Buying a Foldable Pushchair

A foldable pushchair is an ideal solution for short trips out and about. They are usually lightweight and suitable for babies from four years old and up. They have good-sized wheels, and a nice basket.

Their name comes due to the way they fold. It's similar to an umbrella. Some fold easily with just one hand, whereas others require two hands or more effort.

Easy to fold

The way that pushchairs fold can be the most important aspect when buying one. It determines how easy to carry and how much space it takes up when folded. Most manufacturers create their folding mechanisms with different lifestyles in mind and some focus on compactness while others focus on speed or ease of use. If you're looking for a pushchair that is easy to fold choose one with the scissor or concertina style of fold. They are renowned for their ability to fold flat and are ideal if you plan on using public transport or traveling with your baby.

These types of pushchairs often include a seat with a view of both the parent and child (for bonding, comfort and to let them explore the world around them). They are typically suitable for babies as young as 6 months. Some have a decent recline (though not flat like an infant car seat) and are compatible accessories such as buggie bag or seat liners. They also come with a fitted moses baskets/pram sheets.

It is important to take into consideration other factors when choosing the buggy you want to use, such as the fabric and if it can be washed in the machine. Having quick-release wheels is particularly important because it means that you can easily wash away any dried or wet mud.

Some pushchairs fold in a scissorlike manner, where the buggy folds like a pair of scissors, and then flattened to form a long rectangular shape. This type of pushchair can be the easiest to unfold since you need to lift the handle, then close the seat. However, it can be difficult to store in tight spaces and isn't suitable for use on public transport because it may not fit into smaller car booties.

There are also pushchairs, for instance concertina, that fold in three or more sections. These pushchairs are compact when they are folded, but can be difficult to handle and require two arms. When folded, they can be difficult to store due to their long rectangular shape. They are however, lightweight and usually small enough to be used as baggage for flights and are a great choice for families traveling.

Lightweight

Finding the right pushchair for you could be difficult. The terminology can be confusing, and folding mechanisms especially can be difficult to grasp. The fold you select can have an impact on how easy the pushchair can be transported and stored.

A lightweight pushchair can make a huge difference for those with a small storage space at home. There are a variety of pushchairs, from compact umbrella-folds that fold down to multi-functional travel systems that include carrycots and adapters to car seats. Some of these can even be used from birth with baby carrycots, however it is crucial to confirm the lie flat specifications of any model that is designed for use with a baby.

An umbrella-fold pushchair is a simple and convenient option that occupies little space. These kinds of pushchairs get their name from the fact that they fold down similar as an umbrella, which allows them to fit into most forms of storage or vehicle boot space. They're typically extremely lightweight, and the majority of them come with an umbrella cover to shield your child from the elements.

Concertina-style pushchairs are a different option. They fold into three or more pieces with the frame and seat overlapping and then collapsing on themselves. They are typically the most compact and easy to store, but they require two hands to open and close.

Many pushchairs will have an adjustable footmuff, a reversible (and washable) seat liner with a carry strap, and a secure pouch on the hood to keep your children dry, warm and comfortable during colder weather. Some brands offer these in the form of a bundle, while others sell them individually.

Always verify whether the fabric used for the pushchair is machine washable, as this will allow for quicker and more efficient cleaning. In addition to this it is essential to check regularly if whether the brakes work properly and if there's any mud on the wheels to remove it with an 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 take it on holiday. This kind of pushchair is also lightweight to lift and makes it easy for you to put in the boot of your car or in a small vehicle.

There are a variety of models of folding pushchairs and the way that they fold can vary. Some are focused on speed and convenience whilst others offer a more compact or a one-handed fold. The Cybex Libelle is a standout example as it doesn't just fold down but then in too, so the entire buggy transforms into an elegant square box that is smaller than most hand luggage options, making it ideal for traveling.

There are two kinds of brakes for pushchairs prams including foot pedal brakes as well as handle brakes. Foot brakes are the most popular and operate by pressing the sole of a foot, which locks both rear wheels. This is great for parents who are always in motion but require to slow down or stop frequently. Handle brakes can be found on jogger-style strollers as well as three-wheeled joggers. They are more sensitive than foot brakes and can be used to change the momentum during an exercise. City pushchairs often have combination brakes, which combine a foot brake with an adjustable lever that activates the brake opposite for maximum control.

Based on your baby's age and size, you may want to look for a pushchair that offers a lie-flat seat or is compatible with travel systems which means you can connect to a carrycot. Some pushchairs fold very quickly, leaving the carrycot on the frame. You can also choose an ultra-lightweight carrycot that is placed flat on the chassis.

It's worth looking up the airline's site to ensure that the dimensions and weight of the pushchair fall within the carry-on baggage allowance. Make sure that the pushchair will fit through a standard airport doorway, and is able to be lifted up and down the stairs. If you do plan to take your pushchair on holiday, it's a good idea to bring a rain cover to protect it from rain and puddles.

Easy to store

The foldable pushchair is a fantastic choice for parents who are often moving around. They're designed to be simple to fold and will take up a small space in your car boot. They are also ideal for public transport and vacations. Some models are also suitable for use with a car seat.

Some models are so compact that they fold up almost flat. They're ideal if there is little space in your car or home boot. However they are heavier than larger buggies.

There are also pushchairs that fold into three or more sections, referred to as concertina 3D or fold-in half styles. These are easier to carry, but require two hands to fold and unfold. They can be quite long when folded, so they're not suitable for vehicles with smaller dimensions.

Other models come with scissor-style folds, where the seat back folds towards the front of the buggy and the frame collapses into a square-ish flat shape. They're easy and quick to fold and can be used on public transport. However, the resulting rectangular shape may not fit into smaller car boot.

Many pushchairs have a sun canopy. They are typically constructed of SPF fabric, which protects your baby from the sun. Some brands include it in the price, while some sell it separately. The most effective options come with an adjustable hood, which means you can wash them as required. Also look for a footmuff that will keep your baby warm in colder weather.

The majority of pushchairs can be cleaned down with a damp cloth but some fabrics are not machine-washable, so check the instructions of the manufacturer. If you've got mud on your wheels make use of a pressure washer, or hose to clean it off. If this fails, you can use an sterilising fluid that is mild and dry the fabric outside. If your pushchair is left in a wet, damp or mouldy condition for too long, it may damage the fabric and lead to rot and mildew. If this occurs, you'll have to start by cleaning off any mildew or mould that is loose with a soft-bristled brush before washing and rinsing according to the directions.