How to Make Old Hook and Loop Tape Stick Again

Hook and loop tape, also known as Velcro, is super versatile and used for so many things, including clothing, shoes, bags, etc. Over time it can lose its grip and not stick as well as it used to. This can be frustrating but the good news is there are several ways to get your hook and loop tape to stick again.

If you work with hook and loop tape for sewing projects, keeping it functional is key to getting the best results. Whether you’re using it in clothing, bags or accessories, making sure your hook and loop tape sticks is important. In this post we’ll show you how to refresh old hook and loop tape and make it work like new again.

Why Hook and Loop Tape Loses Its Stick

The hook and loop tape system has two sides, the hooks and the loops. The hooks are small stiff pieces of plastic and the loops are softer fabric strands. Over time the hooks can bend or break and the loops can accumulate dirt and debris. This buildup can interfere with the fastener and cause it to not stick.

Here’s why hook and loop tape might not stick:

• Dirt and Debris: Dust, lint, hair, and other debris can get stuck in the loops or hooks, which prevents them from sticking.
• Wear and Tear: The hooks can bend or break over time and lose their ability to grab the loops.
• Compressed Loops: Overuse can flatten the loops and reduce the overall effectiveness of the fastener.

Now that we know why hook and loop tape loses its stick, let’s get to the fix.

Method 1: Clean the Tape

Dirt and debris is the most common reason hook and loop tape loses its stickiness. Cleaning the tape is often the easiest and most effective way to get it to stick again.

How to Clean Hook and Loop Tape:

• Toothbrush or Fine-Comb: Use an old toothbrush or fine-toothed comb to remove dirt, lint, or hair from the hooks and loops. Gently brush along the surface to dislodge and remove the debris. Do both sides of the hook and loop.
• Tape or Tweezers for Stubborn Debris: For tougher lint or hair that won’t come off easily, use tweezers or adhesive tape to pull out the embedded debris. Simply press the tape onto the surface and lift it to pull out the lint.
• Wash the Tape: If the hook and loop tape is really dirty, you can wash it. Soak it in a mild soapy solution and gently scrub it with a soft brush. Rinse thoroughly and let it air dry before using it again.

Once cleaned the hook and loop tape should regain most of its stickiness. This method is most effective when the tape is clogged with dirt or debris.

Method 2: Fix the Hooks

If cleaning the tape doesn’t fully restore its stickiness, the hooks may be bent or broken. In this case, manually fixing the hooks can bring the tape back to life.

How to Fix Bent Hooks:

• Inspect the Hooks: Look at the hook side of the tape. If you see the hooks are flattened or bent out of shape, this is likely the reason for the loss of stickiness.
• Use a Pin or Needle: Take a small pin or needle and gently lift any bent or flattened hooks back into place. This will restore the hook's ability to grab the loops. Be gentle so you don’t break the hooks.
• Trim Damaged Hooks: If you find any hooks that are broken or frayed trim them off with small scissors. Removing damaged hooks can improve the overall function of the remaining hooks.

By reshaping the hooks, you can improve the hook and loop tape.

Method 3: Fluff the Loops

Sometimes, the loop side of the tape can become compressed over time and lose its ability to grab the hooks. Fluffing the loops can often restore the fastener.

Fluff the Loops:

• Fine-Tooth Comb: Gently comb through the loop side of the tape with a fine-tooth comb. This will lift and separate the compressed loops and make them more effective at catching the hooks.
• Warm Water and Scrubbing: If the loops are really matted down, soak the tape in warm water and then gently scrub the loops with a soft brush or sponge. Let the tape air dry, and it should regain some of its original texture.

By fluffing the loops you can improve the connection between the hook and loop sides and have a better fastener.

Method 4: Replace the Hook and Loop Tape

If the hook and loop tape is too worn out to restore, you may need to replace it all together. This is especially important for sewing projects where a secure fastening is crucial. Good quality hook and loop tape for sewing projects can make a big difference in your work.

At GoldStar Tool you can find hook and loop tape for your sewing needs. Whether you’re sewing garments, bags or accessories having good quality materials will give you the best results.

Also, we carry top-of-the-line sewing machines that make working with hook and loop tape easier:

• Juki MO-623: This is a great overlock machine that can handle different fabrics including fabrics with hook and loop tape.
• Juki DDL-8700: Perfect for straight stitching this machine has industrial quality performance which is great for any project that requires heavy duty sewing.
• Juki DDL-9000C: The advanced technology in this machine allows for automated sewing making it a great choice for professionals working with different materials including hook and loop tape.

Replacing old hook and loop tape with a good quality one will make your projects last longer.

Method 5: Proper Storage and Care

One way to extend the life of your hook-and-loop tape is to store and care for it properly. Proper storage will prevent the buildup of dirt and debris and reduce wear and tear on the hooks and loops.

How to Store Hook and Loop Tape:

Store in a Dust-Free Environment: Keep your materials in a clean, dry space so they won’t collect dust and dirt.

• Keep Hook and Loop Sides Separated: If possible store hook and loop tape in a way that the two sides won’t stick together unnecessarily. This will reduce wear on both the hooks and loops.
• Avoid Overuse: Repeated opening and closing of the tape will wear down the hooks and loops. Use the fastener only when necessary to prolong its life.

Take care of your hook and loop tape, and it will last longer.

Shop GoldStar Tool’s Hook and Loop Tape

Old hook and loop tape doesn’t have to be thrown away when it loses its stickiness. With cleaning, reshaping and maintenance you can restore most of its original stickiness. If the tape is too worn out to be salvaged replace it with good quality hook and loop tape for sewing from GoldStar Tool.

Whether you’re a DIY or a professional using good quality tools like Juki MO-623, Juki DDL-8700, or Juki DDL-9000C will make your sewing projects durable and quality. With proper care and the right materials, your hook and loop tape will last for many more projects to come.

FAQs

1. Can I restore all types of hook and loop tape?

Yes, most types of hook and loop tape can be restored using the methods above especially if the main issue is dirt or flattened loops.

2. What if my hook and loop tape is beyond repair?

If the tape is too worn out replace it with a good quality one like hook and loop tape for sewing from GoldStar Tool.

3. How do I prevent my hook and loop tape from losing its stickiness in the future?

Clean and store properly. Keep it dust and dirt-free and avoid overuse.

4. Are Juki machines good for sewing hook and loop tape?

Yes, Juki MO-623, Juki DDL-8700, Juki DDL-9000C are good machines for sewing hook and loop tape, reliable and professional quality.

5. Can I wash hook and loop tape in the washing machine?

Yes, but use a laundry bag to protect the tape during the wash and prevent it from collecting more lint and debris.