Let’s face it: a wheelchair is more than just a piece of equipment—it’s your client or loved one’s freedom on wheels.  

Whether it helps them zip around town, cruise through the halls at home, or roll confidently through the local supermarket, that chair works hard. And as their go-to carer or support person, you’re the unsung hero behind the scenes keeping it running smoothly. 

Think of this blog as your shortcut to keeping that wheelchair in top shape—without getting buried in technical jargon or dusty manuals. 

Just easy, practical tips and a few cheeky reminders to make the job quicker and less of a chore. Ready to roll? Let’s dive in. 

Why Wheelchair Maintenance Matters (Yes, Even If It’s Brand New) 

Skipping maintenance is like never checking your car tyres—you might get away with it for a while, but eventually something’s going to squeak, wobble, or roll the wrong way. A few minutes of TLC now can save you stress, cash, and emergency callouts down the track. 

A little effort goes a long way in keeping: 

• Rides smooth and quiet (no mid-supermarket squeaks!) 
• Unexpected breakdowns at bay 
• The wheelchair in good condition for longer 
• Most importantly—your client or loved one safe 

A few minutes every week can save you time, money, and the stress of sudden repairs. 

But maintenance isn’t just about nuts and bolts. It’s also about hygiene—especially in healthcare settings or aged care. According to CDC cleaning best practices, you should:

• Use fresh cleaning cloths for every session (and even between zones if cleaning multiple chairs)
• Never double-dip cloths into disinfectant bottles (we know, it’s tempting, but it spreads germs)
• Replace cloths when they’re no longer saturated—clean surfaces don’t happen with dry rags
• Avoid shaking mop heads or cloths, which can toss bacteria into the air like confetti

Want bonus points? Focus on high-touch areas, especially if the chair is used in a hospital or aged care facility. These include:

• Wheelchair armrests and handles
• Brakes and footrests
• Control panels on powered chairs
• Call bells (if attached)
• Tray tables or cup holders
• Any surfaces frequently touched by hands

Keep a checklist and make sure cleaning becomes part of the routine—not just something that happens when things start to smell suspiciously like last week’s lunch.

Because a well-maintained wheelchair doesn’t just work better, it helps your client or loved one feel better, safer, and more comfortable in their daily life.

Quick Daily & Weekly Wheelchair Checks (Your 60-Second Routine)

Think of this like a quick morning once-over while the kettle’s boiling. These small checks only take a minute but can prevent some big headaches later. 

1. Tyre Pressure (for pneumatic wheels) 

Give those tyres a firm squeeze. If they feel like a half-deflated party balloon, it’s time to top up the air. Low pressure makes pushing much harder and can throw off the balance—suddenly you're playing tug-of-war with the footpath. 

Why it matters: 

Proper tyre pressure = less strain on shoulders, better battery life (for power chairs), and reduced risk of blowouts. 

2. Brakes (Manual and Transit Chairs) 

Park the chair safely and lock the brakes. Do they hold firm? Do they click into place easily? If they slide, stick, or don’t engage properly, that’s a red flag. You don’t want your chair moving when you’re trying to transfer—or worse, rolling away when you're not looking. 

Why it matters: 

Solid brakes = safer transfers, fewer accidents, and peace of mind. 

3. Frame Wipe-Down (Soft Cloth or Antibacterial Wipes) 

Dust, crumbs, coffee splashes, or that random sticky spot you can't identify—grime builds up quickly, especially if you’re out and about. A quick wipe each day keeps the frame clean, reduces the risk of corrosion, and helps you spot any cracks or damage early. 

Why it matters: 

Regular cleaning isn’t just for aesthetics—it’s essential for hygiene (especially in healthcare settings) and spotting wear and tear before it becomes a bigger issue. 

Pro tip: 

Keep a microfibre cloth or antibacterial wipe near where you park your chair—make it easy, and you’ll be more likely to stick with it. 

4. Loose Nuts & Bolts (aka the “Jiggle Test”) 

Push the chair gently back and forth. Hear a rattle? Feel a wobble? That’s your cue to tighten things up. Check the armrests, footplates, side guards, and wheels. If you don’t already have a basic tool kit nearby, it might be time to invest in one. 

Why it matters: 

 A tiny loose screw might seem harmless now, but left unchecked it can cause parts to detach, frames to weaken, or fittings to misalign. This is about preventing bigger repairs (or accidents) later. 

Big Picture: 

These daily and weekly checks are your secret weapon. Not just for keeping the chair in top shape, but for making your life easier and safer too. After all, you’ve got enough on your plate without surprise wheel wobbles or brake fails. 

