Wheelchair Use & Care FAQs

This FAQs guide brings together expert advice on daily safety checks, fitting, choosing and caring for both manual and powered wheelchairs.

Daily wheelchair safety checks

Why do daily wheelchair checks matter?

Your wheelchair can take you on lots of adventures, but regular checks keep you safe. Short and simple daily inspections help you spot problems early and stop them from turning into something more serious.

What should I check every day? 

These are the daily checks our experts recommend:

• Brakes: Test brakes before moving. They should hold the chair firmly in place.
• Tyres: Check they feel firm. Roll backwards and forwards and look for bald spots, splits, tears, or anything stuck in the tread.
• Footplates: Make sure they’re secure and don’t wobble.
• Positioning belt: Clip it in and check for splits or tears.
• Controls (powered chairs): Test that the joystick or buttons work correctly before you move.

How long do daily checks take?

Daily wheelchair checks should take just a few minutes. In a short while they’ll become second nature and part of your daily routine.

What should I do if I notice a problem?

If you spot a problem, don’t ever ignore it because it could become dangerous. Some adjustments you can make at home, but if in doubt, contact your local wheelchair service, the manufacturer, or a qualified wheelchair repair centre.

Why are daily checks my responsibility?

Checking your wheelchair is part of staying independent and safe. Regular checks will provide peace of mind and ensuring ongoing safety.

Wheelchair sizes and fitting

Why does proper wheelchair fit matter?

A well-fitted wheelchair will stop you from experiencing pain, pressure injuries, and developing posture problems. A poorly fitted wheelchair can cause discomfort, strain, or even injury.

How can I check if my wheelchair fits correctly?

Your wheelchair should be ideally be fitted by a professional. 

You can also use tools like Wheelchair Check, a free screening tool built by experts. It helps you assess how your current wheelchair suits your body and needs and identify and problems.. 

What is the 90–90–90 rule?

The 90-90-90 “rule” (or recommendation) is a posture supports stability, comfort, and good circulation. The ideal is to have a chair that enables you to sit with a:

• 90° bend at the hips
• 90° bend at the knees
• 90° bend at the ankles

It’s a recommendation, not a requirement but can help you find a wheelchair that fits.

What should I look at when assessing wheelchair fit?

Wheelchair fit is personal and best left to the professionals, but some of the things to consider include:

• Seat width: Just wide enough to fit your hips comfortably with a 2cm gap either side. Too wide and you’ll slide; too narrow and you’ll feel pressure.
• Seat depth: It should support your thighs without pressing into the back of your knees.
• Backrest height: High enough for support, low enough to allow movement.
• Armrest height: Should let your arms rest naturally without lifting or slouching.
• Footrest length: Keeps feet supported with knees at roughly 90°. Adjustable footplates reduce pressure.
• Rear wheel position (manual chairs): Your elbows should be at a right angle when hands are on the rims.
• Seat height for foot propulsion: You should be able to place your feet flat on the floor.
• Pressure: Check regularly for pressure build-up or soreness under seat bones.

Who should help me check my chair?

Wheelchair fitting is best left to the professionals. Always work with a wheelchair assessor, physiotherapist, or occupational therapist to make sure your chair fits both your body and your lifestyle.

Wheelchair types, sizes and construction

You can choose between manual and powered wheelchairs.

What are manual wheelchairs?

Manual wheelchairs are moved by the user (by pushing the rims) or by a helper. There are two types:

• Self-propelled: Large rear wheels with hand rims for users with upper-body strength.
• Transit wheelchairs: Smaller rear wheels, designed to be pushed by someone else.

What are powered wheelchairs?

Powered wheelchairs (sometimes called electric wheelchairs) use motors and batteries and are controlled by a joystick or switch.

They’re used by people with limited arm strength or those who need to travel longer distances independently.

What’s the difference between front-, mid- and rear-wheel drive wheelchairs?

You’ll find each of these types of chairs available. Here’s how they differ:

• Front-wheel drive: Great for outdoor use and uneven ground.
• Mid-wheel drive: Compact and easy to manoeuvre indoors.
• Rear-wheel drive: Offers stability at higher speeds.

