When it comes to folding wheelchairs, one of the most important elements is making sure they last longer and continuing to provide individuals requiring mobility assistance with a stable, safe, and reliable wheelchair. Everyone who owns a folding wheelchair wants it to last for as long as possible; nothing is worse than buying a new wheelchair. Here are the seven tips and tricks to help your folding wheelchair last longer.
Lubricate All Moving Parts
Your folding wheelchair has many moving parts, and these parts need to be kept lubricated so that they continue to move smoothly. The best way to do this is by using a spray lubricant on all moving parts every six months. If possible, use a silicone-based lubricant because it lasts longer than other lubricants. A silicone-based lubricant also works better than oil-based products because it does not attract dirt and debris as easily as oil-based products.
Rotate the Wheels Often
Make sure that you rotate the wheels of your wheelchair every time you use it. The wheels on a folding wheelchair are made from plastic, so they are prone to breaking if they’re not rotated often enough. Rotating the wheels will help prevent them from wearing out quickly and prevent additional wear on one side of the chair. If you don’t rotate your wheels often enough, this can cause uneven pressure on certain parts of the chair, which could cause them to break down faster than they should have otherwise worn out.
Pay Attention to the Wheelchair Cushion
The cushion of your wheelchair is one of its most essential parts. Without it, you could end up with soreness and pressure points on your body where the chair makes contact with your skin. Pay attention to how the wheelchair cushion fits against you so that you don’t get any bruises or skin irritation. If necessary, adjust the position of the cushion so it better fits you and provides comfort while you’re sitting in your wheelchair. You should also make sure that it is not torn or worn out. If there are tears or holes in the cushion, then it can cause sores on your skin and make sitting uncomfortable. If the cushion gets dirty or stained, clean it with mild soap and water and let it dry completely before using it again.
Hang Your Folding Wheelchair When Not in Use
When you’re not using your folding wheelchair, it’s essential to store it properly. It’s also a good idea to hang your wheelchair when not in use if you live in a humid climate. When storing your folding wheelchair, ensure it is dry and free of dirt or debris. If you do not have the space to hang your chair, try storing it upright against a wall or other stable surface. If possible, avoid storing your chair outdoors, as this could damage its parts over time.
Clean the Chair Regularly
Cleaning your folding wheelchair will help prevent the buildup of dirt and other contaminants that can damage or degrade its components over time. Make sure you clean all surfaces, including the seat cushion and backrest, with mild soap and water after every use. You should also regularly clean any wheels and axles using a damp cloth dipped in warm water so that any dirt particles clinging to these surfaces can be removed before they cause damage to these areas of the wheelchair.
Make Sure Your Chair Is Lightweight Enough
If you’re looking for a wheelchair to help you get through the day, it is vital to look for one that is light enough to carry around. Most people have a hard time lifting heavy objects, so if your wheelchair weighs more than 20 pounds, then it might be challenging to move around. If you are looking for a light folding wheelchair, ensure that an independent lab has tested it. You don’t want to buy a product that has not been tested and certified safe for use by the government or any other regulatory agency.
Replace the Wheels
Wheelchairs are made with wheels that are attached to the frame by axles. When these axles become loose or worn out, the wheels will wobble and make an unpleasant noise when you move around in your chair. This can also cause damage to your flooring if the wheels become too loose on their axles. If you notice a problem with your wheelchair’s wheels, replace them immediately. It’s best not to wait until they get worn out because this could cause more damage than simply replacing them when they make noise.
Conclusion
Your wheelchair is critical mobility equipment, mainly if you use it regularly. If you want to use your folding wheelchair often and for many years, then you need to take good care of your wheelchair. This is all about ensuring that your wheelchair will last as long as possible. Hopefully, these tips will help keep your folding wheelchair in shape for months and years.
