In top shape: maintain your wheelchair in just 10 minutes
If you want to ride comfortably and safely, your wheelchair needs regular attention. Luckily, maintenance doesn’t have to be complicated or take up your day. With ten minutes a month, you can prevent extra resistance, rattling — and a lot of hassle.
A small effort that saves you a lot of effort
If you use your wheelchair daily, you’ll notice it right away: when it feels stiff, squeaky, or less responsive, it takes much more energy to move.
Your arms tire faster, turns require more strength, and it can feel like you’re pushing against the wind — even indoors.
Regular cleaning and quick checks prevent all that and extend your chair’s lifespan at the same time. A well-maintained wheelchair rolls more smoothly and just feels better. You’re no longer pushing against dust, sand, or worn bearings — just gliding the way you did when it was new.
So how do you do it?
1. Quick clean-up
Dust, sand, and crumbs love to gather in your wheels, bearings, and under the seat. Wipe or brush them away with a soft cloth or brush.
Use a damp cloth to clean the frame and avoid harsh cleaning products — they can damage the paint or bearings.
2. Check tire pressure
Tires that are too soft make your chair heavier to push, while overinflated tires reduce comfort. A hand pump (or bike pump) with a pressure gauge is a small investment that saves your arms. Check your pressure weekly (usually between 6 and 8 bar for narrow, hard tires) and top up as needed.
3. Watch for wear and tear
A small tear in the upholstery, a loose bolt, or a sagging seat cushion? Don’t wait until it gets worse. A quick check prevents small issues from turning into costly repairs or discomfort on the go.
For example, spotting rear-wheel wear in time can save you from a flat tire later on.
4. Inspect your wheels and bearings
Spin your front wheels: are they straight and rolling smoothly without bumps or squeaks? If not, it’s time for a cleaning or some lubrication.
Also check that they’re firmly attached — but not too tight.
Important: Never use grease on your wheelchair’s quick-release axles. It attracts dust and dirt, which build up quickly. Instead, wipe them clean with a cloth or paper towel — they’ll roll better and last longer.
5. Test your brakes
Your brakes should stop you safely without too much effort. If they feel soft or uneven, have them adjusted by a Vigo expert. It’s a small fix with a big impact on your safety.
A quick visual check of these five points prevents most common issues and keeps your chair in top shape longer.
Pro tip: the “sand test”
Do you often ride outside, on gravel paths or in parks, for example? Place your wheelchair on a white towel or newspaper, gently tap the front fork and rear axle, and see what falls out. Sand and dust are your bearings’ worst enemies. A quick clean-up now can save you a lot of resistance later.
DIY or professional check-up?
Most maintenance tasks you can easily do yourself, like inflating tires, tightening bolts, or wiping things down. Still, it’s smart to have your wheelchair professionally checked at least once a year. That way, the bearings, axles, and brakes are thoroughly inspected, keeping your chair safe and in great condition.
Keep rolling, not pushing
Maintenance isn’t a side note. The smoother your chair rolls, the more energy you have left for what really matters. Set a reminder on your phone — say, every Sunday evening: ten minutes of maintenance.
Got your own tip for easy wheelchair care?
Share your experience on social media with #Vigotip or via connect@vigogroup.eu. Your ideas might inspire others!
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