A Complete Guide to Stroller Maintenance and Cleaning

As any parent can attest, a stroller is more than just a convenient mode of transportation for your little one – it facilitates countless adventures and expeditions. From leisurely walks in the park to bustling trips through city streets, strollers play a vital role in providing comfort, safety, and mobility for both parents and children. However, with frequent use, exposure to various elements, and inevitable encounters with spills and messes, strollers can quickly become less appealing and even compromised in terms of functionality.

Maintaining a stroller in impeccable condition isn't just about aesthetics; it's also essential for ensuring your child's comfort and safety. The proper cleaning and maintenance of a stroller not only prolongs its lifespan, but also contributes to a healthier environment for your little one. From preventing the buildup of dirt and germs to addressing mechanical issues that might arise, a well-maintained stroller is important.

In this guide, we'll delve into the essential aspects of stroller cleaning and maintenance, as well as stroller cleaning tips. Whether you're a new parent preparing for your first stroller purchase or a seasoned caregiver looking to extend the life of your existing stroller, we've got you covered. We'll explore a range of topics, including the importance of regular cleaning routines, tips for tackling different types of stains, guidelines for maintaining wheels and mechanisms, and even eco-friendly approaches to stroller care. By the end of this guide, you'll have the knowledge and confidence to keep your stroller in pristine condition, ready to accompany you and your child on countless journeys.

The Essentials of Stroller Cleaning

Maintaining the cleanliness of your stroller isn't just about appearances - it directly impacts the comfort and health of your child. Regular cleaning routines are vital to prevent the accumulation of dirt, debris, and germs.

The first thing you need to do is to check with the manufacturer. Many have their own tips and tricks, dos and don’ts, and offer steps for keeping your stroller functioning well and looking nice!

Here are the steps for keeping your stroller clean:

1. Gathering Supplies: Before you start cleaning, gather the necessary supplies, such as mild soap (we like Dawn dish soap), warm water, a soft cloth, a scrub brush, and disinfectant wipes. You don’t need fancy stroller cleaning products.
2. Removing Fabric Parts: Detach any removable fabric components, such as seat cushions, harnesses, and canopy covers. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for safe removal. We would also suggest filming how you take things off to know how to put them back! YouTube is a great resource as well! Unsure if your fabrics remove, shoot us an email or chat with us!
3. Spot Cleaning: For minor stains, use a mixture of mild soap and warm water to gently scrub the affected areas. Avoid using harsh chemicals or bleach, as they might damage the fabric, and are unsafe for your little one too.
4. Machine Washing: Check the manufacturer's guidelines to determine if the fabric components are machine washable. If they are, follow the recommended washing instructions. Use a gentle cycle, cold water, and mild detergent to prevent shrinkage or color fading.
5. Cleaning Frames and Surfaces: Wipe down the stroller frame and hard surfaces with a damp cloth. Do not use abrasives on the frame as that may scratch it. A soft scrub brush may be helpful to get into crevices where dirt might accumulate.
6. Drying: Allow all components to air dry thoroughly before reassembling the stroller. Ensure they are completely dry to prevent mold growth. Do not put anything in the dryer!
7. Reassembling: Put the stroller back together. YouTube is very helpful!

Brand Specific Cleaning Tips

Here are some cleaning tips from our most popular brands!

UPPAbaby Stroller Cleaning and Maintenance

UPPAbaby strollers are renowned for their durability and stylish design. UPPAbaby has a whole section on their website devoted to stroller care and maintenance! Click here to access their cleaning and care tips! 

There are four UPPAbaby Hub Service Centers located in North America that customers are welcome to visit. UPPAbaby Hub Service Center & Showrooms are unique, one-stop shopping destinations offering complimentary stroller maintenance, car seat checks, and personalized service. You can also browse and shop their full line of products and accessories so you can test and try before you buy! The hubs have expert UPPAbaby Tech Team on-site to walk you through the latest products, coordinate test drives, share helpful cleaning tips, and provide gear recommendations to best suit the needs of you and baby. You can make an appointment at one of theses UPPAbaby Hub Service Centers located in:

• Boston, MA
• Brooklyn, NY
• Santa Monica, CA
• Toronto, ON, Canada

Also, UPPAbaby hosts Tune-Up Events at local baby stores across the country. Check here for a list of Tune-Up locations coming soon!

