Over time, office chair wheels, or castors, accumulate dirt, hair, and debris which can impair their performance. The impact of dirty wheels isn’t merely an aesthetic one; it can also affect the smoothness of your chair’s movement, causing it to drag or stick. So in this article, we’ll learn how to clean chair wheels so they work as good as new.
Tools Needed
Before beginning the cleaning process, it’s essential to gather the necessary tools. You might not need all of these, but a good general overview of the tools needed to clean your chair wheels include:
- Screwdriver: Some chair designs may require one to remove the wheels.
- Rags or paper towels: For wiping and drying purposes.
- Bucket of warm soapy water: Acts as a cleaning agent.
- Soft-bristle brush: For scrubbing away stubborn dirt.
- Lubricant: To ensure the smooth operation of the wheels after cleaning.
Preparation for How to Clean Your Castor Wheels
Before you dive into the cleaning of your wheels, you’ll want to first prepare them. So, let’s go over the steps below to effectively prepare for the cleaning stage:
Remove the Wheels
Begin by turning the chair upside down. If the wheels don’t pop out with a gentle pull, use the screwdriver. The aim is to detach them for a thorough cleaning. Remember to keep any screws or small parts safe to avoid misplacing them.
Inspect for Damage or Wear
Before cleaning, check the wheels for signs of wear or damage. If there are noticeable cracks or if the wheel doesn’t spin freely, consider replacing them rather than cleaning them. Damaged wheels are dangerous as they could break while you’re sitting, causing you to fall.
Castor Wheel Cleaning Process
Now that you’ve taken the wheels off and inspected them, it’s time to get to the cleaning stage. Here’s what you’ll need to do:
Wipe Down the Wheels and Soak in Warm, Soapy Water
Start by wiping the surface dirt off the wheels using rags or paper towels. Then, immerse them in the bucket of warm soapy water for a few minutes. This soaking will help loosen the grime.
Scrub Away Dirt With a Soft-Bristle Brush
After soaking, take each wheel and gently scrub them with the soft-bristle brush. Ensure you reach the crevices and corners where dirt often hides.
Rinse and Dry Thoroughly
Once all the dirt has been scrubbed off, rinse the wheels under clean water. It’s crucial to dry them thoroughly after rinsing, as any leftover moisture can cause issues with wheel performance or even lead to rusting.
Dealing With Stubborn Stains or Sticky Residue
If the wheels have sticky residue or stubborn stains, you can use a mixture of equal parts vinegar and water to scrub the affected areas. The vinegar acts as a natural cleaner and can help break down most sticky substances.
Lubricate the Wheels for Smooth Operation
After ensuring the wheels are completely dry, it’s time to lubricate. A few drops of lubricant on the wheel’s axis should suffice. Rotate the wheel to ensure the lubricant spreads evenly. This will make sure your chair glides effortlessly across the floor.
Re-Install the Castor Wheels
With the wheels cleaned and lubricated, reattach them to the chair. If you have removed any screws or parts, ensure they’re securely in place. You’ll also want to do a few final checks to make sure they fit as intended. So:
Check the Chair’s Stability & Mobility
Once the wheels are reinstalled, test the chair. It should move smoothly without any hitches, and it should also stand stable when stationary.
Regular Maintenance Tips
The benefits of clean chair wheels extend beyond aesthetics. A clean wheel ensures the longevity of your chair and guarantees that you get the best performance out of it. Additionally, regular maintenance prevents the accumulation of large dirt particles which can scratch hardwood floors.
Regularly checking and cleaning your chair wheels can save you the cost of frequent replacements. It also ensures you always have a smooth ride, whether you’re scooting over to grab a file or merely adjusting your position at your desk.
If you feel that your chair wheels are beyond repair, then it’s a good idea to replace them with new ones. Check out the Core Castors store to view the latest and greatest in castor technology.
