How To Clean Stroller Wheels? A Comprehensive Guide

Do you frequently go out with your baby in your stroller? An average parent goes out the most in a baby’s first year with a stroller. About 1000 miles.  That’s a lot of wear and tear on those small wheels! 

Dirt, mud, and grass can stick to the wheels and make them look gross and smell bad. So, cleaning them is essential. But How to Clean Stroller Wheels? Moreover, how frequently to clean it.

Well, cleaning the stroller wheels is not an intimidating task since I will mention all the steps in an easy way.

Why Should You Clean Your Stroller Wheels Regularly?

Stroller wheels are an essential part of a stroller. When you use a stroller frequently, the wheels are the first thing in the stroller that gets damaged. So, cleaning them is the only way to save them.

Cleaning the stroller wheels serves a much bigger purpose than you can think. Here are some of the reasons why you should clean your stroller wheels regularly:

Prevent dirt and bacteria from spreading: Your stroller wheels come in contact with all kinds of terrains which can carry dirt, bacteria, and other harmful substances. These germs can cause infection and allergies in your baby. Regularly cleaning stroller wheels can prevent that.

To improve the performance and safety of your stroller: Dirty wheels can cause friction, noise, wobbling, and even wheel bearing or axle damage. Cleaning your stroller wheels will make your baby’s trip smoother.

Extend the lifespan and value of your stroller: Cleaning your stroller wheels regularly can also help you maintain the quality and appearance of your stroller. 

What You Need to Clean Stroller Wheels

Cleaning the stroller wheels is not a daunting task. What you have at home right now should be enough.

Some of the things you will need while you clean stroller wheels-

• Warm soapy water
• A dry towel
• Dust brush or an old toothbrush
• WD-40

How To Clean Stroller Wheels Step-by-Step Process

If you have all the equipment I have mentioned, now we can start the process of cleaning the stroller wheels. The steps are quite easy but do it carefully. 

Step 1: Removing the Wheels

Remove the wheels from the stroller frame with a screwdriver. Most strollers have a simple mechanism for wheel removal. Some stroller wheels need a wrench, or a button to remove the wheels. This video will guide you if you are still vague about this.

Step 2: Dirt Removal

To remove any loose dirt, crumbs, hair, or debris from the wheels and the wheel wells, use a dust brush to sweep them away.

Step 3: Preparing a Cleaning Solution

Use warm water and mild soap or detergent. You can also add some vinegar or baking soda for extra cleaning power. Fill a bucket or a bowl with the cleaning solution and mix it well.

Step 4: Scrubbing the Wheels

Scrub the wheels with the cleaning solution you have just made. You can use a soft cloth or a sponge to wipe and scrub the wheels gently. You can also use a toothbrush to get into the gaps and corners of the wheels and remove any stuck stains.

Step 5: Rinsing and Drying

Rinse the wheels in a bucket of water to remove all the soap. Dry the wheels completely before you reattach them. You can air dry them, or use a hair dryer or a soft towel to dry them fast.

Step 6: Shine Them Up

Grab an old cloth or paper towel, wet it with water, and add some dish soap. Squeeze it well so it doesn’t drip too much on the wheel surface. Gently wipe away any leftover dirt particles from all parts until the wheels are shiny.

You can also polish the wheels with WD-40. This will keep your wheels in great condition and overall increase your stroller life.

Step 7: Lubricating the Stroller Wheels for Smooth Operation

Use a silicone spray or oil to lubricate the wheel bearings or axles. This will significantly reduce friction and glide through the terrain smoothly.

Step 8: Reattaching the Wheels

Now reattach the wheels securely and correctly. Use a screwdriver, wrench, or button to reattach them.

How Often Should You Clean Your Stroller Wheels?

You have cleaned your stroller wheels. Now you wonder, how many times time have to do it? 

Well, it depends on how often and where you use your stroller. If you use your stroller frequently and in dirty or muddy places, you may need to clean your stroller wheels more often.

