Buying a Foldable Pushchair

A foldable stroller is perfect for short trips or on holidays. They are lightweight and suitable for infants as young as four years old. They have large wheels, and a nice basket.

They have their name because of the way they fold, which is a lot like an umbrella. Some fold easily with one hand, while others require two hands or more effort.

Folding is easy

The way that pushchairs fold is a crucial factor in buying one. It's not just about how they are easy to carry, but also how much space they take up when folded. The majority of brands design their folding mechanisms with different lifestyles in mind with some focusing on compactness, while others concentrate on speed or user-friendliness. If you're looking for a stroller that is easy to fold choose one with the scissor or concertina style of fold. These are renowned for being able to fold flat and are great if you are planning to use public transportation or travelling with your child.

These types of pushchairs typically include a seat with a view of both parents and the child (for bonding, comfort and to allow them to explore the world around them). These pushchairs are suitable for children as young as 6 months. Some have an adequate reclining position (though not as flat as infant car seat) and are compatible accessories such as buggie bag or seat liners. They also come with a moses baskets that are fitted with a pram double sheet.

It is also important to consider other factors when choosing the right buggy, including the fabric and whether it can be washed in the machine. The wheels that are quick-release are particularly important as it means you can easily wash away any wet or dried mud.

Some pushchairs come with the scissor fold. This is where the whole buggy collapses in half like scissors and then flattens into a long rectangular shape. This type of pushchair can be the easiest to unfold because you just have to lift the handle and then close the seat. It can be difficult to store and might not fit into smaller car boot sizes.

Aside from a scissor fold, there are also pushchairs that fold 3 in one pushchair three or more sections, such as a concertina. These pushchairs are the most compact when folded, but can be difficult to maneuver and require two arms. When folded they can be difficult to store due to their large rectangular shape. They are however, light and often small enough to be used as cabin baggage on flights and make a great option for families that travel.

Lightweight

Choosing the right pushchair for you can be a challenge. The terminology can be confusing, and the folding mechanisms are particularly difficult to comprehend. The type of folding you choose can affect the ease with which you can move and store the pushchair.

A compact pushchair is a great option for those who have limited storage space. There are a variety of pushchairs, ranging from compact umbrella-folds to multifunctional travel systems that include carrycots and adapters for car seats. Some of these can be utilized as early as birth with a baby carrier but it is important to verify the specifications of models designed for use with infants.

An umbrella-folding pushchair is a simple and convenient option that takes up very little space. They are named for the fact that they fold in a similar way to an umbrella. This allows them to fit perfectly into most storage spaces and boot spaces. These pushchairs are generally light and many models include a rain cover to protect your child.

A concertina-style pushchair is another option that folds in three or more sections with the frame and seat overlapping each other and then collapsing on itself. They are typically the smallest and easiest to store, but they require two hands to open and close.

Many pushchairs come with a footmuff and a reversible seat liner (and washable) as well as the carry strap, as well as a secure pouch attached to the hood. These features can ensure that your child stays warm, dry, and comfortable during colder weather. Some brands include these items in a bundle, whereas others sell them individually.

Always check whether the fabric used for the pushchair is machine washable. This allows for faster and easier cleaning. It is also essential to make sure that the brakes work correctly and to remove any mud off the wheels with a hosepipe or pressure washer.

Easy to transport

It is possible to choose a pushchair that is folded down into a compact shape when you plan to use it on public transportation or to take it on vacation. This kind of pushchair is also lightweight to lift and makes it easy for to store in your car boot or in a small vehicle.

A wide range of folding pushchairs is available to choose from and the way they fold differs from brand to brand. Some are specifically designed for speed and ease of use, while others are compacter and fold with two hands or even just one hand. The Cybex Libelle is a standout example because it doesn't just fold down, but into the entire buggy transforms into an elegant square box that is smaller than a lot of hand luggage allowances, making it ideal for traveling.

The choice of pushchair brakes is a different factor to consider There are foot pedal brakes, handle brakes, or a combination of both. The most popular brakes are foot brakes, that work by pressing one pedal to lock both rear wheels. This is ideal for parents who are constantly in motion but need to slow down or stop frequently. Handle brakes are commonly found on three-wheeled pushchairs as well as jogger style strollers, they are more sensitive than foot brakes and can be used to change the speed of a run for instance. City pushchairs often feature combination brakes, which combine a foot brake and an lever that triggers the opposite brake pram for newborn maximum control.

You may want to select a pushchair with an option to lie flat or that is compatible with a travel system so you can attach the carrycot. Some of these pushchairs are able to be folded very quickly with the carrycot left on the frame. Alternatively, the lightweight carrycot that is simply rolled flat on the chassis can be utilized.

It's worth checking out the airline's website to make sure that the dimensions and weight of the pushchair fall within the carry-on baggage allowance. It's also important to confirm whether the stroller can pass through a standard entrance and that it is able to be lifted up and down the stairs at an airport. If you do plan to take your pushchair on holiday, it's a good idea to take an umbrella with you to protect it from rain and puddles.

Easy to store

The foldable pushchair is an excellent option for parents who are often moving around. They're easy to fold, and they take up a small amount of space in the boot of your car. They're also great for taking on public transport and for taking on holidays. Some models are even suitable to be used with car seats.

Some models fold so small they're nearly flat. They are great if there is limited space in your car or home boot. However they are heavier than buggies with larger wheels.

Additionally, there are pushchairs that fold into three or more sections, referred to as concertina 3D, fold-in-half or fold-in-half designs. They are more convenient to carry, but they require two hands to fold and unfold. They can also be quite long when folded, so aren't ideal for cars with smaller trunks.

Other models fold in a scissor-like fashion with the seatback folding toward the front of buggy, and the frame is collapsed into an elongated, square-ish shape. They're quick and easy to fold and can be used on public transport. However, the resulting long rectangular shape might not fit in smaller car boots.

Many pushchairs have sun canopy. These are usually made of SPF fabric which protects your baby from sun. Some brands include it in their price, while others sell it separately. The best options come with an hood that can be removed, so you can wash them as needed. Also consider a footmuff that will keep your baby warm during colder weather.

Most pushchairs can be washed down using a damp cloth. However, some fabrics are not machine-washable, so check the instructions of the manufacturer. If you have mud on your wheels make use of a pressure washer, or hose to wash it off. If this isn't successful, you can use a mild sterilising fluid and dry the fabric outdoors. If you leave your pushchair in an unclean, wet or mouldy condition for too long, the fabric could be damaged and mildewed. If this happens, first brush off any mildew or mold using a soft bristled brush. Then wash and rinse as directed.