How to Repair Worn Out Charging Cables
Our laptop and phone chargers go through a lot. Some cords break and wear out so easily that they seem to be designed to break, so you need to replace them at a good profit for the manufacturer … yes. Fortunately, there are some easy ways to help your cords survive (or recover from) the twists and turns we put them on every day.
Take preventive measures
The best way to save your chargers is to take care of them first. The main rule to keep in mind is that excessive pressure and bending is not the best option for any cable. The next time you’re about to yank your phone out of the charger, consider carefully unplugging it from the device instead. Another tip: do not use the device while charging to minimize bending and kinking of the cords.
Use duct tape
The quickest way to salvage a frayed cable is to wrap it in non-conductive tape that can safely wrap any exposed wires. While not a permanent solution, sealing the frayed areas with duct tape can slow down damage that has already begun. As long as the wires are intact, simply straighten the cable and wrap the tape tightly around the base. (Be sure to stick the tape when the power cord is unplugged as you may be aware of the risk of electric shock.)
Use heat shrink tubing
Compared to electrical tape, heat shrink tubing is a more reliable and durable repair option. Here’s more information on how to apply heat shrink wrap to cables. The results are so smooth that you can use this as a precaution and not just to prevent damage.
MacGyver with spring handle
Do you have a broken pen lying around? Use his organs to protect your cords. All you have to do is wind the spring onto the cable and slide it off the end of the charger that wears the most. If these tips don’t work, it might be time to upgrade your crappy phone charger to one that will actually last more than a few weeks.