Mobility aids are more than just tools—they’re daily lifelines to independence, comfort, and freedom. Whether it’s a trusty wheelchair, rollator, mobility scooter, or walking frame, these devices work hard to keep up with their users. But just like any piece of equipment, they need a little care in return to stay in top shape.

Over time, wear and tear can quietly creep in: a squeaky wheel, a loose bolt, fading brake performance. And when mobility equipment isn’t properly maintained, it’s not just an inconvenience—it can become a safety risk.

General Maintenance Checklist: Keeping Your Mobility Equipment Safe & Reliable

Regular maintenance is the secret sauce for keeping your mobility equipment in excellent working condition. Just like you wouldn’t skip a car service, your wheelchair, mobility scooter, or walker deserves the same routine TLC.

At Platinum Health Supply, we work with a wide range of mobility clients every day—and we’ve seen firsthand how proper upkeep can prevent costly repairs, extend product lifespan, and most importantly, keep users safe.

Here’s a simple but essential checklist that anyone—carer, clinician, or everyday user—can follow to ensure their equipment stays in top shape:

1. Do a Weekly Visual Check

Set aside five minutes each week to visually inspect your mobility aid. Look for:

• Loose screws or bolts
• Cracks in the frame
• Bent or worn parts
• Fraying cords (for electric-powered devices)

Catch issues early before they become safety hazards. According to Daily Living Products, regular visual checks can drastically reduce the chance of unexpected breakdowns.

2. Test Brakes and Locks

Whether you’re using a wheelchair, rollator, or scooter, fully functional brakes are a non-negotiable. Roll your device back and forth and engage the brakes—do they hold steady? If not, it might be time for a tune-up or adjustment.

EZ Living Concepts recommends checking brake tension monthly, especially on walkers and manual wheelchairs, where manual grip and terrain can affect wear.

3. Keep Wheels Rolling Smoothly

Wheels take a beating, especially outdoors. Dirt, hair, and debris can build up and affect movement. Make sure to:

• Remove buildup from caster wheels and axles
• Check for worn tread
• Inspect alignment on scooters

Clean wheels mean a smoother, safer ride, and fewer surprises like drifting or uneven turning.

4. Recharge and Inspect Batteries

If you use a powered mobility aid (like an electric wheelchair or scooter), the battery is its heart. Top tips include:

• Charge fully after each use
• Avoid letting it drain to zero
• Store the device in a cool, dry place

Also check for swelling, corrosion, or cracks around the battery housing—these are signs it may be time for a replacement.

5. Clean and Disinfect Regularly

Equipment that’s used daily collects dust, sweat, skin oils, and even food crumbs—especially around armrests, hand grips, and seats.

• Wipe down with a damp cloth and mild detergent
• Avoid harsh cleaners that could corrode surfaces
• Sanitize high-contact areas weekly (especially in clinical or shared care environments)

Clean gear isn’t just about appearances—it’s about hygiene, comfort, and dignity.

6. Check User Comfort Features

Padding, seat cushions, backrests, and handles can flatten or degrade over time. If your client is showing signs of discomfort, pressure spots, or shifting frequently in their seat—it’s worth checking the support materials.

Look for cracks in foam, flattened cushions, or slipping Velcro straps. Replacing these early can make a big difference in comfort and reduce the risk of skin breakdown or fatigue.

7. Schedule an Annual Professional Service

While regular at-home checks are crucial, a yearly service from a mobility expert is still a must. A trained technician can:

• Test load-bearing components
• Calibrate electronics
• Make sure all safety mechanisms are functioning properly

Many providers (including Platinum Health) can help you arrange a service through your funding plan or recommend trusted providers.

Maintenance Tips by Mobility Equipment Type

Different mobility aids have different needs—but they all share one thing in common: with the right care, they last longer, perform better, and keep users safer. Whether you’re managing your own gear or supporting a loved one or client, here’s how to care for your specific mobility equipment the smart way.

1. Mobility Scooters

These motorised marvels offer independence and freedom—but they need a little upkeep to stay road-ready.

Weekly To-Do:

• Wipe down the frame, handlebars, and controls.
• Check tyre pressure and tread for wear or punctures.
• Test the horn, lights, and indicators.

Monthly Musts:

• Recharge the battery fully and inspect connections for corrosion.
• Ensure the seat swivels smoothly and is securely locked.

Pro Tip from Falcon Mobility:

Store your scooter in a dry, covered location to prevent electrical issues from moisture and dust buildup.

Platinum Insight:

We help hundreds of Australians choose and maintain their scooters each year—if you’re unsure about tyre inflation or battery type, give our Epping team a ring or drop in for personalised advice.

