Stroller Maintenance and Cleaning: 9 Ways to Keep It Good As New
Strollers are investments. With proper stroller maintenance and cleaning, you can keep them looking good as new. And they will still be in top shape.
Aside from preserving its ‘looks’, proper cleaning and maintenance can save you from repairs and parts replacement.
A well-maintained baby stroller will make it work smoothly, allowing you to fully enjoy using it.
But how do you do this?
Here are some tips to help you get started.
1 – Read the Manual
Most people skip this. After all, who enjoys reading the manual?
However, if you don’t, you might end up attaching the wrong parts. Or you might damage some parts when you remove them for cleaning.
2 – Vacuum Away
Crumbs can be difficult to remove especially when they’re stuck in hard-to-reach places such as inside the pockets or inside the cup holder. Use a vacuum cleaner to remove debris and crumbs stuck inside.
You might want to check for toys and small parts that might have fallen inside before you start the vacuum.
3 – Wash Fabric Parts
If the fabric parts like the seat and canopy are removable, take them off once in a while so you can wash them.
Wiping can do a good job. But it can only do so much. Washing can remove stains, odor, or stickiness that wiping alone can’t.
Remove the fabric carefully. If it’s hard to get, don’t yank it. You might damage the fabric. If you’re unsure of how to go about it, check the manual first.
While you’re at it, check if it’s machine washable. If not, gently hand wash the fabric parts. Do not tumble dry. Wash them in cool water.
4 – Clean Without Washing
If you can’t remove the fabric, or if you’re just going to do a quick clean, start by removing crumbs or any visible dirt.
Soak a soft towel in soapy water.
For stubborn dirt, try using a solution with water and vinegar, or baking soda.
5 – Lubricate
Moving parts like the wheels, bearings, and, brakes need to be lubricated from time to time. If not, it will increase friction. Eventually, these parts will be worn out.
Remember to lubricate especially if it got wet.
6 – Wash away Sand, Mud, and Saltwater
Mud, saltwater, and sand should not stay in your stroller. They can cause metal parts to become rusty.
So after an adventure or a trip to the beach, take time to clean the stroller. Use hot, soapy water or bike cleaning spray for a more thorough clean.
7 – Stay Away From Harsh Products
Be careful about the products you use to clean your stroller. Abrasives or corrosive products will end up damaging different parts of the stroller.
Above all, a baby’s skin is highly sensitive.
Chose the mildest and most PH-friendly products you can find.
8 – Keep It Out of the Sun
When you’re done ‘washing’ the stroller, leave it to dry. Leave it in the open air to dry. But don’t place it in direct sunlight.
If you’re in a hurry, use a vacuum cleaner for faster drying.
9 – Inspect Regularly
From time to time, check the condition of the stroller.
The nuts, bolts, and screws must be in place and secured. If you find anything wrong, don’t use the stroller until it’s fixed.
Over time, tires will naturally lose some of its air. You will need to re-inflate from time to time. But don’t over inflate them. Tires have a certain ideal air-fill level that yields a smooth ride.
These are practical and easy-to-follow tips.