Although wheelchairs require fewer parts than cars, the same care and attention should be given to wheelchairs. Because like a car, it is always a hassle to have something broken, causing a break down in the middle of the road.

As we wait for some brilliant capitalist to come up with a wheelchair-wash, you have to take things upon yourself and act now. Your wheelchair might not be able to wait for the wheelchair-wash to become a reality. Here are 3 simple tips on how you can do basic periodic wheelchair maintenance using cleaning stuff that are readily available.

1. Dry, damp, dry

This rule applies to every part of your wheelchair, and this is the rule that begins the maintenance process. Using a dry, soft cloth, wipe off dust and dirt from all surfaces. Then, use another cloth you can wet, and wipe the surfaces again. This is to remove stubborn stains. Go back to using your dry cloth for drying off.

2. Take precautionary measures against rust

Products that allow you to waterproof leather and fabric are great for your wheelchair seat. You won’t have to worry about the seat smelling bad or the leather peeling after being accidentally left out in the rain.

Products that protect metal from rust may be used for the frame of your wheelchair. Make sure you get the joints where parts are hinged or screwed together.

3. Make sure rubber parts still provide traction and grip

Wheel maintenance doesn’t end with making sure they are inflated. It is also important to be aware of whether or not they can still provide friction to make sure that you remain in control of where you want to go.

Check the lock and break mechanisms. Make sure the pads can still do their job to prevent accidents, especially if you often find yourself in uneven terrains.

Who said only cars have the right to bling and cool accessories? Your wheelchair can very well be a blank canvas on which you can do anything. Today, we give you 3 tips on how you can dress up your wheelchair. 

1. Add art
1. Air brush art

The best area to have anything airbrushed on is behind your backrest. Standard manual wheelchairs have nice smooth backrests ideal for air brush art. The surface area is big enough, making the artwork more visible and easier to apply. Even surfaces like your backrest also make drying more even.  

Usually, air brush art produces pieces in deep, bold colors with thick outlines. This is great if you like graffiti art or if you’re into neo-impressionism. Air bush is also the way to go if you’d like to immortalize actors or musicians on your backrest. 

2. Hand painted art

You’d be amazed to learn that you can fit murals in your backrest. With the right artist, you recreate famous frescos and even iconic paintings. If you prefer something edgier, you can have a little Andy Warhol painted on your backrest. If you fancy Warhol’s soup can, wheelchairs with a reclining back have enough space to accommodate that. 

2. Add bling

Instead of painted art, you can opt to add shiny metal pieces onto your wheelchair. You can make your wheelchair wear simple wardrobe accessories like spiky cuffs and wallet chains. For extra toughness, you can use an old, beat-up leather belt with metal studs. Have someone sew it onto the backrest or use super-glue.  

3. Accessorize