Question 1

How do I get an item repaired?

Accepted Answer

When you bring an item to be repaired, you will wait in a queue and then greeted at the door by our team, and asked a few questions about your item. We'll ask you to complete a disclaimer form and we might weigh your item too. If all the fixers are busy, which is quite common, you'll be added to a waiting list. You can then head to the cafe to wait with your item, and we'll come and get you when an appropriate fixer is free. Please be prepared to wait- luckily the 229 cafe has plenty of books, coffee and board games!We stop accepting new items 30 minutes before the advertised finish time. Remember to let us know on your way out if your item was fixed or not!

Question 2

How many items can I bring for repair?

Accepted Answer

We have a one (1) item per household policy, and this includes items that we are not able to fix. This is to ensure that as many people as possible get an item looked at in each session.

You can attend as many repair cafes as you like, so there's plenty of opportunity to get other items looked at.

Question 3

How long does it take?

Accepted Answer

An item can take a few minutes to a few hours to be looked at. You will also need to wait up to 1-1.5 hours in a queue- we are lucky to be very popular!

Question 4

Can I drop off an item to be fixed without waiting?

Accepted Answer

We invite you to stay with your fixer while your item is being looked at, and you might be asked to assist too, you never know, you might learn a new skill while you're with us!

We will also ask you to keep your item with you if you're waiting in the queue too.

Question 5

I'm not sure if my item can be repaired, can I ask a fixer?

Accepted Answer

Diagnosing the problem is a major part of the time our fixers spend on a repair. If you're unsure, you can contact us before you visit to let us know the problem. When you bring your item to be looked at, it will need to be booked in.

Question 6

Can I go away and come back again if there's a queue?

Accepted Answer

On some occasions, we may be able to take a number and let you know when a fixer is available, however please note that we will prioritise those who are waiting on the premises to make the best use of our fixers' time.

Question 7

Will the fixer have all the right spare parts?

Accepted Answer

If you know in advance that your item may need a spare part (a zip for instance, or batteries) please bring the right thing with you on the day, the fixers can only bring so much with them and this is mainly tools.

If the fixer finds your item needs a spare part, they can advise you on what to get and invite you to bring it along to the next cafe to continue the repair.

If you're able to "prep" your item before hand that can be a massive help too (i.e; if you're able to take out the broken zip.)

Question 8

Do you do alterations?

Accepted Answer

Our fixers are more than happy to alter something to make it wearable for you, however please bear in mind that they are volunteers and cannot guarantee a professional service. Our general ethos is to fix things that would otherwise be heading to landfill, and if the fix doesn't work (or even breaks it more!) then there is no loss.

If you've got a new item of clothing which you are worried about damaging, we recommend taking it to the Zip Yard on Bedford High Street to be altered professionally.

Question 9

Will you dispose of my broken item for me?

Accepted Answer

We are unable to dispose of any items which are not repairable, you will need to take it away with you and dispose of it responsibly.

Question 10

Can I pay something towards my repair?

Accepted Answer

All our fixers are volunteers and your repair is free! If you'd like to donate something towards the running costs of the repair cafe, there are tip jars dotted around and a QR code to donate by card if you'd prefer.

Frequently asked questions