How to Clean a Wheelchair (Without Turning It Into a Chore) 

Wheelchairs go through a lot. Muddy footpaths, spilled drinks, rogue crumbs, and mysterious stickiness that no one wants to take credit for. And while the person using the chair is usually busy living their life (as they should!), the job of cleaning it often falls to a caregiver or support worker. If that’s you—don’t worry. We’ve got you. 

Here’s your quick, no-fuss, step-by-step guide to cleaning a wheelchair so it stays safe, functional, and fresh. Bonus: it doesn’t have to be boring. 

What you’ll need: 

• Mild soap and warm water (Avoid harsh cleaners or power washers. They can damage parts or wear down the finish) 
• Microfibre cloths, sponges, or heavy-duty dry wipes 
• A small soft-bristled brush (hello, old toothbrush!) 
• Disinfectant wipes (great for quick spot cleaning) 

Step 1: Strip it down (gently) 

Start by removing any cushions, trays, or detachable accessories. These need their own TLC. Fabric items like cushions? Check the care label—many are machine washable or can be spot-cleaned with mild detergent. Don’t forget to give those seatbelt buckles and side pockets a once-over too. Crumbs love hiding in there. 

Pro Tip: Use Gentility Extra Absorbent Wipes for any loose crumbs, dust, or dry messes. They’re reusable, dry fast, and tough enough to handle whatever life throws at a chair.

Add Gentility Extra Absorbent Wipes to your cart today!

Step 2: Give the frame a spa day 

Time to show the frame some love. Use warm, soapy water (nothing too harsh) to wipe down the entire frame, armrests, and spokes. Pay extra attention to crevices and joints—these are dirt magnets. 

For that extra clean finish without the risk of streaks or soap scum, reach for the Enzyme Wizard All Purpose Surface Spray. It’s pH neutral, gentle on skin, and great for breaking down stubborn grime. Plus, it’s asthma-friendly and won't leave any residue behind.

Add Enzyme Wizard All Purpose Surface Spray to your cart now!

Bonus: It also gets rid of any funky odours by tackling them at the source (not just masking them). 

Step 3: Show the wheels some love 

These are the problem children. Casters get tangled with hair and thread, and footrests? Well, if shoes go there, you can guess what else does too. 

Use a toothbrush or small scrub brush to get into tight spaces. For spills or sticky gunk, a quick spray of SIQURA Hospital Grade Disinfectant works wonders. Not only does it kill 99.999% of bacteria and viruses (including COVID-19), but it also leaves a protective layer that keeps nasties from coming back for up to 24 hours. 

Add SIQURA Hospital Grade Disinfectant Spray to your cart today!

Step 4: Dry like a pro 

Water might seem innocent, but leave things damp and you're practically inviting rust and wear. Use a soft towel or one of those super-absorbent Gentility Wipes to dry every nook and cranny. Don't forget under the seat or around screw heads where water loves to hide.

Step 5: Disinfect the VIP zones 

Now let’s tackle the germ zones—push rims, brakes, armrests. These are like the "door handles" of the wheelchair world. A quick once-over with Halyard Isowipe Wipes (70% isopropyl alcohol) gives you hospital-grade disinfection in minutes. 

Feeling extra? Do a follow-up with Halyard Isowipe Wipes and the SIQURA Spray to create an anti-bacterial barrier on those touchpoints. It sticks around long after the first clean-up crew leaves. 

Add the Halyard Isowipe Wipes to your cart today!

Monthly TLC: The “Deeper Clean” Checklist (AKA: The Wheelchair Spa Day) 

Sure, daily check-ins are great—but even the most low-maintenance wheelchairs deserve a little monthly pampering. Think of this as their “spa day,” and you’re the VIP technician with the magic touch. This is your moment to go beyond the surface and keep things rolling smoothly—literally. 

Here’s what to add to your calendar every month: 

1. Give That Upholstery a Starring Role 

Lift the seat cushion and take a good whiff. If it smells like a forgotten sandwich or last week’s weather, it’s time for action. 

• Look for rips, fading, or wear-and-tear—especially on seat backs and arm pads. 
• Wipe down with a gentle but mighty cleaner like the Enzyme Wizard All Purpose Surface Spray. It breaks down organic matter (translation: mystery stains) and helps banish odours at the source. 
• If removable, give covers a wash according to the care label. And maybe set a reminder to do this before the next roast chicken dinner-on-wheels. 

2. Lubricate the Moving Parts 

Like any piece of equipment with wheels, wheelchairs love a good oiling. A few drops of lubricant in just the right places can make a big difference. 

