They say that love needs to be nurtured… and the same goes for your shopping trolley. If you take good care of it, it will serve you faithfully for many years, without any squeaky wheels, suspicious rattling, or leaving you stranded at the market exit.
At Garmol, we know that our shopping trolleys are built to last, because we manufacture them by hand, one by one, with love, using resistant, high-quality materials. But like everything in life, a little TLC never goes amiss. That’s why today we’re bringing you the 5 key points on how to care of your shopping trolley and extend its useful life. If you follow them, you and your trolley will be able to enjoy many adventures together.
1. Store it as if it were a treasure
We know it can be a hassle sometimes, but storing your shopping trolley in a clean, dry place away from the sun is the first step to keeping it in perfect condition.
Don’t leave it on the terrace in direct sunlight or in a damp storage room next to paint buckets. The sun can discolour or weaken the fabric, and humidity can cause metal parts to rust if the environment is very harsh.
👉 Tip: if you have limited space at home, opt for one of our folding models. They can be stored in a corner and you won’t even notice them!
2. Take care of the wheels
The wheels are like the feet of the trolley. If they are damaged or worn, shopping at the market becomes an obstacle course.
In our post on wheel maintenance, we give you all the details, but here’s a summary:
- Avoid areas with mud, puddles or cobblestones. Although Garmol shopping trolleys are extremely durable, they are designed for urban terrain.
- Clean them regularly. A soft brush will help you remove embedded dirt, and then you can wipe them down with a damp cloth.
- Check the axles and moving parts. If you notice that a wheel is squeaking or not turning properly, it’s best to check it before it lets you down in the middle of a turn at the deli.
3. Take care of your bag as you would your favourite handbag
Your trolley bag also deserves some TLC. It’s not just an accessory: it’s responsible for carrying your shopping, your Tupperware, your sourdough bread, your potatoes, and sometimes even that last-minute tray of tea biscuits.
To keep it in good condition:
- Avoid rubbing it against rough walls. A bad scrape can end up in an unexpected hole.
- Don’t overload it. Although our trolleys are designed to bear weight, if you overdo it, your trolley will eventually feel the strain.
- Protect it from the sun. Just as you wouldn’t leave your favourite T-shirt in the sun, do the same with your trolley.
4. Cleaning: yes, that needs doing too.
Cleaning your pram may not sound as exciting as using it for the first time… but it’s necessary.
To do it properly, follow these steps:
- For the chassis and wheels: use a soft brush to remove dust or embedded dirt, then wipe with a damp cloth.
- For the bag: prepare a mixture of water and a little mild soap, dampen a soft cloth and rub gently (no scouring pads or harsh detergents).
- Drying: leave to air dry in a well-ventilated place. No dryers or placing it near the radiator.
5. Responsible use (or how to avoid treating it like an off-road vehicle)
We know that a good shopping trolley makes you want to take it everywhere. But it’s not a 4×4 or a mountain trolley.
Trolleys are designed for streets, pavements and kerbs, not goat tracks. Avoid dragging it over areas covered in stones, mud or puddles to take care of your shopping trolley. And if you live in a flat without a lift, don’t panic: for those cases where stairs are unavoidable, you may be interested in one of our stair-climbing trolleys.
Using it sensibly will save you surprises and make it last much longer. And your back will thank you too!
In summary
If you don’t want your trolley to age prematurely, don’t treat it as if it were immortal.
Clean it with care, look after its wheels and give it the rest it deserves in a cosy corner of your home.
Give your trolley some love and it will give you peace, comfort and the perfect trip to the market.
Now that’s self-care!
Do you want your trolley to last forever?
Now you know how to care for a shopping trolley and what to do to keep it looking like new for years. Because if you take good care of it, not only will it last longer, it will also be more comfortable, safer and more efficient.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ) about shopping trolley care
How can I care for my shopping trolley so that it lasts longer?
Store it in a dry place, clean it regularly, avoid overloading it and use it on smooth surfaces. It’s that easy.
How often should I clean my shopping trolley?
It depends on how often you use it, but at least once a month is ideal. If you use it a lot, you can clean it more often. It is advisable to maintain it on a daily basis and not let dirt build up.
Can I wash the trolley bag in the washing machine?
We do not recommend it. It is best to clean it by hand with a damp cloth and mild soap and leave it to dry in a well-ventilated place.
How can I extend the life of my trolley wheels?
Avoid uneven terrain, clean them regularly using a soft brush and a damp cloth, and check that no fluff or small stones have accumulated. Basic maintenance makes all the difference.
Where is the best place to store my shopping trolley?
In a dry, clean place away from direct sunlight, such as a cupboard, utility room or behind a door.
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