If you’re anything like me, your stroller is basically your third arm. It goes everywhere with you, because let’s face it, your toddler refuses to walk that day. And if you’ve invested in a quality, stylish model (hello, luxury wheels!), stroller care is definitely a priority.
Think about it. You wouldn’t drop a small fortune on a designer handbag and toss it in the mud, right? The same rules apply to your stroller. A well-kept stroller lasts longer, looks better, and holds its resale value (yes, you can resell high-end strollers when you’re done with them).
So, let’s talk stroller care. Here are my best tips to keep your stroller in the best shape.
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Give It a Monthly Wipe-Down (Yes, Monthly!)
Let’s start with the obvious – how to clean a stroller.
Your stroller needs to be cleaned regularly. And no, I’m not talking about hosing it down in your backyard like it’s your husband’s muddy hiking boots. Once a month, take 15 minutes to:
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Remove all the snack wrappers and mystery crumbs from the seat.
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Wipe down the frame with a damp cloth and mild soap.
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Spot-clean the fabric with a non-toxic cleaner (I love using baby-safe all-purpose sprays).
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Don’t forget the handlebar and cup holder - they get gross.
Doing this regularly keeps dirt and grime from building up and makes deep cleans way easier later.
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Treat the Fabric Like You Would Your Couch
If you bought a stroller with luxurious fabric, treat it like a piece of furniture. Most stroller seats are not machine-washable (yeah, I know), but many of them do allow you to unzip or remove parts to hand wash. Vacuum the seat and canopy now and then. Seriously, grab the handheld vacuum and go for it. Especially if your little one snacks on the go (which, who are we kidding, they always do).
If your stroller does have removable fabric covers, check the tag and follow the care instructions. Never toss it in the dryer unless it specifically says you can. Heat breaks down the fibers and can shrink or warp the material.
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Mind the Wheels (They’re Not Invincible)
The wheels are like the shoes of your stroller. They are fashionable, functional, and often overlooked in stroller maintenance. But dirty, wobbly, or squeaky wheels can make even the nicest stroller feel cheap and clunky. Here’s what I do every few weeks:
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Brush off dirt, grass, and pebbles from the wheels and wheel wells.
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Check for wear and tear - bald spots on rubber, wobbly axles, weird noises.
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Pro Tip - Use a silicone-based lubricant (a oil based will damage the axle if dirt enters ) on the moving parts to keep the ride smooth.
And if you’re often on rough terrain (gravel trails, cobblestones, city sidewalks), check your wheels more often. They take a beating.
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Always Fold With Care
It’s tempting to fold the stroller with one hand while juggling a baby, diaper bag, and latte, but listen, this is a great way to accidentally snap something. Take a beat. Put the baby somewhere safe, free one hand, and follow the proper folding steps. It only takes an extra 10 seconds, and it saves you from breaking a latch or scratching the frame. Also, never force a fold. If it’s not budging, something’s probably out of alignment. Forcing it is a one-way ticket to a repair you don’t want to pay for.
Pro Tip - find a stroller that has a clean fold with the fabric folding inwards to protect it while folded.
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Store It Like It’s Part of Your Interior Design
Okay, maybe you don’t have stroller parking in your foyer, but hear me out - where you store your stroller matters. Avoid leaving it in your car trunk for days on end. The heat, especially in summer, can warp plastic, fade fabric, and melt adhesives.
If you have a garage or mudroom, that would be great. Bonus stroller care points if you cover it with a clean blanket or stroller bag. It keeps dust off and makes it feel new every time you roll it out.
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Do a Seasonal Deep Clean
Spring and fall are perfect times for a deep stroller cleaning. Take everything apart (within reason - don’t dismantle the frame unless you really know what you’re doing), and give each section some love. Think of it like your stroller’s spa day. Put on a podcast, pour some iced coffee, and get into it. You’ll be shocked how much better it looks and feels afterward.
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Get to Know Your Warranty
Register your stroller right after purchase (I know, nobody ever wants to do this part, but trust me), and keep the manual somewhere handy. If something stops working or feels off, check in with customer service before you try to DIY it. You might save yourself time, frustration, and money.
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Don’t Overload It (Even When You’re Tempted)
I know those stroller hooks are a game-changer when it comes to carrying all the stuff. But hanging heavy bags off the handlebars can actually damage the frame or cause tipping.
Stick to the manufacturer’s weight limits, and use the storage basket for the bulk of your items. I’m all for a stylish diaper bag and shopping tote, but balance is everything. Plus, overloaded strollers are way harder to steer, and let’s be honest, nobody wants to wrestle with a stroller while wrangling a toddler.
Your stroller isn’t just baby gear. It’s part of your daily routine, your travel companion, and honestly, a bit of a fashion statement. If you’ve spent the money on something sleek, practical, and beautifully made, stroller care makes so much sense. A well-loved, well-maintained stroller not only looks amazing, but it makes your life so much easier. And who doesn’t want smoother strolls, fewer breakdowns, and compliments from other stylish moms at the park?
So here’s to treating your stroller with the same love you give your favorite handbag - after all, it carries your most precious cargo. You got this!
