A wheelchair must be cleaned and disinfected correctly to keep it in good condition, extend its lifespan, and stop spreading bacteria and viruses. In the case of Folding Wheelchair, the dust gets accumulated as well, so it’s necessary to routinely clean them.
The WHO has provided several crucial pieces of advice to stop the spread of this virus due to how easy it may be spread, including social seclusion, frequent hand washing, and extensive cleaning of the objects and surfaces we use frequently. It is becoming increasingly necessary to spend more time outside, making wheelchair maintenance even more crucial.
Today, we want to provide you with some instructions and advice so you may regularly clean your wheelchair and stop the spread of the virus.
How to disinfect and clean a wheelchair Disinfection versus cleaning
The first thing to remember is that cleaning and disinfecting are two different processes. Cleaning does not kill germs; it only removes dirt and bacteria from surfaces. Only the amount of germs and the threat of infection spreading get reduced as we release them.
On the other hand, when disinfecting a wheelchair, we use chemical treatments to kill microorganisms like bacteria. This method may only sometimes clear grimy surfaces. After cleaning, eradicating bacteria on the surface can help to stop the spread of infectious diseases further.
In light of this, you should regularly clean your wheelchair and sanitize it with a surface-specific sanitizer. These goods advertise as being virucidal and bactericidal.
Suggestions and advice for cleaning your wheelchair
Every time you go to a public venue, such as a supermarket, you should clean your wheelchair. Apply disinfectant solution in such a way on all the surfaces that have come in contact. Use at least 70% alcohol or certified commercial disinfectant product wipes to clean surfaces. Wait for at least 15 minutes post applying the sanitizer. Afterward, use a wipe to clean the surface and an aseptic cloth to rinse it.
After disinfection, rinse all surfaces with clean water and completely dry them. Keep in mind that improper drying can harm your wheelchair. You must always clean any part of your chair with a moist towel rather than a wet one.
Avoid using synthetic detergents, wax enamels, abrasives, bleaches, solvents, and sprays. For further information on how to clean the controls, go to the wheelchair’s instructions.
Remember to clean the handles, armrests, and other parts that users and caregivers routinely touch.
The wheelchair’s most essential parts are listed below. Critical wheelchair components
It’s better to thoroughly clean the entire frame after going somewhere with many people; there are specific accessories and parts, like the cushion, armrests, or hand rims that you should take extra care with because they get regularly exposed to viral infection.
Front and back wheels: Your wheelchair’s wheels come into direct contact with the ground, exposing them to various pathogens. It might be advised to carry out a cleaning routine every time you go home, even if daily disinfection still needs to be done. Before using the disinfectant on your mobility chair, be sure it is safe to do so. You can also fully dry the seat after washing it with soapy water. Never submerge your electric wheelchair in water or hose it down.
Handles: The handles on a Wheelchair are one of the primary places where an illness can spread since they frequently come into contact with multiple hands. Just sanitize them after being cleaned since they will be suicidal and veridical.
Armrests: The armrest is another often touched component that, if possible, should be sanitized with one of these surface cleaners.
Joystick and hand-rims: When disinfecting a wheelchair, it’s important to remember to clean the hand-rims and joystick, respectively, if it’s an electric wheelchair. Because they come into direct contact with our hands, these two components can concentrate a lot of germs.
Cushion: Our bodies are entirely in contact with the seat and back cushions. Sweating and rubbing might facilitate the growth and spread of bacteria. If at all feasible, sanitize it, let it sit for about 15 minutes, and then dry it with a piece of disposable paper or cloth.
Thus, keeping the Wheelchairs clean helps you wade off infections.