When you own a wheelchair, remember that it’s a device designed to help you be mobile. It’s an extension of you, helping your body so that you can move to the places you want and need to be. Because you rely heavily upon it, it is of the utmost importance to care for it properly.
There are approximately 3.3 million wheelchair users in the United States. Experts predict it will grow by two million new wheelchair users annually.
With all the wheelchairs out there, imagine if none of them are clean and they all hold on to their germs. Multiply this by 3.3 million wheelchairs and that’s a lot of germs.
If you own a wheelchair and you use it regularly, you want to clean and disinfect it regularly also. First off, let’s discuss the best way to do this, to keep your wheelchair clean and keep its user, you, healthy.
Wheelchair Cleaning Tips
As you spend a good amount of time in your wheelchair, you are exposing the upholstery, handles, and wheels to bacteria and germs. These can build up over time. To prevent this buildup, you need to disinfect your wheelchair regularly.
First, keep in mind that disinfecting a wheelchair is not the same as cleaning. Wheelchair cleaning refers to removing dirt and germs. You are not killing germs like when you disinfect.
When cleaning and not disinfecting, it’s possible that you are spreading the germs instead. This is why you should ensure that you are using the right materials and solutions to clean your wheelchair the correct way.
To disinfect, you want to do more than just remove dirt; you also want to kill germs. While it helps your wheelchair last longer, it also helps you to stay healthy, as well.
Disinfecting a Wheelchair
Before you begin your disinfecting routine, you should read over the owner’s manual and maintenance instructions thoroughly, especially for cleaning where the controls are located.
Keep in mind you can disinfect all wheelchair surfaces. Use a solution that is at least 70% made of alcohol, or you can use another disinfectant wipe that is approved. Diluted sanitizer and a damp cloth will allow you to wipe down an electric wheelchair’s joystick thoroughly.
Let the sanitizer remain on the surfaces for at least 15 minutes. For all disinfected surfaces, wipe them down with a damp cloth containing fresh water. Then, use a clean cloth and dry the wheelchair thoroughly.
Do not choose harsh cleaning items like:
- Abrasives
- Bleaches
- Solvents
- Sprays
- Synthetic detergents
- Wax enamels
You want to target the parts of the wheelchair that are touched frequently. This includes handles and armrests. Prior to visiting somewhere public and upon returning home, you will want to wipe down your wheelchair.
How to Clean a Wheelchair
Now, we will get more specific about the components. Let’s review how to clean each wheelchair part.
Front and Rear Wheels
The wheels of your wheelchair continuously touch the ground. It’s only natural that they need continuous cleaning to fight off dirt and kill germs.
Most recommendations for cleaning the wheels say to clean and disinfect them every day. Alternatively, you can clean them when you come home upon returning from a public outing.
Armrests and Handles
The main areas of contact are the armrests and handles. These must be a primary focus for disinfection. Use a sanitized wipe to disinfect the armrests and handles and then rinse them with a damp cloth after that.
Manufacturers usually make wheelchair armrests with foam or leather. Make sure that you dry it completely with a clean cloth once you complete rinsing to reduce damage.
If you find damage to the foam or leather, like cracks or chips in the plastic, you will want to fix them right away. This will prevent dirt and bacteria from getting stuck inside them.
Cushion
Since this is the component of the wheelchair that you will be sitting on, the user will always expose it to grime and sweat. If the cushion is foam, follow the procedure from the armrest that was previously mentioned.
Allow a sanitizer to remain on the cushion for about 15 minutes. Then rinse and wipe it dry.
Air Cell Cushion
A model with an Air Cell Cushion contains neoprene rubber cells. You will want to remove the cover and wash it gently in a washing machine cycle. Apply cold water along with a mild detergent, and then tumble dry it on low.
You can also handwash this type of cushion inside of a sink or bathtub. If you choose to go this route, use a soft-bristled brush along with a mild detergent to clean with.
Do not let the water leak on the inside though, and check that the air valve is tightly closed. Rinse the cushion using freshwater and allow it to dry thoroughly.
Power Wheelchair Cleaning
You will need to clean a power wheelchair differently than a manual wheelchair. With a power wheelchair, you have:
- Electronic controls
- Footplate
- Joystick
These components get a lot of body contact and require regular cleaning. You will want to use a damp cloth to clean them.
First, you will want the have the wheelchair powered completely off before cleaning it. It may be a good idea to flip the circuit breaker just to be on the safe side.
If you have an air compressor, this can also come in handy. It is very effective for blowing away crumbs, dust, and debris.
For the footplate, use a foam cleanser and saturate it. Next, give it a deep scrub with a bristle brush.
You can clean the control panel and joystick the same way as you do the armrest. This includes a diluted disinfectant and a damp wipe to clean the areas gently. Afterward, let it sit for 15 minutes before using a damp cloth to dry it.
Instruction Manuals from Freedom Mobility Center
At Freedom Mobility Center, we offer the power to get you moving. We are the biggest independent provider offering Complex Power Wheelchairs in the states of Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, Virginia, and West Virginia.
If you have questions regarding cleaning a specific wheelchair, we can answer them. Contact us today for details. We are happy to serve you!