Buying a Foldable Pushchair
A
foldable stroller is perfect for quick trips or holidays. They are usually light and suitable for children from four years old and up. They also have good-sized wheels and a sturdy basket.
They get their name from the way they fold, which is a lot like an umbrella. Some models fold with one hand, which is effortless and others require a bit of involvement or two hands.
Folding is easy
The way in which pushchairs fold could be a crucial factor in buying one. It's not just about how they are easy to carry and fold, but also the amount of space they take up when folded. Many brands have their folding mechanisms designed with different lifestyles in mind, with some focusing on compactness whilst others focus on speed or user-friendliness. If you're looking for a stroller that folds easily, choose one with the scissor or concertina style of fold. These are renowned for being easily foldable and are perfect when you plan to use public transportation or traveling with your child.
These types of pushchairs typically feature a seat that faces both parents and the child (for bonding, comfort and to let them explore the world around them). These pushchairs can be used by babies from 6 months old. Some also have a decent recline (although not flat, like the infant car seat) and are compatible with a variety of accessories, including buggie bags seats, seat liners, and fitted moses basket/
pram for newborn sheets.
In addition to the ease of folding there are other aspects to consider when selecting a buggy, such as whether the fabric is machine washable, and whether it has wheels that release quickly. Quick-release wheels are essential as they permit you to easily remove any mud or sand.
Some pushchairs fold in a scissor-like manner in which the buggy is folded as a pair scissors and then folded into a rectangle shape. This type of pushchair is typically the easiest to unfold as it is just a matter of lifting 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 since it might not fit in smaller car boots.
There are also pushchairs, like concertina, which fold into three or more sections. These pushchairs are the smallest when folded, however they aren't easy to carry and require two hands. When folded they can be difficult to store due to their large rectangular shape. They are however, light and often small enough to be used as cabin baggage on flights. They make a great option for families who travel.
Lightweight
The choice of pushchairs is vast and deciding on the one that is right for you can be a challenge. The jargon can be confusing and the folding mechanisms especially can be hard to understand. The type of fold you choose can have an impact on how easily the pushchair can be transported and stored.
A compact pushchair is a great option for those who have little storage space. There are a myriad of types of pushchairs available, from compact umbrella-folds to multifunctional travel systems that include carrycots as well as adapters to car seats. Some of these can even be used right from birth using the newborn carrycot, but it is important to verify the specifications for lying flat of any model that is designed for use with a newborn.
An umbrella-
folding stroller pushchair is a simple and convenient option that occupies little room. These types of pushchairs derive their name from the fact that they fold down similar to an umbrella, allowing them to fit into a variety of storage and boot space. They are typically light and many models come with a raincover to safeguard your child.
A concertina-styled pushchair is an alternative option that folds into three or more sections, with the frame and seat covering each other and then collapsing into itself. They are the most compact and convenient to store. They require two hands to open and close.
Many pushchairs will have an adjustable footmuff, a reversible (and washable) seat liner with a carry strap, and a secure pouch attached to the hood to help keep your children dry, warm and comfortable during colder weather. Some brands will include these items as part of a bundle, whereas others sell them as separate items.
Always look to see 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 regularly if that the brakes are functioning properly and if there's any dirt on the wheels, remove it with the help of a pressure washer or hosepipe.
Easy to transport
If you plan to take your pushchair along with you on holiday or use it regularly for public transport, you might prefer one that folds down easily into an incredibly compact size. This kind of pushchair is also lightweight to lift and easy for to store in your car boot or a smaller vehicle.
A wide selection of folding pushchairs is available to select from and the way they fold differs from brand to brand. Some are designed for speed and convenience and others are smaller and fold with two hands or one hand. The Cybex Libelle is a good example of this, as it does doesn't just fold down, but also folds inwards. This makes the buggy a neat square package that fits into many hand luggage allowances.
There are two types of brakes for pushchairs that are foot pedal brakes and handle brakes. Foot brakes are the most popular and operate by pressing the sole of a foot, which locks both rear wheels. This is a great option for parents who have to stop or slow down often. Handle brakes can be found on three-wheeled pushchairs as well as jogger style strollers. They are more sensitive than foot brakes and are able to change the speed of a run, for instance. City pushchairs typically feature combination brakes, which combine a foot brake and an adjustable lever that activates the brake opposite for maximum control.
You may want to select one with 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 lightweight carrycot that is pulled flat onto chassis.
It's a good idea to check the airline's website to make sure the dimensions and weight of the pushchair are within the baggage allowance for carry-on bags. It's also important to determine whether the stroller can pass through a standard entrance and that it is able to be lifted up and down the stairs at an airport. If you plan to take your pushchair on vacation, it's best to bring a rain cover to protect it from rain and puddles.
Easy to store
Foldable pushchairs are a great option for parents who travel frequently. They're designed to be easy to fold and take up little space in your car boot. They're also an excellent option to take on public transport and for taking on holidays. Some models are also suitable to be used with car seats.
Some models fold so small they're almost flat. They're perfect for those who don't have a lot of storage space in your home or in your car boot, but they may be more heavy to carry 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 can be quite large when they are folded, making them ideal for smaller vehicles.
Other models fold in a scissor-like fashion in which the seatback folds toward the front of buggy, and the frame collapses to an elongated, square-ish shape. They're easy and quick to fold and can be used on public transport, but the resulting rectangular shape may not fit into smaller car boot sizes.
Many pushchairs have a sun canopy. These are usually made of SPF fabric, which protects your baby from the sun.
