Cleaning and Lubricating Stiff Zippers

[w1rc]

I read the thread about lubricating zippers with wax which is what I have always done but I am wondering if there is a good way to clean the teeth and the slide when the zipper is pretty stiff. Anyone have any tips and suggestions?

Thanks in advance....

Michael (w1rc)

 

[jeremiah]

A bit of rubbing alcohol used very moderately will clean most grime off without leaving any unwanted residue. What I would do is take the jacket and lay it flat on a clean towel. Get a bit of rubbing (isopropyl) alcohol in a dish and use either a q tip or small brush or even a soft bristled toothbrush and just clean the teeth. Do both sides. Then apply some glycerine saddle soap or some beeswax very lightly.