How to Wash a Graco Stroller: A Step-by-Step Guide for Busy Parents
All strollers, regardless of model, should be cleaned regularly to maintain their condition. For Graco models, including Click Connect, Lite Rider, or jogging strollers, it’s important to know the correct cleaning methods. This helps you avoid using time-consuming or damaging techniques on the fabric, frame, and buckles.
Worn-looking, leaking or grimy wheeled strollers appeared after a period of unkept strollers. This guide is designed for parents who want to help with their time managing cleaning guides on how to wash Graco stroller, how to cover washing removal, how to deconstruct a Graco Modes stroller, and how to reassemble all deconstructed components.
You will wash each part, and will dry and reassemble it in a manner that will make the stroller fresh and lightweight. This is all aimed to be done before the next drive.
Why Cleaning Your Graco Stroller Matters
Stickers can be safely removed. A clean stroller looks better and lasts longer. Regular cleaning prevents mold, stuck buckles, and wheel grind. Whether you have a Graco Modes, Click Connect, Lite Rider, jogging stroller, or Metrolite, the steps are: remove the fabric (most are interchangeable and portable), clean it, wipe down the chassis, and dry it fully before use.
Preparing for Cleaning
- Gather the Supplies Needed
- microfiber cloths (2–3)
- A soft brush or a handheld vacuum
- A soft sponge + old toothbrush/cotton swabs (for creases)
- Spray bottle/bucket with warm water.
- Baby safe mild detergent (no bleach)
- Electrostatic duster or dry lubricant for wheels/bearings (do not overspray on brakes)
- Disinfecting wipes (alcohol free) for hard parts
- You may also include an enzyme cleaner for formula/milk stains.
- Spraying EU/EPA-approved sanitizer will reduce and eliminate germs before cleaning.
Read the Manual. Don’t have the manual? Type your model name and search for manual PDF on the Graco website.
YouTube often has videos for your model.
Related Article: Top 5 Benefits of Using a Front-Facing Stroller for Your Baby
How to Take Apart a Graco Stroller for Washing
Step-by-Step Disassembly
- First Vacuum Your Stroller
Remove snacks, toys, and other crumbs. Then, vacuum the seat pan and the storage basket.
Remove Accessories
- Cupholders, snack trays, belly bar covers, and canopy toys all have to be removed first.
Detach the Canopy.
Most Graco canopies slide out of the side channels and can unclip.
Most Graco canopies slide out of the side channels and can unclip.
Unthread the harness.
Take a picture of the harness placement. Unthread the shoulder straps from the seat pad and remove the pad.Remove the seat pad by undoing the snaps, Velcro, and other hidden things under the seat. Some pads have elastic loops that can be removed.
Storage Basket (if removable):
Unclip front and back tabs.
Unclip front and back tabs.
Wheels (Optional):
Press the release buttons to pop off the wheels and remove cotter pins for a deep clean.
Press the release buttons to pop off the wheels and remove cotter pins for a deep clean.
Tip For Different Models
Small parts can be kept in labeled zip bags. Take pictures at each step; this will help in reassembly.
Tips for Older Models Handy Enough
How to remove the Graco stroller cover for washing ? Look for fabric tabs around the seat pan and backrest; many are Velcro or elastic.
How to Take Apart Graco Modes Stoller for Washing ? The Modes line usually has modular seats. They can be removed from the frame by pressing the side buttons. Then you can remove the pad from the shell.
Related Article: When to Stop Using a Bassinet Stroller ?
Cleaning Your Graco Click Connect Stroller and Lite Ride.
Cleaning the fabric is easy. Unthread the seat pads from the harness and unhook them. Slide the canopy out of the side channels.
Jogging stroller models can be identified by the presence of a front wheel locking lever. Also, when removing the wheels, pay attention to the orientation of the spacers.
Graco Stroller Covers, Seat Pads, and Canopies Cleaning Instruction:
Check care labels and follow their instructions. Most Graco seat pads can go in the washing machine with cold water using a gentle cycle.
Milk, formula, and juice stains can be removed by using an enzyme stain remover. We recommend letting it sit on the stain for 10 to 15 minutes before washing.
If the care label allows machine washing, use cold water and a gentle cycle with a mild detergent. Do not use bleach, fabric softener, or dryer sheets.
If the label requires hand washing, use lukewarm water and agitate the fabric gently. After washing, the water should be clear when you rinse.
Never use tumble dryers, hot air, wringing, or soaking on foam inserts that can’t be removed.
Cleaning the Stroller Frame Instructions
The frame can be cleaned with warm, soapy water and a damp cloth. For the harness and buckles, you only wipe them without soaking. Use a toothbrush around the buckle creases to remove any stuck dirt. After the buckles are dry, make sure to test them by clicking to ensure they work.
Removing Hair/Threads from Wheels & Brake Area
Remove hair/threads from the wheels & brake area. Wipe the rims and the treads. If the axles are gritty, wipe them with a dry cloth and then a light application of silicone spray. Avoid lubricating the tires and brake pads.
Snack tray/cupholders
To clean the snack tray and cupholders, use a soapy sponge, rinse, and allow them to air dry.
How to Wash Graco Modes Stroller Seat
To clean the Modes Graco seat, you will have to separate the hard plastic seat shell from the fabric seat pad.
Again, wipe the seat shell with a soapy cloth and avoid soaking the hardware.
To clean the seat pad, you may follow the washing instructions on the label, whether machine or hand washing.
Check again for debris around the harness slots to make sure there are no frays.
How to Dry
Stroller parts must air dry. Lay the parts flat or hang them indoors, avoiding direct sunlight to prevent fading and warping.
To speed up drying, direct a fan at the parts. Make sure the foam and seams are dry to prevent mildew from forming.
To prevent corrosion, towel-dry the metal parts of the stroller.
Washing the Graco Stroller Components
Keeping each part of your stroller clean is essential for safety, hygiene, and smooth everyday use. Whether you’re learning how to wash a Graco stroller, how to wash a Graco Modes stroller, or simply removing stains after a spill, the steps below make the cleaning process quick and stress-free.
How to Wash Graco Stroller Covers
Your Graco stroller covers (seat pad, canopy, and fabric inserts) collect the most dirt, crumbs, milk spills, and sweat. Luckily, most Graco fabrics are machine-washable, but always check the care tag.
Step-by-Step: Washing Graco Stroller Covers
- Remove the fabric covers by unthreading the harness, opening Velcro tabs, and sliding the canopy off its channels.
- Vacuum crumbs from the underside of the seat and creases.
- Pre-treat stains using a baby-safe stain remover or enzyme spray.
4-Machine wash (if permitted):
- Cold / gentle cycle
- Mild baby detergent
- No bleach, no softeners
5.Hand-wash delicate pieces like canopies:
- Lukewarm water + soft sponge
- Avoid scrubbing too hard.
6-Rinse thoroughly until the water runs clear.
Works for:
- Graco Modes stroller seat
- Graco Click Connect stroller
- Lite Rider
- Graco jogging stroller
- Graco Metrolite
How to Clean the Stroller Frame
The stroller frame (chassis, handles, buckles, wheels) gets dusty, sticky, and gritty—especially after outdoor walks.
Cleaning the Frame Safely
- Mix warm water + mild dish soap.
- Use a microfiber cloth to wipe:
- handlebar
- side rails
- wheel housings
- basket frame
- Clean buckles using a damp cloth and a toothbrush to remove stuck debris.
- Never soak buckles in water.
Wheels & brakes:
- Remove hair/threads wrapped around axles.
- Wipe treads with soapy water.
- Avoid grease/oil on brake pads.
- Plastic pieces (tray, cupholders, snack bar):
- Wash using soapy water, rinse, and air-dry.
Cleaning the chassis ensures the stroller folds smoothly and remains safe to use.
How to Wash Graco Modes Stroller Seat
The Graco Modes line has a removable, modular seat, which makes cleaning easier.
Steps for Graco Modes Seat
- Detach the entire seat from the stroller frame using the side release buttons.
- Remove the seat pad by undoing Velcro tabs, elastic loops, and hidden hooks.
- Unthread the harness and take photos for reference.
- Wash the seat pad (machine or hand wash, based on care tag).
- Wipe the seat shell (the hard inner part) using a damp cloth; avoid soaking.
- Dry completely before reinstalling.
Works for:
- Graco Modes, Modes Nest, Modes Pramette, Modes Click Connect.
Drying and Reassembling the Stroller
Drying is one of the most important steps—assembling a damp stroller can cause mold, mildew, and an unpleasant smell.
Proper Drying Techniques
Fabric Drying Tips
- Air-dry only (no dryer).
- Lay the pad flat or hang it indoors.
- Use a fan for faster drying.
- Avoid direct sunlight to prevent fading.
Frame Drying Tips
- Towel dry metal bars to prevent rust.
- Let the wheels air out after washing.
