Zipper Guide – Which Zipper Goes Where | E-Fermuar

Zipper Guide: Which Zipper Goes Where? T3, T5, T8, T10 Fully Explained

Nylon spiral, invisible zipper, combi zipper and more – the complete guide to making the right choice

Zipper selection is one of the most critical details in any textile product – from coats to dresses, bags to sleeping bags – directly affecting both durability and user comfort. Choosing the wrong zipper type can lead to breakage, difficult fastening, unexpected opening, and customer dissatisfaction. The right zipper, on the other hand, adds value to your product and extends its lifespan.

In this guide, we will cover nylon zipper types, what type numbers mean, which size is right for which product, and the difference between open-end and closed-end zippers. Let's dive in!

1. Where Are Nylon Zippers Used?

Nylon zippers feature a spiral tooth structure and are lightweight and flexible. Compared to metal zippers, their softer and quieter closure, wide color palette, and affordable pricing make them the most preferred zipper model in everyday textile products.

Where Are Nylon Zippers Used – Usage Areas by Length | E-Fermuar

Nylon zipper usage areas by length

Nylon Zipper Usage Areas by Length

???? Length ????️ Category ✅ Usage Areas
10–15 cm Pocket Zippers Trouser pockets, skirt pockets, small bag compartments, wallets
18–25 cm Trousers & Skirts Dress zipper, skirt zipper, trouser fly zipper
25–40 cm Bag Group Makeup bags, backpacks, pillow covers
30–50 cm Casual Wear Sweatshirt, cardigan, medium bag
45–70 cm Coat Group Coats, parkas, puffer jackets, sport jackets
80–100 cm Long Zippers Long coat, overcoat, evening gown, baby sleeping bag, pillow cover
120–140 cm Abaya & Home Textiles Abaya models, duvet covers, fabric wardrobes, long sleeping bags

2. Nylon Spiral Zipper – Which Size Goes Where?

Nylon spiral zippers have a wide range of applications thanks to their flexible and lightweight structure — from small bag compartments to long abaya zippers. Choosing the correct size is critical for the functionality of your product.

Nylon Spiral Zipper – Which Size Goes Where, 10cm to 100cm | E-Fermuar

Nylon spiral zipper: size recommendations by application

10–15 cm
Bag interior, small pocket
18–25 cm
Dress, skirt, trousers
30–50 cm
Sweatshirt, cardigan
60–80 cm
Coat, hooded jacket
100 cm+
Duvet cover, sleeping bag, abaya
???? Golden Rule: The longer and heavier the product, the longer the zipper length and the higher the type number should be.

3. What Is the Difference Between T3, T5, T7, T8, T10 Zippers?

The type (T) number on a zipper indicates the thickness of the teeth and the load-bearing capacity of the zipper. As the number increases, the teeth get thicker and the zipper becomes stronger and more resistant to heavy use.

Nylon Zipper T3 T5 T7 T10 Difference – Type Selection Guide | E-Fermuar

From T3 to T10: zipper type numbers and their uses

Type Tooth Thickness Usage Area Feature
T3 Fine Baby & children's clothing, delicate dresses, elegant garments Lightweight, soft, skin-friendly
T5 Medium Casual wear, sweatshirts, light jackets Suitable for everyday use, well-balanced
T7 Medium-Heavy Sleeping bags, camping gear, outdoor apparel Sports & outdoor use
T8 Heavy Thick coats, sports bags, outdoor products High durability
T10 Extra Heavy Large sports bags, camping & outdoor equipment Resistant to extreme conditions
✅ Quick Rule:
  • Small / thin product → T3
  • Casual wear → T5
  • Coat & bag → T8
  • Heavy equipment, outdoor → T10

4. Open-End vs. Closed-End Zipper: What's the Difference?

One of the most frequently asked questions in zipper selection is: "Should I choose open-end or closed-end?" Understanding the difference between these two types directly affects both manufacturing quality and user comfort.

Open-End vs Closed-End Zipper Difference – Separating and Non-Separating | E-Fermuar

Open-end (separating) and closed-end (non-separating) zipper comparison with slider types

Open-End (Separating) Zipper

  • The bottom completely separates
  • Used in coats, jackets and vests
  • Choose when the product opens into two pieces
  • Varies by slider type

Closed-End (Non-Separating) Zipper

  • The bottom is fixed, does not separate
  • Used in bags, dresses and pocket zippers
  • Provides secure and firm closure
  • More economical and widely preferred
Quick Decision Guide: If your product needs to fully separate (like a coat) → Open-End. If it only needs to open and close (like a bag or dress) → Closed-End.

Nylon Zipper Slider (Pull) Types

The zipper slider (puller) affects both functionality and the aesthetic appearance of the product. E-Fermuar offers Classic Slider, Ring Pull, Cord Pull and Double Slider options. The double slider model is ideal for products that need to open from both directions.

5. What Is a Combi Zipper? Where Is It Used?

A combi zipper is a two-way separating zipper — an open-end type that can be opened from both sides. Nylon Combi zippers are the preferred fastening type in products such as sports bags, suitcases, coats, sleeping bags and equipment bags thanks to their durability and flexibility.