Our Best Seller: Aspire Midi Deluxe 4-Wheel Scooter

A reliable mid-size option for everyday mobility. Great for both short trips and longer outings, this 4-wheel model offers enhanced stability and suspension.

2. Rollators & Walkers

Your everyday walking aid does more than just support movement—it helps prevent falls. That means reliability is non-negotiable.

Weekly Check:

• Tighten loose knobs or height adjustment screws.
• Wipe down hand grips and clean basket areas.

Monthly Maintenance:

• Check brake cables and wheel function.
• Remove hair or debris tangled in the wheels.

Advice from Daily Living Products and Penn-York Medical:

If your walker starts “pulling” to one side, it could mean the wheels are worn unevenly—replacements may be needed.

Platinum Tip:

We recommend scheduling a quick maintenance check every 3–6 months for rollators, especially if used outdoors or on uneven surfaces.

Our Best Seller: Aspire Classic 6-Wheel Seat Walker

An ultra-stable frame with a built-in seat and 6-wheel design—perfect for both indoor and outdoor use.

3. Manual Wheelchairs

Manual wheelchairs need a bit more mechanical TLC, especially when it comes to wheels, brakes, and seating.

Weekly:

• Inspect wheels and casters for cracks or wear.
• Check that the brakes engage and hold securely.

Monthly:

• Clean the upholstery and check for tears or sagging.
• Test the footrests and armrests for stability.

From Sunrise Medical:

Lubricate moving parts like wheel bearings and footplate hinges with a silicone-based spray—avoid oil-based ones which can attract dust.

Platinum Insight:

If your wheelchair folds, be sure to test that mechanism monthly—dirt or rust can cause difficulty collapsing or reopening the frame, especially after storage.

Our Best Seller: Hero Medical Feather Lite Wheelchair

Lightweight and foldable with swing-away footrests, this is a carer favourite for transport and portability.

4. Electric (Powered) Wheelchairs

Electric wheelchairs provide high-function independence, but they require more technical attention—especially around batteries and controllers.

Daily/Weekly:

• Charge battery after every use (don’t let it fully drain).
• Check the joystick/controller for responsiveness.
• Clean under the seat and between cushion crevices.

Monthly:

• Inspect cables and battery housing for damage.
• Watch for sudden performance changes (e.g. slower movement or difficulty turning).

From Gilani Engineering:

If your powered wheelchair beeps unexpectedly or displays error codes, don’t ignore it—these are diagnostic tools telling you something’s off.

Platinum Tip:

We’ve helped many clients extend the life of their powered wheelchairs through proper battery care and safe storage. Keep yours dry, away from direct sun, and schedule an annual service with a professional technician.

Our Best Seller: Travel Lite Electric Folding Power Chair

Compact, lightweight, and airline-approved, this power chair folds in seconds and runs on a safe phosphate lithium battery.

Can Mobility Equipment Be Funded?

Yes — mobility equipment is often eligible for funding support under several Australian health and care programs. Whether you're purchasing a mobility scooter, walker, or wheelchair, you may not need to cover the full cost out of pocket.

Here are some of the key programs that may help:

NDIS (National Disability Insurance Scheme)

If you’re an NDIS participant with mobility-related needs in your plan, you may be eligible for support under Assistive Technology (AT). Mobility aids like scooters, power chairs, and walkers can often be claimed with appropriate justification and assessments.

My Aged Care & Home Care Packages

Through your Home Care Package (HCP) or Commonwealth Home Support Programme (CHSP), you may be able to access funding for mobility aids that help you remain independent at home.

DVA (Department of Veterans’ Affairs)

Veterans with a Gold or White Card may be eligible to receive mobility aids (such as scooters or wheelchairs) under Rehabilitation Appliances Program (RAP) provisions.

Need help navigating your options?

Visit our Funding Programs Guide to learn more about eligibility, application steps, and how Platinum Health can assist with quotes and equipment selection.

Let us take the guesswork out of your funding journey and help you access the mobility support you deserve.

Keeping Your Mobility Equipment in Tip-Top Shape

A little maintenance goes a long way. Whether it’s a scooter, wheelchair, or walker, taking care of your mobility aids means more than just avoiding costly repairs—it’s about preserving safety, comfort, and independence.

At Platinum Health Supply, we’re not just here to sell equipment—we’re here to support your long-term mobility journey. From everyday cleaning tips to replacement parts and best-in-class products, our team is ready to help you get the most out of your mobility solutions.

Visit Our Epping Showroom for Expert Support

Prefer to speak with someone in person? Drop by our Epping showroom for personalised advice, expert product demos, and hands-on help with maintenance questions.

Platinum Health Supply Group

Unit 2/51 Trafalgar Road, Epping VIC 3076

Open Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Whether you're a family carer, clinician, or just looking after your own wellbeing—we're here to help you move smarter, safer, and with confidence.