Pump some air into the tube. Listen for a hiss or feel for airflow. If you’re at home, submerge the tube in water; a stream of bubbles will pinpoint even the tiniest "slow leak."

Peel the foil backing off the patch (try not to touch the sticky side) and press it firmly over the hole. Use your thumb to apply heavy pressure from the center outward to work out any air bubbles.

Before you start, you need to know which tool you’re using.

These kits come with a small tube of "rubber cement." This isn't actually glue; it’s a chemical agent that melts the patch and the tube together into a single, seamless piece of rubber. Once cured, the patch is often stronger than the rest of the tube. How to Patch a Tube in 5 Steps

Spread a thin, even layer of the fluid over an area slightly larger than the patch. Wait 2–3 minutes. The fluid needs to be "tacky" or nearly dry to the touch before you apply the patch.

If you want a repair that lasts, follow this process for a vulcanizing patch: