How to Clean a Stroller: A Simple Step-by-Step Guide
Strollers go everywhere with you, which means they collect a little bit of everything too. Grass, sidewalk dust, playground grit, crushed snacks, sunscreen smears, and the occasional mystery stain all have a way of settling in. Cleaning it can feel like a big project, but it becomes surprisingly simple once you know where to start.
This guide walks you through a clear, step-by-step routine, including what to do when the stroller fabric won't come off, how to safely handle mold, and how to deep-clean a secondhand stroller that's already been on a few adventures of its own.
And if you finish cleaning and decide your stroller has earned a graceful retirement, you can browse our baby stroller collection for options when you are ready.
Before You Start: What You Will Need
Gather a few gentle, baby-safe supplies before getting started:
- Mild soap or baby-safe detergent
- Warm water
- Soft cloth or sponge
- Toothbrush or soft cleaning brush
- Vacuum with a narrow attachment
- Clean towel
- Baby-safe disinfecting wipes
- Optional: baking soda or diluted vinegar for odors
These basics cover most stroller-cleaning situations.
Check What Can Be Safely Removed First
Every stroller model is built differently. Many have seat fabrics, padding, or canopies that come off once you know where the buttons, snaps, or small screws are hidden.
Before cleaning, check:
- Your stroller manual
- The brand’s website for your model
- Any labels under the seat or frame
- YouTube tutorials for your exact stroller
Taking off removable pieces makes cleaning faster and much more thorough.
Step by Step: How To Deep Clean A Stroller
Here is a simple routine that works for most strollers.
1. Clear Out Crumbs and Loose Dirt
Start by removing anything sitting on the surface.
- Shake out the seat
- Vacuum seams and corners
- Empty the storage basket and snack tray
2. Clean the Fabric and Padding
If the fabric is removable:
- Unclip or unzip the fabric
- Wash according to the care label
- Use mild soap
- Air dry completely
If the fabric does not come off:
- Mix warm water with mild soap
- Wipe the seat and canopy
- Use a toothbrush for seams
- Avoid soaking the fabric
- Rinse with a damp cloth
3. Clean the Frame and Handles
- Wipe with warm soapy water
- Clean handlebars, sides, and cup holders
- Use baby-safe disinfecting wipes
- Dry with a towel
4. Clean the Wheels and Underbody
- Remove wheels if possible
- Brush away dirt and sand
- Wipe down wheel wells
- Dry thoroughly
5. Clean the Harness and Buckles
- Spot clean straps
- Use a toothbrush for creases
- Wipe buckles
- Test each buckle after cleaning
6. Let the Stroller Dry Completely
- Keep the stroller open
- Air dry outdoors in the shade
- Avoid dryers or harsh sun exposure
How To Clean A Stroller That Does Not Come Apart
Some strollers have fixed seats or padding that cannot be removed.
- Vacuum thoroughly
- Scrub with warm soapy water
- Use a toothbrush for tight seams
- Wipe using a damp cloth
- Pat dry with a towel
- Air dry completely
How To Clean A Stroller Outdoors
If you have outdoor space, cleaning a stroller outside can make the whole process feel less fussy. Many parents roll it into the yard, hose it down, scrub it with a very generous amount of mild dish soap, rinse everything off, and call it a day. Sunlight and fresh air do a lot of the work for you, but make sure not to leave it out in the sun too long, as direct sunlight can fade fabrics, weaken materials, and trap moisture in the padding.
For an even deeper clean, some parents use a power washer on a low setting. This can easily blast away months of dirt and grime, bringing your stroller back to life. If your stroller doesn't hold up after a gentle power wash, it might already be nearing the end of its life. Better to discover that during cleaning rather than when you’re out running errands.
No yard? No problem! A large bathtub with a detachable shower head works great, and some families even turn to DIY car wash stalls for a quick rinse and easy cleanup.
How To Clean Mold Off A Stroller Safely
Mold can develop when moisture sits in the fabric or padding for too long. Mild cases are simple to clean.
1. Move the stroller outside
Take the stroller outdoors or to a well-ventilated area. This helps prevent mold spores from spreading inside your home during cleaning.
2. Brush away surface mold
Using a dry, soft brush or old toothbrush, gently brush off any visible mold. Avoid scrubbing hard at this stage to keep spores from embedding deeper into the fabric.
3. Wash with warm soapy water
Mix warm water with a mild soap or baby-safe detergent. Lightly scrub the affected areas using a cloth or soft brush, focusing on seams and padding where moisture tends to linger.
4. Treat remaining spots with diluted vinegar
If discoloration or odor remains, spray or dab a solution of one part white vinegar to two parts water onto the affected areas. Let it sit for 10 to 15 minutes, then gently scrub again.
5. Rinse and dry completely
Wipe away any residue with a clean, damp cloth. Keep the stroller open and allow it to air dry completely, preferably outdoors in the shade or in a breezy space. Proper drying is essential to prevent mold from returning.
6. Remove stubborn odors
Once the stroller is clean and mostly dry, sprinkle baking soda lightly over the affected fabric areas. Let it sit for 12 to 24 hours to absorb remaining moisture and odors. Vacuum thoroughly using a brush attachment. Repeat if needed before final air drying.
7. Replace when necessary
If mold returns quickly, smells remain, or the padding feels damp deep inside, replacement fabric or professional servicing may be the safest option.
If You Are Cleaning A Secondhand Stroller
When you do not know a stroller’s history, a deeper clean offers peace of mind.
Most parents prefer to:
- Disassemble what they can
- Machine wash removable fabrics
- Hand wash fixed pieces
- Clean the frame and wheels thoroughly
- Check for rust or damaged parts
- Dry everything fully
A Clean Stroller Goes A Long Way
Cleaning a stroller is so much easier when you keep it simple. Regular cleanings make a big difference and help keep your stroller in great shape for many years to come.
Even with regular care, every stroller eventually reaches a point where deep cleaning only goes so far. When that time comes, you can explore lighter options in our lightweight strollers collection or compare long-lasting, everyday single stroller options. Families preparing for two often find the extra room they need in our double stroller collection.
No matter what you choose next, Kidsland has you covered when you are ready to explore your options.
Frequently Asked Questions About Stroller Cleaning and Care
How often should I clean my stroller?
Light weekly cleaning keeps it tidy. A deeper clean every few months or after messy outings helps maintain comfort and safety.
What simple upkeep should I do between deep cleans?
Wipe down the frame, shake out crumbs, clean the wheels monthly, and address spills right away. Keeping the stroller dry helps prevent mold.
How can I extend the life of my stroller?
Store it in a dry place, avoid leaving it in direct sunlight, and use gentle cleaners. Seat liners help protect the fabric.
Why does my stroller smell musty, and how do I fix it?
Moisture is usually the cause. Make sure the stroller dries completely after cleaning or rain. Baking soda can help absorb odors.
When should I replace stroller parts?
Replace parts if you notice loose wheels, rusted joints, broken buckles, frayed straps, or persistent mold.
Is it okay to store a stroller in the garage or outside?
It depends on your climate. Humid or damp spaces can lead to mold. If storing in a garage, keep it covered and off the ground.
What cleaning products are safe to use regularly?
Warm water, mild soap, baby-safe detergent, and baby-safe disinfecting wipes are gentle choices. Avoid harsh chemicals unless recommended by the manufacturer.