There are some things that we do not repair, and some repairs that we do not undertake, as follows:
• Items that are still under warranty
• Bicycles (because many bike shops exist in San Francisco that can help, and also the SF public library runs a bicycle repair clinic at branch libraries on a rotating basis)
• White goods
• Microwaves
• Mobile phones (but advice given on use)
• Cameras
• Watches
• Sewing alterations (clothes or curtains)
• Zips (too time consuming)
• Leather stitching (requires an industrial sewing machine)
• Petrol driven products
• 3-phase power tools
• Any products that could present a hazard to repairers such as those known to contain or be made from asbestos
• Many toasters are unable to be repaired
In general at Repair cafés things are fixed 50-70% of time. Sometimes the repair volunteers can identify the problem and send you home with a plan, and sometimes it may be time to recycle an item. Check with the SF Department of the Environment for recycling options. But whatever happens, you’ll meet neighbors, make friends and we’ll develop a stronger, more sustainable community.
No, the Repair Cafe is only open at the advertised times and the venue may change so please keep an eye on the website and Instagram for updates.
No, the Repair Cafe is not a repair service, but a meeting place where volunteer repairers come together to mend broken items.
The Repair Cafe does not have a large quantity of spare parts in stock. If repairs cannot be carried out with what is available, the visitor will usually be given advice on where to buy the material. It might be possible to mend the item later on in the morning, or if not, during the next Repair Cafe event.
We are dependent on our wonderful team of volunteers to make the Repair Cafe run. If you are interested in becoming a volunteer repairer, or helping as a welcomer, serving teas and coffees (location dependent), setting up or clearing down, etc, please either email us on: repaircafesf@gmail.com or sign up at our volunteer form or come along to one of the next events to see how the Repair Cafe works.
Yes! The Repair Café is open to everyone. However, it doesn’t make good environmental sense for you to drive a long way to get your broken item repaired. We encourage people to walk, bike or take the bus to get to the Repair Café.
See house rules / waiver for important information.