Storing an unused stroller properly is important to keep it clean, prevent damage, and save space. Here are some tips on the best ways to store a stroller when not in use:
Why Store an Unused Stroller?
There are several reasons you may need to store a stroller that is not being used on a regular basis:
- You have an extra stroller that you only use occasionally for travel or as a backup.
- You are storing a stroller in between children. Many parents hold onto their stroller to use again with future children.
- You are storing the stroller for the winter if you primarily use it for jogging or walking outdoors.
- Your child has outgrown the stroller but you want to save it to pass down to friends or family.
Properly storing an unused stroller keeps it protected and prevents damage so it is ready to use when needed. Storage also keeps the stroller clean and free of dust, dirt, and grime buildup.
Cleaning the Stroller Before Storage
Before storing your stroller, give it a thorough cleaning. This will prevent mold, mildew, and odors from developing while in storage.
- Remove all removable parts – take off the seat, canopy, snack tray, etc. Wash removable fabric pieces in the washing machine or spot clean by hand.
- Use soap and warm water to scrub the plastic and metal frame. Pay close attention to the wheels and wheel wells where dirt likes to collect.
- Dry all parts completely before reassembling. Allow fabric pieces to air dry thoroughly so no moisture is trapped.
- Disinfect the handlebars, harness, and areas that come into frequent contact with your child’s hands and face.
- Vacuum out small crevices and dust buildup.
Your stroller should now be clean and ready for storage.
Folding the Stroller
Store your stroller in the folded position. This minimizes the amount of space it takes up. Refer to the owner’s manual for instructions on properly folding your specific stroller model.
General tips for folding include:
- Engage the brake lock so the wheels do not move.
- Flip up the seat bottom and fold the canopy.
- Release any folding latches or levers.
- Lift up on the handlebar and use your foot on the fold joint to push the stroller closed.
- Secure the folding latch, ties, or auto-lock into place.
Try folding and unfolding the stroller a few times before storage to ensure everything is in working order and you know the process. This also helps maintain the fold joints and mechanisms.
Storing the Folded Stroller
Once folded, consider where and how you will store the stroller:
- Stand it on end – Standing folded strollers vertically helps minimize floor space needed. Use a corner of a closet or place against a wall. Make sure it is stable and cannot be easily knocked over.
- Hang it – Hanging the stroller from hooks, or a storage rack can save floor space. Place hooks high up on a garage or basement wall. Use sturdy hooks rated for the weight. Pad hooks with old towels or pool noodles to prevent scratches.
- Lay it flat – Laying the stroller horizontally is another option. Store under beds, on closet shelves, or on top of low cabinets. This works well if you have the space.
- Use a storage bag – A stroller storage bag is useful for keeping out dust, dirt, and moisture. Look for bags with handles that make it easy to transport. Make sure the stroller fits all the way inside and the bag zips closed.
- Original box – Storing in the original box is ideal if you still have it. The box protects all sides of the stroller and keeps it contained.
Choose a dry location away from moisture, direct sunlight, and extreme temperatures. Avoid storing next to heat sources like furnaces, water heaters, or near appliances that give off heat.
Preventing Damage and Maintaining the Stroller
Use these tips to keep your stored stroller in great condition:
- Avoid placing heavy objects on top of the folded stroller that could bend or warp it.
- Check on the stroller every 1-2 months. Unfold it, inspect for any issues, and fold it up again.
- Make sure all the moving joints and parts are lubricated. Apply lubricant if parts seem stiff or squeaky.
- Freshen up the fabric with fabric cleaner every 6 months.
- Air out the stroller for 30 minutes every 3-4 months to prevent musty odors.
- Check the tire air pressure and inflate as needed. Tires should be firm, not squishy.
- Cover the stroller with a sheet, tarp, or storage bag to minimize dust and dirt buildup.
Periodically cleaning and airing out the stroller ensures it stays fresh and damage-free while packed away.
What Not to Do
Avoid these common mistakes when storing a stroller:
- Don’t store it outside or in a damp garage, shed, or basement. Moisture causes mold and mildew.
- Don’t just toss it in a cluttered corner. Choose clean, protected storage space.
- Don’t store near heat or cold extremes. This can damage plastic and fabric.
- Don’t fold up wet fabric or an uncleaned stroller. Storing damp leads to odor and mold.
- Don’t leave it folded more than 2-3 months without opening it up. The fold joints need occasional lubrication.
Storing Stroller Accessories
In addition to the main stroller, you may need to store attachments and accessories such as:
- Car seat
- Bassinet
- Cup holder
- Parent organizer
- Child tray
- Diaper bag
- Rain cover
- Blankets, pads, booties
Clean all accessories before storing. For soft goods, wash in the washing machine or spot treat and air dry. Store small pieces in labeled ziplock bags to keep organized. Fold blankets and pads neatly.
Bundle longer items like straps with rubber bands or strips of old tubing to prevent tangling. Wrap rain covers in old towels. Place all accessories in the storage bag with the stroller or in plastic bins.
Check elastic parts like straps for cracking or dryness. Consider replacing if the elasticity seems gone. Remove batteries from battery-powered accessories before storage.
When to Replace a Stored Stroller
Consider replacing your stored stroller if:
- It is over 5 years old – Even with proper storage, plastic and metal parts wear out over time
- The fabric is ripped, badly stained, or overly faded – Fabric breaks down over the years
- Small parts are lost, wheels wobble, or the frame is bent
- It lacks important current safety features like wrist straps or harnesses
- It does not recline enough for an infant – Newborns need to lie flat
- You need accommodations like doubles, all-terrain or adjustable handlebars
For a stroller more than 5 years old, the cost of new replacement parts and repairs may outweigh buying a new model. Newer strollers also have design and safety updates.
