Baby strollers are among the essential items you don’t replace every few months. Besides cost considerations, some models and designs are hard to replace.
A good stroller maintenance routine can keep the stroller looking good and prolong its life. The following tips will help keep your baby stroller in perfect condition.
Quick Stroller Maintenance Tips for Parents and Caregivers
#1 Clean the Seat and Fabric Cover
Some strollers have a fixed seat and fabric cover, but most models have a detachable seat. Unlike fixed models, detachable designs like the Orbit Baby G5 are easier to clean since you can easily access hard-to-reach areas.
Detaching the seat and canopy makes cleaning the food particles, soil or debris that may have accumulated on the stroller easier. While a brush may not be effective for smaller pieces, a vacuum will do the job. You can clean most seats and canopies in a washing machine, but checking the user manual is essential. If machine washing is not feasible, wash them in a bathtub and dry them away from direct sunlight.
If your stroller model has a permanent seat and fabric, you still need to clean them. A vacuum cleaner can eliminate debris and dirt on the seat, fabric, and other vital accessories like a Diono fan. While a soft towel can deep clean stains, you might need a toothbrush to clean hard-to-reach areas.
#2 Clean and Protect the Frame From the Elements
The frame is a vital structure that holds the stroller together. While it may not be obvious, the frame can accumulate a significant amount of dirt and grime over time. Unlike other stroller accessories, replacing a frame can be expensive. Regular inspection is essential to prevent unnecessary repairs and replacements.
Most importantly, always inspect the brakes to determine if they require tightening and lubrication. Like all other parts, you should clean the flame using baby-safe detergents since abrasives, and strong solvents can corrode metallic parts and discolor plastic components. Also, ensure to wipe dry any water on the frame after cleaning.
Most strollers can withstand any weather but not for prolonged periods. Whether you’ve just washed the stroller, or coming back from an impromptu rainy day walk, ensure to dry off the frame before storing it in a well-ventilated area.
#3 Keep the Wheels in Perfect Condition
The stroller wheels accumulate dust and dirt regardless of the terrain you traverse, so giving them a thorough wipe-down is essential. A hose blast will easily dislodge debris and mud from the wheels before storage.
However, it’s important to remove the wheels every few months for deep cleaning baby stroller since most models have a release mechanism to disengage the wheels. Use mild soap in warm water and a brush to dislodge dry mud before drying with a cloth.
While you can use silicone and oil lubricant on the wheel bearings, they attract dust, making your maintenance routine messy. Instead, use nonstick Teflon lubricants on moving parts in and around the wheels.
Importance of Cleaning and Maintaining Stroller Regularly
Keeping strollers clean and well maintained is essential for keeping children safe, healthy and comfortable. It is important to take the time to regularly inspect and clean a stroller in order to ensure it functions properly. The most common parts of a stroller that need regular cleaning are the handles, brakes, tires and fabric areas.
The importance of cleaning and maintaining a stroller cannot be overstated. Not only does this help keep germs away, but it can also help ensure that the stroller will last longer without any major repairs or replacement parts needed.
Additionally, regular maintenance prevents dirt buildup which can cause damage to other areas of the stroller such as its brakes or handlebars. Regularly cleaning all surfaces with gentle soap and water will keep your family’s ride clean while also extending its lifespan significantly.
Endnote
A good maintenance regimen keeps your baby stroller clean and prevents natural wear and tear to ensure prolonged use. Moreover, you’ll have peace of mind knowing your baby is sitting in a safe stroller.
