Categories Stairlifts & Home Lifts

The Benefits of Servicing & Lubricating Your Stairlift

Just like any household equipment, your stairlift needs regular cleaning and maintenance to ensure it runs smoothly and lasts longer. Knowing how to care for your stairlift properly will help reduce breakdowns and keep it safe to use every day. Some tasks can be carried out by yourself or with the help of a friend or family member, while others are best left to a qualified stairlift engineer.


Cleaning Your Stairlift

A stairlift should be cleaned regularly to prevent dust and dirt from affecting its performance.

  • Seat and Carriage: Wipe down weekly with a dry cloth or feather duster. For stubborn dust, use a slightly damp cloth but always dry thoroughly afterwards.

  • Track: Lightly dust the track, but for more thorough cleaning, it’s best to ask a family member or professional technician.

  • Safety Tip: Always clean the stairlift when it is parked at the bottom of the stairs to avoid tripping hazards.


Lubricating the Track

The stairlift track should be lubricated every few months to keep the movement smooth and quiet.

  • Always turn off the stairlift before lubricating.

  • Start with a clean track—dust and residue should be wiped away using a damp cloth.

  • Apply a very small amount of stairlift-specific lubricant. Too much lubricant can cause rollers to slide instead of roll, creating safety issues.

  • Avoid lubricating the chain, as this can damage the mechanism.

Tip: If you experience finger or joint pain, ask a family member or a professional engineer to assist, as this process requires precision.

Listen to the sound of a stairlift before it is serviced and lubricated in the video below.

After Servicing & Lubricating Your Stairlift

Listen to the sound of the stairlift after it is serviced and lubricated in the video below.
It sounds a lot cleaner and smoother.

Lubricating the Track

The stairlift track should be lubricated every few months to keep the movement smooth and quiet.

  • Always turn off the stairlift before lubricating.

  • Start with a clean track—dust and residue should be wiped away using a damp cloth.

  • Apply a very small amount of stairlift-specific lubricant. Too much lubricant can cause rollers to slide instead of roll, creating safety issues.

  • Avoid lubricating the chain, as this can damage the mechanism.

Tip: If you experience finger or joint pain, ask a family member or a professional engineer to assist, as this process requires precision.

Why Servicing is Essential

Even with regular cleaning, stairlifts benefit from an annual professional service. A trained engineer can:

  • Carry out deep cleaning and correct lubrication

  • Spot worn or damaged parts early

  • Ensure safety features are working correctly

  • Prevent costly emergency repairs

Just like a car service, routine stairlift maintenance greatly reduces the risk of unexpected problems.


What Not to Do

One of the most common mistakes is using the wrong cleaning products.

  • Never use solvents, bleaches, or abrasive cleaners; they can damage delicate parts, reduce roller friction, and even cause the stairlift to shut down.

  • Only use soft, non-abrasive cloths and stairlift-safe cleaning solutions if needed.

  • Always refer to the manufacturer’s manual before attempting any maintenance.


Professional Stairlift Servicing in Ireland

A well-maintained stairlift ensures years of safe, reliable service. Regular cleaning, proper lubrication, and annual professional servicing will keep it running smoothly while giving you peace of mind.

👉 At Irish Stairlifts, we don’t just provide stairlift services — we offer complete mobility solutions to help you live comfortably and independently at home. From stairlifts, wet rooms, and through-floor lifts to ramps, rails, wheelchairs, mobility scooters, and electric wheelchairs, our team is here to support every need.

👉 Call us today on 016167079 or 045 892696, or book online today.

Categories Outdoor & Independence Solutions

Tips For Cleaning & Maintaining Mobility Scooters

Mobility scooters are a reliable way to stay independent, but like any vehicle, they need regular upkeep to stay safe, clean, and fully functional. With a little care and routine attention, you can extend the life of your scooter and avoid costly repairs.

Before performing any maintenance: always switch the power off and unplug the charger. While these tips apply broadly, you should also follow the specific guidelines in your scooter’s manufacturer manual.

Cleaning Your Mobility Scooter

Keeping your scooter clean not only makes it look better but also prevents dirt from interfering with moving parts.

  • Use a soft, dry cloth to dust all exposed parts.
  • For general cleaning, use a damp cloth with mild detergent or glass cleaner.
  • Wipe down the seat with gentle disinfectant wipes.
  • Avoid spraying water directly on the scooter—especially near electrical components.
  • Do not use wax, oil, or abrasive cleaners.
  • Once cleaned, dry thoroughly with a soft cloth.
  • Use a protective scooter cover to reduce dust build-up when not in use.

