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 Gear Aid Zipper Cleaner & Lubricant. It’s silicone-free and paraffin-free, meaning it won’t attract dust or gum up over time like some other products. It cleans and lubricates in one go and leaves behind a clear protective film that doesn’t build up or go sticky.

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

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 the right lubricant makes all the difference. Products that contain silicone or paraffin can attract and hold onto dust, making the problem worse (and that’s why we recommend Gear Aid Zipper Cleaner & Lubricant, which is specially formulated to repel dust for outdoor gear and won’t cause build-up).

Application Steps:

1. Unzip the item and use a brush to remove grit and dust.
2. 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.