Brass zips finish off leather wallets, bags, jackets and jeans. New brass shines, but over time it darkens from skin oils and moisture can leave a blue-green deposit. A favourite item suddenly looks worn.
You can restore a neat look to the zip and protect it from autumn damp and winter moisture in about half an hour. The key is to work carefully so no product reaches the leather or fabric around it.
What you will need
- masking tape
- brass cleaner
- two microfibre cloths
- WD-40 Smart Straw with its thin straw
- thin gloves (optional)
Important: Products can mark leather, suede and light fabrics. Test everything on a hidden spot first and mask the material around the zip thoroughly.
Step 1
Mask the material around the zip
Cut long strips of masking tape and cover the fabric or leather on both sides of the zip, leaving only the metal teeth and slider exposed. This protects the item from the products.
Put on gloves: skin oil from your fingers is one of the main causes of brass tarnishing.
Step 2
Clean the brass
Apply the brass cleaner, following the instructions on the pack exactly. Work in small sections and stay within the tape.
Then wipe the teeth and slider with a clean microfibre cloth to remove any leftover cleaner.
Step 3
Apply a protective layer of WD-40
Spray a little WD-40 Smart Straw onto a clean cloth, with the straw raised for a precise jet, and work it into the zip. Do not spray straight onto the item, so the material is not splashed.
Leave for about 15 minutes. In that time it loosens remaining dirt, displaces moisture and lubricates the teeth so the slider runs more easily.
Step 4
Remove the excess with a damp cloth
Wet the second cloth under the tap, wring it out well and wipe the zip. This removes surplus product while keeping the rest of the item dry.
Peel off the tape and let the zip air dry before use.
Step 5
Check the slider
Open and close the zip a few times. If the slider is still stiff, put a drop of product on the cloth, go over the teeth once more and wipe dry.
Tip: To keep brass bright for longer, touch the teeth as little as possible and never leave a wet bag or wallet in a closed cupboard. A dried item tarnishes far more slowly.
What next
Repeat every few months or after the item has been caught in rain or snow. For travel and your bag, a small WD-40 100 ml is handy if a zip suddenly jams.
These uses come from the experience of WD-40 users in many countries. Always follow the instructions and warnings on the product label.
More guides in «How to use».