Routine Maintenance & Safety Checks

Performing small daily and weekly checks will keep your scooter in excellent condition between professional services.

  • Tyres: Inspect treads for wear and replace thinning tyres promptly.
  • Upholstery: Look for tears or rough spots that may cause skin irritation.
  • Battery: Check the gauge regularly. Recharge when low or replace if the gauge remains in the red.
  • Moving Parts: Test components such as the tiller, wheels, swivel seat, levers, and mirrors to ensure smooth operation.

Brakes

Most mobility scooters use an inertia braking system, slowing automatically when you release the throttle. To ensure safety:

  • Before each journey, check that your scooter is not in freewheel mode. This setting allows manual pushing but disables braking.
  • Confirm that the freewheel lever (usually near the rear wheel) is locked in drive mode.
  • Test the brakes by gently setting off and making sure the scooter stops smoothly.

Checking the Seat

Nearly all scooters come with detachable seats. Before riding:

  • Give the seat a firm shake to confirm it is securely locked in place.
  • Adjust for comfort and ensure it doesn’t loosen while in use.

Seasonal Care Tips

The Irish climate can affect your scooter’s performance, especially in wet or cold weather:

  • Rain: Always cover your scooter when not in use. Moisture can damage electrical systems.
  • Cold Weather: Batteries drain faster in colder temperatures. Keep them fully charged and store your scooter indoors when possible.
  • Summer: Avoid direct, prolonged sun exposure to prevent seat fading and plastic damage.

Read the Manual

It may seem obvious, but reading your user manual is one of the best ways to maintain your scooter properly. Manufacturers include recommended service schedules, troubleshooting tips, and specific cleaning instructions that can save both time and money.

If you require further guidance or professional maintenance, Irish Stairlifts & Bathrooms offers expert advice and servicing for all types of mobility scooters. Contact us today to keep your scooter in top shape and ensure safe, independent travel.

Get in Touch with Irish Stairlifts & Bathrooms

Categories Accessible Bathrooms

Wet Rooms & Level Access Showers Ireland

Level Access Showers with Full Height Elegance Doors

Welcome to Irish Stairlifts & Bathrooms — Ireland’s trusted name for wet rooms, level access showers, and mobility bathroom solutions since 1999. With over 25 years of experience serving homes across Dublin, Leinster, and beyond, our team is dedicated to making bathing safer, easier, and more comfortable for everyone.

Whether you’re searching for a wet room installation or a half-door level access shower, this guide will help you understand your options and choose the perfect mobility-friendly bathroom for your home.


What Is a Wet Room?

wet room is a fully waterproof bathroom where the shower area is level with the floor, eliminating steps and tripping hazards. It’s an ideal solution for individuals with limited mobility, wheelchair users, or those looking for a sleek, modern bathroom design.

Unlike traditional bathrooms, wet rooms are designed with waterproof sealing (known as tanking) throughout the floor and lower walls, ensuring zero leaks and maximum durability.


Benefits of a Wet Room

  • Safe and Accessible: No steps or trays — perfect for wheelchair access or anyone concerned about falls.

  • Modern and Spacious Design: Creates the illusion of more space and fits perfectly into both small and large bathrooms.

  • Easy to Clean: Fewer corners and barriers mean effortless maintenance.

  • Customisable: Choose your tiles, fittings, and layout to match your style.

  • Long-lasting Warranty: Every Irish Stairlifts wet room includes a 5-year warranty against leakage for complete peace of mind.


Level Access Showers: Practicality Meets Comfort

For those who prefer a more defined showering area within their bathroom, a level access shower is a fantastic alternative to a full wet room.

Our level access showers feature flush-entry trays — completely barrier-free yet capable of containing water within the shower zone. Each installation is professionally sealed and tanked, meaning no water damage, no dampness, and total confidence whether it’s upstairs or downstairs.

Why Choose a Level Access Shower?

  • Fully watertight design — they don’t leak!

  • Easy and safe entry for wheelchair users or carers.

  • Available with full height or half-height doors for carer-assisted use.

  • Installed in just 3–6 days by our trained specialists.

  • Comes with a 3-year workmanship warranty.


