Is your patch lifting at one edge or coming off more easily than at first? Before replacing it, look at both sides of the fastening.
A hook-and-loop fastening can hold on to hair, fibres or small debris that stop the surfaces from meeting properly.
Remove the patch to examine the fastening
First take the harness off your dog. Remove the patch and place it on a well-lit surface.
Look at the side with small hooks and the softer fabric side. Look for built-up hair, but also for any bent hooks or stitching coming loose.
Cleaning can clear a clogged fastening; it does not repair a worn part.
Clean gradually, without tearing the fibres
Remove the hair you can reach with your fingers. On the hook side, a small suitable brush can help clear the debris, working gently.
The manufacturer VELCRO recommends brushing the hooks and stresses prevention: keeping them covered when not in use limits the build-up of fibres. This does not mean that all patches use this brand’s products.
Source: VELCRO care advice
Avoid rough handling of the fabric side: pulling on the loops can damage it.
Should you wash the patch?
Check its instructions before using water or any product. The fastening, the fabric, the embroidery or a print may have different requirements.
Do not try to “revive” the grip with glue, a solvent or a heat source. If washing is allowed, also follow the drying instructions.
Put it back over its whole surface
Once the parts are clean and dry, line them up correctly and press over the whole patch. An edge placed outside the intended area is more likely to come off.
If the grip remains weak after cleaning, ask the seller whether the patch or its base can be replaced.
To limit it happening again, avoid leaving the hook side in contact with a blanket, a fabric dog bed or hair when it is uncovered.
Read next
- How to dry a harness after a walk in the rain?: if the instructions allow cleaning with water.