Ultimate Guide: How to Clean a Pushchair

Discovering how to clean a pushchair efficiently is crucial for families with young children. From battling weather elements to dealing with inevitable messes, maintaining a clean pushchair is essential for not only aesthetically but also for hygiene. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through step-by-step instructions on effectively cleaning your pushchair, ensuring a safe and comfortable ride for your little one. We will even recommend some of our tried-and-tested cleaning products.

1. Gathering Essential Cleaning Materials

Getting your self organised before you start is key. Make sure that you have the following to hand –

• Mild Detergent: Opt for a gentle cleaning solution safe for pushchair fabrics.
• Warm Water or Warm Soapy Water: Ideal for mixing with detergent for thorough cleaning.
• Sponge or Cloth: Essential for applying cleaning solutions and scrubbing away dirt.
• Brushes: Use stiff-bristled and soft fabric brushes for targeted cleaning. An old toothbrush works well.
• Vacuum Cleaner: Perfect for removing dirt and debris from hard-to-reach areas.

2. Pre-Cleaning Preparation

• Remove removable parts and fabrics for easier access to all areas.
• Follow manufacturer’s instructions for disassembly and cleaning.

3. Cleaning the Frame / Chassis

• Wipe down the frame with a damp cloth in order to remove loose dirt.
• Use a mild detergent solution to scrub dirty areas, paying attention to joints and crevices.
• Rinse thoroughly and dry with a microfibre cloth.
• Apply lubricant to metal parts to prevent rust. Use a silicone based lubricant.

4. Cleaning the Fabric

• Avoid bleach and fabric softeners and always opt for mild detergents instead.
• Machine wash fabrics on a gentle cycle or hand wash with lukewarm water. (Follow your specific manufacturer’s recommendations)
• Tailor cleaning method based on fabric type (polyester, cotton, nylon, canvas, vinyl).

5. Cleaning the Tray

• Remove crumbs and then wipe with a damp cloth.
• Use mild detergent and a brush for stubborn stains.
• Rinse and dry thoroughly. It is worth considering additional sanitisation methods such as anti-bacterial spray

6. Washing the Wheels

• Remove loose debris and then wash with mild soap and water.
• Scrub stubborn stains with a mild degreaser or vinegar solution.
• Rinse and dry completely before reattaching.

7. Drying the Stroller and Seat

• Pat down excess moisture with a dry towel.
• Lay out on a flat surface to air dry, avoiding direct sunlight.
• Reassemble once completely dry.

Maintaining a clean pushchair is essential for your child’s health and comfort. By following these expert cleaning tips from Parenting Expert, you can ensure a hygienic and enjoyable ride every single time. Invest time in regular cleaning routines to extend the lifespan of your pushchair and create a safe environment for your little one.

Pushchair Cleaning Shopping List

We recommend the following to keep your pushchair looking like new (please note that this contains affiliate links). Prices all correct at time of publication.

1. Bucket (£3.99)
   We love this bucket – it’s strong and has an easy pour lip. At £3.99 it’s great value too.
   Buy here.
2. Jumbo Sponge (£2.50)
   Again a cost-effective option!
   Buy here.
3. Microfibre Cloth (£6.99 for 10)
   Having a microfibre cloth will prevent all those annoying fibres sticking to your pushchair fabrics. This set of ten will stock up not only your pushchair cleaning supply but also leave some free for bathroom and kitchen cleaning too! Buy here.
4. Mild Detergent (£4.95)
   We recommend using a mild detergent (you may already have this of course). Our go-to product at the moment is from Ecover.
   Buy here.
5. Vinegar (£4.78)
   We have to admit that we love it in a ready-made spray as this just makes life a lot easier!
   Buy here.
6. Hand-held Vacuum Cleaner (17.99)
   Again this may well be something you already have. These make getting rid of crumbs, sand and broken crisps super easy. They also work really well on your car seats and highchairs too. Naturally you may want to spend a little more on one but we found this one for less than £20 with some great reviews.
   Buy here.
7. Silicone-based Lubricant (£6.99)
   Another go-to product for us! Just make sure you buy the right version of the famous WD40!
   Buy here.
8. Anti-bacterial Spray (£5.65)
   Parents have been using Milton for years for their babies. Their useful spay is not only great for your pushchair, but also for highchairs and basically anything your young baby touches that needs a clean!
   Buy here.

Remember, it’s always good to tailor your cleaning routine to the specific make and model of your pushchair. This will ensure great results and a pushchair that will look like new for years. If you are in any doubt – contact your pushchair manufacturer directly and they will be pleased to help!

Read more about pushchairs here.