Shower Tray Enclosures with Half Doors

Irish Stairlifts is the sole distributor of Scrabo bathing products in the Republic of Ireland — known for quality, durability, and practicality.

Our Level Access Shower Tray Enclosures include everything you need for a complete installation: shower tray, doors, curtain rail, curtain, and fittings. Perfect for assisting a family member or client who needs a helping hand while bathing.

Key Features

  • Quick installation and easy maintenance

  • Slip-resistant surfaces for added safety

  • Left or right waste outlets to suit any layout

  • Rise and fall hinges, ergonomic door handles, and magnetic door seals

  • Extended drying area for added convenience

  • Lifetime guarantee on trays

  • Compatible with home adaptation grants

Model options range from 840mm x 840mm to 1300mm x 1000mm, ensuring there’s a solution for every bathroom size.


Areas We Cover

Our mobility bathroom installation services are available in:
Dublin, Offaly, Meath, Louth, Wicklow, Kildare, and Carlow.

We also supply mobility products — such as stairlifts and home lifts — across all 26 counties of Ireland.


Why Choose Irish Stairlifts & Bathrooms?

  • Over 25 years of proven experience

  • Fully insured and certified (with €13 million Employee Liability & €6.5 million Public Liability cover)

  • Approved council supplier for local authority grant-funded adaptations

  • Free home consultation and no-obligation quotations

  • Professional, efficient installations carried out to the highest safety standards


Start Your Mobility Bathroom Journey Today

If bathing has become difficult or unsafe, it may be time to consider a custom wet room or level access shower. Our friendly experts will guide you through every step — from design and grant advice to installation and aftercare.

Contact us now to arrange your free no-obligation quote:

Irish Stairlifts & Bathrooms — Ireland’s leading experts in wet rooms, level access showers, and mobility independence.

Categories Mobility Aids

Lightweight Folding Wheelchairs: Buyer’s Guide

Agile Transit Lightweight Manual Wheelchair

Folding wheelchairs are ideal for people seeking convenience, portability, and flexibility in their day-to-day mobility. Whether you intend to use your chair daily, for travel, or as a backup, choosing the right model can greatly impact your independence and comfort.​


Why Choose a Lightweight Folding Wheelchair?

  • Folding wheelchairs collapse down for easy transport and storage, fitting into car boots or tight home spaces.​

  • Lightweight frames (often aluminium) reduce lifting effort for both users and caregivers, crucial for frequent outings or travel.​

  • Many folding models offer adjustable parts, providing customisable comfort for a range of users.​

  • Perfect for those who require a portable, versatile solution—great for occasional use, holidays, and public transport.​


Key Features to Look For

  • Frame Material: Aluminium frames offer the best blend of portability and durability; titanium models are even lighter but more expensive.​

  • Weight: Aim for wheelchairs under 12kg for easy handling; the ISB Mobility Agile Transit Lightweight Wheelchair, for example, weighs just 10kg.

  • Folded Dimensions: Ensure the chair fits where you need it to—check car boot, airplane, and storage space compatibility.​

  • Wheel Type: Larger rear wheels improve outdoor handling for self-propelled models, while smaller wheels on transit types make them lighter and easier for a caregiver to push.​

  • Brakes and Safety: Look for quick-release wheels, reliable handbrakes, and a secure ride.​

  • Seating Comfort: Adjustable backrests, padded seating, and customisable footrests make a huge difference in day-long use.​

  • Accessories: Useful options include storage pockets, carrying bags, and ergonomic handles.


Self-Propel vs Transit Wheelchairs

Feature Self-Propel Wheelchair Transit Wheelchair
Wheels Large rear wheels, user-propelled Smaller wheels, pushed by others
Use Case Independence, active users For those needing caregiver help
Portability Slightly bulkier, but still foldable Lightest and easiest to lift

Specialist and Power Folding Chairs

  • Specialist Folding Options: Available for both adults and children, with various seat widths for individual needs.​

  • Folding Powerchairs: Ultra-light folding power wheelchairs are now available, offering motorised mobility plus folding convenience—great for frequent transport, weighing from 15kg (excluding batteries).​


Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Guessing Sizing: Always measure seat width and back height for best comfort.​

  • Ignoring Weight: Heavy chairs limit practical day-to-day use—lightweight is crucial if lifting is needed.​

  • Forgetting Future Needs: Choose a model that will serve both current and anticipated requirements.​


Spotlight: Agile Transit Lightweight Wheelchair

The Agile Transit is a standout folding wheelchair designed for both portability and comfort. Key features include:

  • Weighs just 10kg and folds into a small, easy-lift package.

