10 Unexpected Foldable Pushchair Tips

Buying a Foldable Pushchair

A foldable stroller is perfect for short trips or on holidays. They are light and suitable for children as young as four years old. They also have good-sized wheels and a good basket.

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

Folding is easy

The way that pushchairs fold can be the most important aspect when buying one. It will determine how easy to carry and how much space it takes up when folded. Some brands focus on compactness, while others are more focused on speed or ease of usage. If you're looking for a stroller that folds easily, choose one with the scissor or concertina style of fold. These are known for being capable of folding flat, and are ideal for those who plan to use public transportation or travelling with your child.

These types of pushchairs typically have a seat facing both the parent and child (for bonding, comfort and to let them explore the world around them). These pushchairs are suitable for babies from 6 months old. Some also have a decent recline (although not flat, like an infant car seat) and are compatible with a range of accessories, including buggie bags seats, seat liners, and fitted moses basket/pram uk sheets.

It is important to take into consideration other aspects when selecting the right buggy, including the fabric and if it is machine-washable. Quick-release wheels are important because they let you easily clean any mud or sand.

Some pushchairs feature the scissor fold. This is the place where the entire buggy is folded in half like a pair of scissors, and then folds down into a rectangular shape. This kind of pushchair is generally the simplest to unfold since you just need to lift the handles up and then fold the seat back. However, it is difficult to store in small spaces and is not suitable for public transport because it may not fit in smaller car boots.

There are also pushchairs, like concertina, that fold in three or more sections. These pushchairs tend to be the smallest when folded but they aren't easy to carry and require two hands. When folded they can be a challenge to store due to their long rectangular shape. They are however, lightweight and are often small enough to be used as cabin baggage on flights. They make a great option for families that travel.

Lightweight

The variety of pushchairs available is huge and finding the right one for you could be difficult. The jargon and folding mechanisms can be confusing. The kind of folding you select can affect how easy it is to transport and store the pushchair.

A lightweight pushchair can make all the difference for those with limited storage space at home. There are a variety of pushchairs, ranging from compact umbrella-folds to multifunctional travel systems that include carrycots as well as adapters for car seats. Some of these can be used as early as birth with a baby carrier, but it is important to check the specifications for models designed to be used by newborns.

A pushchair that folds like an umbrella is a useful and simple option. It occupies a small space. These types of pushchairs get their name because of the fact they fold down similarly as an umbrella, allowing them to fit into most forms of storage or vehicle boot space. They are typically light and most models include a rain cover to protect your child.

A concertina-style pushchair is another option that folds in three or more sections, with the frame and seat covering each other and then collapsing on itself. They are the most compact and easy to store. They require two hands to open and shut.

Many pushchairs will have the footmuff, a removable (and washable) seat liner with 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 sell them separately.

Examine if the fabric of the pushchair can be machine washed. This will make cleaning easier and faster. It is also essential to check that the brakes work correctly and clean any mud off the wheels using the help of a pressure washer or hosepipe.

Easy to transport

You may want to consider 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 can be light to carry and easy to store in a trunk or small car.

A wide selection of folding pushchairs are available for you to select from and the way they fold differs from brand to brand. Some are specifically designed for speed and ease of use while others are more compact and can be folded using two hands or even just one hand. The Cybex Libelle is a great 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 allowances.

There are two types of brakes for pushchairs including foot pedal brakes as well as handle brakes. The most commonly used brakes are foot brakes, which work by pressing a single pedal to secure both rear wheels. This is great for parents who are always moving around but have to slow down or stop often. Hand brakes are available on jogger-style strollers, as well as three-wheeled joggers. They are more sensitive than the foot brakes, and they can be used to change the speed of an exercise. Combination brakes are often used on city pushchairs. They combine a foot pedal with an hand lever that triggers the other brake to give you maximum control.

You might want to consider a pushchair with a lie-flat feature or one that is compatible with a prams travel system system so you can put the carrycot on it. Some pushchairs can be folded very quickly with the carrycot tucked away on the frame, or an easy-to-transport carrycot that can be simply pushed flat onto the chassis can be utilized.

If you're considering 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. Make sure that the pushchair will fit through an airport standard doorway, and that it can be lifted up and down stairs. If you plan to use your pushchair on holiday it's a good idea to take 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 often on the move. They're easy to fold and take up very little space in the trunk of your car. They're also a great option for taking on public transport and holidays. Some models are compatible with a car-seat.

Some models fold so small they're almost flat. They are great for those who have limited space in your home or car boot. However they are heavier than buggies with larger wheels.

Some pushchairs fold in three or four sections. These are known as concertina, fold in half, or 3D styles. They are more convenient to carry, but they require two hands to fold and unfold. They are also quite long when folded, so aren't ideal for cars with smaller trunks.

Others fold in a scissor-like fashion, where the seatback folds toward the front of buggy and the entire frame is collapsed into an unflattering, square-ish form. They're quick and easy to fold and can be used on public transport. However, the resultant long rectangular shape might not fit in smaller car boot.

Many pushchairs come with a sun canopy typically made from SPF fabric to help protect your child from sun. Some brands include this in the price, while other brands offer it as an extra. The best options come with a removable hood, so you can wash them if required. Make sure you have the footmuff, too, since they are great for colder temperatures and keep babies warm.

Make sure you read the directions of the manufacturer before washing your pushchair. Certain fabrics can't be machine washed. If there's mud on the wheels, you can try using pressure washer or a hose to wash 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 an unclean or wet condition for too long, the fabric may be damaged and mildewed. If this happens, first clean off any mildew or mould with a soft bristled brush. Then wash and rinse the area as directed.