There is an interesting debate raging among camping and hiking enthusiasts about what makes up a backpack zipper.
Back in the old days (the 70s, to be precise), when people started to lug around their belongings with them everywhere they went, the backpack was simply a big bag that had no style or substance of its own and no way to access what was inside.
It quickly became an item that looked unattractive and created a need for something more. Zipper design is an essential feature in designing a good backpack because it allows for security, organization, and accessibility.
Here are three things to consider about what makes up a zipper and why you should care.
Let’s first discuss what makes up a good zipper on the way of knowing it all about zippers and their maintenance.
Table of Contents
What Makes Up A Good Zipper?
Ease Of Access
As mentioned above, there comprise many different features to consider when choosing what makes up a zipper. One significant thing, and what makes up a good zipper, is the ease of access.
If you have an object that is bulky and hard to pull out, and you’re only concerned about accessibility, you’ll want a zipper that isn’t going to be all that trouble to open but still does the job that you need to do.
This can include a top zipper (such as one found on many sports backpacks) or a lip.
The Utility Of The Zipper
The next feature that makes up a zipper is what you will be using the zipper for.
Do you need closure for your bag? Immediate closure, or just one flap open on one end, or double closure, where the zipper is zipped on both ends.
If you’re searching for easy access to your items and not security or organization, then you can get by without having a zipper at all.
Strength & Durability
When it comes down to what makes up a zipper, there are a few other things that you might consider.
For example, if you will be carrying something like a weapon in your bag, make sure that the zipper is strong enough to hold the weight.
This means that it has to be made from a durable material, and it should be able to hold up under a lot of wear and tear.
If you’re going to be carrying a few small objects in your rucksack, then this won’t matter too much. But, if you’re going to be carrying a lot of small objects, make sure that you get one that will get strong enough to hold all of them.
Style Of The Backpack Zipper
Another thing that you might consider when you’re looking at a zipper is the ease of how you open it. Some zipper styles have a fold-over feature, where you can easily lay the zipper up and pull it down.
Some zippers are also reversible, so you can easily switch from the closed position to the open one. This can get very handy if you often find yourself in the outdoors and need to take off your bag.
Zippers also come with both a closed and an open top. The closed top is usually used for bulkier items so that they don’t fall through as quickly.
The Material Of The Backpack Zipper
When you’re choosing what makes up a zipper, these are just a few things to think about. It’s essential to make sure that the materials that go into making the zipper are sturdy and durable and that they will stand up to what you plan to use it for.
Also, make sure that the zipper is easy to open, close, and use. You don’t want to spend hours looking for your zipper every time you need it. Make sure that the ones that you buy are going to stand the test of time!
What Damages Can Occur To Backpack Zippers?
We get to see a lot of questions from people who have no idea what damages zippers. In other words, what are the damages that occur when the zipper breaks or when the backpack is stretched to the limit?
Wear & Tear Of The Material
The answer to the same question depends on what zippers were used. Sometimes zippers are treated so that they will last longer.
Other times, the zippers’ construction materials will wear out and break down over time. These are the damages that you will notice when you look at zippers after years.
Snapped And Crumpled Zipper
What happens when the zipper itself breaks is when it is open entirely. If the zippers are open fully when a part of them breaks, this is called a “snapped zipper” – you can see the broken zipper right away.
In addition to seeing the broken zipper, you will also notice some wear on the zipper area where the zipper was attached. This wear can easily be seen because the zipper area will become crumpled, and the fabric can rip.
Ripping Off Of The Zipper Itself
Another usual question we get from people is what damages the zipper when the zippers tear, but the material holding the zippers together is intact?
When a zipper rip goes all the way through the material, this is called “barring,” which happens when the zipper does not go all the way through the material – it just breaks through the material.
In addition to seeing the ripped area where the zipper used to attach, you will also notice some wear where the zipper should have connected.
Again, since the zipper did not go all the way through, this causes the wear.
In A Nutshell
If you are wondering what damages zippers, there are a few different situations that can happen. Zipper wear and tear, where the zippers are open, and the zipper pulls away, and the area where the zipper should have connected to.
