A Small Pushchair Is a Buggy on Wheels That Allows Your Child to Travel in a Sitting Position

A small pushchair is a buggy on wheels that allows your child to sit in a comfortable position. They are usually used to hop on and off public transport or to stay in your car during day travel.

Many small pushchairs can be used from 6 months but a growing number are suitable from birth with a lie-flat chair or an optional carrycot. Most have a good canopy and the handlebar can be adjusted to accommodate tall or short caregivers.

Size

Most parents opt for larger pushchairs, but if have a child growing up who doesn't like to travel in a buggy every time, and you have only a small space in your car or home boot or car boot, then an ultra-compact might be the best choice. They're typically less expensive than a larger travel system and will keep your child safe until they are no longer in need of one which means you'll save money in the long run, too.

Some of the smallest pushchairs come with clever Z folds or concertinas to create a neat, square folded package and are super light for such large wheels. These pushchairs are also spacious for their dimensions and can be used on the majority of airlines. A lot of them also come with a lie-flat seating (although some are categorised as such if they only have a slight recline) and the option to add a carrycot for newborns.

Folding

Some ultra-compact pushchairs fold down so small that they're the size of an average handbag. This can be a big selling point, especially for parents who don't have much space in their car's boot or live in a city and frequent public transport. Some of the most respected brands of pushchairs are now offering compact models you can easily carry in and out of cafes and taxis. They also offer models that can be taken on planes, trains, and even on public transportation. The Babyzen YOYO was among the first to pioneer this kind of super-smart buggy but there are many more options from UPPAbaby, Joolz and Cybex. They typically feature clever concertina or Z folds to give an elegant, square folded package. They are also surprisingly light at about 6-8kg, and are usually designed to be cabin-approved for a more comfortable holiday travel.

But it's important to remember that a tiny folding pushchair doesn't necessarily mean a stripped-back buggy, even though it will be considerably less expensive than a full-size model. A lot of compact pushchair models provide an excellent level of comfort. They have a comfy seat that can be reclined for toddlers. They also come with extras like a footmuff a sun canopy and a rain cover.

The Micralite from UPPAbaby is available in black and aqua, along with peppermint and toffee. It also comes with an extremely smooth, one-hand folding mechanism. It's also extremely light at just 6kg, and comes with a fantastic basket, good-sized wheels (albeit with smaller ones) and a decent recline. The only slight disappointment is that it does not have a lock which some parents may be irritated about, and the hood isn't much bigger than other UPPAbaby models.

The Mamas & Papas Airo, another compact model, has the ability to rotate 360 degrees and an excellent protective hood. It also has a lie-flat seat which can be turned into a the parents' side from the time of the time of birth. The newborn carrycot pack is priced at PS149, but it's a bit pricey.

Other options include the light UPPAbaby G-Luxe, which has a clever one-hand recline feature, but does not have a flat seat and lacks an adapter for car seats. The Babyzen YoYO Lite is a great option for parents looking for the smallest, most user-friendly buggy. It features an easy, but less sophisticated, fold.

Weight

The newest ultra-compact pushchairs, with their clever Z folds or concertinas to give a tiny package, are impressively light, with a weight of around 6-8 kg mark (and typically come with a shoulder strap to make them easier to carry). They're also cabin approved for flying, so you can take them onboard planes with ease - perfect if you're planning to travel frequently.

Even if you don't plan to fly often the compact buggy could be a good option in the event that you only have a tiny car boot or have difficulty climbing stairs or depend on trains, buses and the Underground. These strollers are made to last from the moment you get them until your child reaches school age, so they're a great option to a larger, more expensive pushchair.

They're made for smooth and smooth surfaces However, don't expect them to cope superbly with uneven terrain or dirt-saturated grass. However, they're a great alternative to a budget all-terrain stroller or an e-bike that will require tyres with air for the extra traction and durability. They'll also be less expensive than a full-sized model! You can also pick up an inexpensive Micralite second-hand at an affordable price. They're usually in excellent condition, but be sure to make sure to look for stains or missing features such as sun hoods and cup holders before you purchase.

Safety

A small pushchair will likely be among the most frequently used baby items It's important to think about the finer points that will make it comfortable and safe for your child. Look for a seat cushion that is soft and comfortable for your child. Also, ensure that the handlebar can be adjusted to your height. You may also want to think about whether a single or linked handle is the best for you as it will affect how easy it is to new born push chair.

The wheels on your jogging pushchair can also make a huge difference. The smaller wheels are designed for smooth and pavement paths while larger ones will cope better with rough terrain, beaches or forest tracks. Some pushchairs are advertised as "all-terrain". However, this is not true because they do not perform as well as a dedicated buggie with air-filled tires.

The majority of small pushchairs have an braking front and rear system for safety. This lets you control the direction you travel. Many will have a foot brake pedal that is easily accessible and a handbrake to use when you're not in motion. Some of the top models come with brake buttons that lock both wheels. This is especially beneficial for those who have jogger-style pushchairs or who frequently stop and start.

If you're buying a birth pushchair, choose one with a lie flat seating option or one that includes a carrycot. This will allow newborns to lay flat, which is vital for their spinal development. A carrycot will also allow you to travel with your baby from the very beginning, which is a great option for those who plan on using public transport or flying frequently.

If the fabric of the stroller can be machine washed the cleaning process will be simpler. If it's not, it's possible to spot clean the fabric using the combination of mild detergent and water. Some brands also offer replacement covers that are available in a variety of colours. It's also recommended to purchase a footmuff for colder weather as it will help keep your baby warm and dry.