Stroller Maintenance: Keep Your Baby Stroller Safe, Clean, and Working Right

When you rely on a stroller, a wheeled vehicle designed to transport infants and toddlers safely during walks or errands. Also known as a baby carriage, it’s one of the most-used pieces of baby gear in your home. But like any tool that gets daily use, it needs regular care to stay safe and functional. A worn brake, loose bolt, or dirty wheel isn’t just annoying—it can be dangerous. Stroller maintenance isn’t about fancy tools or deep repairs. It’s about checking the basics before each trip, cleaning after messes, and catching small problems before they become big ones.

Think about the stroller wheels, the rotating parts that allow smooth movement over sidewalks, grass, and uneven paths. These are the first to wear out. Dirt, sand, and tiny pebbles get stuck in the axles, making them hard to turn or causing wobbles. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth after walks, and a spin-check every few weeks, keeps them rolling smoothly. Don’t forget to tighten the nuts—loose wheels are a common cause of stroller accidents. The stroller frame, the metal or aluminum structure that holds everything together, also needs attention. Look for cracks, rust, or bent joints, especially around the fold mechanism. If the stroller doesn’t lock securely when opened, don’t use it. That’s not a minor issue—it’s a fall risk.

Then there’s the stroller canopy, the fabric cover that shields your child from sun, rain, and wind. Fabric gets stained, mildewed, or torn over time. Spot-clean with mild soap and water, then let it air dry completely. Never toss it in the washer unless the manufacturer says it’s safe. Same goes for the seat pad. Most can be removed and wiped down, but check the care label. If the straps are frayed or the buckles don’t snap shut cleanly, replace them. A broken harness isn’t just inconvenient—it’s a safety failure. And don’t ignore the stroller brakes, the mechanism that stops the wheels from rolling when engaged. Test them every time you use the stroller. Push it gently on a slight slope—if it doesn’t hold, the brake may be worn or dirty. A quick clean with a dry brush and a drop of lubricant on the pivot point often fixes it. If it still doesn’t work, get it checked or replaced.

Stroller maintenance isn’t a chore you do once a year. It’s a habit you build into your routine—like changing a diaper or washing bottles. Spend five minutes after each outing to wipe down handles, check for loose parts, and clear debris from the wheels. Do a deeper clean every month: take off the seat cover, inspect the frame, test the fold and lock, and make sure all screws are tight. Keep a small toolkit handy—a screwdriver, a cloth, and some lubricant. You don’t need much, but having it ready saves time and stress.

When you care for your stroller like you care for your child, it lasts longer, works better, and keeps you both safe. You’ll notice the difference the next time you’re rushing to the store, hiking the park trail, or just taking a quiet walk. A well-maintained stroller doesn’t just roll—it glides. And that’s the kind of reliability every parent needs.

Below, you’ll find real advice from parents and experts on exactly how to handle common stroller issues—from fixing squeaky joints to knowing when it’s time to replace your stroller entirely.