A good practice is to clean the stroller wheels once a month. If you clean the wheels regularly, you can just brush them with a dust brush. But if you do it periodically then, do the steps I mentioned every time.

How to Maintain Your Stroller Wheels After Cleaning

You cannot just get away after cleaning your stroller wheels or cleaning your stroller as well. To keep them running for years, you should also properly maintain them. 

• Wipe and vacuum your stroller wheels after every use or every week. 
• Check and tighten your stroller wheels every month. 
• Lubricate your stroller wheels every month or every two months.
• Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive materials when cleaning your stroller wheels. Use mild soap or detergent and warm water instead.
• Avoid extreme temperatures or humidity when storing your stroller. Store your stroller in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated place. 
• Replace your stroller wheels when they are worn out, cracked, punctured, or broken.

What Is The Best Way To Grease A Stroller Wheel

You should grease your stroller wheels once a month or two. But what type of grease is the best and how to apply it? 

Many of you think oil-based lubricants are the best. That’s simply not the case always. Oil can quickly accumulate dirt and make the wheels squeaky. 

The best type of grease for stroller wheels is a silicone-based lubricant. Silicone lubricants are non-toxic, odorless, and long-lasting. Teflon-based lubricants like the Finish Line Dry Lube which I use personally are a great option.

Here are some tips for lubricating your stroller wheels:

• Clean the wheels with a mild soap and water solution before lubricating.
• Apply the lubricant to the moving parts of the wheels, like the axles and bearings.
• Do not over-lubricate, as this can accumulate dirt and dust.
• Wipe away any excess lubricant with a clean cloth.

How Do You Get Sand Out of Stroller Wheels?

Sands are the real enemy of your stroller wheels. They are hard to clean out and can stuck in the wheel corners. Sand can also reduce wheel lifespan causing friction, noise, and damage. 

So how do you get sand out of stroller wheels? Here are some steps that you can follow:

Remove the Wheels

Detach the stroller wheels first. Spray a little water and wipe the stroller wheels to wipe as much sand as possible.

Shake and Brush off the Sand

This will help you remove any loose sand from the wheels and the wheel wells. You can use your hands, a dust brush, or a hand vacuum to shake or sweep off the sand. Make sure you get into all the crevices and corners of the wheels where sand can accumulate.

Rinse and Scrub the Wheels

This will help you remove any stubborn sand from the wheels. You can use a hose, a bucket of water, or a spray bottle to rinse the wheels with water. 

Dry and Reattach the Wheels

Use a towel or a hairdryer to dry the wheels thoroughly before reattaching them to the stroller frame.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why Should I Clean Stroller Wheels?

You should clean the stroller wheels to keep them in good condition and prevent any problems. Cleaning stroller wheels can help you remove dirt, and bacteria, and also extend the lifespan and value of your stroller.

2. How Often Should I Clean My Stroller Wheels?

The frequency depends on stroller usage and the environment. Urban strollers often need cleaning every 2-3 weeks due to city grime, while those in rural areas can go up to a month. Beachgoers should clean wheels after each use to prevent sand and salt damage.

3. Can I Use Household Items to Clean Stroller Wheels?

Basic items like a screwdriver, stiff brush, dish soap, and warm water are usually all you need. Even an old toothbrush can be helpful in reaching nooks and crannies.

4. Can Dirty Stroller Wheels Harm My Baby?

Yes, dirty stroller wheels can harbor harmful bacteria and allergens that could potentially affect your baby’s health. Moreover, dirt and grime can also cause the wheels to malfunction, posing a safety risk.

Wrapping Up

This is all of the information with step to step guide on How to Clean Stroller Wheels. Stroller wheel cleaning might not seem a complex task moreover you have to do it once a month. But this work serves a bigger purpose than you might think. 

Do all the steps I mention properly, grease your stroller with the proper grease, and remove the sand after each use can make your stroller wheel last for years.

More Resources

Are Jogging Strollers Good For Hiking

What Does All Terrain Mean For Stroller

Are Strollers With Car Seats NOT Safe for Walks

How to Get Mold Out of Fabric in a Stroller