[Note: Anna’s relayed too many stories lately of the extents to which other mothers go to fix their strollers. Its prompting me to write this post.]

Are you the owner of a Graco stroller? (possibly other brands) Has the wheel fallen off? Have you:

• Thrown out the stroller and bought a new one?
• Called the company asking for a new wheel to be shipped to you?
• Hobbled around with three wheels?

Chances are this issue is easier to solve than you might think. Here’s how to fix the problem.

• Remove the plastic cover at the center of the wheel. Its like the hubcap on a car wheel. I use my house keys to press the plastic tabs open, your finger should be sufficient to pop it off from there.
• Figure out the underlying problem. The reoccurring issue for us is the pressure fit washers at the end of the axle keep loosening and falling off leaving the wheel nothing to bolt it on.
• Pick the washer out of the wheel. The benefit of having a hubcap on there is it keeps the washer inside the wheel so you don’t lose it. Bring this washer to the local hardware store.
• Buy the 12¢ washer. Ask the staff for the correct size. Buy a couple spares in case it happens again, don’t be thrifty! (If you have the smallest zip lock bag in the world, seal the spares inside so they don’t corrode and store them in the stroller in case it happens again.)
• Put the wheel back together and push fit the washer back onto the axle.
• Put the hubcap back on.

Now, even if it isn’t the washer that’s the problem you just need to remember that almost all of these strollers were built in some foreign country where the design has been whittled down to the cheapest components. Chances are you can find any of these components at stores in your area. They won’t cost as much as a new stroller, or even the shipping to send a parcel from the company to your house. Plus it doesn’t put you out of commission for any length of time.

Better than all of that, you fixed it yourself. You have to admit that feels pretty empowering right?