Buying a Foldable Pushchair

A foldable stroller (from this source) is perfect for short trips or on holidays. They are light and suitable for babies as young as four years. They also have wheels that are large enough and a basket that is suitable for children.

Their name is derived from the way they collapse. It's similar to an umbrella. Some have one-handed folding that's easy while others require more involvement or two hands.

Folding is simple

The way in which pushchairs fold is the most important aspect when buying one. It will determine 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 use. If you're looking to purchase a pushchair that is easy to fold choose one with a concertina or scissor type of fold. These are known for being easily foldable and are perfect for those who plan to use public transportation or travelling with your child.

Many of these types of pushchairs also come with a seat that faces towards the parent facing pushchair (for bonding and assurance) and away from the parent (to allow them to explore the world around them). These pushchairs can be used by babies from 6 months old. Some also come with an adequate recline (although not as flat as the infant car seat) and are compatible with a range of accessories like buggie bags, seat liners and fitted moses basket/pram double sheets.

It is important to take into consideration other aspects when selecting a buggy, such as the fabric and whether it is machine washable. Quick-release wheels are crucial because they let you easily remove any mud or sand.

Some pushchairs fold in a scissor-like manner in which the buggy is folded like an apex of scissors and folded into a rectangle shape. This kind of pushchair is typically the simplest to unfold since you only need to lift the handles and then fold the seat back. However, it can be difficult to store in tight spaces and isn't suitable for public transport as it may not fit in smaller car booties.

Apart from a scissor fold are pushchairs that fold into three or more sections, for example concertina. These pushchairs are compact when they are folded, but can be difficult to handle and require two arms. They can also be tricky to store because they are rectangular in shape when closed position. They are, however, light and usually small enough to be used as cabin baggage on flights. They are therefore a great choice for families who travel.

Lightweight

The choice of pushchairs is vast and deciding on the right one for you can be tricky. The jargon and folding mechanisms can be confusing. The type of folding you choose will determine the ease with which you can transport and store the pushchair.

Choosing a light pushchair can make all the difference for those with a small storage space at home. There are a myriad of different kinds that range from compact umbrella folds down to multi-purpose travel systems that include car seat adapters and carrycots. Some of them can be used from birth with a newborn carrycot, although it is crucial to confirm the specifications for lie flat of any model that is intended for use with a newborn.

A pushchair that folds as an umbrella is a practical and simple option. It takes up little space. They are named for the fact they fold similarly to an umbrella. This makes them be easily inserted into storage and boot spaces. They are often incredibly light, and the majority of models will also come with a rain cover to protect your child from the elements.

Concertina-style pushchairs are another option. They fold in three or more pieces with the frame and the seat overlapping before collapsing onto them. These are usually the most compact and easy to store, however they require two hands to open and close.

Many pushchairs will come with an adjustable footmuff, a reversible (and washable) seat liner with a carry strap, and a secure pouch attached to the hood that will help keep your children warm, dry and comfortable during colder weather. Certain brands will include these as part of a bundle while others sell them separately.

Always verify if the pushchair fabrics are machine washable. This will allow for faster and more efficient cleaning. It is also essential to check that the brakes function properly and to clean any mud off the wheels with an hosepipe or pressure washer.

Easy to transport

You might choose a pushchair that is folded down into a compact form in case you intend to use it on public transport or take it on holiday. This type of pushchair is also lightweight to carry and allows you to put in the boot of your car or in a small vehicle.

A wide range of folding pushchairs are available to select from and the way they fold varies from one brand to the next. Some are focused on speed and ease of use, while others offer a more compact or a one-handed fold. The Cybex Libelle is a good example, as it is not just able to fold down, but also folds inwards. This makes the buggy an attractive square package that fits into many hand luggage spaces.

The choice of pushchair brakes is another thing to think about There are foot pedal brakes, hand brakes or a combination of both. The most commonly used brakes are foot brakes which operate by pressing one pedal to lock both rear wheels. This is an excellent option for parents who have to stop or slow down frequently. Handle brakes can be found on three-wheeled pushchairs and jogger style strollers, they are more sensitive than foot brakes and can be used to change momentum during a run for example. City pushchairs typically feature combination brakes, which combine a foot brake with an adjustable lever that activates the brake opposite to give you maximum control.

You may want to choose a pushchair that has a lie-flat feature, or one that is compatible with a travel system so you can attach the carrycot. Some pushchairs fold very quickly, leaving the carrycot on the frame. You can also choose an ultra-lightweight carrycot that is placed flat on the chassis.

If you're thinking of flying with your child in a pushchair, it's worth visiting the airline's website to ensure the dimensions and weight are within the allowance for carry-on baggage. It's also important to check whether the pushchair can fit through a standard entrance and that it can be lifted up and down the stairs at an airport. If you plan to use your pushchair during a holiday, it's a good idea to take an umbrella with you to protect it from rain and puddles.

Easy to store

Foldable pushchairs are an excellent option for parents who travel a lot. They are easy to fold and take up very little space in the boot of your car. They're also an excellent option for taking on public transport and holidays. Some models are also suitable to be used with car seats.

Some models fold down so small they're nearly flat. They are great if there is the space to fit them in your home or car boot. However they're heavier than buggies that are larger.

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 are also quite long when folded, so aren't suitable for cars with smaller dimensions.

Others fold in a scissor-like fashion, where the seatback folds towards the front of the buggy and the entire frame collapses to an elongated, square-ish shape. They are easy and quick to fold and can be used in public transport. However, the long rectangular shape they produce may not fit into small car boot sizes.

A lot of pushchairs come with a sun canopy, typically made from SPF fabric to shield your child from sun. Some brands include this in the price, while others offer it as an extra. The best travel pushchair choices have a removable hood to allow you to wash it in the event that you need to. Also consider a footmuff that can keep your baby warm during colder temperatures.

Check the instructions of the manufacturer prior to washing your pushchair. Some fabrics cannot be machine washed. If you notice mud on the wheels, you can try using pressure washer or a hose to rinse off the dirt. If this isn't successful then you can try an sterilising fluid that is mild and dry the fabric outside. If you leave your pushchair in a damp or wet condition for too long, the fabric could be damaged and mildewed. If this happens, you should first scrub off any mildew or mold using a soft bristled brush. Then wash and rinse according to the instructions.