To maintain the quality of your UPPAbaby stroller, follow these brand-specific cleaning and maintenance tips:

1. Inspect: Inspect your stroller periodically. Seek prompt repairs (thru UPPAbaby only) and replace worn or broken parts as needed.
2. Fabric Care: Most UPPAbaby fabric components are removable and machine washable. Be sure to refer to the website above for precise instructions. To maintain the fabric's appearance and integrity, avoid using fabric softeners or bleach.
3. Leather Accents: If your UPPAbaby stroller has leather accents, clean them with a damp cloth and mild soap. Use a leather conditioner to keep the leather supple and protected from cracking.
4. Wheels: Regularly inspect the wheels for debris and clean them with a soft brush. Lubricate any moving parts according to the manufacturer's recommendations to ensure smooth operation.

Bugaboo Stroller Cleaning and Maintenance

Bugaboo strollers are synonymous with innovation and modern design. Bugaboo also has a stroller maintenance checklist with seven cleaning tips for their products here.

Messes and spills are inevitable and Bugaboo makes it easy with their machine washable, easy to remove fabrics! Remember to always check the labels and care manual prior to cleaning. To preserve your Bugaboo stroller's performance and aesthetic, focus on the following cleaning and maintenance tips:

1. Take It Apart: To do a thorough cleaning, Bugaboo suggests taking the stroller apart. Take the fabrics and wheels off the frame. All Bugaboo fabrics can be easily detached.
2. Vacuum: Use a vacuum to suck up all the debris and snack remnants.
3. Scrub or Machine-Wash: Bugaboo offers a range of fabric types, so always check the care labels before cleaning. Spot clean stains with mild detergent and warm water. Most Bugaboo fabrics are machine washable – follow the guidelines provided.
4. Chassis and Hardware: Wipe down the chassis and hardware with a damp cloth. Use a soft scrub brush for smaller parts and joints. You may need to use a silicone spray to lubricate moving parts and prevent rust.
5. Air Dry: Let the frame and fabrics air dry. Never put fabrics in the dryer.
6. Reassemble: Put the fabrics and wheels back on the frame once everything is dry!

Tip for Storage: When not in use, store your Bugaboo stroller in a dry and cool place. Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, as it can fade fabrics and damage plastic parts.

Nuna Stroller Cleaning and Maintenance

Nuna strollers combine functionality with a sleek aesthetic. To ensure your Nuna stroller stays in top condition, consider the following cleaning and maintenance recommendations:

1. Fabric Care: Nuna stroller fabrics are often removable and machine washable. Pay attention to care labels and wash fabrics in cold water to prevent shrinking. Air dry them thoroughly.
2. Folding Mechanism: Regularly clean the folding mechanism to prevent debris buildup. If needed, apply a silicone lubricant to keep the folding mechanism working smoothly.
3. Canopy and Accessories: Clean the canopy and accessories with a damp cloth. Check for loose screws or fasteners and tighten them as needed.

Nuna’s recommendations: 

“Do not use any abrasives cleaning products or bleach. You will want to clean the frame and plastic parts with a damp cloth. The wheels can be cleaned with water to remove any dirt. The adapters can be cleaned with a damp cloth and mild detergent. You can machine wash the fabrics (if they remove) on a delicate cycle with cold water and mild detergent. Make sure to air dry. The canopy can be spot cleaned with a damp sponge. Do not store your stroller in a damp place.”

Conclusion 

By adhering to these brand-specific cleaning and maintenance guidelines, you can ensure that your UPPAbaby, Bugaboo, or Nuna stroller remains a reliable and stylish stroller throughout your parenting journey. From pristine fabrics to well-lubricated mechanisms, your stroller will be ready for any adventure you and your child embark upon. A well-maintained stroller doesn't just enhance the overall experience, but will last you many years!

Questions?

Strolleria is dedicated to making the baby gear buying experience less overwhelming for parents. 

If you have more questions about stroller maintenance and cleaning, feel free to contact us by starting a live chat on our website or emailing us at customercare@strolleria.com.