Stroller wheels are a crucial component of any stroller, as they allow for smooth and easy movement of the stroller. However, these wheels can easily accumulate dirt, dust, and other debris that can make them less efficient and even cause damage over time. Cleaning stroller wheels is an important part of stroller maintenance, but many parents are not sure how to do it properly.
In this guide, we will provide clear-cut step-by-step instructions on how to clean stroller wheels effectively. Swapmamas.com will also share some tips for maintaining clean wheels and keeping your stroller in good condition. With these tips, you can ensure that your stroller remains safe and functional for your child’s use.
Why clean stroller wheels?
Cleaning the wheels of your stroller is essential for its maintenance and optimal performance. It’s often overlooked by parents, but it can have serious consequences on the stroller’s maneuverability, stability, and hygiene.
Unclean wheels can make the stroller harder to control, affect its stability, and increase the risk of tipping over or losing balance. Additionally, dirt and debris can cause friction and damage the wheel’s material, leading to unnecessary replacement costs.
Regular cleaning can help to take care of some of these issues while maintaining good hygiene by reducing the risk of bacteria and germs accumulating and spreading. Make sure to clean your stroller wheels after each use and especially after exposure to dirt, sand, gravel, or animal droppings.
When considering cleaning your stroller, here are some tools you can use:
- Soft-bristled brush
- Wd-40 or Spray grease
- Nail polish remover (optional)
- Microfiber sponge
- Clean cloth
How to clean stroller wheels
Dirty stroller wheels not only look unappealing, but they can also cause damage to your floors and carpets and potentially harm your baby’s health by spreading germs. That’s why it’s important to clean the stroller wheels regularly. Below is list of instructions to provide a step-by-step guide on how to clean pram wheels:
Step 1: Remove any visible debris
Before you start cleaning the wheels, it’s important to remove any visible debris such as rocks, pebbles, or dirt that might be stuck in the wheel crevices. This can be done with a brush of soft bristles to gently scrub away any loose dirt and dust.
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Step 2: Prepare a cleaning solution
Next, make use of mix warm water and mild soap in a bucket or a big bowl to make a cleaning solution. Don’t use strong chemicals or abrasive cleaners on your stroller because they can hurt the wheels or the frame. Instead, use a mild soap or a cleaner that is safe for babies.
Step 3: Scrub the wheels with the cleaning solution
Dab a clean sponge or soft-bristled brush into the cleaning fluid and scrub the wheels well. Pay special attention to the cracks in the wheels and where the wheels attach to the stroller’s frame. If the wheels are quite dirty, you can make use of a toothbrush to get into the small holes.
Step 4: Rinse the wheels thoroughly
After scrubbing the wheels, give them a good rinse with clean water to get rid of any soap residue or dirt that might still be on them. Use a hose or a faucet with moderate water pressure to rinse the wheels. Make sure to rinse all the soap suds from the wheels and the wheel crevices.
Step 5: Dry the wheels completely
Finally, dry the wheels completely with a clean, dry towel or a cloth. Make sure to dry the wheel crevices as well as the rest of the wheel. Leaving the wheels wet can cause them to rust or corrode over time.
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How to Clean Rust Stains from Stroller Wheels
Sometimes after washing the wheel, rust can be seen to be present on the metal part of the wheel. Here are step-by-step processes on how to remove rust from stroller wheels;
Step 1: Identify the rust stains
The first step is to identify the rust stains on the stroller. Rust stains can appear on metal parts such as the frame, wheels, and screws. If the rust is minimal, it may appear as light discoloration. However, severe rust can cause holes to form in the metal. Identify the extent of the rust stains before proceeding to clean them.
Step 2: Clean with a dry cloth
When starting the cleaning process, it’s important to take of any loose dirt or debris from the wheel’s surface. Use a dry cloth or soft-bristled brush to gently wipe the wheel’s surface, ensuring that all corners, including the crevices between the spokes of the wheel, are cleaned. This will prevent any loose debris from interfering with the cleaning process.
Step 3: Apply spray grease or WD-40
The next step is to apply a spray of grease or wd-40 to the wheel. WD-40 or spray grease can be used to remove rust stains from the stroller wheels. Apply the product directly to the rust stains, making sure to cover the entire area.
Step 4: Scrub the rust stains
After applying a spray of grease or wd-40, now gently scrub the surface of the wheel, paying extra attention to the areas with rust stains. If the rust stain still surfaces, add more spray grease or wd-40 to the spot and scrub using the microfiber sponge until it does not leave a shadow. Do not apply too much pressure, as this can damage the surface of the wheel. Continue scrubbing until the rust stains have been removed.
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Step 5: Use rust eater and liquid eating products (optional)
If the rust stain persists after cleaning the wheel with the spray grease or wd-40, use a rust eater to clean the surface. For effective removal, you can separate the wheels from the stroller frame. If the wheels are stocked to the stroller frame as a result of the rust, a liquid rust-eating product can be used to clean the wheels. Then, use a microfiber sponge to wipe away the rust stains.
Maintenance Tips for Preventing Future Rust Stains
To prevent future rust stains on your stroller, it’s important to take preventative measures by keeping it dry and clean. Here are some maintenance tips on how to get rust off the stroller:
- Store the stroller indoors: Whenever possible, store your stroller indoors, away from moisture and humidity. If you need to store your stroller outdoors, cover it with a weatherproof cover to protect it from the elements.
- Dry the stroller thoroughly: After you clean your stroller, make sure it is completely dry before putting it away. Use a microfiber cloth or towel to dry all the metal parts, especially the joints and cracks where water can collect.
- Apply spray grease: Consider using spray grease on the metal parts of the stroller to prevent future rust formation. These sprays create a protective barrier that prevents moisture and oxidation from causing rust stains.
- Use a stroller wheel cover: If you’re using your stroller in a dirty environment, use a stroller wheel cover to protect the wheels from dirt and debris.
- Lubricate the wheels: Apply a small amount of lubricant to the wheels every few months to keep them running smoothly. Use a silicone-based lubricant and avoid using oil-based lubricants that can attract dirt and dust.
Conclusion
If you want to keep those stroller wheels rust-free, prevention is the name of the game. And how to clean stroller wheels has been explained in detail in this article. To keep those wheels dry as a bone, stash them away in a cozy, moisture-free spot, and steer clear of any rainy-day adventures. And don’t forget to show your stroller some love on the wheels. Give it a good scrub with spray grease to keep those pesky rust stains at bay. With a little TLC and a lot of prevention, your stroller will roll like a champ for years to come.
Last Updated on May 22, 2023 4:11 AM
Miracris Calilung is the co-founder of Swapmamas.com, a website that shares parenting tips. A mother herself, she loves baby and enjoys sharing her experiences with others. She is also a Senior Marketing Analyst who brings with her over 10 years of experience in marketing and business analysis.