Buying a Foldable Pushchair
A foldable stroller is perfect for short trips or on holidays. They are usually lightweight and are suitable for children up to four years old. They also have wheels that are large enough and a sturdy basket.
Their name comes from the way that they fold. It's akin to an umbrella. Some models fold with one hand, which is easy while others require more involvement or two hands.
Folding is simple
The way that pushchairs fold is a crucial aspect when you are buying one. It determines how easy to carry and how much space it takes up when folded. Some brands focus on compactness, whereas others are more concerned with speed or ease of use. If you're looking for a pushchair that folds easily, then you should look for one that has a concertina or scissor type of fold. These are renowned for their ability to fold flat and are perfect for those who plan to use public transport or traveling with your child.
These types of pushchairs often include a seat with a view of both the parent and child (for bonding, reassurance, and to allow them to explore the world around them). These pushchairs are suitable for children as young as 6 months. Some also have a decent recline (although not as flat as the infant car seat) and are compatible with a range of accessories such as buggie bags as well as seat liners and moses baskets/double pram and pushchair sheets that are fitted.
It is also important to consider other factors when choosing a buggy, such as the fabric and if it is machine-washable. Quick-release wheels are important because it means that you can easily wash off any dried or wet mud.
Some pushchairs fold in a scissor-like fashion, where the buggy folds like a pair scissors and then flattened into a long rectangular shape. This kind of pram pushchair is generally the simplest to unfold since you only need to lift the handles and then close the seat back. However, it can be difficult to store in tight spaces and is not suitable for Strollers strollers public transport since it might not fit into smaller car boot spaces.
Aside from the scissor fold, there are pushchairs that fold into three or more sections, like a concertina. These pushchairs are compact when they are folded, however they can be difficult to handle and require two arms. They can also be tricky to store as they have a long, rectangular shape when they are in a closed position. However, they are lightweight and small enough to use as cabin baggage for flights. They are a great option for families that prams travel system.
Lightweight
Choosing the right pushchair for you could be a challenge. The terminology and folding mechanisms can be confusing. The type of folding you choose can affect how easy it is to transport and store your pushchair.
Choosing a light pushchair can make all the difference for those with limited storage space at home. There are many different 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 right from birth using a newborn carrycot, although it is essential to check the specifications for lie flat of any model that is designed for use with a newborn.
An umbrella-folding pushchair can be a simple and convenient option that takes up very small space. These kinds of pushchairs get their name because of the fact they fold down similarly to an umbrella, which enables them to fit into most forms of storage or vehicle boot space. They are often incredibly light, and the majority of models include an umbrella cover to shield your child from the elements.
Concertina-style pushchairs are another option. They fold in three or more sections with the frame and the seat overlapping and then collapsing on the frame. They are the most compact, easy to store and require two hands to open and shut.
Many pushchairs will come with the footmuff, a removable (and washable) seat liner, a carry strap and a safe pouch on the hood to help keep your children dry, warm and comfortable in colder weather. Some brands include these items in the form of a bundle, while others sell them separately.
Always verify whether the fabric used for the pushchair is machine washable, as this allows for faster and more efficient cleaning. In addition to this it is essential to check frequently if the brakes are working correctly and if there is any dirt on the wheels, remove it with an hosepipe or pressure washer.
Easy to transport
It is possible to choose a pushchair that can be folded to a compact size when you plan to use it on public transport or take it on holiday. This kind of pushchair can be light to carry and easy to store in a trunk or small car.
A variety of folding pushchairs is available to pick from, and the way they fold differs from one brand to the next. Some are designed for speed and convenience, while others are compacter and can be folded with two hands or even one hand. The Cybex Libelle is a great example, since it doesn't just fold down, but also folds inwards. This makes the buggy a neat square package that fits into many hand luggage compartments.
There are two kinds of brakes for pushchairs: foot pedal brakes and handle brakes. The most popular brakes are foot brakes that work by pressing one pedal to stop both rear wheels. This is ideal for parents who are constantly moving around but require to slow down or stop often. Hand brakes are available on jogger-style strollers as well as three-wheeled joggers. They are more sensitive than foot brakes, and they can be used to alter the speed of an exercise. City pushchairs typically feature combination brakes, which combine a foot brake with an adjustable lever that activates the opposite brake for maximum control.
You may want to select a pushchair that has a lie-flat feature or one that is compatible with a travel system, so you can connect the carrycot. Some pushchairs fold very quickly leaving the carrycot on the frame. You can also opt for a light carrycot that can be placed flat on the chassis.
If you are thinking of flying with your baby in a pushchair, it's worth visiting the airline's website to make sure the dimensions and weight are within their carry-on baggage allowance. It's also important to confirm whether the pushchair will fit through a standard doorway, and that it is able to be pushed up and down the stairs of an airport. If you plan to use your pushchair on holiday, it's a good idea to take a rain cover with you to shield it from rain and puddles.
Easy to store
The foldable pushchair is a great option for parents who are frequently in motion. They are designed to be simple to fold and fit into a tiny space in your car boot. They are also great for public transport and vacations. Some models are even suitable for use with car seats.
Some models are so small that they fold flat. They're ideal 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.
Some pushchairs fold in three or four sections. These are known as concertina, fold in half, or 3D designs. They are easier to handle, but they require both hands to fold and unfold. They are also quite long when folded, so aren't ideal for cars with smaller trunks.
Other models fold in a scissor-like fashion, where the seatback folds towards the front of the buggy and the whole frame collapses to an unflattering, square-ish form. These are quick and easy to fold and are suitable for use in public transportation. However the long rectangular shape they create might not fit into the small car boot sizes.
Many pushchairs come with a sun canopy. These are usually constructed of SPF fabric, which protects your baby from sun. Some brands include it in their price while others sell it separately. The most effective options come with a hood that can be removed so that you can wash it if necessary. Also look for a footmuff that will keep your baby warm in colder temperatures.
Check the instructions of the manufacturer prior to washing your pushchair. Certain fabrics can't be machine washed. If you've found dirt on your wheels, use a pressure washer or hose to wash it off. If this fails then you can try an sterilising fluid that is mild and dry the fabric outdoors. If your pushchair is left in a damp, wet or mouldy state for too long, it can cause damage to the fabric and result in mildew and rot. If this happens, first brush off any mildew or mold using a soft bristled brush. Then wash and rinse according to the instructions.