Ensure all fabric and foam sections are 100% dry before reassembly.
Related Article: 5 Reasons Parents Should Consider Open Box Strollers
How to Assemble a Graco Stroller After Washing
Reassembling your stroller is simple if done in the correct order. Use any photos you took during disassembly.
Reassembly Steps
1-Attach the seat pad:
- Secure Velcro straps, hooks, and loops.
- Pull the fabric smooth to avoid wrinkles.
2-Re-thread the harness:
- Follow your Graco manual diagram.
- Ensure shoulder straps come through the correct height slots.
- Reinstall the canopy by sliding its rods into the side channels until they click.
3-Attach wheels (if removed):
- Make sure axles lock firmly.
- Spin wheels to check alignment.
- Add accessories: snack tray, cupholder, belly bar.
4-Do a safety check:
- Test brakes.
- Test buckle click.
- Fold/unfold the stroller to ensure smooth movement. Washing the Graco Stroller Components
Keeping each part of your stroller clean is essential for safety, hygiene, and smooth everyday use. Whether you’re learning how to wash a Graco stroller, how to wash a Graco Modes stroller, or simply removing stains after a spill, the steps below make the cleaning process quick and stress-free.
Related Article: When to Stop Using a Bassinet Stroller ?
Stroller Maintenance Schedule (Quick Reference)
| Frequency | What To Do | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Weekly | Quick Clean | Sweep crumbs, wipe the handlebar, spot-clean spills, remove visible dirt. |
| Monthly | Deep Clean | Wipe the chassis thoroughly, check wheel condition, test buckles for proper clicking. |
| After Big Messes (spills, illness, beach, mud) | Full Fabric Wash | Wash seat fabric/covers, clean frame, remove sand or sticky residue, dry completely before reassembly. |
| Seasonally | Maintenance Check | Lightly lubricate axles, inspect screws/fasteners, check brakes & wheel alignment, clean storage basket. |
Avoid for Safety
- Bleach, solvent cleaners, abrasive pads.
- Pressure washers or soaking the entire frame.
- Tumble drying fabric components.
- Oil on brakes and tires (use silicone or dry lube on axles only and sparingly).
- Reassembly without fully dry fabric (mildew risk).
Related Article: The Ultimate Safety Checklist for Infants in Strollers
FAQs-How to Wash a Graco Stroller
How often should I wash my Graco stroller?
Lightly clean weekly, but deep clean every 1-3 months.
Can I machine wash the fabric components?
You should check the care label in the fabric, as the seat pad and canopies are likely machine-washable.
What should I avoid when washing my stroller?
Bleach, heat drying, soaking buckles, and heavy oils on the braking system.
How do you remove a Graco stroller cover for washing?
To remove the cover, you must unclip the seat pad retaining snaps, Velcro strips, or loops, unthread the harness, and slide the canopy out of its channels. Then consult the fabric tag for the washing instructions.
Can you machine wash a Graco stroller seat?
If the care label permits, you can wash the seat on a cold, gentle cycle using mild detergent and air dry it flat (do not tumble dry).
How do I take apart a Graco Modes stroller to wash it?
To wash, you first lift the seat unit off the frame. Then, remove the pad from the seat shell, unthread the harness, take the pad to wash according to the label, and wipe the shell and frame with soapy water.
How do you clean the Graco Click Connect/LiteRider after a spill?
To clean after a spill, first remove the pad, pre-treat the stains, wash it on the gentle cycle (if allowed), and wipe the frame and buckles. Ensure the pad is fully air-dried before reassembling.
What’s the safest way to clean stroller buckles and harnesses?
To clean the buckles and the harness, wipe them using a damp soapy cloth and a soft brush for creases. Do not soak or lubricate the buckles, and check buckle function after drying.
6) How do I wash a Graco jogging stroller?
The answer is the same: remove the fabrics and wash according to the care label, and do a deep clean and check the wheels. When checking the wheels, keep the lube away from the brakes and tires, and ensure the front wheel lock works before your next run.
7) How long does it take to dry a Graco stroller cover?
It usually takes 6 to 24 hours, depending on the humidity. Using a fan to dry the cover is recommended, and do not try to dry it in direct sunlight to prevent fading.
8) How do I reassemble a Graco stroller after washing?
Put the pad back on, thread the harness, put the canopy and wheels back on, then do a complete safety check: brakes, fold, harness, wheel spin, and ensure the wheels spin.
Related Article: The Ultimate Guide to Baby Doll Strollers
References :
https://www.gracobaby.com/product-instructions.html
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