Buying a Foldable Pushchair
A stroller that folds is ideal for quick trips or holidays. They are typically lightweight and are suitable for children from four years old and up. They have good-sized wheels and a great basket.
They are named after the way they collapse, which is a lot like an umbrella. Some are easy to fold with one hand, while others need two hands or more effort.
Easy to fold
The way in which pushchairs fold is a crucial factor in buying one. It’s not just about how easy they are to carry as well as how much space they take up when folded. Some brands are focused on compactness, while others are more concerned with speed or ease of use. If you’re looking to purchase a pushchair that is easy to fold choose one with the scissor or concertina style of fold. These are renowned for being easily foldable, and are ideal if you are planning on using public transportation or traveling with your child.
A majority of these pushchairs also have an incline that is both towards the parent (for bonding and reassurance) and away from the parent (to enable them to discover the world around them). These pushchairs are suitable for babies as young as 6 months. Some have a decent reclining position (though not as flat as infant car seats) and are compatible accessories such as buggie bag seats, seat liners, and fitted moses basket/pram stores near me sheet.
Apart from the ease of folding there are other aspects to consider when choosing a buggy such as whether the fabric is machine washable, and whether it has wheels that release quickly. Quick-release wheels are essential because they allow you to easily clean any dirt or sand.
Some pushchairs come with scissor folds, which is when the whole buggy folds in half, like a pair of scissors and then flattens into a long rectangular shape. This kind of pushchair may be the easiest to unfold since you have to lift the handle, then close the seat. However, it is difficult to store in small spaces and is not suitable for public transport since it might not fit in smaller car booties.
There are also pushchairs, such as concertina, that fold in three or more sections. These pushchairs are the smallest when folded but they can be a challenge to carry and require two hands. When folded they can be a challenge to store due to their long rectangular shape. But, they’re light and small enough to be used as cabin baggage on flights. They are a great option for families who travel.
Lightweight
Finding the perfect pushchair for you could be difficult. The jargon can be confusing, and folding mechanisms especially can be difficult to comprehend. The type of fold you choose will have an impact on how easy it is able to be moved and stored.
Choosing a lightweight pushchair can make all the difference for those with limited storage space at home. There are a myriad of different types, ranging from compact umbrella folds down to multi-functional travel systems with carrycots and car seat adapters. Some of them can be used as early as the time of birth with a newborn carrier, however, it is essential to verify the specifications of models designed for use with infants.
A pushchair that folds as an umbrella is a practical and easy option. It occupies a small space. These types of pushchairs get their name due to the fact they fold down similarly to an umbrella, allowing them to be tucked into the majority of storage or vehicle boot space. They are typically lightweight and include a rain cover to protect your child.
Concertina-style pushchairs are another option. They fold in three or more sections with the frame and seat overlapping and then collapsing into themselves. They are the most compact, easy to store and require two hands to open and close.
Many pushchairs come with an adjustable footmuff, an reversible seat liner (and washable) as well as an adjustable carry strap, and a secure pouch that can be attached to the hood. These features can ensure that your child stays dry, warm and comfortable in colder months. Some brands include these items in a bundle, while others offer them as individual items.
Always look to see whether the fabric used for the pushchair is machine washable, as this will allow for quicker and easier cleaning. It is also important to check that the brakes function properly and clean any mud off the wheels with an hosepipe or pressure washer.
Easy to transport
If you plan to take your pushchair cheap with you on holiday or use it frequently on public transport, you may prefer one that folds easily into smaller dimensions. This kind of pushchair is also likely to be light to lift and easy to store in a trunk or in a small car.
There are many different models of folding pushchairs and the way they fold may differ. Some are specifically designed for speed and ease of use while others are more compact and fold with two hands or even just one hand. The Cybex Libelle is a standout example because it doesn’t just fold down, but it folds into the whole buggy becomes an attractive square-shaped package that is smaller than a lot of hand luggage allowances, making it ideal for traveling.
The choice of brakes for pushchairs is a different factor to consider There are foot pedal brakes, hand brakes, or a combination of both. Foot brakes are the most popular and work by pushing on one foot pedal that locks both rear wheels. This is great for parents who are always on the go but who have to slow down or stop often. Handle brakes can be found on three-wheeled pushchairs as well as jogger style strollers, they are more sensitive than foot brakes and can be used to alter the speed of a run, for example. City pushchairs often feature combination brakes, which combine a foot brake with a lever that activates the brake opposite for maximum control.
Based on the age of your baby and size, you may want to choose a stroller that offers a lie-flat seat or is compatible with travel systems to allow you to attach a carrycot. Some pushchairs fold quickly and leave the carrycot on the frame. You can also use a lightweight carrycot that is folded flat on the chassis.
If you are thinking of flying with your baby in a pushchair it’s worth checking the airline’s website to make sure the dimensions and weight are within their carry-on baggage allowance. Verify that the stroller can fit through an airport standard doorway, and that it is able to be lifted up and over the stairs. If you are planning to take your pushchair on holiday it’s a good idea to take an umbrella with you to shield it from rain and puddles.
Easy to store
The foldable pushchair is a great choice for parents who are often in motion. They fold easily, and they require very little space in the trunk of your car. They are also ideal for public transport and holidays. Some models are even suitable for use with car seats.
Some models fold so compactly 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 heavier to carry than a larger buggies.
Additionally, there are pushchairs that fold into three or more sections, referred to as concertina, 3D or fold-in-half styles. They are more comfortable to use however, they require both hands to unfold and fold. They are also quite long when folded, so aren’t suitable for cars with smaller dimensions.
Others fold in a scissor fashion, where the seatback folds towards the front of the buggy and the entire frame is collapsed into an elongated, square-ish shape. They’re simple and quick to fold and can be used on public transport, however the resultant long rectangular shape might not fit into smaller car boots.
Many pushchairs come with a sun canopy, typically made of SPF fabric to shield your baby from sun. Some brands include this feature in the price, while other brands offer it as an accessory. The best choices have an hood that is removable so that you can wash it as needed. Consider a footmuff too, as they are great for colder days and keep babies toasty.
Be sure to read the instructions of the manufacturer before washing your pushchair. Certain fabrics are not machine washed. If you notice mud on the wheels, you can try using pressure washer or a hose to clean the dirt. If this fails then you can use an sterilising fluid that is mild and dry the fabric outside. If your pushchair is 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, first clean off any mildew or mold using a soft bristled brush. Then wash and rinse the area as directed.
