Is Foldable Pushchair As Important As Everyone Says

Buying a Foldable Pushchair

A foldable stroller is perfect for trips that are short or during holidays. They are typically lightweight and suitable for children as young as four years old. They have good prams-sized wheels, and a nice basket.

Their name is derived due to the way they collapse. It's akin to an umbrella. Some have one-handed folding that's a breeze and others require a bit of involvement or two hands.

Easy to fold

The way in which pushchairs fold can be an important factor when purchasing one. It determines how easy it is to carry and how much space it occupies when folded. Most brands design their folding mechanisms with different lifestyles in mind and some focus on compactness while others focus on speed or user-friendliness. Choose a pushchair that has an orchestra or scissor fold if you are looking for an easy pushchair to fold. These are renowned for their ability to fold flat, and are great if you plan on using public transport or travelling with your child.

These types of pushchairs typically have a seat facing both parents and the child (for bonding, reassurance and to allow them to explore the world around them). They are generally suitable for babies from 6 months. Some also have an adequate recline (although not as flat as an infant car seat) and are compatible with a range of accessories such as buggie bags seats, seat liners, and fitted moses basket/pram for newborn sheets.

You should also consider other aspects when selecting the right buggy, including the fabric and if it can be washed in the machine. Quick-release wheels are important as they permit you to easily clean any dirt or sand.

Some pushchairs come with a scissor fold, which is where the whole buggy folds in half, like a pair of scissors, and then flattens into a long rectangular shape. This type of pushchair can be the easiest to fold since you need to lift the handle, then close the seat. However, it can be difficult to store in small spaces and isn't suitable for public transport since it might not fit into smaller car boot spaces.

In addition to the scissor fold, there are also pushchairs that fold into 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 compact enough to be used as cabin baggage for flights. They are a great option for families traveling together.

Lightweight

Choosing the right pushchair for your needs can be difficult. The terminology can be confusing, and folding mechanisms especially can be hard to understand. The type of folding you choose will affect the ease of transport and store the pushchair.

A compact pushchair is a great choice for those who have limited storage space. There are a variety of pushchairs, from compact umbrella-folds to multifunctional systems that include carrycots and adapters for car seats. Some of these can even be used from birth with baby carrycots, however it is important to verify the specifications for lying flat of any model that is designed to be used with a newborn.

A pushchair that folds like an umbrella is a convenient and easy choice. It takes up a tiny space. These kinds of pushchairs get their name because of the fact that they fold down similarly as an umbrella, which enables them to be tucked into a variety of storage and boot space. They are often incredibly lightweight, and a majority of them come with rain covers to shield your child from the elements.

A concertina-styled pushchair is an alternative option that folds in three or more sections, with the frame and seat overlapping each other, before collapsing into itself. They are the most compact, easy to store and require two hands to open and shut.

A majority of pushchairs come with an adjustable footmuff, an reversible seat liner (and washable) and the carry strap, as well as an enclosed pouch that is attached to the hood. These features can ensure your child is dry, warm, and comfortable during colder months. Some brands will include these as part of a set, while others will sell them separately.

Always check whether the fabric used for the pushchair is machine washable. This will allow for quicker and more efficient cleaning. It is also essential to ensure that the brakes work correctly and to remove any mud that has accumulated on 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 into a compact shape 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 to put in the boot of your car or a smaller vehicle.

There are many models of folding pushchairs and the way that they fold may differ. Some focus on speed and convenience, whereas others offer a more compact, two-handed or even one-handed fold. The Cybex Libelle is a standout model because it doesn't only fold down, but it folds in, and the entire buggy transforms into a neat square package smaller than many hand luggage options, making it perfect for travelling.

There are two types of brakes for pushchairs including foot pedal brakes as well as handle brakes. Foot brakes are the most commonly used and operate by pressing the sole of a foot, which locks both rear wheels. This is ideal for parents who are always on the go but who have to slow down or stop often. Handle brakes are found on three-wheeled pushchairs pushchairs as well as jogger style strollers, they are more sensitive than foot brakes and are able to change momentum during a run for example. Combination brakes are commonly seen on city pushchairs and incorporate a foot pedal with an adjustable hand lever that can activate the other brake for maximum control.

Depending on your baby's age, you may wish to choose a stroller that has a lie-flat seating or is compatible with travel pram systems which means you can connect an infant carrycot. Some pushchairs can be folded very quickly with the carrycot left on the frame or a lightweight carrycot which is simply pulled flat onto the chassis can be used.

If you're thinking of traveling with your child in a pushchair, it's worth visiting the airline's website to make sure 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 is able to be lifted up and down the stairs of an airport. You should bring a raincover with you if you intend to use your stroller during a holiday to protect it from rain and puddles.

Easy to store

The foldable pushchair is an excellent choice for parents who are constantly moving around. They're designed to be simple to fold and will take up a small space in your car boot. They're also great for taking on public transport or for holidays. Some models are even suitable to be used with car seats.

Some models fold so small they're almost flat. These are ideal if there is limited space in your car or home boot. However they're heavier than buggies that are larger.

Alternatively, there are some pushchairs that fold in three or more sections, referred to as concertina 3D or fold-in half styles. These are less cumbersome to carry but require both hands to fold and unfold. They can be quite large when they are folded, which makes them ideal for smaller vehicles.

Other models come with scissor-style folds, where the seat back folds towards the front of the buggy, and the frame collapses into a square-ish flat shape. They're quick and easy to fold and can be used on public transport. However, the resulting rectangular shape might not fit into smaller car boot sizes.

Many pushchairs have sun canopy. These are usually made of SPF fabric, which protects the child from sun. Some brands include it in the price, while some sell it separately. The most effective options come with a removable hood to allow you to wash it in the event that you need to. Look out for an afghan, too, as they are ideal for colder temperatures and keep your baby warm.

Make sure you read the directions of the manufacturer before washing your pushchair. Certain fabrics can't be machine washed. If you notice mud on the wheels, you can try using the pressure washer or hose to rinse off the dirt. If this isn't working, try a mild sterilising solution and dry the fabric on the outside. If your pushchair remains in a damp, wet or mouldy condition for too long, it could damage the fabric and cause mildew and rot. If this occurs, you'll need to start by brushing off any mould or mildew that has escaped with a soft-bristled brush before rinsing and washing as per the directions.