Combi Zipper Guide – Where Is It Used, Which Type? | E-Fermuar

Combi zipper: length and type selection guide

Length Usage Area Recommended Type
30–45 cm Jacket, short coat T5–T8 (Open-End)
50–70 cm Coat, work apparel, bag compartment T6–T8 (Open-End)
70–90 cm Suitcase or sports bag T8–T10 (Open-End)
✅ Combi Zipper Summary: For products requiring two-way opening such as coats, sports bags and equipment bags → Open-End / Two-Way Separating → T6–T10.

6. Nylon Invisible Zipper Guide

An invisible zipper is an aesthetic zipper model whose teeth are hidden behind the fabric and invisible from the outside. It is the indispensable component of products that demand elegance and refinement. It is especially preferred in evening gowns, delicate skirts and children's clothing.

Nylon Invisible Zipper Guide – 18-25cm 30-50cm 55-60cm Usage | E-Fermuar

Invisible zipper sizes and usage recommendations

Length Usage Area Type
18–25 cm Thin skirt, children's dress Invisible Zipper (Fine type)
30–50 cm Standard dress / skirt Invisible Zipper (Fine type)
55–60 cm Long dress, evening gown Invisible Zipper (Fine type)
⚠️ Important Note: Invisible zippers are not suitable for products that carry heavy loads. They are only chosen for applications requiring a chic / aesthetic closure. For heavy-duty products, T8 or T10 spiral zippers should be selected.

7. Nylon Woven Zipper Guide

Unlike the spiral zipper, the nylon woven zipper has a woven tape structure that makes it more robust and longer-lasting. It is one of the most balanced zipper types in terms of price-to-performance. It can easily be used in both casual garments and heavy-duty products.

Nylon Woven Zipper Guide – How Many cm Goes Where | E-Fermuar

Nylon woven zipper: sizes, types and usage areas

Length Usage Area Recommended Type
10–15 cm Pocket, wallet, pencil case T3
18–25 cm Skirt, dress (delicate) T3 / Reverse Coil
30–50 cm Coat, sweatshirt, bag T5
60–80 cm Long cardigan, sports bag T5 / T8
90–110 cm Long coat, overcoat T8
120–140 cm Abaya, sleeping bag T8–T10
✅ Woven Zipper Summary: Long product with heavy load → T8–T10 | Casual wear → T5 | Fine and elegant → T3

8. How to Choose the Right Zipper? 3 Key Criteria

Choosing the right zipper is based on three key criteria: product type, length and tooth thickness (type number). Get these three right and your product will last longer, user satisfaction will increase, and returns will decrease.

  1. Identify the product type: Is it a dress, coat, bag or sleeping bag?
  2. Measure the length: After sewing, measure the area allocated for the zipper in cm.
  3. Choose the type number: The heavier and larger the product, the higher the type number you should choose.

⚠️ Consequences of Choosing the Wrong Zipper:

  • Zipper teeth breaking or skipping quickly
  • Difficulty opening and closing
  • Unexpected openings and product damage
  • Customer complaints and return costs

Want to Find the Right Zipper?

At E-Fermuar, all types from T3 to T10, from invisible to combi zippers, are ready in stock! Find the most suitable zipper for your needs right now with affordable prices, fast shipping and a wide range of color options.

Shop Now at E-Fermuar.com →

9. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

❓ How do I choose a zipper type?

Choose between T3 and T10 based on your product's weight and length. T3 for fine and lightweight products, T5 for casual wear, T8–T10 for heavy and large products.

❓ Which zipper is used for a coat?

Generally a T10 open-end (separating) nylon zipper is preferred. For shorter coats, T8 is also sufficient. If combi is needed, open-end T6–T10 is selected.

❓ Which zipper is used for a dress?

For standard dresses, a T5 closed-end zipper is sufficient. For elegant dresses where the zipper should not be visible, a nylon invisible zipper is ideal.

❓ How many cm of zipper is needed for an abaya?

Abaya zippers are generally preferred in the range of 120–140 cm. Depending on the abaya model, either a single or double (combi) zipper can be chosen.

❓ Is a combi zipper open-end?

Yes. A combi zipper is a two-way separating open-end zipper type. Its ability to fully separate from both sides provides great convenience in products like coats and suitcases.

❓ What is the difference between nylon and metal zippers?

Nylon zippers are lightweight, flexible, come in a wide range of colors, and are economical. Metal zippers are heavier but far more durable; generally used in denim, leather products and heavy outerwear.

Conclusion: The Right Zipper Is the Foundation of a Quality Product

While choosing a zipper may seem simple, the right choice directly impacts your product's quality, customer satisfaction, and your brand's reputation. As summarized in this guide: the combination of the correct length for the product type, the right type number (T3–T10) and open/closed end preference will always give you the best results.

As E-Fermuar, we offer spiral, invisible, woven, combi and many more nylon zipper varieties at affordable prices with fast shipping. We reliably serve orders from both individual seamstresses and large textile companies.

Can't find the zipper you're looking for?

Browse the E-Fermuar product catalog and reach the right zipper in seconds using size and color filters.

Visit E-Fermuar.com Now