Download Article
Plus, how to free yourself from zip tie restraints in emergencies
Download Article
Cable ties typically come in two types: single-use and reusable. However, you can easily undo a single-use tie – without having to cut it open – so you can use it again. But since it’s only meant for a one-time use, there are a couple of pointers to remember when reusing them. On a scarier note, cable ties are also often used as restraints during home invasions, but thankfully, it’s possible to escape them even with your hands tied.
How to Open a Zip Tie
Locate the zip tie’s box-shaped lock, then bend the zip tie’s tail to expose the locking mechanism inside of it. Use a small screwdriver, a safety pin, or your fingernail to push down the locking bar inside the box so it doesn’t catch on the zip tie’s teeth. Pull the tail end free of the lock with your other hand.
Steps
Section 1 of 3:
Undoing a Zip Tie Without Cutting
Download Article
-
Find the box-shaped locking mechanism at one end of the zip tie. A ready-to-use zip tie has one end that tapers to a point while the other is capped with a tiny cube. When used, the pointy end is fed through a slot in the cube to form a loop and then pulled tight. The cube is the locking mechanism that catches on teeth along the tie and keeps it from worming back out through the slot. [1] X Research source
- Zip ties (also called cable ties) can be put to a wide variety of practical uses, including organizing cords, creating a quick key ring, or locking your backpack.
-
Bend the zip tie’s loose end back to expose the locking mechanism. The zip tie’s loose end tends to curve over the locking mechanism once it’s fed through it. Bending the zip tie away from that side of the cube exposes the locking mechanism, so you’re able to “unlock” the tie. [2] X Research sourceAdvertisement -
Depress the locking bar with your fingernail or a screwdriver. Look underneath the loose end of the zip tie where it exits the cube. There’s a small bar or tab that catches on the zip tie’s teeth. Use your fingernail or a pocket-size screwdriver to push down on the bar. This releases the locking mechanism. [3] X Research source
- Or, try pushing the sharp end of a safety pin through the lock to hold the bar up. Just be careful not to prick your finger!
- Another option is to use a pair of needle-nose pliers to gently squeeze the box and disengage the locking bar.
-
Pull the loose end back through the lock. Keep pushing down on the bar. As you do, use your other hand to slowly draw the loose end back through the cube. Once it’s out, you’re all done! [4] X Research sourceMarie Kondo, Cleaning & Organization Expert
When organizing your home, reusable zip ties can be an asset for bundling cables neatly. However, with a bit of finesse, even single-use ties can serve multiple purposes if unlocked properly. Insert a flat tool into the ratchet tab and push gently to loosen the teeth while sliding out the end. Though not as sturdy for repeated use, these repurposed ties reduce waste when taming cord clutter.
Advertisement
Section 2 of 3:
Reusing Zip Ties
Download Article
-
Refrain from trimming zip ties to reuse them. Many people like to trim the tail of a zip tie for a neater look. To use the same tie over and over again for different things, leave the loose end long after locking the tie. All that excess may be unsightly but remember: once you snip it off, you’ll only be able to use that tie for bundles of the same size or smaller.
- Instead of cutting off the end, tuck it into the loop of the zip tie for a neater look.
-
Anticipate wear and tear when reusing a zip tie. Keep in mind that single-use zip-ties are designed to be used one time. Even though you can technically undo and use them again, expect the plastic teeth to wear down the more you undo and retie them. Also, keep in mind that manipulating the locking mechanism damages it a little each time.
- The tie may develop a looser grip over time, so avoid using old ones to tie anything that really, really needs to be secured.
- If the zip tie gets easier and easier to undo every time you use it, the teeth may be wearing down. Toss it and use a new one.
-
Use reusable cable ties for jobs that require unlocking the tie regularly. If you’re constantly using and reusing single-use ties for short-term projects, consider another option. Invest in some cable ties that are specifically designed for reuse. They work the same way as a standard zip tie, except they have a small button or trigger on the clocking mechanism, so they’re easier to unlock. [5] X Research source
- Reusable zip ties cost a little more than standard zip ties, but the money may be worth it if it saves you time.
- Reusable zip ties are much easier to open, so they may not be ideal to use for something that needs to stay secure for an extended time.
Advertisement
Expert Q&A
Ask a Question
200 characters left
Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.
Submit
Advertisement
Video
Tips
Submit a Tip
All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published
Name
Please provide your name and last initial
Thanks for submitting a tip for review!
References
- ↑ https://www.manmadediy.com/how-to-undo-zip-ties
- ↑ https://youtu.be/GTubRYlY6U4?t=16
- ↑ https://www.manmadediy.com/how-to-undo-zip-ties/
- ↑ https://youtu.be/4uHtlNcGA3w?t=90
- ↑ https://youtu.be/SpskQVvKSqk?t=82
- ↑ https://www.artofmanliness.com/skills/manly-know-how/3-ways-to-escape-zip-ties-an-illustrated-guide/
- ↑ https://www.ksby.com/how-escape-zip-ties/
- ↑ https://www.ksby.com/how-escape-zip-ties/
- ↑ http://www.artofmanliness.com/2014/03/27/3-ways-to-escape-zip-ties-an-illustrated-guide/
About This Article
Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 480,174 times.
Reader Success Stories
- "I use cable ties for everything. I also recycle to prevent pollution of my grandchildren's Earth. Now I will be able to reuse cable ties instead and not snip off the excess! I also did not know that cable ties were invented on my birth year!" ..." more
Advertisement
"I use cable ties for everything. I also recycle to prevent pollution of my grandchildren's Earth. Now I will be able to reuse cable ties instead and not snip off the excess! I also did not know that cable ties were invented on my birth year!"
..."
more
