Buying a foldable stroller Pushchair
A foldable stroller is perfect for short trips or on holidays. They are typically lightweight and are suitable for babies up to four years old. They come with large wheels, and a nice basket.
They get their name from their collapse method into a form that's like an umbrella. Some models fold with one hand, which is effortless while others require a bit more involvement or two hands.
Easy to fold
The way in which pushchairs fold can be an important factor when you are buying one. Not only does it determine how they are easy 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 focused on speed or ease of use. 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 if you plan on using public transport or travelling with your child.
A majority of these pushchairs also have seats that face both towards the parent (for bonding and assurance) and away from the parent (to enable them to discover the world around them). These pushchairs are suitable for children as young as 6 months. Some of them also feature an acceptable recline (although not flat, like the infant car seat) and are compatible with a variety of accessories like buggie bags seats, seat liners, and fitted moses basket/pram newborn sheets.
In addition to 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 if it has quick-release wheels. Quick-release wheels are important as it means you can easily wash away any dried or wet mud.
Some pushchairs come with the scissor fold. This is when the whole buggy collapses in half like scissors and then swells into a long rectangular shape. This kind of pushchair is generally the simplest to unfold since it is just a matter of lifting the handles up and then close the seat back. It isn't easy to store and might not fit into smaller car boot sizes.
There are also pushchairs, such as concertina, that fold in three or more sections. These pushchairs are compact when they are folded, but they can be difficult to handle and require two arms. They can also be tricky to store because they have a long rectangular shape when in a closed position. However, they are light and compact enough to be used as cabin baggage on flights. They are an excellent option for families traveling together.
Lightweight
Finding the right pushchair for you could be a challenge. The terminology can be confusing, and folding mechanisms are particularly hard to understand. The fold you choose will affect how easily the pushchair is able to be moved and stored.
Choosing a lightweight pushchair can make a huge difference for those who have limited storage space at home. There are many different types of pushchairs, ranging 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 from birth with a newborn carrycot, although it is important to verify the specifications for lying flat of any model that is intended for use with a baby.
A pushchair that folds in the same way as an umbrella is a useful and simple option. It occupies a small space. The name of these pushchairs comes from the fact that they fold in a similar way as an umbrella. This makes them fit perfectly into most storage and boot spaces. They're typically extremely light, and the majority of models will also come with an umbrella cover to shield your child from the elements.
A concertina-style pushchair is a different option that folds in three or more parts, with the frame and seat covering each other and then collapsing in on itself. They are the most compact and easy to store. They require two hands to open and close.
Many pushchairs include a footmuff and a reversible seat liner (and washable), the carry strap, as well as a secure pouch that can be attached to the hood. These features will ensure that your child stays warm, dry, and comfortable during colder months. Some brands will include these items as part of a set, while others sell them separately.
Check if the fabrics of the pushchair can be machine washed. This will make cleaning simpler and quicker. It is also essential to ensure that the brakes are working properly and to remove any mud from the wheels using the help of a pressure washer or hosepipe.
Easy to transport
If you plan to take your pushchair with you on holiday or take it on a regular basis on public transport you might prefer one that folds easily into an incredibly compact size. This type of pushchair is also likely to be light to carry and easy to store in a trunk or in a car that is small.
There are a variety of models of folding pushchairs and the way that they fold may differ. Some are specifically designed for speed and ease of use and others are smaller and fold with two hands or one hand. The Cybex Libelle is a great example of this, as it does not only folds down but also folds inwards. This makes the buggy a neat, square package that fits into many hand luggage compartments.
The choice of pushchair brakes is another factor to consider There are brakes that are operated by foot, handle brakes or a combination of both. Foot brakes are the most commonly used and operate by pressing one foot pedal that locks both rear wheels. This is a great choice for parents who have to stop or slow down frequently. Handle brakes are found on three-wheeled pushchairs and jogger style strollers, they are more sensitive than foot brakes and can be used to change the speed of a run for example. Combination brakes are typically used on city pushchairs. They incorporate a foot pedal with an adjustable hand lever that can activate the other brake to give you maximum control.
You may want to select a pushchair that has a lie-flat feature, or one that is compatible with a travel strollers system, so you can attach the carrycot. Some of these pushchairs are able to be folded very quickly with the carrycot tucked away on the frame. Alternatively, the lightweight carrycot that is simply pulled flat onto the frame can be used.
It's a good idea to check the airline's site to make sure that the dimensions and weight of the pushchair are within the allowance for carry-on baggage. Check that the pushchair can fit through an airport standard doorway, and is able to be lifted up and over steps. It is recommended to bring a raincover when you plan to use your cheap stroller during a holiday to protect it from rain and puddles.
Easy to store
The foldable pushchair is a fantastic choice for parents who are constantly moving around. They're designed to be easy to fold and will take up a small space in your car boot. These are also great for public transport and vacations. Some models are even suitable to be used with car seats.
Some models fold so small they're nearly flat. They're great when you don't have lots of 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, also known as concertina, 3D or fold-in-half styles. These are less cumbersome to carry, but they require two hands to fold and unfold. They are also quite long when folded, so aren't ideal for cars with smaller trunks.
Other models have scissor-style folding, where the seat back folds toward the front of the buggy, and the whole frame collapses into a flat square-ish shape. They are easy and quick to fold and are suitable for use in public transport. However the long rectangular shape they create may not fit in small car boot sizes.
Many pushchairs come with a sun canopy. They are typically made of SPF fabric which helps protect the baby from sun. Some brands include this in the price, whereas others offer it as an extra. The best options include a removable hood, so you can wash them as required. Also look for a footmuff that will keep your baby warm in colder temperatures.
Be sure to read the instructions of the manufacturer prior to washing your pushchair. Certain fabrics can't be machine washed. If you've got dirt on your wheels, use a pressure washer or hose to clean it off. If this isn't successful, you can use an unscented sterilising solution and dry the fabric outdoors. If your pushchair is in a wet, damp or mouldy state for too long, it may cause damage to the fabric, and even result in mildew and rot. If this happens, first brush off any mildew or mold with a soft bristled brush. Then wash and rinse the area as directed.