For wheelchair users, regular cleaning of wheelchair wheels not only enhances their performance but also prevents the accumulation of dirt, debris, and potentially harmful bacteria. In this blog post, we guide you on how to clean wheelchair wheels to help maintain their optimal functionality and hygiene.
Preparing the Materials
To ensure a thorough and effective cleaning process, gather the following supplies:
a. Mild detergent, dishwashing liquid, or soap: Choose a gentle detergent or soap that is suitable for cleaning delicate surfaces.
b. Soft-bristle brush: These will help you reach the nooks and crannies of the wheel components
c. Microfibre cloths: Use these to wipe down the wheels and remove excess moisture.
d. Water source: A spray bottle of fresh water will be necessary to rinse the wheels.
Cleaning the Wheel
Preparation
Start by positioning the wheelchair in a stable and secure location. Lock the brakes to prevent any movement during the cleaning process.
Washing the Wheels
How best to clean your wheels depends on the type of chair and tyres that you have.
For manual wheelchairs with a shallow tread on the tyre (and also for your castor wheels)- use a wet, absorbent microfibre cloth and wipe them down. Then, use a dry microfibre cloth to dry them.
For power chairs with tyres that have a deeper tread, here are a few tricks to getting them clean:
Never immerse the chair in water or hose it!
If you have muddy wheels, try running the chair over a good firm patch of short grass before heading indoors. Even better if the grass is a little bit damp- the blades of grass will loosen dirt and help to clean your wheels.
Use a spray bottle of fresh water to carefully spray the wheels, then use a soft brush and microfibre cloth to remove the loosened dirt and debris.
Very dirty wheels may also need a scrub with a soft brush that has been dipped in water with a very small amount of dishwashing liquid. After scrubbing, use a spray bottle with fresh water on the area and wipe away any dirt and soap residue with a clean microfibre cloth.
Optional Disinfection
You can also use disinfectant wipes or a diluted disinfectant solution to further sanitise the wheelchair wheels, particularly if the chair is frequently used in public spaces or hospitals.
Regular Maintenance and Inspection
Cleaning wheelchair wheels should be part of a regular maintenance routine. Keep an eye out for any signs of wear and tear, such as worn-out tires, loose spokes, or damaged bearings. If you notice any issues that can’t be fixed by regular cleaning, consider seeking professional assistance for deep-cleaning the chair.
With this guide, you can keep the wheelchair wheels in optimal condition to have more reliable mobility and extend their lifespan. Remember, a well-maintained wheelchair means greater independence and improved quality of life for wheelchair users!
However, this is just the start of a thorough tyre cleaning to keep it maintained. Consider having regular deep-cleaning sessions for the wheelchair to keep it looking and feeling fresh.
If you or someone you know is looking for a deep cleaning service in Greater Sydney, Wollongong, Central Coast, and Newcastle,contact Pure Wheelchairs now and have a clean, comfortable wheelchair every day!
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