Airproof zippers are zippers that have been specially designed and treated to resist damage from dust, chemical fumes, gases and above average atmospheric pressure. Usually made out of vulcanized chloroprene rubber, airtight zippers find use in a wide variety of industrial and chemical applications (e.g. decompression clothing, space suits, immersion suits, marine sportswear, etcetera).

Due to the nature of their construction, airtight zippers should be handled and treated differently from normal zippers. Here are a few tips on how they can be properly fixed and cleaned.

Fixing A Broken Zipper
The zipper can break if the cross-tension on the zipper chain is too high. Fortunately, this can be easily fixed.

①After cleaning the chain, check if the zipper is broken all the way down to the stopper. If so, read on.
②Slowly close the first inch of the zipper by hand. Make sure that the slider is in a closed part of the chain and pull the slider to the stopper.
③Open and close the zipper a few times and add wax on the chain for further lubrication.

Removing Dirt/Sand/Grime
Dirt, sand, and grime can cause the zipper to unnecessarily tighten and malfunction.

①Brush using a small soft brush or piece of cloth both the inside and outside of the zipper to ensure that there are no dust or dirt particles attached.
②Clean the zipper using a solution made out of mild soap and water, then rinse the zipper with clean water.

Applying Lubrication
①Fully open the zipper and apply the wax directly on the chain. But be careful not to apply too much wax. Space the wax application every four inches or so.
②Open and close the zipper several times to spread the lube.
③Wipe off the excess with a soft cloth.