Evie Summers
A broken zipper on a sleeping bag can be a frustrating experience, especially when you're looking forward to a night outdoors. However, it's not the end of the world, and you can often tackle this problem without professional help. This guide will take you through the process of changing a zipper in a sleeping bag, from diagnosing the issue to performing the repair. Whether you're deep in the wilderness or preparing for your trip, the first step is to identify the problem with your zipper. Once you've done that, you can decide on the best course of action to get your sleeping bag back in working order.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| When to change a zipper | When the zipper is stuck, has a slider issue, or has come off its tracks. |
| When to replace the whole zipper | When the zipper teeth are broken or missing. |
| Temporary fixes | Lubricate the zipper, gently pull the fabric in the opposite direction of the zipper path, tighten the zipper slider, rub the zipper with a wax candle. |
| Tools required | Needle-nose pliers, end nippers, seam ripper, sewing machine, FixnZip®, zipper repair kit. |
| Zipper type | Heavy-duty zipper, over a yard long. It doesn't have to be a specified "sleeping bag zipper". |
| Zipper color | Match the original zipper color or at least the color of the sleeping bag. |
| Thread type | Regular cotton thread that matches the zipper color. |
| Sewing machine type | Able to go forward and backward, sew in a straight line, and handle multiple fabric layers. |
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What You'll Learn
Diagnose the problem
Diagnosing the problem with your sleeping bag zipper is the first step in fixing it. Zippers can get stuck for a variety of reasons, including:
- Dirt, grit, sticky substances, or the storm flap getting caught in the zipper teeth.
- The zipper slider is worn out and unable to properly join the zipper teeth together.
- The zipper teeth are damaged or missing.
- The zipper is stiff and not sliding smoothly.
- The zipper has come off its tracks.
If the zipper is stuck, you can try some quick fixes before replacing the slider or the entire zipper. These include:
- Lubricating the zipper teeth with common household items like soap, lip balm, or wax paper.
- Gently pulling the fabric in the opposite direction of the zipper's path if it is caught on the fabric.
- Realigning the teeth by fully opening the zipper to the bottom and slowly zipping it back up.
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Find the right replacement zipper
When it comes to replacing a zipper on your sleeping bag, it's important to find the right replacement. You'll need to source a heavy-duty zipper, such as a jacket zipper. It doesn't have to be a specific "sleeping bag zipper". You can opt for a zipper that goes all the way down the sleeping bag, or you can choose a zipper that only goes about halfway down the side. The key consideration is length: the zipper should be over a yard (over a meter) in length.
You can purchase a heavy-duty zipper at a local craft store. If you want the zipper to appear as close as possible to the original, measure the old zipper and buy a replacement that matches in length. Also, consider the colour of the zipper; ideally, it should match the original or at least complement the colour of the sleeping bag.
Once you have your new zipper, carefully examine how the old zipper is attached to the sleeping bag. Take note of the stitching position and direction, and whether there are any straps at the bottom of the bag. These details will be important when you attach the new zipper.
If you're only replacing the slider, you'll need to find an exact match. Look at the back of your zipper slider to get the model number, then search online to find the correct slider. If you can't find the right one, consider taking your bag to a repair service.
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Remove the old zipper
Before you start, carefully examine the sleeping bag and its broken zipper. Take note of how the zipper is sewn to the sleeping bag. Take pictures or make notes of the way the zipper is currently installed on the bag, as you will need to refer to these later.
If your sleeping bag has straps at the bottom, these are likely sewn with the same seam as the zipper, so pin the straps in place before you start.
Now, unzip the sleeping bag and pull one side of the zipper away from the bag until you can see the threads that hold the zipper in place. Use a seam ripper to rip out this seam. Repeat on the other side of the zipper. Once the entire zipper has been removed, pull out any remaining threads.
If you are only replacing the slider, you may need to open the seam at the bottom of the zipper to remove the old slider. Use a pair of end nippers to gently pinch the stopper at the top of the zipper and carefully pull it away from the fabric. Move the old slider to the bottom of the zipper and pull it off the end.
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Position the new zipper
Positioning the new zipper is a crucial step in repairing your sleeping bag. Here is a detailed guide to help you through the process:
Firstly, carefully examine the old zipper's position. Note the way the zipper is sewn into the sleeping bag. Pay attention to the teeth of the zipper and how they are oriented when the bag is unzipped. Take pictures or make mental notes of these observations, as they will be crucial when installing the new zipper. If there are straps at the bottom of the sleeping bag, they are typically sewn with the same seam as the zipper, so be sure to pin them out of the way before removing the old zipper.
Now, let's install the new zipper. Start by pinning the new zipper into place, replicating the positioning of the original zipper. Use your earlier observations or reference pictures to guide this process. It is recommended to start at the top of the sleeping bag, a few inches below the actual top, as most zippers don't extend all the way to the top. Ensure the new zipper is unzipped before pinning it in place.
Once you are satisfied with the positioning, carefully sew the new zipper into place, following the same path as the original stitching. This process may vary depending on the type of sleeping bag and zipper, so refer to your observations and make adjustments as needed.
After sewing, carefully inspect your work by zipping and unzipping the sleeping bag a few times. Ensure that the zipper glides smoothly and that the bag opens and closes properly. If everything functions correctly, congratulations! You've successfully positioned the new zipper.
By following these steps, you can ensure that your new zipper is installed correctly and securely, allowing you to enjoy your sleeping bag for many more adventures to come.
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Sew the new zipper
Sewing a new zipper into a sleeping bag is a straightforward process, but it does require some care and attention. Firstly, you will need to purchase a new zipper. This should be heavy-duty, such as a jacket zipper, and it should be long enough—over a yard or a meter in length. It does not have to be a specified "sleeping bag zipper", but if you would like it to match the original, you can source one that goes all the way down the sleeping bag and has a zipper pull on the inside.
Once you have your new zipper, you will need to unzip the sleeping bag and examine the existing zipper. Take note of how the zipper is sewn to the bag, and take pictures or make mental notes of the zipper's position. You will want to replicate this when you sew on the new zipper.
Now, carefully pull one side of the old zipper away from the sleeping bag, so you can see the threads holding it in place. Use a seam ripper to remove this seam, and repeat on the other side. Once the old zipper has been completely removed, pull out any remaining threads.
Now, using your memory or pictures, pin the new zipper into place, replicating the position of the original. Start at the top of the bag, a few inches below the very top, as most zippers do not go all the way up. You can then sew the new zipper in place, using a sewing machine or hand sewing, whichever you prefer.
Finally, check your work by zipping the bag open and closed a few times. Your sleeping bag should now function like it did when it was new.
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Frequently asked questions
Try fully opening the zipper to the bottom and slowly zipping it back up, ensuring the teeth interlock correctly. If this doesn't work, you can try lubricating the zipper with household items like soap, lip balm, or wax paper.
First, unzip the sleeping bag and examine the zipper to understand how it is sewn to the bag. Then, pull one side of the zipper away from the bag until you can see the threads that hold it together. Use a seam ripper to rip out this seam, and repeat on the other side. Pull out any remaining threads, then pin the new zipper into place, starting at the top of the bag. Sew the zipper into place, and check that it works.
You can use any heavy-duty zipper that is over a yard (or over a meter) long. If you want the zipper to go all the way down the sleeping bag, you should buy a specified sleeping bag zipper. Otherwise, any heavy-duty zipper will do, as long as it matches the colour of the original zipper or the sleeping bag.
