Buying a Foldable Pushchair

A foldable stroller is perfect for trips that are short or during holidays. They are lightweight and suitable for babies as young as four years old. They also have decent-sized wheels and a good basket.

They have their name because of their collapse method in a manner that's a lot like an umbrella. Some fold easily using one hand, while others require two hands or more effort.

Easy to fold

The way that pushchairs fold can be an important factor when purchasing one. It determines how easy to carry and how much space it occupies when folded. Most brands design their folding mechanisms with different lifestyles in mind and some focus on compactness whilst others focus on speed or ease of use. If you're looking for a stroller that folds easily, choose one with a scissor or concertina type of fold. They are renowned for their ability to fold flat, and are great for those who plan to use public transport or traveling with your child.

These prams pushchairs prams usually feature a seat that faces both the parent and the child (for bonding, comfort and to let them explore the world around them). They are usually suitable for babies as young as 6 months. Some have a comfortable reclining position (though not as flat as infant car seats) and are compatible accessories such as buggie bag, seat liners, and moses baskets that are fitted with a pram sheet.

Aside from the ease of folding, there are other factors that you should consider when choosing a buggy, such as whether or not the fabric is machine washable, and whether it comes with wheels that can be released quickly. Quick-release wheels are crucial as they permit you to easily clean any mud or sand.

Some pushchairs come with a scissor fold, which is where the whole buggy folds in half, like scissors and then folds down into a rectangular shape. This type of pushchair is generally the simplest to unfold since it is just a matter of lifting the handles upwards and then fold the seat back. It can be difficult to store and may not fit into smaller car seat pram boot sizes.

Aside from a scissor fold, there are also pushchairs that fold into three or more sections, like a concertina. These pushchairs are the most compact when folded, but they can be difficult to carry and require two hands. 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 who travel.

Lightweight

The choice of pushchairs is a lot and choosing the right one for you can be a challenge. The terminology and folding mechanisms can be confusing. The kind of folding you select will determine how easy it is to move and store the pushchair.

A lightweight pushchair is an excellent choice for those with limited storage space. There are a myriad of types of pushchairs, ranging from compact umbrella-folds to multifunctional travel systems that include carrycots as well as adapters for car seats. Some of them can be used as early as birth with a newborn carrycot, although it is essential to check the lie flat specifications of any model designed to be used with a newborn.

An umbrella-fold pushchair is an easy and efficient option that takes up very small space. These kinds of pushchairs get their name because of the fact that they fold down in a similar way as an umbrella, allowing them to fit perfectly lengthways into a variety of storage and vehicle boot space. They are typically lightweight, and the majority of them come with rain covers to shield your child from the elements.

A concertina-style pushchair is a different option that folds into three or more sections, with the frame and seat overlapping each other, before collapsing into itself. They are typically the smallest and easiest to store, but they require both hands to open and close.

Many pushchairs will come with a footmuff, a reversible (and washable) seat liner with a carry strap, and a secure pouch on the hood that will help keep your children dry, warm and comfortable in colder temperatures. Some brands include these items in a bundle, while others sell them individually.

Check if the fabrics of the pushchair can be washed using a machine. This will make cleaning easier and faster. It is also important to ensure that the brakes work correctly and clean any mud from the wheels with a hosepipe or pressure washer.

Easy to transport

You might choose an infant stroller that can be folded down into a compact shape if you plan to use it on public transportation or even take it on a trip. This kind of pushchair is also light to lift and makes it easy for you to store in your car boot or a smaller vehicle.

There are many models of folding pushchairs and the way they fold can vary. Some focus on speed and convenience whilst others offer a more compact one-handed, two-handed, or even a one-handed fold. The Cybex Libelle is a good example of this, as it does doesn't just fold down, but also inwards. This makes the buggy a neat square package that can fit into a variety of hand luggage compartments.

There are two types of brakes for pushchairs including foot pedal brakes as well as handle brakes. The most popular brakes are foot brakes that work by pressing a single pedal to secure both rear wheels. This is a great option for parents who have to stop or slow down frequently. Hand brakes are available on jogger-style strollers, as well as three-wheeled joggers. They are more sensitive than the foot brakes, and they can be used to alter the pace of a run. City pushchairs typically have combination brakes, which combine a foot brake and a lever that activates the brake opposite for maximum control.

You may want to select a pushchair that has a lie-flat feature, or one that is compatible with a travel system, so you can put the carrycot on it. Some of these pushchairs fold quickly, leaving the carrycot on the frame. You can also use a lightweight carrycot that is pulled flat onto chassis.

If you're considering traveling with your child in a pushchair, you should consider checking the airline's website to make sure the dimensions and weight are within the carry-on baggage allowance. It's also important to determine whether the pushchair will fit through a standard doorway and that it can be pushed up and down the stairs of an airport. If you are planning to use your pushchair on holiday, it's a good idea to carry a rain cover with you to protect it from rain and puddles.

Easy to store

The foldable pushchair is a fantastic option for parents who are often on the move. They fold easily and take up very little space in the trunk of your car. They're also a great option for taking on public transport and holidays. Some models are even suitable to be used with a car seat.

Some models are so compact that they fold up almost flat. They're perfect if you don't have much storage space at home or in your car boot, but they may be heavier to carry than buggies that are larger.

Some pushchairs fold in three or four sections. They are referred to as concertina, fold-in-half or 3D styles. They are more comfortable to use, but they require both hands to fold and unfold. They are also quite long when folded, which makes them suitable for cars with smaller dimensions.

Other models feature scissor-style folding, where the seat back folds toward the front of the buggy, and the frame collapses into a flat square-ish shape. They are easy and quick to fold, and can be used in public transportation. However, the long rectangular shape they create may not fit in small car boot dimensions.

Many pushchairs come with a sun canopy, typically made of SPF fabric to help protect baby from the sun. Some brands include it in the price, while some sell it separately. The best options include an adjustable hood, which means you can wash them as needed. Make sure you have a footmuff too, as they are perfect for colder temperatures and keep babies warm.

Most pushchairs can be wiped down with a damp cloth, but certain fabrics cannot be machine washed, so check the instructions of the manufacturer. If there's mud on the wheels, you can try using a hose or pressure washer to wash off the dirt. If this isn't working, try a mild sterilising solution and dry the fabric on the outside. If you leave your pushchair in an un-dry and wet condition or in a mouldy state for too long, the fabric may become damaged and mildewed. If this happens, you'll need to start by brushing off any loose mildew or mould with a soft-bristled toothbrush before washing and rinsing according to the instructions.