What’s Really Hiding in Fabric Cushions and Armrests?

When it comes to cleaning a wheelchair, most people think of wiping down the frame or disinfecting the joystick. But what about the fabric cushions and armrests?

These soft surfaces are in constant contact with our skin and can quietly collect a surprising—and sometimes concerning—amount of grime.

Fabric may feel soft and comfortable, but it can act like a sponge, absorbing whatever touches it: sweat, saliva, food crumbs, drink spills, body lotions, and dead skin cells. Over time, these residues soak in and settle into the fibres, creating the perfect environment for bacteria, odours, and mould to thrive.

The Hidden Hygiene Risks

It’s easy to overlook what we can’t see. A cushion may look clean on the surface, but underneath, microbial communities can be growing. Every drop of sweat, every accidental spill, every unnoticed smear especially in a warm, damp environment, can feed that hidden growth.

Unlike hard plastic or metal, fabric can’t simply be wiped down with a damp cloth and called clean. Bacteria and odours cling to the fibres. And if the cushion has tiny cracks or damage, it makes it even harder to clean thoroughly, giving germs a safe hiding spot to multiply.

Armrests are another area that’s frequently missed. Whether they’re vinyl-covered or made of softer upholstery, they’re touched constantly by users, carers, and anyone pushing the chair. Skin oils, food particles, makeup, and general hand grime can build up fast, particularly on the front edges where hands naturally rest or grip.

Long-term exposure to contaminated surfaces can irritate skin, worsen pressure injuries, or increase the risk of infection, especially for those with vulnerable immune systems or sensitive skin.

Why It’s Hard to Clean at Home

Cleaning fabric components at home sounds simple in theory. But in practice, it’s rarely enough.

• Surface-level wiping only touches the top layer, leaving what’s absorbed into the cushion untouched.

• Over-saturating fabric can cause damage, encourage mould, or degrade waterproof barriers.

• Not all wipes are created equal - many household antibacterial wipes don’t contain the right strength or ingredients to tackle deeper bacterial build-up in fabric.

  
  

Plus, trying to clean these areas thoroughly without the right tools or products can leave the fabric damp or chemically treated in ways that aren’t skin-safe.

The Role of Deep Cleaning

This is where professional-grade deep cleaning makes a noticeable difference. Bacteria and moisture left to sit can break down fabric fibres and internal foams over time, leading to faster wear and tear. Regular professional cleaning helps preserve your chair's function and comfort.

At Pure Wheelchairs, our process targets what’s under the surface, eliminating bacteria, neutralising odours, and removing built-up grime you didn’t even know was there.

Our team understands the materials used in mobility aids and how to clean them safely with hospital-grade methods and super-heated dry steam machines to eliminate invisible dirt on wheelchairs. We ensure cushions are cleaned, dried, and returned in a fresh, hygienic condition for daily use. We also complete a check of the cushion underneath the cover to make sure that everything is functioning exactly as it should for you. 

When Is It Time For A Deep Clean?

If your wheelchair cushion smells musty, feels damp, or looks stained, it’s probably overdue for a proper clean. The same goes for armrests that feel sticky or look discoloured. But even if things seem fine, regular preventative cleaning is a good habit, especially in high-use chairs or shared environments.

Give Your Wheelchair a Fresh Start

Fabric cushions and armrests shouldn’t be the weak link in your hygiene routine. These soft surfaces are essential to your comfort and safety, and they deserve proper care.

If you’re unsure how to clean them safely, or you’re dealing with lingering odours and grime that just won’t shift, we’re here to help. Pure Wheelchairs offers deep cleaning services designed specifically for mobility aids, so every surface that touches your skin gets the care it deserves.

Book a hospital-grade deep clean with Pure Wheelchairs today.