bag with a functioning zipper.