How to Clean a Wheelchair

In normal day-to-day use, it is important to keep a wheelchair clean. Regular cleaning helps it look well cared for, extends the lifespan of the components, and makes daily use more comfortable and enjoyable.

Good wheelchair hygiene also plays an important role in reducing the build-up of dirt, bacteria, and everyday germs that can accumulate through frequent contact, outdoor use, and shared environments.

In this article, we will guide you through how to clean and disinfect a wheelchair properly, helping to keep it in good condition and safe to use.

How Often Should a Wheelchair Be Cleaned?

Most wheelchairs benefit from light cleaning several times per week and a more thorough clean every one to two weeks. High-contact areas such as push rims, armrests, joysticks, and brakes should be wiped down frequently, especially after outdoor use or travel.

Deep cleaning may be needed more often if the wheelchair is used outdoors daily, exposed to mud or rain, or shared between multiple users.

General Wheelchair Cleaning Tips

Before cleaning any wheelchair, a few basic principles apply:

Always check the manufacturer’s care instructions before using cleaning products. Avoid harsh chemicals, abrasive pads, or excessive water unless specifically recommended. Use soft cloths, warm water, and mild detergent wherever possible. Allow all components to dry fully before use.

Removing loose dirt and debris first makes cleaning more effective and reduces the risk of scratching surfaces.

Cleaning a manual wheelchair

Manual wheelchairs are generally simpler to clean, but they still require attention to detail, especially around moving parts.

Start by removing cushions, seat covers, and backrests if they are detachable. These can often be wiped down with mild soap and warm water, or machine washed if the care label allows. Ensure they are fully dry before reattaching.

Clean the frame using a damp cloth and mild detergent. Pay close attention to joints, cross-braces, and folding mechanisms, as dirt can collect in these areas and affect movement over time.

The wheels and tyres should be cleaned separately. Use a cloth or soft brush to remove dirt from the tyres, spokes, and push rims. Push rims deserve particular attention as they are touched constantly and can harbour bacteria. Brakes should be wiped clean and checked to ensure they are not clogged with dirt or debris.

Footrests, armrests, and side guards should be cleaned thoroughly, as these areas are exposed to frequent contact and splashes.

Once cleaned, dry all components fully and apply a small amount of lubricant to moving parts if recommended by the manufacturer.

Cleaning a power wheelchair

Power wheelchairs require extra care due to electrical components and sensitive controls.

Before cleaning, switch the wheelchair off and remove the battery or disconnect the power supply if possible. Never spray water directly onto a power wheelchair or submerge any part of it.

Use a slightly damp cloth to clean the frame, armrests, footrests, and seating areas. Avoid letting water pool near electrical connections, motors, or charging ports.

The joystick and control panel should be wiped gently with a lightly damp cloth. Avoid excessive moisture, and never use sprays directly on the controls. Dry the area immediately with a clean cloth.

Wheels and tyres can be cleaned with a damp cloth or soft brush, taking care not to splash water onto motors or wiring. If the wheelchair has suspension components or exposed mechanical parts, clean around them carefully and avoid forcing dirt deeper into the mechanism.

Seat cushions and upholstery should be cleaned according to the manufacturer’s guidance. Some power wheelchair cushions have specialist materials designed for pressure relief, which may require specific cleaning products.

Once cleaning is complete, allow the wheelchair to dry fully before reconnecting the battery or turning it back on.

Disinfecting your wheelchair

There’s a big distinction between cleaning wheelchairs and disinfecting them: cleaning your wheelchair involves removing dirt from surfaces, and should be carried out frequently.

Disinfection does not remove dirt: instead, it involves using chemicals to kill bacteria and viruses that may be present on your wheelchair.

It’s important to use a combination of both cleaning and disinfection to keep your wheelchair in good condition and to protect yourself.

Disinfection almost always involves using bleach. Remember to take special caution when using this, including gloves.

Do not directly apply bleach to your wheelchair. Instead, create a diluted mixture of water and bleach with the ratio of one (1) part bleach to nine (9) parts water.

Follow the same instructions as cleaning your wheelchair, using one microfiber cloth to wipe down surfaces, and another to dry each surface immediately.

Storage and Ongoing Care

Keeping a wheelchair clean is easier when it is stored correctly. Whenever possible, store the wheelchair indoors, away from moisture, dirt, and extreme temperatures. Wipe down wheels and frames after outdoor use to prevent grime from hardening.

Regular visual checks can help catch issues early, such as worn tyres, loose bolts, or stiff joints that may benefit from cleaning or maintenance.

Wheelchair Cleaning FAQ

Can a wheelchair be washed with a hose or pressure washer?

Manual wheelchairs may tolerate gentle rinsing in some cases, but pressure washers and heavy water exposure are not recommended. Power wheelchairs should never be hosed down due to electrical components.

What cleaning products are safe to use on a wheelchair?

Mild soap or detergent with warm water is usually sufficient. Always avoid abrasive cleaners, bleach, or strong solvents unless the manufacturer specifically allows them.

How do you clean wheelchair tyres?

Tyres can be wiped with a damp cloth or scrubbed gently with a soft brush and mild detergent. Removing dirt regularly helps prevent tracking grime indoors and reduces wear on flooring.

Can wheelchair cushions be machine washed?

Some cushions and covers are machine washable, while others are not. Always check the care label or manufacturer instructions before washing. Cushions must be completely dry before reuse.

How do you clean a wheelchair joystick safely?

Turn the wheelchair off and wipe the joystick gently with a slightly damp cloth. Avoid spraying liquid directly onto the control and dry it immediately.

How often should a wheelchair be disinfected?

High-touch areas can be disinfected several times per week or daily if the wheelchair is used frequently in public spaces or shared environments.

Does regular cleaning really extend the life of a wheelchair?

Yes. Dirt and debris can cause premature wear on moving parts, interfere with brakes or folding mechanisms, and degrade materials over time. Regular cleaning supports smoother operation and longer component life.

Takeaway: How to Clean a Wheelchair

Keeping a wheelchair clean does not need to be time-consuming, but consistency matters. With regular care and the right approach for each wheelchair type, cleaning becomes part of simple maintenance that protects both comfort and long-term performance.

For more information about maintaining your wheelchair, servicing requests or custom wheelchairs in Ohio, make sure to check out NPL Home Medical’s blog.

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Always follow your manufacturer’s instructions when it comes to wheelchair maintenance and cleaning. Get in touch with your healthcare professional, or a wheelchair expert at NPL Home Medical for any questions you have.