How to Revitalize Velcro

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Things You'll Need

  • Old Velcro

  • New toothbrush with hard bristles

  • Safety pin (If needed)

  • Match (If needed)

  • Scissors (if needed)

Velcro is everywhere, and it makes attachments fast and easy. As time goes by, you will notice that the Velcro does not have as strong of a hold as it once did. It might not even work at all. Sometimes you cannot simply sew on new Velcro straps, and you need to revitalize your Velcro. Follow these steps to bring new life back to your old Velcro strips.

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Step 1

Locate the rough, nylon side of the Velcro. Use the toothbrush to brush through this side several times to try to clear out debris. Test the Velcro to see if it will hold. If the toothbrush did not work to clean out enough debris, proceed to Step 2.

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Step 2

Clear out more fuzzy debris from the nylon side of the Velcro using the safety pin. Clear all of the visible debris and test the Velcro once again.

Step 3

Light a match. Holding the lit match in one hand and the fuzzy side of the Velcro in the other, slowly bring the match about one inch away from the fuzzy Velcro strip. Carefully move the two closer until you can see the fuzzy side curling back on itself away from the heat. Move the match away after you see the fibers curl. Try the Velcro to see if this worked.

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Step 4

Carefully trim the fuzzy side of the Velcro with the scissors. Only take the top portion off and be careful to make it as level as possible. Try the Velcro one last time. If none of these solutions work, the Velcro will need to be replaced.

Tip

Try the Velcro for grip after each step.

Warning

Do not let the match get close enough to the Velcro to singe it or set it afire.

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