Buying a Foldable Pushchair

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

Their name is derived due to the way they fold. It's akin to an umbrella. Some are easy to fold with one hand, while others need two hands or more effort.

Folding is easy

The way in which pushchairs fold can be a significant factor when purchasing one. It's not just about how easy they are to carry and fold, but also the amount of space they take up when folded. Most brands have their folding mechanisms designed with different lifestyles in mind and some focus on compactness while others focus on speed or ease of use. Look for a pushchair with the scissor or concertina fold if you're looking for an easy pushchair to fold. These are known for their ability to fold flat and are perfect for those who plan to use public transportation or traveling with your child.

Many of these types of pushchairs also come with a seat that faces towards the parent (for bonding and comfort) and away from the parent (to enable them to discover the world around them). These pushchairs are suitable for children at a young age of 6 months. Some also have an adequate recline (although not flat, like the infant car seat) and are compatible with a range of accessories, including buggie bags as well as seat liners and fitted moses basket/pram bag sheets.

It is important to take into consideration other aspects when selecting the right buggy, including the fabric and if it can be washed in the machine. Quick-release wheels are essential because they allow you to easily remove any mud or sand.

Some pushchairs come with a scissor fold, which is the place where the entire buggy collapses in half like a pair of scissors, and then flattens into a long rectangular shape. This kind of pushchair may be the easiest to fold, as you only have to lift the handle, then close the seat. However, it is difficult to store in small spaces and is not suitable for public transport because it may not fit into smaller car booties.

There are also pushchairs, like concertina that fold into three or more sections. These pushchairs are the most compact when folded, but they can be difficult to handle and require two arms. When folded they can be a challenge to keep in storage due to their long rectangular shape. They are, however, light and often small enough to be used as cabin baggage on flights and are a great choice for families who travel.

Lightweight

The selection of pushchairs available is huge and finding the right one for you can be tricky. The jargon and folding mechanisms can be confusing. The type of fold you choose can have an impact on how easily the pushchair is to transport and store.

A lightweight pushchair can make a huge difference for those with limited storage space at home. There are a myriad of different types, ranging from compact umbrella folds down to multi-functional travel systems with car seat adapters and carrycots. Some of them can be used as early as the time of birth with a baby carrier, however, it is essential to verify the specifications of models that are intended for use with infants.

A pushchair that folds as an umbrella is a convenient and easy choice. It takes up a tiny 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 vehicle boot spaces. They are typically lightweight, and the majority of models include a rain cover to protect your child from the elements.

Concertina-style pushchairs are another option. They fold in three or more sections with the frame and the seat overlapping and then collapsing into themselves. These are usually the most compact and easy to store, however they require two hands to open and close.

Many pushchairs will have an adjustable footmuff, a reversible (and washable) seat liner as well as a carry strap and a safe pouch on the hood that will help keep your children warm, dry and comfortable in colder weather. Certain brands will include these items 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 easier cleaning. In addition it is crucial to check frequently if the brakes are working correctly and if there is any mud on the wheels, get it out using a pressure washer or hosepipe.

Easy to transport

If you're planning to take your pushchair cheap with you on holiday or use it regularly on public transport, you may prefer a model that folds easily into a compact size. This type of pushchair can be light to carry and easy to store in a boot or in a car that is small.

There are many kinds of folding pushchairs travel systems and the way they fold may differ. Some focus on speed and convenience whilst others offer a smaller, two-handed or even one-handed fold. The Cybex Libelle is a perfect example of this, as it does not only folds 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 including foot pedal brakes as well as handle brakes. Foot brakes are the most common and work by pushing on one foot pedal that locks both rear wheels. This is great for parents who are always in motion but need to slow down or stop frequently. Handle brakes can be found on jogger-style strollers, as well as three-wheeled joggers. They are more sensitive than the foot brakes and can be used to alter the pace of an exercise. Combination brakes are typically found on city pushchairs and incorporate a foot pedal with a hand lever that activates the other brake for maximum control.

Based on your baby's age depending on the baby's age, you might want to find a pushchair with a lying-flat seat or is travel system compatible so you can attach a carrycot. Some of these pushchairs are able to be folded quickly using the carrycot left on the frame or a lightweight carrycot which can be simply pushed flat onto the frame can be utilized.

If you're considering traveling with your child in a pushchair, it's worth checking the airline's website to ensure that the dimensions and weight are within the allowance for carry-on baggage. It's also important to check whether the stroller can pass through a standard doorway and that it is able to be pushed up and down the stairs at an airport. It is recommended to bring a raincover with you if you plan to use your double stroller during a vacation to shield it from rain and puddles.

Easy to store

Foldable pushchairs are an excellent option for parents who travel frequently. They are designed to be easy to fold and will take up a small space in your car boot. They are also great for holidays and public transport. Some models are compatible with a car-seat.

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

Some pushchairs fold into three or four sections. These are known as concertina, fold-in-half, or 3D designs. They are easier to handle however, they require both hands to fold and unfold. They can also be quite long when folded, making them ideal for cars with smaller trunks.

Other models 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 simple and quick to fold and can be used on public transport. However, the resulting rectangular shape might not fit in smaller car boot sizes.

Many pushchairs have a sun canopy. They are typically constructed of SPF fabric, which protects the child from sun. Some brands include this feature in the price, whereas others sell it as an accessory. The best options come with an hood that can be removed, so you can wash them if needed. Look out for the footmuff, too, since they are great for colder days and keep babies toasty.

Make sure you read the directions of the manufacturer before washing your pushchair. Some fabrics cannot be machine washed. If there's a lot of mud on the wheels, you can try using pressure washer or a hose to wash off the dirt. If this fails then you can try an unscented sterilising solution and dry the fabric outside. If your pushchair is in a damp, wet or mouldy condition for too long, it can cause damage to the fabric, and even cause mildew and rot. If this occurs, you'll have to start by brushing off any mildew or mould that is loose with a soft-bristled toothbrush before washing and rinsing according to the instructions.