Zipper Maintenance: Keep Your Spare Wheel Bags Zip Reliable Over The Years

Important tip, zippers on your spare wheel bags, clear top bags and outdoor gear in general, can take a beating from mud, dust, and whatever else the elements throw your way. Don’t let a stubborn zip ruin your trip or damage your gear. Here’s how to keep them running smoothly:

1. Start Strong: Lubricate First

The very first thing you should do when you receive your bag is apply zipper lubricant.
This simple step helps protect the zipper teeth and slider from dust, corrosion, and binding right from the start—setting you up for long-term performance in even the harshest Aussie conditions.

We recommend using a light spray Inox MX4 LANOX Lanolin Lubricant (note we recommend this over the standard Inox MX3 which isnt lanolin based), as it actively repels dirt and creates a slippery film. HOT TIP you need to ensure it’s fully cured before exposing it to dust/dirt (it usually takes 5-7 days to fully cure, if you don’t have time to let it cure use a dry lubricant like Selleys Ezy Glide listed below).

Inox MX4 LANOX Lanolin Lubricant is a more heavy duty option, naturally water-repellent, conditions and protects the zipper material. Inox Heavy Duty Aerosol Lubricant can be found in many stores including Bunnings: https://www.bunnings.com.au/inox-300g-heavy-duty-aerosol-lubricant_p6100343?

Other good options are Selleys Ezy Glide – which can also be found at Bunnings: https://www.bunnings.com.au/selleys-150g-ezy-glide-dry-lubricant-aerosol_p1235305 or Gear Aid zipper cleaner and lubricant. These are dry lubricants, meaning they won’t attract dust or gum up over time like some other products.

Gear Aid Zipper Cleaner & Lubricant is a easily found online in Australia, just put it into google.

These are a better option for when you’re going to be exposing the zipper to dust pretty soon after application.

2. Regularly Maintain & Clean Your Zippers

1. Brush your zipper teeth:

Before getting anything wet, use a toothbrush or similar soft-bristled brush to loosen and remove dried-on dirt and debris from the zipper teeth.

2. Blast it out:

A can of compressed air is great for dislodging any stubborn particles in those hard-to-reach places.

3. Wipe it down:

Use a clean cloth and warm, soapy water to gently remove any remaining dirt.

3. Lubricate for Longevity

In dusty environments, choosing to lubricant regularly makes all the difference. A light spray of Inox MX4 LANOX Lanolin Lubricant every so often and letting it cure for 5-7 days before exposing it to dust/dirt will keep your zipper running smoothly, if you don’t have 5-7 days use any dry lubricant.

Application Steps:

1. Unzip the item and use a brush to remove grit and dust.
2. Spray or brush the lubricant generously onto the zipper teeth.
3. Wipe off any excess.
4. Open and close the zipper a few times to distribute the lubricant evenly.

HOT TIP:

If your zipper gets jammed, DON’T yank on it! Gently clean out the track with a cloth or compressed air, apply zipper lubricant if you have it, work the zipper slowly to free it up, then do a proper cleaning job when you’re back in civilisation.