The Most Successful Foldable Pushchair Gurus Do Three Things
Buying a Foldable Pushchair
A foldable stroller is perfect for quick trips or holidays. They are usually light and suitable for babies from four years old and up. They also have good-sized wheels and a good basket.
They are named after their collapse method into a form that's like an umbrella. Some fold easily with just one hand, whereas others require two hands or more effort.
Folding is simple
The way that pushchairs fold is the most important aspect when buying one. It will determine how easy to carry and how much space it takes up when folded. Many manufacturers design their folding mechanisms with different lifestyles in mind with some focusing on compactness whilst others focus on speed or ease of use. If you're looking to purchase a pushchair that is easy to fold then look for one with a scissor or concertina type of fold. These are renowned for their ability to fold flat and are ideal for those who plan to use public transport or travelling with your child.
These types of pushchairs typically include a seat with a view of both parents and the child (for bonding, reassurance and to allow them to explore the world around them). These pushchairs are suitable for babies as young as 6 months. Some also come with an adequate recline (although not flat, like the infant car seat) and are compatible with a range of accessories, including buggie bags, seat liners and fitted moses basket/pram sheets.
In addition to the ease of folding, there are other factors to take into consideration when choosing a buggy such as whether the fabric is machine washable and whether it comes with wheels that can be released quickly. Quick-release wheels are important as they permit you to easily clean any mud or sand.
Some pushchairs fold in a scissor-like manner, where the buggy is folded like a pair scissors and then flattened into a long rectangle. This type of pushchair is usually the easiest to fold as you just need to lift the handles up and then fold the seat back. However, it can be difficult to store in tight spaces and is not suitable for public transport as it may not fit in smaller car booties.
In addition to the scissor fold, there are pushchairs that fold in three or more sections, for example concertina. These pushchairs are the smallest 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. They are however, light and often small enough to be used as cabin baggage on flights. They are therefore a great choice for families who travel.
Lightweight
The selection of pushchairs available is vast and deciding on the right one for you can be a challenge. The jargon can be confusing and the folding mechanisms are particularly difficult to grasp. The kind of folding you select can affect how easy it is to transport and store the pushchair.
A compact pushchair is a great option for those with little storage space. There are many different types of pushchairs available, from compact umbrella-folds that fold down to multi-functional travel systems that include carrycots and adapters for car seats. Some of them can be used as early as the time of birth with a baby carrier, but it is crucial to check the specifications for models that are intended to be used with newborns.
An umbrella-fold pushchair is an easy and practical option that takes up very little room. These pushchairs are named after the fact they fold similarly to an umbrella. This makes them fit easily into most storage spaces and boot spaces. These pushchairs are usually very lightweight and come with a raincover to protect your child.
Concertina-style pushchairs are another option. They fold into three or more sections, with the frame and the seat overlapping and then collapsing on the frame. They are the most compact and easy to store. They require two hands to open and close.
Many pushchairs come with a footmuff and an reversible seat liner (and washable) and a carry strap, and a secure pouch that can be attached to the hood. These features will ensure your child is dry, warm, and comfortable during colder weather. Some brands include these items as part of a bundle, whereas others sell them separately.
Always check whether the fabrics for your pushchair are machine washable. This will allow for quicker and easier cleaning. In addition to this, it is important to check frequently if whether the brakes work properly and if there is any mud on the wheels, get rid of it using the help of a pressure washer or hosepipe.
Easy to transport
It is possible to choose a pushchair that is folded into a compact form if you plan to take it on public transport or even take it on a trip. This kind of pushchair will also usually be lightweight to carry and easy to store in a trunk or in a car that is small.
There are many different brands of folding pushchairs, and the way they fold can differ. 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 standout example because it doesn't just fold down, but in, and the whole buggy becomes an elegant square box that is smaller than many hand luggage options, making it ideal for travel.
There are two kinds of brakes for pushchairs: foot pedal brakes and handle brakes. The most common brakes are the foot brakes, that work by pressing one pedal to secure both rear wheels. This is great for parents who are constantly moving around but require to slow down or stop often. Hand brakes are available on jogger-style strollers and three-wheeled joggers. They are more sensitive than foot brakes, and can be used to alter the speed of the course of a run. Combination brakes are commonly found on city pushchairs and combine a foot pedal with an hand lever that triggers the other brake to give you maximum control.
Based on your baby's age, you may wish to find a pushchair that offers a lie-flat seat or is compatible with a travel system which means you can connect an infant carrycot. Some pushchairs fold up quickly and leave the carrycot on the frame. You can also opt for a lightweight carrycot that is placed flat on the chassis.
If you're thinking of traveling with your child in a pushchair it's worth checking the airline's website to make sure the dimensions and weight are within the allowance for carry-on baggage. Check that the pushchair can fit through a standard airport doorway, and that it can be lifted up and down stairs. If you are planning to use your pushchair on holiday it's a good idea to bring a rain cover with you to protect it from rain and puddles.
Easy to store
The foldable pushchair is a fantastic choice for folding stroller parents who are frequently moving around. They're designed to be simple to fold and fit into a tiny space in the car boot. These are also great for public transport and holidays. Some models are compatible with a car seat.
Some models are so compact that they fold flat. They're ideal when you don't have lots of storage space at home, or in your car boot, however they can be more cumbersome to transport than buggies with larger capacities.
Some pushchairs fold in three or four sections. They are referred to as concertina, fold in half, or 3D styles. They are less cumbersome to carry, but they require both hands to unfold and fold. They can be quite large when folded, so they're not suitable for vehicles with smaller dimensions.
Others fold in a scissor fashion with the seatback folding towards the front of the buggy, and the frame collapses into an elongated, square-ish shape. They're quick and easy to fold and can be used on public transport, but the resultant long rectangular shape might not fit into smaller car boots.
Many pushchairs are available with a sun canopy, typically made from SPF fabric to shield baby from the sun. Some brands include it in the price, while some sell it separately. The best options include a removable hood, so you can wash them if you need to. Also consider an infant foot warmer that will keep your baby warm in colder temperatures.
Be sure to read the instructions of the manufacturer before washing your pushchair. Certain fabrics can't be machine washed. If there's a lot of mud on the wheels, you can try using the pressure washer or hose to rinse off the dirt. If this doesn't work then you can try an sterilising fluid that is mild and dry the fabric outside. If you leave your pushchair in an unclean or wet state for too long, the fabric may become damaged and mildewed. If this happens, first brush off any mildew or mold using a soft bristled brush. Then wash and rinse according to the instructions.