How to Rid Yourself of That Unpleasant Metallic Smell on Zippers

Are your zippers giving off an unpleasant metallic smell that's driving you crazy? Don't worry, you're not alone. This can be a common problem, but there are several effective methods you can use to eliminate that smell. Here are some tried-and-true techniques:

Cleaning with Soap and Water

Using a mild soap and water mixture is a popular and easy way to clean zippers and remove any metallic smell.

Mix warm water with a mild soap that won't damage the zipper material. Pick a soft cloth or sponge to carefully clean the metal parts of the zipper, being sure to pay close attention to these areas. Rinse the zipper with clean water to remove any soap residue and dry it thoroughly to avoid any dampness that could lead to odors.

Vinegar Solution

Vinegar is a natural and effective odor-neutralizing solution that can help you tackle that metallic smell.

Create a solution of equal parts white vinegar and water. Soak a soft cloth in this solution and use it to gently wipe down the zipper. After wiping, rinse the zipper with clean water and dry it completely to ensure all vinegar is removed and the material is fully dry.

Baking Soda Paste

Another natural remedy for removing odors is a baking soda paste. Here's how to use it:

Mix baking soda and a small amount of water to make a paste. Apply the paste to the zipper and let it sit for 15-20 minutes. Once time is up, wipe off the paste with a damp cloth and rinse the zipper with clean water.

Essential Oils

If the metallic smell persists, you can try using essential oils like tea tree or lavender to mask the odor. Here's how:

Mix a few drops of your chosen essential oil with a small amount of water. Lightly spray or wipe the zipper with the solution. This can help cover up any remaining odors.

Drying and Storage

Ensure that your zippers are completely dry after any of these cleaning methods. Moisture can contribute to odors, so you should leave them in a well-ventilated area to dry thoroughly.

When storing items with zippers, make sure to do so in a dry, cool place to prevent moisture buildup and any potential odors from developing.

A Few Additional Tips

For some stubborn smells, you might want to try using rubbing alcohol isopropanol pads, which are also used for cleaning skin before injecting insulin. First, test an inconspicuous spot for colorfastness, and if it's safe, apply the pads to the zipper. Afterward, wash the item with ordinary laundry detergent. This should help remove any oily lubricants that may be causing the smell.

Once cleaned, remember to relubricate the zippers to maintain their smooth operation. You can use a bar of soap, the end of a candle, or a specialized zipper lubricant designed for this purpose.

Lastly, consider the possibility that the smell might simply be an unintended consequence during the manufacturing process. Certain metals can oxidize or react with materials, causing odors. If the smell continues, there may be a need to address the specifics of the metal or its environment.