If you notice any of these situations when you are buying a backpack, it is best to purchase elsewhere and get a replacement.
You can usually find a replacement if the problem is something that is easily fixed.
How Can You Extend Life Of Your Backpack Zipper?
Did you ever think that zippers are not a necessity? Zippers serve so many useful and beautiful purposes in our lives that we often take for granted that they are there for us.
But, did you know that zippers can be problematic, particularly when it comes to backpacks?
Zippers can be problems if not taken care of. There remain certain things that you need to know about zippers to help you deal with them in the most efficient manner possible.
Read on to find out more.
Keep It Clean
Zippers can get stuck when there are layers of dirt and debris on them. The first thing that you need to do is to wipe your pack off with a dry cloth.
If you leave any dirt or debris on your rucksack, it will cause your zippers to become unresponsive. You can easily wash your backpacks several times a day using regular soap and water.
Besides, never put your knapsack into a nylon mesh bag since this will make the zippers lose.
Keep The Zipper Well-Lubricated
Secondly, you need to keep your zippers well lubricated. Lubricate zippers with a little water every once in a while.
This will allow your zippers to move smoothly without rubbing against each other. If you feel that there is some jamming or slipping within your bag, then you need to lubricate all of the zippers.
Don’t Carry More Than You Need
The zippers can also get loose because you are not using them correctly. One of the reasons why zippers tend to get loose is because they are being overloaded.
For this reason, you need to do everything in your power only to bring as much as you need. When you carry more than you need, the zippers can easily get loose, and they can no longer work properly.
Save Your Backpack Zipper From Corrosion
Finally, the last reason you need to take care of the zippers is to get destroyed if they are not used properly. As mentioned above, zippers can become loose and get stuck on things.
Another reason why zippers can get ruined is through corrosion. As long as your rucksack has an exterior coating, it will be easier to repel corrosion.
If you are not applying a coating to your pack, you must learn how to properly care for your zippers to work correctly for you.
When Should You Replace Your Backpack Zipper?
When It Gets To Show Signs Of Wear & Tear
If you are also thinking of replacing your zipper, then this is a question that many people ask. And the answer is simple – when they start to show signs of wear and tear.
The zippers are not one of the more vital parts of rucksacks (if they were, we would not have so many knapsacks), and over time will slowly lose their elasticity and strength.
Before you start to notice the wear on your back, you should check the other zippers on your pack, as well. You might get surprised at how easily the zippers can break.
Start Noticing Signs Of Rubbing & Discoloration
In general, when should you replace your zipper? This is not a question that you should ask often, but when you start to see signs of wear and tear in your pack, it is time to replace them.
Zippers will deteriorate over time due to rubbing, wear, and discoloration. Nylon and leather will not change colors, but they will begin to become threadbare. These items should always be replaced when needed.
Backpack Goes Out Of Fashion
When should you replace your zipper according to fashion? If you find that the zippers are becoming threadbare because of continued use, it may be time to get a new one.
You may also intend to consider changing your packs in the future if you are planning to travel frequently.
A faded zipper may not exactly make you look like a fashionista, but it is often better than no bag at all.
Backpack Zipper With More Security
When should you replace your zipper according to safety? If you’re a student, you should always carry a rucksack with a security feature.
Most of these backpacks come with a lock, and when the lock is combined with an ID card reader, you can avoid losing your stuff. If you want an even greater level of security, consider a padlock.
Losing your things because you do not have a padlock on your bag is not the most pleasant thing, nor is it much of a security issue. Make sure that you always carry a pack that includes both a lock and a padlock.
Switch To A Weather-Resistant One
When should you replace the zipper according to the weather? As we all know, the weather does change regularly.
If you plan to go hiking or camping in the woods or in some remote location that does not have any stores or restaurants close by, you should always carry a rain pack.
It is best to buy a knapsack with an internal rain cover so that your bag will keep you dry when it rains.
How To Maintain And Clean Your Backpack Zipper?
Cleaning your backpack is an essential task in maintaining its quality and appearance. Zippers are much dirtier and germ-prone compared to regular zippers.
With a proper cleaning technique, you can keep your backpack looking new for a long time.
Read on how to maintain and clean the zipper.
