Practical Zipper Knowledge for Buyers & Makers
Learn the basics and beyond—from zipper types and materials to design tips. This knowledge base is curated for sourcing managers, designers, and zipper enthusiasts.
Q:The elements warped or melted when I ironed it.
A:When applying an iron to the zipper, be sure to cover it with a cloth. Be cautious of the zipper’s heat tolerance (and the heat tolerance of the product itself).
Q:After storing zippers with rubber band bundling, the bundled part of the zippers discolored.
A:Please avoid bundling with rubber band for prolonged storage.
Q:When opening and closing the zipper, it does not move smoothly or catches the fabric.
A:When sewing, if the stitching is too close to the elements, the slider will not have enough space to move,
impeding its operation. Be careful to allow enough space.
If the zipper catches because the fabric used is too thin or soft, you should put in a stitch or core to reinforce it.
Q:Is there something I should be aware of when using a zipper for babies’ and kids’ products?
A:Special products/features, such as plastic stops, are available for babies’ and kids’ products.
Q:I have problems with metal zipper color changes.
A:Metal parts may corrode depending on their storage conditions. There is a risk of the corroded parts staining the product, so products should be kept at low humidity, avoiding hermetically sealed storage in plastic bags or cardboard boxes and allowing some breathability in storage. (Please also be aware of the effects of NOX.)
The use of cleaning products containing fluorine, or contact with fabric on which such cleaning products have
been used, causes metal parts to become discolored. Please be cautious of this.
Q:Zippers used on wool and feathered products have changed color.
A:Wool and feathered products are susceptible to residual chemicals such as bleach, causing the metal part of the zipper to react and become discolored or corroded in storage. Neutralize adequately, and select items not easily susceptible to the effects of residual chemicals such as VISLON® zippers and coated sliders.
Q:The zipper was bent during dry cleaning.
A:Repeated dry cleaning or high-temperature drying without closing the zipper will cause it to bend. Be sure to close the zipper before washing, drying or dry cleaning.
Q:Instructions and precautions for Aluminum Alloy Zippers.
A:Aluminum alloy zippers are used in some applications because they are light-weight,
but special care should be taken due to its nature. Below are the main 3 reasons.
1. Elements Dissolving
Jackets and pants are frequently subject to washing at their finishing process.
Aluminum is weak to alkaline and it is reported that strong alkaline solvents may melt the elements of aluminum.
Extra attention should be paid when chemicals as acids are used.
Also make sure to rinse out those chemicals thoroughly and immediately.
2. Migration and Staining
Since aluminum is vulnerable to friction, metal dust is scraped off when operating zippers, which may stain the garment.