• Focus on the axles, casters, folding joints, and brake levers. 
• Squeaky brakes? Wobbly wheels? This is your chance to solve the mystery before it becomes a problem. 
• Bonus points if you wear a headlamp and mutter “mission critical” while doing it. 

3. Inspect Tyres Like a Pro 

This one’s for the inner pit crew in you. 

• Check for worn treads, cracks, or signs of uneven wear. These can affect grip and make pushing feel like a gym workout—minus the satisfaction. 
• For pneumatic (air-filled) tyres, give them a quick pressure check. Under-inflated tyres = more effort for the pusher (that’s you) and a bumpier ride for the person in the chair. 
• No shame in treating this like a tyre rotation on a fancy sports car. Just with fewer speed limits. 

4. Clean & Check the Hidden Heroes 

Some parts do their job quietly in the background—but they still deserve your attention. 

• Caster forks, anti-tip bars, footplates, armrests—give them a once-over. 
• Clear out hair, string, or fluff wrapped around casters (yes, it happens more than you think). 
• Use a Gentility Wipe for quick dust removal, or a targeted spray like SIQURA Hospital Grade Disinfectant Spray to clean and protect surfaces all in one go. 

5. Posture Check: Still a Good Fit? 

Maybe the user has gained or lost weight, or their posture has shifted. Maybe that little wobble you noticed last week wasn’t your imagination. 

• Ask: Does the chair still support the user’s posture and comfort properly? 
• Check seat height, backrest positioning, and footplate alignment. 
• If something feels off, it might be time to book a fitting check-up or minor adjustment with a professional. 

Why Bother With Monthly Wheelchair TLC? 

Because you’re not just maintaining a wheelchair—you’re safeguarding someone’s independence, comfort, and dignity. A squeaky-free ride, a stink-free seat, and a smooth turn radius can make the difference between “another day stuck at home” and “let’s go out for lunch.” 

And let's be honest—you deserve the peace of mind too. 

When It’s Time for Repairs (and When to Call in the Pros) 

Not everything can be fixed with duct tape (though we love the effort). Here’s when to contact a professional: 

• Your brakes aren’t locking properly 
• The chair pulls to one side 
• Any cracks in the frame 
• Electronics (for power chairs) aren’t working as they should 

Tip: Keep your wheel chair manual handy, and don’t hesitate to reach out to Platinum Health Supply for service referrals or spare parts. 

Add-Ons That Make Maintenance (Way) Easier

You know how some gadgets make you wonder how you ever lived without them? That’s exactly how these wheelchair accessories feel once you add them to the mix.  

1. Wild Goose Medical Sheepskin Wheelchair Cover 

Add a Wheelchair Cover to your cart now!

Forget scratchy seats or sweaty backs—this plush, breathable sheepskin cover turns any wheelchair into a cloud. It’s not just about comfort (though it’s very comfy), it also helps prevent pressure sores by regulating temperature and reducing friction. A must-have for those long sits or sensitive skin. 

2. Vicair Adjuster O2 Wheelchair Cushion 

Add a Wheelchair Cushion to your cart today!

This isn’t just a cushion—it’s a pressure-relieving, body-hugging throne. With personalised support for asymmetry and machine-washable breathability, it helps protect skin, improve posture, and keep the user comfy and secure. Especially great for those needing extra support due to posture changes or skin vulnerability. 

3. ADL Universal Tray for Wheelchairs 

Add a Universal Wheelchair Tray to your cart today!

Lunch, book, TV remote—this tray holds it all. The raised edges and cup holder prevent spills and tumbles (no one likes chasing runaway apples), while the Velcro straps make it super easy to attach and remove. Mealtime and hobbies? Sorted. 

4. Cello Economy Underpads 

Add wheelchair underpads to your cart today!

Spills happen. But with these soft, 4-ply absorbent underpads, your wheelchair stays protected without the crinkle and crunch of cheap pads. Perfect for preventing stains or damage, especially if you're cleaning or during recovery periods. 

Together, these add-ons don’t just extend the life of your wheelchair—they make daily life smoother, cleaner, and more comfortable for both users and carers. 

Keep It Rolling, Keep It Reliable 

A little regular maintenance goes a long way in keeping wheelchairs safe, smooth, and ready for wherever the day takes you. Whether you’re a caregiver or a user, staying on top of care means fewer unexpected repairs and more confident cruising. 

Thinking it might be time for an upgrade? 

From lightweight transit chairs to custom tilt-in-space models, Platinum Health Supply has a curated range of reliable, high-quality wheelchair for sale built for every lifestyle and level of need. 

Explore our full wheelchair catalogue and find the right fit for your next chapter. 

Because mobility should never hold you back.