How to Clean a Maclaren Stroller

Dirt from the sidewalk, spilled food and drinks, and all the other messes from daily life with a baby or small child can end up on your stroller. Maclaren strollers are made with a rugged fabric that allows you to wash it yourself with little chance of damaging it. Although designs vary, most strollers feature a fabric seat and canopy, with a metal frame and plastic components. Although you can vacuum out the seat for a quick clean, periodic deep cleaning of the fabric keeps it like new. The frame and plastic components require daily or weekly cleaning, depending on dirt buildup and frequency of use.

Cleaning Preparation

Most Maclaren strollers feature removable seat covers 1. Attachment methods vary, but removal begins with detaching the straps from the rear of the stroller frame. The strap attachment ends -- which on most models are made of plastic -- snap into the frame. Sliding a slotted screwdriver between the attachment end and the stroller frame unsnaps it so you can rotate it and slide it through the slot in the frame. After removing the straps, unsnap the edges of the seat cover from the side arms of the stroller frame (if necessary for your model) and lift off the seat cover. Depending on the model, you can remove the entire seat or just the seat pad. Remove the canopy by either unscrewing it from the frame or by opening the attachment clasps, depending on the model of stroller. Detach any plastic trays attached to the stroller for separate washing 2.

Seats, Fabric and Canopies

Washing and drying the fabric by hand extends its life and prevents shrinkage. Fill the sink with lukewarm water and add a mild detergent. Shake out or vacuum up loose dirt before submerging the fabric. Scrubbing with a mildly abrasive cloth or brush removes stains. Fabric that isn't removable must be dampened and washed on the frame using gentle scrubbing. Although the canopy is removable, its internal frame isn't, so it requires washing on the frame with a damp sponge. After washing, rinse away detergent with clear water and hang any removable fabrics up to dry. Fabric must dry completely before you reattach it to the frame. Otherwise the moisture may produce mildew. Make sure the seat strap attachment ends lock securely in place with an audible click before placing your child in the stroller.

Stroller Frame

Salt can cause rust and compromise the integrity of the frame. Rinsing the frame with clear water after using it in snow, near salt water, or in any other conditions that can cause salt buildup protects it against rust. For normal cleaning, use a damp cloth or an all-purpose cleaner to remove dirt, mud and food from the frame and wheels. Avoid abrasive cleaners, stiff brushes or scouring pads. You can wipe down the frame with mild disinfectant after cleaning 2.

Plastic Pieces

Maclaren strollers have various plastic clips that hold the seat and canopy in place, and some models have plastic trays, cup holders and other accessories. Wash these components in hot water as you would any dish, using a liquid dish soap and a mildly abrasive dish sponge or cloth. The plastic components require rinsing after washing, and then you can air dry or wipe them dry as desired. You can also quickly clean these components on the stroller after each use by wiping them down with an all-purpose cleaner and a disinfectant.