Buying a Foldable Pushchair
A foldable stroller is perfect for short trips or on holidays. They are typically light and suitable for children from four years old and up. They come with large wheels, and a nice basket.
They get their name from the way they collapse in a manner that's a lot like an umbrella. Some fold easily with one hand, while others need two hands or more effort.
Folding is simple
The way in which pushchairs fold could be the most important aspect when buying one. It determines how easy to carry and how much space it occupies when folded. Some brands are focused on compactness, while others are more focused on speed or ease of usage. If you're looking for a pushchair that folds easily, then look for one with a scissor or concertina type of fold. These are renowned for their ability to fold flat, pram and car seat are great if you plan on using public transport or travelling with your child.
A majority of these pushchairs pushchairs also come with an incline that is both towards the parent (for bonding and reassurance) and away from the parent (to allow them to explore the world around them). They are typically suitable for babies from 6 months. Some also come with a decent recline (although not flat, like the infant car seat) and are compatible with a variety of accessories such as buggie bags seats, seat liners, and fitted moses basket/pram sheets.
Aside from the ease of folding there are other aspects to consider 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. The wheels that are quick-release are particularly important as it means you can easily wash off any dried or wet mud.
Some pushchairs fold in a scissor-like fashion, where the buggy is folded as a pair of scissors, and then flattened into a long rectangular shape. This type of pushchair can be the most simple to unfold because you just need to lift the handle, then close the seat. It can be difficult to store and may not fit into smaller car boot sizes.
Aside from a scissor fold, there are pushchairs that fold into three or more sections, for example concertina. These pushchairs are compact when folded, but can be difficult to handle and require two arms. When folded they can be difficult to store due to their long rectangular shape. But, they're light and compact enough to be used as cabin baggage on flights. They are a great choice for families who travel.
Lightweight
Choosing the right pushchair stroller for your needs can be difficult. The jargon and folding mechanisms can be confusing. The type of fold you choose can affect how easy the pushchair is able to be moved and stored.
A lightweight pushchair is an excellent choice for those who have little storage space. There are a variety of pushchairs available, from compact umbrella-folds to multifunctional systems that include carrycots and adapters to car seats. Some of these can be used as early as the time of birth with a baby carrier but it is crucial to check the specifications for models designed to be used by newborns.
An umbrella-folding pushchair can be an easy and practical option that takes up very small space. The name of these pushchairs comes from the fact they fold in a similar manner to an umbrella. This makes them be easily inserted into storage and boot spaces. These pushchairs are generally light and most models include a rain cover to protect your child.
A concertina-styled pushchair is an alternative option that folds into three or more parts, with the frame and seat overlapping each other, before collapsing on itself. They are the smallest and convenient to store. They require two hands to open and close.
Many pushchairs come with the footmuff as well as an reversible seat liner (and washable) and a carry strap, and an enclosed pouch that is attached to the hood. These features can ensure your child is dry, warm and comfortable in colder months. Certain brands will include these as part of a set, while others sell them separately.
Check if the fabrics of the pushchair can be washed using a machine. This makes cleaning much easier and quicker. It is also important to make sure that the brakes function properly and to remove any mud from the wheels using an hosepipe or pressure washer.
Easy to transport
It is possible to choose a pushchair that is folded down to a compact size if you plan to use it on public transport or even take it on a trip. This type of pushchair is also light to lift and easy for to put in the boot of your car or small vehicle.
A variety of folding pushchairs is available to choose from and the way they fold differs from one brand to the next. Some are designed for speed and convenience while others are more compact and fold with two hands or one hand. The Cybex Libelle is an eye-catching model because it doesn't only fold down, but in too, so the whole buggy is an attractive square-shaped package that is smaller than many hand luggage options, making it ideal for travel.
There are two types of brakes for pushchairs that are foot pedal brakes and handle brakes. The most common brakes are the foot brakes, which operate by pressing a single pedal to secure both rear wheels. This is a great choice for parents who have to stop or slow down frequently. Handle brakes can be found on jogger-style strollers and three-wheeled joggers. They are more sensitive than foot brakes, and they can be used to change the momentum during the course of a run. Combination brakes are typically found on city pushchairs and incorporate a foot pedal with an hand lever that triggers 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 system, so you can put the carrycot on it. Some of these pushchairs are able to be folded very quickly with the carrycot still on the frame, or a lightweight carrycot which is simply rolled flat on the frame can be utilized.
If you are thinking of flying with your child in a pushchair, it's worth visiting the website of the airline to ensure that the dimensions and weight are within the allowance for carry-on baggage. Check that the pushchair can fit through an airport standard doorway, pushchairs and is able to be lifted and lowered over steps. You should bring a raincover with you if you intend to use your stroller on vacation to shield it from rain and puddles.
Easy to store
Foldable pushchairs are an excellent option for parents who travel a lot. They're easy to fold, and 3 in One pushchair they take up a small amount of space in the trunk of your car. They are also ideal for holidays and public transport. Certain models can be used with a car-seat.
Some models are so compact that they fold almost flat. They're ideal for those who have limited space in your home or car boot. However they're heavier than larger buggies.
Some pushchairs fold in three or four sections. These are known as concertina, fold-in-half or 3D designs. They are easier to handle however they require two hands to fold and unfold. They can be quite large when they are folded, so they're not suitable for vehicles with smaller dimensions.
Other models fold in a scissor fashion with the seatback folding towards the front of the buggy, and the frame collapses into an elongated, square-ish shape. These are quick and easy to fold and can be used in public transportation. However, the long rectangular shape they produce may not fit in small car boot sizes.
Many pushchairs have a sun canopy. These are usually constructed of SPF fabric, which protects your baby from the sun. Some brands include it in the price while others sell it separately. The best options have a removable hood to allow you to wash it if necessary. Also, look for an infant foot warmer that will keep your baby warm during colder weather.
Most pushchairs can be wiped down with a damp cloth but certain fabrics aren't machine washable, 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 isn't working, try a mild sterilising liquid and dry the fabric on the outside. If your pushchair is left in a damp, wet or mouldy state for too long, it could damage the fabric and result in mildew and rot. If this happens, first clean off any mildew or mould with a soft bristled brush. Then wash and rinse the area as directed.