An in-use stroller really takes a beating, especially if it’s used outdoors by walking in the park or on the playground. Inevitably, somewhere along the way we go through dirt, puddles, or grass. Even when not in use, the stroller tends to get dirty and sometimes dirty, depending on where we keep it.
Then there is the little passenger who travels in the stroller. Let’s face it, kids have to eat and when they do, it’s usually not pretty. Show me a stroller with no milk stains or caked fries, and I’ll tell you it’s not being used.
If you want your baby stroller to last, you really need to show it some affection from time to time. A little maintenance can go a long way.
To get started, closely follow the manufacturer’s instructions when assembling the stroller. Any questions, please contact the manufacturer, they usually have a toll-free number to call.
Periodically check the stroller for loose parts. You may need to replace or tighten a screw. Check the wheels; make sure they are all properly attached to the wheel base.
Most of the strollers made today are quite strong and durable, but avoid bumping into walls and other objects. Also, dumping the stroller in the trunk of the car is probably not a good idea. Lightweight strollers typically weigh less than 15 pounds, so they can be gently lifted and placed in the trunk. Once the frame is bent, the stroller may not open and close properly, therefore take it out of service.
Store the stroller in a dry place and cover it with an old sheet to prevent dust and dirt from accumulating. Most of the time, keeping it in the back of the SUV or in the trunk of the car is quite convenient and a safe place to store it.
Several manufacturers sport a new feature, removable and washable seats. If you have this wonderful feature, just remove the seat and throw it in the washing machine. Or, if you don’t have this feature, take a damp cloth and wipe the seat. Try to remove those milk and food stains. Dust the frame and wheelbase of the stroller as well; sometimes a little cleaning is all it really takes.
Lastly, save the manufacturer’s parts brochure, in case a part is lost or damaged, you can always request a replacement. Most of the time it is cheaper to replace the part than to buy a new stroller.
It is these small steps that can make the difference in a long-lasting baby stroller. They are expensive and we want them to last, especially if there is a younger brother to pass them on to.