Reduce Pressure On The Zippers
The first step in learning how to maintain and clean your zipper is to remove any items inside your pack that you do not use regularly.
This would include zippered stash pockets, extra fabric ties, and other miscellaneous items. It is best if you clean these items out before putting them back in your pack.
If you are going to store something that you rarely use, it is okay to put it in a separate compartment.
Keep The Zippers Well-Oiled
Next, check the zippers to ensure that they are well oiled. If they are not, you can use a special cleaner made specifically for zippers to clean them.
You can find these cleaners at most retail stores or order them online. Keep in mind that while this step may seem unnecessary, this step is crucial in maintaining and cleaning your zipper.
Zippers corrode over time, and if they are not well-oiled, they could start to rust within a few years.
Remove Dirt Using A Dry Towel First
Once you have done the steps mentioned above, you can now move on to maintaining and cleaning your zipper. Use a dry cloth or paper towel to wipe off any excess dirt or dust from your backpack.
Then, rub the area with a clean sponge or brush to remove any dirt. After you have finished this step, you can now rinse off the area with water. To finish off your process, coat the area with a sealer.
Run A Vacuum To Remove Fine Dirt Particles
When learning how to maintain and clean your zipper, there are several other maintenance tips that you can do.
For example, if your backpack is extremely dirty, you can run a vacuum over the bag to remove any dirt particles. You can also utilize mild dish soap or laundry detergent to wash your pack if it is a light stain.
Try To Clean It In Regular Intervals
These simple maintenance tips will help you maintain your backpack correctly. Take some time and make sure that you keep it as clean as possible.
If you do not want to take an expensive trip to the sporting goods store, you can also learn how to maintain and clean your zipper on your own.
It is just a matter of doing the right things regularly. Keep these tips in mind, and your backpack should last you a long time.
Process To De-Sand Your Backpack Zipper
De-snagging a backpack can be simple if you know how to de-snag the zipper. First, we need to understand that backpacks are designed with two or more pieces of gear stitched together.
Most backpacks have zippers on the front and back of the pack. The zipper is usually located in the top back area of the pack along the shoulder strap.
Snagging a zipper can be done because you will be able to move the backpack around quickly.
Get Into The Process Of Finding The Loophole
If your backpack is new or even slightly worn, it may not be possible for you to maneuver the zipper around. If you find this a problem, there are several ways how to de-snag the zipper.
One of the ways would be to cut off the zipper with a pair of cutting scissors. Make sure to wear some rubber gloves when doing this so as not to prick your fingers.
Next, you should pull the zipper up on the side and slide it down. Now you can see where the loop is located and easily push it down.
It would help if you did this several times until you get to the zipper’s bottom loop. It will be easier to accomplish if you have someone to assist you. This step should take a little bit longer.
Pull Up & Down The Zipper Carefully
Another way to de-snag your zipper is to pull it up on the inside and slide it out. You should do this slowly and carefully.
Take your time to make sure the zipper does not slip out from the loop. Start at the bottom and slide the zipper out until you reach the top.
Try To De-Snag With A Safety Pin
How to de-snag your backpack zipper is also possible by using a pin. First, you should use one of the small safety pins that are included in most backpacks.
There is one small plastic tab that you should slide into the pocket. Then place the backpack in the same position so that the zipper points to the inside.
Push the pin into the fabric. It would help if you did this several times until the zipper can go all the way out.
Search For Ideas On The Internet
How to de-snag your zipper is an easy process if you know what you are doing. However, there’re many ways on how to de-snag your zipper that can be done by hand.
If you want to do it the manual way, it is best to get a few different opinions or ideas from more than one person.
When you use the internet for suggestions, it will give you several different ideas to experiment with to make sure you get it right the first time. This is a much easier and faster way how to de-snag the zipper.
Summing Up
One of the biggest problems that many people face when buying backpacks is their zippers and their care.
Whether you’re a backpacker or someone who wants to be able to keep their things safe, there are many sorts that you can go about taking care of the zippers.
It will help ensure that you will have as long as possible with your rucksack.
The full-fledged information mentioned above can help you take care of the zippers to use them for a very long time.