Selling or Donating
Instead of storing an old stroller you no longer use, consider:
- Selling – Sites like Facebook Marketplace and Craigslist connect with local buyers. Consignment shops and kids resale stores are another option.
- Donating – Local charities, shelters, and thrift shops often accept donated baby gear.
- Passing down – Give to friends or family who need a stroller.
- Recycling – If not usable, recycle old strollers when possible rather than trash them.
Be sure to clean and sanitize the stroller before selling or donating. Mention any defects or missing parts. Include the original manual if possible.
Selling or donating lets someone else benefit from your old gear while freeing up your own storage space.
Types of Strollers and Storage
How you store your stroller depends partly on the type:
Standard Strollers
The most common strollers with four wheels and a horizontal lie-flat seat are pretty easy to fold up and store. They take up moderate space.
Jogging Strollers
Joggers have three large bicycle wheels and are bulkier when folded. Try to store upright tucked into a corner. Hang from garage rafters or ceiling hooks if you have high ceilings.
Double/Triple Strollers
Multiples are very bulky when folded and require significant storage space. Stand on end in a closet or garage bay. If short on space, consider wall-mounted vertical hooks.
Lightweight/Umbrella Strollers
Small, portable umbrella strollers are the easiest to stash just about anywhere. Store in a front hall closet, under a bed, or tucked on a shelf.
Pramette Strollers
Pramette strollers have bassinet-style seats for newborns. The bassinet portion may detach for separate storage. Fold up the seat stroller portion.
Travel Systems
Travel systems with a car seat and stroller base require storing both pieces. The car seat carrier also needs space. Opt for flat storage under beds or a crib.
Creative Small Space Stroller Storage
Limited on storage room? Get creative with stroller storage using these ideas:
- Hang horizontally from the ceiling or rafters if you have high enough ceilings.
- Invest in wall-mounted vertical storage racks or hooks.
- Ask if you can store in a little-used hall closet.
- See if it fits into the box spring area under your bed by removing the fabric cover.
- Add a storage unit like a small shed, closet or shelves in the garage, basement, or patio.
- Use it as a side table or temporary nightstand and stash it under the bed when needed.
Look for unused niche spaces like under open basement stairs. Get creative with vertical hanging and multi-use furniture for hiding strollers in small homes.
Storing Strollers in Small Apartments
Storing strollers in apartments and condos can be tricky with limited space. Ideas for small apartments include:
- Use vertical wall hooks or hangers in a front hall closet.
- See if it fits upright tucked in a coat closet corner.
- Store under your bed using risers to increase clearance.
- Place on a high closet shelf you can access with a step stool.
- Store in your building storage unit if you have an assigned locker space.
- Hang high up on the back of bathroom or pantry doors.
- Ask if you can store in the building common storage area.
Seek permission before storing a stroller in any shared building areas. Offer to share the space with neighbors with young kids.
Apartment Stroller Storage Solutions
Try these space-saving products and furniture for apartments:
- Over the door hangers – Hang over closet, bathroom or pantry doors
- Wall-mounted vertical racks – Anchor vertically to walls
- Stackable storage cubes – Use like shelving units
- Under bed containers – Clear plastic bins fit under beds
- Multi-use furniture – Ottomans, coffee tables, or side tables with storage space inside
- Closet rod extenders – Add length for more vertical hanging space
Look for any unused vertical space or furniture that doubles as storage when living small with a stroller.
Storing in Cold Climates
In cold northern climates, consider these tips for stroller storage in winter:
- Store in a heated garage or mudroom rather than a freezing cold shed or unheated garage.
- Bring the stroller indoors before the first deep freeze and store in a closet or under a bed.
- If storing in a cold garage, cover it with a heavy tarp and wrap in an insulating blanker or pool noodle.
- Clean and thoroughly dry the stroller before storing for winter. Leftover dampness can cause mold.
- Inflate air-filled tires fully to prevent cracking in extreme cold. Use tire foam if needed.
Avoid storing strollers long-term in freezing temperatures. The cold can make plastic and metal parts stiff and more prone to cracking. Store indoors or insulate well.
Storing in Hot Climates
If you live in a hot southern climate, watch for these potential issues:
- Plastic and rubber parts degrade faster in heat and humidity. Avoid hot attics or sheds.
- Insect damage is more likely. Avoid exposure to ants and roaches.
- Mold grows quickly on damp fabrics in heat. Store clean and completely dry.
- UV damage fades and weakens fabric. Avoid direct sun exposure.
- Tires lose air pressure faster resulting in flat spots. Inflate to max pressure.
Try to store inside in a temperature controlled area. If storing in a hot garage or shed, cover tightly with a sheet or storage bag.
Conclusion
Properly storing an unused stroller keeps it clean, damage-free, and ready to use when needed again. Start by cleaning the stroller thoroughly before packing it away. Store folded in a dry, moderate temperature space protected from dust, dirt, moisture, and extremes. Avoid tossing it loosely into a cluttered garage or basement.
Try to store it standing up, hanging, or laid flat to minimize space. Use storage bags, shelves, or specialized stroller hangers to keep organized. Check on the stroller every few months and freshen it up to prevent issues. With some planning, even small spaces and apartments can accommodate stroller storage.
