Zippers what do you use?

[timbad]

Looking for some advice from fellow forumites
What is best to lubricate zips on covers, my covers could to with a little TLC including some kind of treatment for the plastic zip teeth & metal slider.
Thanks
timbad

 

[michaelh]

I just rub a candle over the teeth. Dry and doesn't get on the fabric.

 

[jhr]

Agreed; wax is good for maintenance.

I had a couple of zips get stuck and used WD40 to get them unstuck, which was very effective, but I've since heard it suggested that it can degrade the fabric of the covers - though I've seen no sign of this, three years on.

I think there are also some special sprays available for marine zips, though doubtless they are subject to the usual, extortionate, Boat Added Tax.

 

[RogerRat]

I used to use bees wax on metal zips (as dry suits)which is fine but WD40 on plastic, (as in boat covers) Oops!

I was then advised by a trimmer that WD40 can stain fabrics and also attract dirt and grit which will jam the zip.

He advised me only to use aerosol spray silicone lubricant which you can buy in Halfords or similar for £2 or so.

There is also a similar one with teflon which is good too but more boaty in price. I tried 'em both and thought silicone was better.

 

[Dave_Snelson]

That sounds good - does it work well?

 

[Nick_H]

Avoid the starbrite tube of stuff designed for the purpose (which is just Vaseline anyway), it traps grit and sand in the zip, and marks your clothes when you brush against it. Agree that a block of beeswax or silicone spray is best.

 

[michaelh]

Well, I don't know if its as good as silicon/spray/proprietary stuff/beeswax. But its cheap, easy, works and it won't damage anything.

 

[Aardee]

The "Dry" teflon sprays can be bought in any bike shop. Used to lubricate gears/ chains.

 

[michael_w]

Try a soft pencil. 4b or similar, works a treat on my trousers!

 

[timbad]

Thanks for the advice, I will give them a go & let you all know how I get on
timbad

 

[jacksoc]

My local swindelry say that KY jelley is good for lubricating zips??!!
Don't know if he's winding me up though!!

 

[DavidJ]

I just use standard Vaseline then if it gets on your hands you just rub it in and it probably does them a bit of good as well. I do my seat zips once a year as well to stop them from seizing up.