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Zipper blocked: how to fix it (even while you're outside) without having to throw away your clothes

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Do you have a zip locked? Don't panic! With the simple "pencil method" you can unlock zippers on pants, jackets and more in no time. Just rub the lead on the teeth; Here's how.


You're away from home, maybe in the office or during an important event, and suddenly the zipper of your pants or jacket gets stuck.

An annoying situation, which can turn into a real nightmare, especially if you don't have a change of clothes available.

Often, when faced with a stuck zipper, we are tempted to think that the skill of an expert tailor is necessary or, even worse, that the garment should be thrown away.

However, the solution may be much simpler than you think: you don't need complicated tools or expert hands, just a simple pencil.

So let's see how to unlock the zip and save your clothes, without stress and without having to run to the tailor.

Why do zips get stuck often?

Zippers often get stuck due to dirt and debris accumulating between the teeth, wear and tear from frequent use, or a damaged or loose slider.

Additionally, the surrounding tissue can get stuck in the zipper, preventing it from moving, or the teeth themselves may not align properly, making it difficult to close or open the zipper.

These problems may seem serious, but in most cases, with a little patience and (like using a pencil to lubricate the teeth of the zip), you can fix them without having to replace the entire zip.

How to unlock the zipper with a pencil

As mentioned before, unzipping – especially when you're away from home – can seem like an impossible mission. Yet it only takes a few minutes of patience and a common object that we all have in our bags: a pencil.

Let's see how to do it in a few simple steps.

  1. Take the pencil and remove the inner lead.
  2. Use the wooden part of the pencil to push the slider back and forth until it unlocks.
  3. Instead, use the lead to rub it directly into your teeth.