At home, we park our wheelchair accessible van at the end of the driveway, where the ramp slides out a few feet into our front yard. Among the long list of house projects we had at the time was re-paving the driveway, but in the meantime, we gave Barton enough space in the front yard to maneuver in and out of the van.
Until the first time it poured.
We then learned that Barton pulled mud from the front yard all into the van with his motor wheelchair tracks. Unsurprisingly, we were sweeping dried pieces of mud that fell off from between the treads out of the van for days.
With a soppy year behind us (it rained more in Raleigh than in Seattle that year), we learned quite a bit about wiping mud and debris from inconspicuous places in the van.
Read on to learn about the six best tips we learned to help keep a wheelchair van spotless.
Here are six tips we learned to keep our wheelchair van clean:
1. Find a good car wash.
Skip the drive-in car washes. In this case, it pays for a hand scrub. It’s also worth it to tip for extras such as interior and ramp cleaning.
If you’re not sure which car washes are near you, search for car washes near me on Google to find the top-rated washes in your area.
2. Rocks, sticks, and other debris can collect where a floor ramp pulls in and out.
We even found a writing pen! Keep this area free of debris. Use a scrub brush and liquid dish soap for the ramp, and don’t forget to clean the sides.
3. Smelly odors? No problem.
Keep one or two packets of baking soda in the car, which lifts odors. Replace the packets every few days if you’re trying to get rid of a strong odor.
4. Clean the hard-to-reach areas.
This includes the divots for the tie-down and seat belt holders, cup holders, and any other areas that collect dirt. You’ll want to clean these out more often instead of letting the dirt build-up.
5. Opt for steam cleaning carpeted floors.
While our vehicle is not carpeted, many wheelchair vans are. If you have stains and mud tracks on your carpeted floor, steam cleaning will be your best option for getting rid of as much dirt as possible.
6. Be mindful about where you get in and out of the ramp.
For example, during storms, we pull the van out into the street so Barton can get in from the end of the driveway. That way, dirt and mud tracks are less likely to make their way into the van. Be sure to use hazard lights to indicate where you are to other drivers for safety reasons.
Common Questions About Washing a Wheelchair Van
Can you take a wheelchair van through a car wash?
Yes, you can take most wheelchair vans through a car wash if they meet the clearance and size requirements. However, it’s best to use a touchless or soft-cloth wash to avoid damaging sensors or external mobility equipment. Always check with the manufacturer or conversion company to confirm compatibility.
Are there special cleaning products recommended for accessible vehicles?
Yes, mild automotive soaps and non-abrasive cleaners are recommended for accessible vehicles. Avoid high-acid or strong degreasing products that can harm paint or fragile metal surfaces. For interior wheelchair areas, use gentle disinfectants safe for vinyl and rubber.
Should I close or secure specific equipment before driving into the wash bay?
Yes, always secure or close ramps, lifts, and doors before entering the wash bay. Make sure any power switches are off to prevent accidental movement. Double-check seals and latches to keep water from getting into the hydraulic or electrical systems.
How often should a wheelchair van be washed to maintain its accessibility features?
You should wash a wheelchair van about every two weeks, or more often if exposed to road salt or dirt. Regular cleaning helps prevent rust and buildup around hinges and motors. Consistent maintenance keeps accessibility components in reliable working order.
Will the ramp or lift mechanism be damaged in an automatic car wash?
The ramp or lift mechanism could be damaged if exposed to high-pressure jets or harsh brushes. Automatic car washes can force water into sensitive electrical or hydraulic parts. Whenever possible, hand washing or using a touchless wash is the safest approach.
The Importance of Maintaining Your Accessible Vehicle
Keeping your van clean is just as important as vehicle maintenance.
Remember to use these tips to keep your accessible vehicle looking spotless for its entire life. But, don’t forget keeping its equipment up-to-date as well.
The Mobility Resource has a national dealer network with over 100 physical locations spread out across the United States. Every dealer offers both vehicles and equipment on-site, with some also able to ship directly to your door in the contiguous United States. Whether you need a new wheelchair lift, transfer seat, or hand control, find a dealer closest to you and let us keep your spotless van running smoothly.
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