Wheelchair Rain

Rain Changes Everything on Wheels

For someone on foot, rain is mostly an inconvenience. For a wheelchair user it brings a string of extra problems. You cannot hold an umbrella and push at the same time. Water runs off your legs and pools in your lap. Push rims become slippery and cold, tyres throw spray onto your sleeves, and the seat stays damp long after you get indoors. Powered chair users have the added worry of water reaching the controls. Wheelchair rain is a subject worth planning for, because in much of the UK it is a question of when, not if.

This guide covers the main kinds of rain protection, how to keep controls and electrics dry, and how to dry and care for the chair afterwards so wet days do not cause lasting damage.

Protection for the Person

Capes and Ponchos

A wheelchair cape or poncho drapes over the user and the lap, usually with a hood. It is cut longer at the front than an ordinary raincoat so the legs and knees are covered when seated, and shorter at the back so it does not bunch behind you. Designs with sleeves suit people who self-propel, as they keep the arms dry while pushing. Look for a design that stays clear of the wheels, since loose fabric can catch in spokes.

Our guides to the wheelchair rain poncho and the wheelchair rain cover with sleeves look at the different cuts.

Leg and Lap Covers

A lap or leg cover wraps around the legs and feet like a sleeping bag or apron. Paired with a jacket or cape, it stops water running down into the lap and keeps feet dry. Many have a warm lining for winter. See our wheelchair leg cover page for styles.

Clear-Fronted Covers

Some covers include a clear front panel so the user can see through while staying fully covered. These suit people who are pushed rather than self-propelling, since the arms are usually tucked inside.

How Can You Protect Your Hands on Wet Wheelchair Push Rims?

Wet push rims are slippery and chilling, making textured gloves or coated push rim covers essential for a firm grip. Waterproof gloves with a grippy palm let you keep propelling safely in the rain, and they protect the hands from road grime thrown up by the wheels. Mitts designed for wheelchair users often have reinforced palms. Carers pushing the chair also benefit from gloves that grip wet handles.

How Do You Keep Powered Wheelchair Electronics Dry in Wet Weather?

Powered chairs and scooters are built to cope with some rain, but water getting into the joystick, control box, charging socket or connectors can cause electrical faults. It is worth taking simple precautions.

• Fit a clear joystick cover that keeps rain out while letting you see and use the controls.
• Choose a cape that extends over the control box, or a cover designed for powered chairs.
• Keep the charging socket cover closed when out.
• Avoid driving through deep puddles, where water can reach motors and wiring.
• If the controls behave oddly after heavy rain, stop, switch off and let them dry before trying again.

Check the chair’s manual for its guidance on wet weather, and follow it. Our guide to the power wheelchair rain cover looks at covers made for powered models.

How Can You Keep a Wheelchair Seat and Cushion Dry in the Rain?

A wet seat is miserable, and a cushion that soaks up water can stay damp for hours, so waterproof covers protect the user’s skin from moisture. A waterproof seat cover or a plastic bag over the cushion while the chair is parked keeps it dry. If you transfer out of the chair in the rain, cover the seat before you leave it. Some people carry a small towel just for drying the seat before sitting back down.

Drying the Chair Afterwards

How you treat the chair after a wet outing makes a big difference to how long it lasts.

Straight Away

• Wipe the frame, wheels and push rims with an absorbent cloth.
• Remove the cushion and stand it somewhere airy to dry.
• Open up any covers and capes so they can dry without creasing.
• On powered chairs, wipe around the controls and check the charging socket is dry before charging.

Afterwards

• Let the chair dry at room temperature rather than right next to a radiator or heater.
• Check brakes once dry, as wet tyres and brake pads can grip differently.
• If the chair was used on gritted or salted roads, wipe the frame and wheels with fresh water.
• Apply light lubricant to moving parts if the manual suggests it after wet use.

Planning a Wet-Weather Outing

A little preparation makes rainy days much easier. Keep a small wet-weather kit in the bag on the chair: a folded cape, a pair of gloves and a small towel. Check the forecast and allow more time, since pavements are slippery and journeys slower. Look for routes with shelter, such as covered walkways or shopfronts. In heavy rain, consider whether the trip can wait.

Cold, Wet Winter Days

Winter showers bring cold as well as damp, and someone sitting still in a chair loses heat faster than someone walking. A lined lap cover, a warm layer under the cape and a hat that fits under the hood help keep the chill off. Hands get cold quickly on wet rims, so thermal gloves are worth considering. On icy days, wet leaves and frost make ramps and dropped kerbs slippery, so take them slowly, and ask for help where needed.

Shops, Buses and Indoor Spaces

Arriving somewhere indoors soaking wet is uncomfortable, and dripping capes can make floors slippery for others. Before going in, shake off the cape and fold back the hood. A cape that removes easily over the head, without needing to stand, is a real advantage here. On buses and trains, a folded cape can go in a waterproof bag on the chair so it does not drip on seats. Wet tyres leave tracks on shop floors, so some people carry a cloth to give the wheels a quick wipe at the door.

A Thought for the Carer

When someone else pushes the chair, their comfort matters too. A waterproof coat with a good hood leaves their hands free for the handles, and waterproof trousers or gaiters help on longer walks. Carers should never push one-handed while holding an umbrella, especially on slopes or kerbs.

Staying Visible in Dull Weather

Rain often means low light and poor visibility. Drivers may struggle to see a wheelchair crossing the road, especially if the user is wearing a dark cape. Bright colours, reflective strips and small lights on the chair make a real difference. Our guide to the wheelchair cover for rain includes designs with reflective details.

Looking After Rain Gear

Capes and covers last longer if they are dried properly before being packed away. Hang them somewhere airy rather than folding them damp into a bag, where they can develop mildew and smells. Most can be wiped clean or washed gently; check the care label, since some coatings do not survive a hot wash.

If Rain Keeps You Indoors

If wet weather regularly stops you going out, it may be worth mentioning at your next wheelchair review. Changes to the chair or suggestions for accessories may help. The NHS page on walking aids, wheelchairs and mobility scooters explains how local services can be contacted. When comparing rain gear, check sizes and how items fit the chair, and read the returns terms.