What materials are wheelchairs made from?

Both powered and manual wheelchairs are built from a range of hardwearing and durable materials, including: 

• Aluminium: Lightweight, durable and rust-resistant — common in manual chairs.
• Steel: Strong and affordable, but can be heavier.
• Titanium or carbon fibre: Very light and strong, often used in sports or high-performance chairs.

Why does seating and support matter?

Seats and backrests are usually made from nylon, vinyl or mesh. These materials are easy to clean and breathable. Cushioned and contoured seating improves posture and helps prevent pressure sores, it’s also likely to be much more comfortable, too.

What about wheels and tyres?

Manual chairs use large rear wheels for propulsion and smaller castors at the front for steering. 

Powered chairs vary by drive type (front, rear of mid chairs – see details above!). Rear tyres are air-filled for comfort with front castors solid for durability.

What safety features should I look for?

Some of the safety features you’ll find on most wheelchairs include:

• Wheel locks (manual) or automatic brakes (powered)
• Anti-tip bars
• Seat belts
• Lights (on some powered models)

These features are all there to keep you safe while static and moving. 

How do I choose the right wheelchair?

Choosing the right chair depends on your mobility, environment and needs. Here are some questions to ask yourself:

• Do I want to use the chair indoors, outdoors, or both?
• Do I self-propel it or need someone to push?
• How often will I use it?
• Does it need to fold or fit in a car?

These are some general questions you’ll need to consider. You may have specific requirements. It can be useful to write everything down and reflect on it before choosing a wheelchair.

What support is available (e.g. NHS Wheelchair Services)?

Young people who need a wheelchair should be referred to your local wheelchair service. Operated by your local NHS provider, you’ll work with a professional to assess your needs properly and select a suitable chair. It’s the best way to ensure comfort, safety and independence.

Looking after your wheelchair

Why does wheelchair maintenance matter?

Your wheelchair works hard and like anything that’s used every day, it needs regular care and a bit of attention. Proper maintenance prevents breakdowns, keeps you safe, and should extend your chair’s life.

What should I check every day?

Here are some of the things you should check everyday (ideally as soon as you sit in your chair):

• Brakes work and hold firmly.
• The tyres are firm and damage-free.
• Seat and footplates are secure.
• Battery and controls (if you have a powered chair) work properly.

What cleaning should I do weekly?

It’s important to keep your chair clean and well maintained. Here are a few areas you’ll need to check:

• Frame: Wipe with mild soapy water, avoid harsh chemicals.
• Wheels: Clean tyres and rims; remove stones or debris.
• Seat and upholstery: Wipe with a damp cloth or follow manufacturer’s cleaning guidance. 

After any cleaning or maintenance, always dry the chair thoroughly.

What monthly maintenance should I do?

Each month you should aim to do some more in-depth maintenance of your chair, including:

• Tyre pressure: Check pressures and inflate to recommended level.
• Bolts and screws: Check bolts and screws and tighten any loose fittings.
• Cushion care: Check if it’s split, sagging or damaged and speak to your wheelchair service or the manufacturer.
• Cables and batteries (if you have a powered chair): Check for frays or corrosion 
• Motors and gearboxes (if you have a powered chair): Listen for unusual noises and get issues checked.

Do I need a professional wheelchair service?

Yes, you should have your wheelchair professionally checked at least once a year. 

During a service, a trained technician will check the frame, wheels, brakes, bearings, and fit. If you have a powered wheelchair they’ll also test motor performance and electrical connections.  Think of it as your wheelchair’s MOT. 

How should I store my wheelchair?

You should always store your wheelchair indoors, ideally in a clean, dry area away from damp or sunlight. You’ll want to keep it safe and secure and avoid sheds or garages.

How should I care for my powered wheelchair battery?

Here are some of the things you can do to keep your powered wheelchair’s battery in the best condition:

• Charge every day, ideally overnight.
• Use the official charger only.
• Don’t let it run completely flat.
• Keep the battery cool and dry.
• Check all connections regularly.