Buying a Foldable Pushchair

A foldable stroller is perfect for short trips or on holidays. They are usually lightweight and suitable for children up to four years old. They have large wheels and a great basket.

They have their name because of the way they fold in a manner that's a lot like an umbrella. Some are easy to fold with one hand, while others require two hands or more effort.

Folding is simple

The way that pushchairs fold is a crucial aspect when buying one. Not only does it determine how easy they are to carry and fold, but also the amount of space they take up when folded. Some brands are focused on compactness, while others are more concerned with speed or ease of usage. If you're looking to purchase a pushchair that is easy to fold choose one with a concertina or scissor type of fold. These are renowned for their ability to fold flat and are ideal when you are planning to use public transport or traveling with your child.

Many of these types of pushchairs have an incline that is towards the parent (for bonding and reassurance) and away from the parent (to allow them to explore the world around them). They are generally suitable for babies from 6 months. Some have a comfortable recline position (though not flat like an infant car seats) and can be used with other accessories like buggie bags, seat liners, and moses baskets that are fitted with a pram newborn sheet.

It is important to take into consideration other factors when choosing the right buggy, including the fabric and if it is machine-washable. Quick-release wheels are important because they allow you to easily clean any mud or sand.

Some pushchairs come with the scissor fold. This is when the whole buggy folds in half, like scissors and then flattens into a long rectangular shape. This kind of pushchair is generally the easiest to unfold as it is just a matter of lifting the handles and then close the seat back. It isn't easy to pram store near me and might not fit in smaller car boot sizes.

Apart from the scissor fold, there are pushchairs that fold into three or more sections, such as a concertina. These pushchairs are the most compact when folded, but can be difficult to handle and require two arms. When folded they can be difficult to keep in storage due to their long rectangular shape. However, they are lightweight and compact enough to be used as cabin baggage on flights. They are an excellent option for families who travel.

Lightweight

Choosing the right pushchair for your needs can be a challenge. The jargon and folding mechanisms can be confusing. The fold you choose can influence how easy it is to transport and store.

Choosing a lightweight pushchair can make all the difference for those with a small storage space at home. There are many different models of umbrellas, from compact folds up to multi-purpose travel systems that incorporate car seat adapters and carrycots. 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 designed for use with a baby.

A pushchair that folds like an umbrella is a useful and easy option. It takes up little space. They are named for the fact they fold in a similar manner as an umbrella. This makes them be easily inserted into storage and boot spaces. They're typically extremely lightweight, and the majority of models will also include a rain cover to protect your child from the elements.

Concertina-style pushchairs are another option. They fold into three or more sections, with the frame and the seat collapsing on themselves. They are typically the most compact and easy to store, but they require both hands to open and close.

Many pushchairs will come with the footmuff, a removable (and washable) seat liner as well as a carry strap and a safe pouch on the hood to help keep your children dry, warm and comfortable in colder temperatures. Some brands will include these as part of a bundle, whereas others sell them separately.

Always check whether the fabrics for your pushchair are machine washable. This will allow for quicker and easier cleaning. It is also essential to check that the brakes function properly and clean any mud that has accumulated on the wheels with the help of a pressure washer or hosepipe.

Easy to transport

You might choose an infant stroller that can be folded down to a compact size if you plan to take it on public transport or take it on holiday. This type of pushchair is also likely to be light to carry and easy to store in a car boot or small car.

There are many brands of folding stroller pushchairs, and the way they fold can vary. Some are focused on speed and convenience whilst others provide a more compact, two-handed or even 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 allowances.

There are two types of brakes for pushchairs including foot pedal brakes as well as handle brakes. Foot brakes are the most commonly used and work by pushing on a single foot pedal which locks both rear wheels. This is an excellent option for parents who must stop or slow down often. Handle brakes can be found on jogger-style strollers and three-wheeled joggers. They are more sensitive than the foot brakes, and they can be used to alter the momentum during the course of a run. City pushchairs typically have combination brakes, which combine a foot brake with an adjustable lever that activates the opposite brake for maximum control.

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

If you're considering traveling with your child in a pushchair, you should consider visiting the airline's website to ensure that the dimensions and weight are within the allowance for carry-on baggage. It's also important to confirm whether the stroller can pass through a standard entrance and that it can be lifted up and down the stairs of an airport. It is recommended to bring a raincover with you if you intend to use your stroller during a vacation to shield it from rain and puddles.

Easy to store

The foldable pushchair is an excellent choice for parents who are often on the move. They're designed to be simple to fold and take up little space in your car boot. They are also ideal for public transport and vacations. Some models can be used with a car-seat.

Some models fold down so small they're almost flat. They're perfect if you don't have much storage space at home, or in your car boot, but they may be more heavy to carry than buggies with larger capacities.

Alternatively, there are some pushchairs that fold down into three or more sections, referred to as concertina 3D or fold-in half styles. They are more convenient to carry, but require two hands to fold and unfold. They can also be quite long when folded, making them ideal for smaller cars.

Other models have scissor-style folding in which the seat back folds toward the front of the buggy, and the frame collapses into a square-ish flat shape. They're quick and easy to fold and can be used on public transport. However, the resultant long rectangular shape might not fit into smaller car boot.

Many pushchairs are available with a sun canopy typically made from SPF fabric to help protect your baby from sun. Some brands include this feature in the price, while other brands offer it as an extra. The best options have a removable hood so that you can wash it as needed. Look out for an afghan, too, as they are perfect for colder days and keep babies warm.

Most pushchairs can be wiped down using a damp cloth. However, certain fabrics cannot be machine washed, so check the manufacturer's guidelines. If you notice mud on the wheels, try using a hose or pressure washer to wash off the dirt. If this fails, try a mild sterilising liquid and dry the fabric outside. If you leave your pushchair in an unclean, wet or mouldy condition for too long the fabric could be damaged and mildewed. If this occurs, you'll need to begin by removing any mould or mildew that has escaped using a soft-bristled, soft-bristled brush prior to washing and rinsing according to the directions.