A Complete Guide To Foldable Pushchair

Buying a Foldable Pushchair

A foldable stroller is perfect for short trips or on holidays. They are light and suitable for babies even as young as 4 years old. They also have decent-sized wheels and a good basket.

They get their name from their collapse method into a form that's like an umbrella. Some fold with one hand that's a breeze and others require a bit of involvement or two hands.

Folding is simple

The way in which pushchairs fold can be a significant factor when purchasing one. It will determine how easy to carry and how much space it takes up when folded. Most brands design their folding mechanisms with different lifestyles in mind and some focus on compactness, while others concentrate on speed or user-friendliness. Look for a pushchair with the scissor or concertina fold if you want an easy pushchair to fold. These are known for their ability to fold flat and are perfect when you are planning to use public transport or travelling with your child.

These types of pushchairs typically include a seat with a view of both the parent and child (for bonding, reassurance and to let them explore the world around them). These pushchairs are suitable for children at a young age of 6 months. Some also have a decent recline (although not as flat as an infant car seat) and are compatible with a range of accessories like buggie bags seats, seat liners, and moses baskets/pram double sheets that are fitted.

Apart from the ease of folding it is important to consider other aspects to take into consideration 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 important because it means that you can easily wash off any wet or dried mud.

Some pushchairs fold in a scissor-like fashion, where the buggy folds like an apex of scissors and flattened into a long rectangular shape. This type of pushchair is usually the simplest to unfold since you only need to lift the handles up and then close the seat back. However, it can be difficult to store in small spaces and isn't suitable for use on public transport since it might not fit into smaller car boots.

Apart from a scissor fold, there are pushchairs that fold into three or more sections, for example concertina. These pushchairs are compact when folded, however they can be difficult to handle and require two arms. They can also be difficult to store as they have a long, rectangular shape when they are in a closed position. However, they are light and small enough to be used as cabin luggage for flights. They are an excellent option for families traveling together.

Lightweight

Finding the perfect pushchair for you can be a challenge. The jargon and folding mechanisms can be confusing. The kind of folding you select will determine the ease with which you can move and store the pushchair.

Choosing a lightweight pushchair can make all the difference for those who have limited storage space at home. There are many different types of pushchairs, from compact umbrella-folds that fold down to multi-functional travel systems that include carrycots and adapters for car seats. Some of them can be used as early as birth with a baby carrier, however, it is essential to know the specifications for models that are intended for use with infants.

A pushchair that folds in the same way as an umbrella is a useful and easy option. It takes up a tiny space. These types of pushchairs pushchairs get their name from the fact they fold down in a similar way as an umbrella, which enables them to be tucked into most forms of storage or vehicle boot space. They're typically extremely light, and the majority of them include a rain cover to protect your child from the elements.

A concertina-styled pushchair is an alternative option that folds in three or more parts, with the frame and seat overlapping each other before collapsing in on itself. They are typically the smallest and easiest to store, but they do require both hands to open and close.

A majority of pushchairs come with the footmuff, a removable (and washable) seat liner, a carry strap and a secure pouch attached to the hood that will help keep your children dry, warm and comfortable in colder temperatures. Certain brands will include these as part of a bundle, whereas others will sell them separately.

Check if the fabrics of the pushchair can be washed using a machine. This will make cleaning easier and quicker. It is also important to check that the brakes are working properly and to remove any mud off the wheels with a hosepipe or pressure washer.

Easy to transport

You might choose an infant stroller that can be folded into a compact shape when you plan to take it on public transport or take it on holiday. This type of pushchair is also light to carry and allows you to store in your car boot or a smaller vehicle.

A wide selection of folding pushchairs are available to choose from and the way they fold differs from brand to brand. Some are focused on speed and convenience, whereas others provide a more compact or a one-handed fold. The Cybex Libelle is a good example of this, as it does doesn't just fold down, but also folds inwards. This makes the buggy a neat square package that fits into many hand luggage compartments.

The selection of pushchair brakes is another thing to think about - there are brakes that are operated by foot, handle brakes or a mixture of both. Foot brakes are the most common and work by pressing the sole of a foot, which locks both rear wheels. This is ideal for parents who are always in motion but need to slow down or stop 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 alter the pace of an exercise. Combination brakes are typically used on city pushchairs. They combine a foot pedal with a hand lever that activates the other brake for maximum control.

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

It's worth checking out the airline's website to ensure that the dimensions and weight of the pushchair fall within the baggage allowance for carry-on bags. Check that the pushchair can fit through a standard airport doorway, and is able to be lifted up and over steps. You should take an umbrella with you if you intend to take your twin stroller on holiday to protect it from rain and puddles.

Easy to store

Foldable pushchairs are a great option for parents who travel a lot. They're designed to be easy to fold and take up little space in your car boot. They're also an excellent option to take on public transport or for holidays. Certain models can be used with a car seat.

Some models are so compact that they fold almost flat. They're ideal if you don't have much storage space at home, or in your car boot, but they could be more cumbersome to transport than a larger buggies.

Some pushchairs fold in three or four sections. These are known as concertina, fold-in-half, or 3D styles. These are easier to carry but require both hands to fold and unfold. They can be quite long when they are folded, making them ideal for vehicles with smaller wheels.

Other models fold in a scissor fashion in which the seatback folds toward the front of buggy and the whole frame is collapsed into an unflattering, square-ish form. They're quick and easy to fold and can be used on public transport, but the resulting rectangular shape may not fit in smaller car boot.

Many pushchairs come with a sun canopy. They are typically constructed of SPF fabric, which protects the child from sun. Some brands include this in the price, while others offer it as an extra. The best options have an hood that is removable to allow you to wash it in the event that you need to. Also look for an infant foot warmer that will keep your baby warm in colder temperatures.

Be sure to read the instructions of the manufacturer before washing your pushchair. Certain fabrics are not machine washed. If you've got mud on your wheels use a pressure washer or hose to wash it off. If this doesn't work then you can try an unscented sterilising solution and dry the fabric outside. If your pushchair remains in a damp, wet or mouldy condition for too long, it can cause damage to the fabric and lead to rot and mildew. If this happens, you should first scrub off any mildew or mold using a soft bristled brush. Then wash and rinse the area as directed.