Buying a Foldable Pushchair

A foldable pushchair is an ideal solution for quick trips out and about. They are lightweight and suitable for infants as young as four years. They also have decent-sized wheels and a good basket.

They get their name from the way they fold, which is a lot like an umbrella. Some fold easily using one hand, while others require two hands or more effort.

Folding is easy

The way that pushchairs fold could be a crucial factor in buying one. It determines how easy it is to carry and how much space it occupies when folded. Most manufacturers have their folding mechanisms designed with different lifestyles in mind with some focusing on compactness while others focus on speed or user-friendliness. Look for a pushchair with a concertina or scissor fold if you want a pushchair that is easy to fold. These are known for being capable of folding flat, and are ideal when you plan to use public transportation or travelling with your child.

A lot of these kinds of pushchairs also have an incline that is towards the parent (for bonding and reassurance) and away from the parent (to allow them to explore the world around them). These pushchairs are suitable for babies from 6 months old. Some have an adequate recline (though not flat like an infant car seats) and are compatible accessories such as buggie bag or seat liners. They also come with a fitted moses baskets/pram double sheets.

It is important to take into consideration other factors when choosing the right buggy, including the fabric and whether it is machine-washable. Having quick-release wheels is particularly important as it means you can easily wash off any wet or dried mud.

Some pushchairs feature a scissor fold, which is the place where the entire buggy is folded in half like a pair of scissors, and then flattens into a long rectangular shape. This type of pushchair is generally the easiest to unfold as you only need to lift the handles up and then close the seat back. However, it can be difficult to store in small spaces and isn't suitable for public transport as it may not fit in smaller car booties.

Aside from a scissor fold, there are also pushchairs that fold in three or more sections, for example concertina. These pushchairs tend to be the most compact when folded, but they can be difficult to carry and require two hands. When folded, they can be difficult to store due to their large rectangular shape. However, they are lightweight and small enough to be used as cabin baggage on flights. They are an excellent option for families that travel.

Lightweight

The selection of pushchairs available is huge and finding the one that is right for you can be tricky. The terminology can be confusing, and folding mechanisms can be difficult to comprehend. The fold you choose will affect how easily the pushchair can be transported and stored.

A lightweight pushchair is a great option for those who have little storage space. There are many different types, ranging from compact umbrella folds to multi-functional travel systems with carrycots and car seat adapters. Some of them can be used right from birth using baby carrycots, however it is crucial to confirm the lie flat specifications of any model that is intended to be used with a newborn.

An umbrella-folding pushchair newborn (sites) is a simple and convenient option that takes up very little space. The name of these pushchairs comes from the fact that they fold similarly to an umbrella. This makes them fit easily into most storage spaces and boot spaces. They are often incredibly lightweight, and the majority of models will also include rain covers to shield your child from the elements.

Concertina-style pushchairs are another option. They fold into three or more sections, with the frame and the seat overlapping and then collapsing on themselves. These are usually the smallest and most convenient to store, but they do require both hands to open and close.

A majority of pushchairs come with the footmuff, a removable (and washable) seat liner, a carry strap and a secure pouch on the hood that will help keep your children dry, warm and comfortable during colder weather. Some brands include these items as part of a bundle, whereas others will sell them separately.

Always look to see whether the fabric used for the pushchair is machine washable, as this will allow for faster and more efficient cleaning. It is also essential to make sure that the brakes work correctly and to clean any mud off the wheels with the help of a pressure washer or hosepipe.

Easy to transport

You might choose an infant stroller that can be folded down to a compact size in case you intend to take it on public transport or to take it on vacation. This type of pushchair is also light to carry and allows to store in your car boot or in a small vehicle.

A wide selection of folding pushchairs are available to choose from and the way they fold differs from brand to brand. Some are focused on speed and ease of use, while others offer a more compact one-handed, two-handed, or even 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 a neat square package that fits into many hand luggage spaces.

There are two types of brakes for pushchairs that are foot pedal brakes and handle brakes. The most common brakes are foot brakes that work by pressing one pedal to lock both rear wheels. This is great for parents who are constantly on the go but who require to slow down or stop frequently. Handle brakes are commonly 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 instance. City pushchairs usually have combination brakes, which combine a foot brake and an adjustable lever that activates the brake opposite for maximum control.

Based on the age of your baby depending on the baby's age, you might want to choose a stroller that offers a lie-flat seat or is compatible with a travel system which means you can connect a carrycot. Some of these pushchairs are able to be folded quickly using the carrycot left on the frame, or an easy-to-transport carrycot that is simply pulled flat onto the frame can be utilized.

If you're considering flying with your baby 3 in one pushchair a pushchair, it's worth checking the airline's website to ensure that the dimensions and weight are within the carry-on baggage allowance. It's also important to confirm whether the pushchair will fit through a standard doorway and that it can be pushed up and down the stairs at an airport. If you plan to use your pushchair on vacation, it's best to bring an umbrella with you to protect it from rain and puddles.

Easy to store

The foldable pushchair is an excellent choice for parents who are frequently on the move. They are easy to fold and require very little space in the trunk of your car seat pram. They are also ideal for holidays and public transport. Some models are also suitable to be used with a car seat.

Some models are so compact that they fold up almost flat. These are ideal if there is limited space in your home or car boot. However, they can be heavier than larger buggies.

Some pushchairs fold in three or four sections. They are referred to as concertina, fold-in-half, or 3D designs. They are easier to handle, but they require both hands to fold and unfold. They can be quite long when they are folded, making them ideal for smaller vehicles.

Others fold in a scissor style in which the seatback folds toward the front of buggy and the whole frame collapses to 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 into the small car boot dimensions.

A lot of pushchairs come with a sun canopy usually made from SPF fabric, which helps protect your baby from sun. Some brands include it in the price while others sell it separately. The best choices have a hood that can be removed so that you can wash it as needed. Also consider an infant foot warmer that will keep your baby warm in colder temperatures.

Make sure you read the directions of the manufacturer before washing your pushchair. Some fabrics cannot be machine washed. If you've found mud on your wheels make use of a pressure washer, or hose to clean it off. If this doesn't work, you can try a mild sterilising fluid and dry the fabric on the outside. If your pushchair remains in a damp, wet or mouldy condition for too long, it can cause damage to the fabric, and even lead to rot and mildew. If this happens, you should first scrub off any mildew or mould with a soft bristled brush. Then wash and rinse as directed.