Where to Go for Zipper Repairs

Getting a broken zipper repaired is a far more cost-effective option than replacing the whole item. Regardless of the item’s value, it’s worth at least trying to get the zipper repaired first if that’s the only thing wrong.

Of course, it helps to know where to look for your zipper repairs. Unless you’re an expert sewer who can sew just about anything, a specialist will have the right knowledge to do the job properly.

We’re here to break all of this down for you.

Here are the best options for where to go (and for what) for zipper repairs.

How Much Does a Zipper Repair Cost?

There are so many variables in getting a zipper repaired that it’s impossible to give a definite answer. For simple jobs, it could cost as little as $10, but for more complex jobs or high-end items, you could be looking at $75-100 or even more. It ultimately comes down to the cost of the zipper itself and the labor required to fit it.

Regardless, it’ll be worth shopping around for a few quotes before settling on your zipper repairer. You might find a specialist is more expensive than a general option, but comes with the added benefit of specific knowledge that makes it a more worthwhile choice.

Where to Get Your Zipper Repaired

Unsurprisingly, there are tons of places where you can get zippers repaired. That is, of course, if you’re not looking to do the repair work yourself!

Below is a roundup of the best options with a focus on specialists for certain items. Of course, these are quite general introductions, so always check with a specific service in your area to check they offer the zipper repairs you need.

1. Seamstress or Tailor

A seamstress and a tailor do similar jobs. The main difference is that a seamstress often does repairs whereas a tailor does alterations. However, both should be familiar working with zippers and sewing in general.

The main focus for both is garments, such as jackets and coats, dresses, pants, etc. A seamstress may also be able to help with other items, such as cushions, although this depends on the main service they offer.

2. Dry Cleaner

A lot of dry cleaners offer some kind of repair service, although this isn’t a given. If they do, it’ll typically be garments such as jackets and coats or dresses and pants. Be sure to check with the dry cleaner first, as they might only offer cleaning.

3. Cobbler

Cobblers aren’t as common as they used to be, but they should be your first choice for repairing zippers on shoes and boots. Unlike garments, shoes need sturdier zippers because they’re put under stress when you walk. As such, it’s worth getting specialist advice on the type of zipper needed, along with the type of thread and stitching method.

Also, cobblers should be able to help with other leather items, such as bags. A cobbler’s broader specialty is leather, so check with them for things that a seamstress might not handle.

4. Upholsterer

An upholsterer’s obvious specialty is cushions and pillows, but they may be able to help with other items like tents, sleeping bags, backpacks, etc. It’ll mostly depend on the type of fabric and the stitching method required to replace the zipper.

5. Manufacturer

For some items, particularly high-end designer brands, you should be able to get the zipper repaired directly with the manufacturer. Whether this costs you money will depend on things like warranties and the extent of the problem.

Unfortunately, a lot of brands hide their repair services very well on their websites. If you can’t find any information, email their customer support department with proof of purchase, and they should point you in the right direction.

6. Luggage Repair

It should be pretty obvious what you can get fixed here: luggage. However, plenty of them will handle all kinds of bags, such as golfing bags, briefcases, guitar cases, etc.

As with shoes, luggage zippers can often be put under a lot of stress. It’s therefore worth seeking out a luggage repair shop if you have a broken bag zipper, as they’ll be able to offer the right advice on fixing it.

7. DIY

If you’re not an expert sewer and it’s a relatively simple job (such as fixing a cushion zipper or a pocket zipper), you could try doing it yourself. Avoid working on anything too complex or any items where the zipper is under stress, such as bags or shoes.

Not only do these items often use material that’s difficult to sew through, but an incorrectly sewn zipper can burst easily. If this happens at an inopportune moment, you’ll have wasted your time!

8. Ask a Friend

Do you have a friend that likes to sew? Consider asking them for their help in fixing your broken zipper. As with doing it yourself, it’s a good way to save money because you (theoretically) only need to pay for the zipper.

The types of repairs they can help with will depend on their level of experience and available equipment. For example, sewing leather or synthetic fabrics often requires specialist needles and threads.

9. Find an Online Repair Store

There are loads of online repair stores, particularly since the boom in sustainable clothing. Most services involve you sending the item for them to fix and they then ship it back to you. Of course, you’ll want to do some research before choosing one, as it’ll depend on what you’re getting repaired.

Online repairs are a good option if you don’t have any of the in-person services mentioned here in your area. Also, a lot of high-end brands partner with online repair services to handle their repairs, so you might be directed to one anyway.

Final Thoughts

Where you get your broken zipper repaired will ultimately depend on what it’s attached to. While it’s not always necessary to see a specialist, it’s the best place to start. They’ll usually have more useful knowledge about the type of zipper and stitching needed to fix your item.

You might not have realized that there are so many different types of zippers, but you’ll be surprised at the extent once you need a specific item repaired!