7 Tricks To Help Make The Most Of Your Foldable Pushchair

Buying a Foldable Pushchair

A foldable pushchair is the perfect solution for holidays or quick trips out and about. They are light and suitable for infants as young as four years. They also have decent-sized wheels and a basket that is suitable for children.

They are named after their collapse method into a form that's like an umbrella. Some fold with one hand that's a breeze, while others require a bit of involvement or two hands.

Easy to fold

The way pushchairs pushchairs are folded is a crucial aspect when buying one. It determines how easy to carry and how much space it occupies when folded. Many brands design their folding mechanisms with different lifestyles in mind, with some focusing on compactness whilst others focus on speed or ease of use. If you're looking for a stroller that folds easily, then look for one with the scissor or concertina style of fold. These are known for their ability to fold flat, and are great if you plan on using public transport or traveling with your baby.

These types of pushchairs typically feature a seat that faces both the parent and the child (for bonding, reassurance, and to allow them to explore the world around them). They are typically suitable for babies up to 6 months. Some also have an adequate recline (although not flat, like an infant car seat) and are compatible with a range of accessories such as buggie bags seats, seat liners, and fitted moses basket/triple pram sheets.

It is also important to consider other aspects when selecting 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 as it means you can easily wash off any dried or wet mud.

Some pushchairs fold in a scissor-like manner, where the buggy is folded as a pair scissors and then flattened into a long rectangle. This type of pushchair could be the most simple to unfold because you just need to lift the handle, then close the seat. It isn't easy to store and might not fit into smaller car boot sizes.

Apart from a scissor fold, there are also pushchairs that fold in three or more sections, for example concertina. These pushchairs are the smallest when folded but they can be difficult to carry and require two hands. When folded they can be difficult to store due to their long rectangular shape. They are however, lightweight and are often small enough to be used as cabin baggage on flights and make a great option for families that travel.

Lightweight

Finding the perfect pushchair for you can be a challenge. The jargon can be confusing, and folding mechanisms especially can be difficult to comprehend. The fold you select can affect how easy the pushchair can be transported and stored.

A compact pushchair is an excellent choice for those with little storage space. There are a myriad of types of pushchairs available, from compact umbrella-folds to multifunctional systems that include carrycots as well as adapters to car seats. Some of these can even be used from birth with the newborn carrycot, but it is crucial to confirm the specifications for lie flat of any model that is designed for use with a baby.

An umbrella-folding pushchair is a simple and convenient option that takes up very little room. These types of pushchairs get their name because of the fact they fold down in a similar way as an umbrella, allowing them to fit into a variety of storage and vehicle boot space. They are typically light, and the majority of models will also include a rain cover to protect your child from the elements.

A concertina-style pushchair is another option that folds into three or more sections with the frame and seat overlapping each other, before collapsing into itself. They are the most compact and easy to store. They require two hands to open and close.

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

Always verify whether the fabric used for the pushchair is machine washable, as this will allow for quicker and easier cleaning. Additionally it is essential to regularly check that the brakes are functioning properly and if there's any dirt on the wheels, get rid of it using an hosepipe or pressure washer.

Easy to transport

It is possible to choose a pushchair that is folded to a compact size in case you intend to take it on public transport or take it on holiday. This type of pushchair will also usually be light to carry and easy to store in a trunk or small car.

A wide range of folding pushchairs are available for you to choose from and the way they fold differs from brand to brand. Some are designed to be fast and easy to use, while others are compacter and can be folded using two hands or one hand. The Cybex Libelle is an eye-catching model because it doesn't only fold down, but it folds in too, so the whole buggy is an attractive square-shaped package that is smaller than a lot of hand luggage allowances, making it ideal for travel pushchair.

There are two kinds of brakes for pushchairs: foot pedal brakes and handle brakes. The most commonly used brakes are foot brakes, which work by pressing a single pedal to secure both rear wheels. This is an excellent option for parents who need to stop or slow down often. Hand brakes are found on jogger-style strollers, as well as three-wheeled joggers. They are more sensitive than the foot brakes, and can be used to change the speed of a run. City pushchairs often have combination brakes, which combine a foot brake with a lever that activates the opposite brake for maximum control.

Depending on your baby's age, you may wish to look for a pushchair with a lying-flat seat or is compatible with a travel strollers system which means you can connect to a carrycot. Some of these pushchairs fold quickly and leave the carrycot on the frame. You can also opt for a lightweight carrycot that is folded flat on the chassis.

It's a good idea to check the airline's site to ensure that the dimensions and weight of the pushchair fall within the carry-on baggage allowance. It's also important to determine whether the pushchair can fit through a standard doorway, and that it is able to be pushed up and down the stairs at an airport. You should bring an umbrella when you plan to take your stroller on holiday to protect it from rain and puddles.

Easy to store

The foldable pushchair is an excellent choice for parents who are often in motion. They fold easily and require very little space in the boot of your car. They're also an excellent option to take on public transport and holidays. Some models can be used with a car seat.

Some models are so small that they fold almost flat. They're ideal if there is the space to fit them in your home or car boot. However they're heavier than buggies with larger wheels.

Some pushchairs fold in three or four sections. They are referred to as concertina, fold-in-half, or 3D styles. These are less cumbersome to carry, but they require two hands to fold and unfold. They can be quite large when folded, which makes them suitable for vehicles with smaller dimensions.

Other models come with scissor-style folds in which the seat back folds towards the front of the buggy, and the frame collapses into a square-ish, flat shape. They are easy and quick to fold and are suitable for use in public transport. However the rectangular shape they produce may not fit into small car boot dimensions.

Many pushchairs come with sun canopy. These are usually constructed of SPF fabric, which protects the child from the sun. Some brands include this feature in the price, while others offer it as an extra. The best options come with an hood that can be removed, so you can wash them if required. Also, look for an infant foot warmer that will keep your baby warm during colder temperatures.

Most pushchairs can be wiped down with a damp cloth, but some fabrics are not machine-washable and should be checked by the instructions of the manufacturer. If there's mud on the wheels, try using a hose or pressure washer to clean the dirt. If this isn't working, try a mild sterilising fluid and dry the fabric on the outside. If you leave your pushchair in an unclean or wet condition for too long the fabric may be damaged and mildewed. If this occurs, you'll have to begin by removing any mould or mildew that has escaped with a soft-bristled toothbrush before rinsing and washing as per the instructions.