7 Waterproof Wheelchair Covers For Storage That Prevent Costly Repairs
Storing your wheelchair? A waterproof cover is essential to shield it from moisture and debris, preventing costly damage. We review 7 top-rated options.
A quality wheelchair or power chair is more than a mobility aid; it’s a key to maintaining an active, independent life. You store your car in a garage to protect it from the elements, and the same logic applies to this crucial piece of equipment. A simple, inexpensive cover is one of the smartest preventative measures you can take to safeguard your investment and ensure it’s always ready when you are.
Friendly Disclaimer : This content is for educational & general research purposes only. Please consult healthcare providers or other qualified professionals for personalized medical, caregiving, or health-related advice.
Friendly Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, this site earns from qualifying purchases. Thank you for your support!
Protect Your Mobility Investment from the Elements
You’ve decided to leave your wheelchair on the covered patio for easy access to the garden, or perhaps in the carport overnight. But even in a semi-protected space, exposure to morning dew, blowing dust, and the sun’s UV rays takes a toll. Over time, moisture can lead to rust on the frame and, more critically, damage to sensitive electronic components on power chairs.
A proper cover acts as a shield. It prevents the slow, cumulative damage that leads to unexpected and expensive repairs. Think of it as low-cost insurance for your mobility. When choosing a cover, consider the primary threats in your environment.
- Waterproof vs. Water-Resistant: A truly waterproof cover with sealed seams is essential for direct exposure to rain. For storage in a damp garage or under an awning, a water-resistant cover may suffice to block moisture and dust.
- UV Protection: If the chair will be exposed to sunlight, even indirectly, a cover with a UV-protective coating is crucial. Sun exposure can crack upholstery, fade paint, and degrade plastic components over time.
- Secure Fit: Look for covers with elastic hems, drawstrings, or buckles. A snug fit prevents the cover from blowing off in the wind and keeps dust and pests out more effectively.
Drive Medical Cover: All-Weather Durability
When you need a reliable, everyday solution for a manual or power wheelchair, the Drive Medical cover is a benchmark for durability. It’s often constructed from a heavy-duty, water-resistant nylon that can handle a surprise rain shower or persistent morning dampness. This isn’t a flimsy dust cover; it’s built to provide a substantial barrier against the elements.
This type of cover is ideal for those who store their chair in a garage, a carport, or on a covered porch. The material is tough enough to resist tears and provides excellent protection from dust, dirt, and moisture. Its universal sizing is designed to fit a wide range of standard wheelchairs and smaller mobility scooters, making it a versatile and practical choice for consistent, year-round protection.
Mighty-X Cover: Lightweight for Travel & Storage
Imagine you’re heading out for the day and plan to stow your folding wheelchair in the back of your SUV. You want to protect it from scuffs and keep any dirt from the wheels off your vehicle’s interior. This is precisely the scenario where a lightweight cover like the one from Mighty-X excels.
Made from a lighter material, this cover is easy to fold down into a compact pouch, making it perfect for travel. It slips on and off quickly, providing a barrier against dust, scratches, and light moisture. While it may not be the best choice for a winter storm, it’s an excellent, convenient option for indoor storage, vehicle transport, or temporary protection on the go.
Formosa Deluxe Cover for Heavy-Duty Protection
For long-term storage or for a chair that must remain in a more exposed outdoor location, a heavy-duty cover is non-negotiable. The Formosa Deluxe cover is engineered for this purpose, often featuring a thick, durable polyester fabric with a waterproof backing. This is the kind of robust protection you need when facing seasonal weather changes.
These covers are designed to be left in place for extended periods. They typically feature reinforced seams and a secure fastening system, such as buckles or a strong elastic cord, to ensure they stay put in windy conditions. If you have a secondary chair stored in a shed or need to protect your primary chair on an apartment balcony, this level of heavy-duty construction provides peace of mind.
Pembrook Wheelchair Cover: Easy Zipper Access
Small details in design can make a big difference in daily use. The Pembrook wheelchair cover often includes a feature that seems minor but is incredibly practical: a full-length zipper. This simple addition transforms the task of covering and uncovering your chair.
Instead of wrestling a large sheet of material over the entire chair, a zipper allows you to open the cover, position it, and zip it closed with minimal effort. This is especially useful for individuals with limited reach or strength. Furthermore, it provides quick access to the chair’s storage pockets without having to remove the entire cover—perfect for grabbing a pair of gloves or a book you left behind.
Classic Accessories Cover for Extreme Weather
If you live in a region with harsh winters, intense sun, or heavy rainfall, standard protection might not be enough. Brands like Classic Accessories specialize in covers built to withstand extreme conditions, drawing on their experience protecting everything from patio furniture to RVs. These covers are an investment in serious, long-term asset protection.
You can expect to find features like advanced, multi-layered waterproof fabrics, air vents to reduce condensation and wind lofting, and UV-treated materials that resist fading and cracking. The construction is typically more robust, with double-stitched seams and heavy-duty elastic hems. For a power chair stored under a carport through a snowy winter, this level of protection is essential for preserving its mechanical and electronic integrity.
Pride Mobility Cover for Power Chair Electronics
Power chairs are a different beast entirely. The joystick, control panel, and battery connections are highly sensitive to moisture and dust. A generic cover might not offer adequate protection for these critical—and costly—electronic components. Pride Mobility, a leading manufacturer of power chairs, offers covers designed specifically for their products.
These covers are tailored to the unique shapes of power chairs, ensuring a snug fit around the joystick and seating system. The material is chosen specifically to provide a high degree of water resistance, safeguarding the electronics that are the heart of the chair’s function. Using a manufacturer-specific cover is often the wisest choice for a power chair, as it ensures the best possible fit and protection for its most vulnerable parts.
Invacare Vinyl Cover for Simple, Reliable Use
Sometimes, the most effective solution is the simplest one. The Invacare vinyl cover is a straightforward, no-frills option that gets the job done reliably. Made from durable, waterproof vinyl, it’s incredibly easy to clean—a quick wipe-down is all it takes to remove dust or moisture.
This type of cover is an excellent choice for basic protection against dust and dampness inside a garage or storage unit. While vinyl may become stiff in very cold weather, its durability and ease of maintenance make it a practical and often very affordable choice. It provides a dependable barrier that keeps your chair clean, dry, and ready for immediate use without any complexity.
Choosing the right cover is a small, proactive step that pays significant dividends. By shielding your wheelchair or power chair from the elements, you’re not just preventing rust and wear; you’re protecting your freedom, your independence, and your investment. It’s a simple decision that ensures your mobility equipment remains a reliable partner in your active life for years to come.