  • Aluminium frame makes it robust and rust-resistant.

  • Folding mechanism allows for compact storage, ideal for travel and home use.


Expert Tips & Buying Support

  • Always consult with mobility experts for personalised recommendations, especially for first-time buyers or complex needs.​

  • Consider HSE funding options or VAT relief if buying in Ireland; your GP or occupational therapist can advise.​

  • Whenever possible, test models in-store or request a demonstration before buying.​


Need Help? Contact ISB Mobility

The ISB Mobility team provides specialist advice, product demonstrations, and the widest selection of quality wheelchairs across Ireland. You can visit their Clane showroom or reach out by phone or email for free expert guidance.​

Categories Mobility Aids

The History of The Wheelchair

It is uncertain as to what can be considered the first wheelchair, or who invented it. However, its origins date back to ancient times. The earliest records of a wheeled transportation device were found on a stone slate in China and a child’s bed depicted in a frieze on a Greek vase, both dating between the 6th and 5th century BCE.

 

The first records of wheeled seats being used for transporting disabled people date to three centuries later in China; the Chinese used early wheelbarrows to move people as well as heavy objects. A distinction between the two functions was not made for another several hundred years, around 525 CE, when images of wheeled chairs made specifically to carry people begin to occur in Chinese art.

 

Kink Phillip II of Spain

The first known wheelchair purposefully designed for disability and mobility was called an “invalid’s chair”. It was invented in 1595 specifically for King Phillip II of Spain. The chair had small wheels attached to the end of a chair’s legs and it included a platform for Phillip’s legs and an adjustable backrest. It could not be self-propelled but most likely the King always had servants transporting him around.

 

First Self-Propelling Chair

In 1655, Stephan Farffler, a 22 year old paraplegic watchmaker, built the world’s first self-propelling chair on a three-wheel chassis using a system of cranks and cogwheels.However, the device had an appearance of a hand bike more than a wheelchair since the design included hand cranks mounted at the front wheel.

The Bath Wheelchair

In 1783, John Dawson of Bath, England, invented a wheelchair named after the town of Bath.
Dawson designed a chair with two large wheels and one small one. The Bath wheelchair outsold all other wheelchairs throughout the early part of the 19th century.

 

Late 1800’s

However, the Bath wheelchair was not that comfortable and during the last half of the 19th century many improvements were made to wheelchairs. An 1869 patent for a wheelchair showed the first model with rear push wheels and small front casters. Between, 1867 to 1875, inventors added new hollow rubber wheels similar to those used on bicycles on metal rims. In 1881, the pushrims for added self-propulsion were invented.

The Folding Wheelchair

In 1932, engineer, Harry Jennings, built the first folding, tubular steel wheelchair. That was the earliest wheelchair similar to what is in modern use today.

That wheelchair was built for a paraplegic friend of Jennings called Herbert Everest. Together they founded Everest & Jennings, a company that monopolized the wheelchair market for many years. An antitrust suit was actually brought against Everest & Jennings by the Department of Justice, who charged the company with rigging wheelchair prices.
The case was finally settled out of court.

 

The First Electric Wheelchair

The first wheelchairs were self-powered, and worked by a patient turning the wheels of their chair manually. Of course, if a patient was unable to do this, another person would have to push the wheelchair and patient from behind. A motorized or power wheelchair is one where a small motor drives the wheels to revolve. Attempts to invent a motorized wheelchair were made as far back as 1916, however, no successful commercial production occurred at that time.

The first electric-powered wheelchair was invented by Canadian inventor, George Klein and his team of engineers while working for the National Research Council of Canada in a program to assist the injured veterans returning after World War II. George Klein also invented the microsurgical staple gun.
Everest & Jennings, the same company whose founders created the folding wheelchair were the first to manufacture the electric wheelchair on a mass scale beginning in 1956.

 

Mind Control

John Donoghue and Braingate invented a new wheelchair technology intended for a patient with very limited mobility, who otherwise would have issues using a wheelchair by themselves.
The BrainGate device is implanted into the patient’s brain and hooked to a computer to which the patient can send mental commands that results in any machine including wheelchairs doing what they want it to. The new technology is called BCI or brain-computer interface.

References
2/
3/
4/