Buying a Foldable Pushchair
A foldable stroller is perfect for trips that are short or during holidays. They are light and suitable for babies as young as four years old. They also have good-sized wheels and a good basket.
They get their name from the way they collapse in a manner that's a lot like an umbrella. Some fold easily with one hand, while others need two hands or more effort.
Folding is simple
The way in which pushchairs fold is a crucial factor in buying one. It determines how easy it is to carry and how much space it takes up when folded. Some brands focus on compactness, whereas others are more focused on speed or ease of usage. Look for a double pushchair with the scissor or concertina fold if you're looking for a pushchair which is easy to fold. They are renowned for their ability to fold flat and are perfect for those who plan to use public transport or travelling with your baby.
These pushchairs usually have a seat facing both the parent and the child (for bonding, reassurance and to let them explore the world around them). These pushchairs are suitable for babies from 6 months old. Some have a comfortable recline position (though not flat like an infant car seat) and are compatible with other accessories like buggie bags or seat liners. They also come with a fitted moses baskets/pram bag sheets.
It is also important to consider other factors when choosing the right buggy, including the fabric and whether it is machine-washable. Quick-release wheels are important because they let you easily clean any mud or sand.
Some pushchairs fold in a scissor-like fashion that is, the buggy is folded like a pair of scissors, and then flattened to form a long rectangle. This kind of pushchair is usually the easiest to unfold as it is just a matter of lifting the handles upwards and then close the seat back. It isn't easy to store and may not fit into smaller car boot sizes.
In addition to the scissor fold, there are also pushchairs that fold into three or more sections, such as a concertina. These pushchairs tend to be the most compact travel pram when folded, however they can be a challenge to carry and require two hands. When folded they can be difficult to store due to their long rectangular shape. They are, however, light and usually small enough to be used as baggage for flights and are therefore a great choice for families who travel.
Lightweight
Finding the right pushchair for your needs can be difficult. The jargon and folding mechanisms can be confusing. The type of fold you choose can influence how easy it can be transported and stored.
Choosing a lightweight pushchair can make a huge difference for those with a small storage space at home. There are a variety 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 from birth with baby carrycots, however it is essential to check the lie flat specifications of any model that is intended for use with a newborn.
A pushchair that folds in the same way as an umbrella is a convenient and simple option. It occupies a small space. These types of pushchairs derive their name because of the fact that they fold down similarly as an umbrella, which enables them to fit perfectly lengthways into most forms of storage and vehicle boot space. These pushchairs are usually very light and many models include a rain cover to protect your child.
Concertina-style pushchairs are another choice. They fold into three or more sections, with the frame and the seat overlapping before collapsing on them. They are the smallest and easy to store. They require two hands to open and shut.
Many pushchairs will have an adjustable footmuff, a reversible (and washable) seat liner as well as a carry strap and a secure pouch on the hood that will help keep your children dry, warm and comfortable in colder weather. Some brands offer these in the form of a bundle, while others offer them as individual items.
Always look to see if the pushchair fabrics are machine washable. This will allow for faster and easier cleaning. Additionally it is crucial to regularly check that the brakes are functioning properly and if there's a speck of dirt on the wheels, get rid of it using an hosepipe or pressure washer.
Easy to transport
If you're planning to take your pushchair along with when you travel or if you use it regularly on public transport, you may prefer one that folds easily into smaller dimensions. This type of pushchair is also lightweight to carry and allows to put in the boot of your car or small vehicle.
There are many different kinds of folding pushchairs and the way that they fold can differ. Some are specifically designed for speed and ease of use and others are smaller and can be folded with two hands or even just one hand. The Cybex Libelle is an eye-catching model because it doesn't only fold down but then into the whole buggy is an elegant square box that is smaller than a lot of hand luggage options, making it perfect for travelling.
There are two kinds of brakes for pushchairs that are foot pedal brakes and handle brakes. The most popular brakes are foot brakes, that work by pressing one pedal to lock both rear wheels. This is a great choice for parents who need to stop or slow down frequently. Handle brakes can be found on three-wheeled pushchairs and jogger style strollers, they are more sensitive than foot brakes and are able to change momentum during a run for example. Combination brakes are commonly found on city pushchairs and combine a foot pedal with an hand lever that triggers the other brake for maximum control.
Based on the age of your baby, you may wish to find a pushchair with a lying-flat seat or is compatible with a travel system so you can attach an infant carrycot. Some of these pushchairs are able to be folded quickly using the carrycot still on the frame, or the lightweight carrycot that can be simply pushed flat onto the frame can be used.
If you are thinking of flying with your baby in a pushchair it's worth checking the airline's website to ensure the dimensions and weight are within the carry-on baggage allowance. Verify that the toddler stroller can fit through a standard airport doorway, and that it can be lifted up and over stairs. You should bring a raincover when you plan to take your stroller on vacation to shield it from rain and puddles.
Easy to store
The foldable pushchair is a fantastic option for parents who are constantly moving around. They are easy to fold and take up very little space in the boot of your car. They're also a great option for public transport and holidays. Some models are also suitable for use with car seats.
Some models are so small that they fold up almost flat. They're perfect when you don't have lots of storage space at home or in your car boot, but they could be heavier to carry than buggies that are larger.
There are also pushchairs that fold in three or more sections, known as concertina, 3D or fold-in-half styles. These are less cumbersome to carry, but require two hands to fold and unfold. They can also be quite long when folded, making them suitable for cars with smaller dimensions.
Other models come with scissor-style folds which means that the seat back folds toward the front of the buggy, and the whole frame collapses into a square-ish flat shape. They're quick and easy to fold and can be used on public transport, but the resulting long rectangular shape might not fit in smaller car boot.
Many pushchairs have sun canopy. They are typically constructed of SPF fabric, which protects the child from sun. Some brands include this feature in the price, whereas others offer it as an extra. The best choices have a removable hood so that you can wash it as needed. Also look for a footmuff that will keep your baby warm during colder weather.
The majority of pushchairs can be cleaned down with a damp cloth but some fabrics are not machine-washable So, make sure you read the instructions of the manufacturer. If there's mud on the wheels, try using pressure washer or a hose to rinse off the dirt. If this doesn't work then you can use a mild sterilising fluid and dry the fabric outdoors. If your pushchair remains in a wet, damp or mouldy state for too long, it may cause damage to the fabric and lead to rot and mildew. If this happens, first brush off any mildew or mould with a soft bristled brush. Then wash and rinse according to the instructions.