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.
These are essentially heavy-duty stickers. They are incredibly convenient and fast, but they are generally considered temporary. Over time, the adhesive can dry out or peel, so they are best used to get you home.
Before putting the tube back in, run your fingers carefully along the inside of your tire. If the thorn, glass, or wire that caused the flat is still stuck in the tire, it will pop your newly patched tube instantly. When to Toss the Tube
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
If you want a repair that lasts, follow this process for a vulcanizing patch:
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.
