A Step-By-Step Guide To Selecting Your Foldable Pushchair
Buying a Foldable Pushchair
A stroller that folds is ideal for quick trips or holidays. They are lightweight and suitable for children as young as four years old. They have good-sized wheels, and a spacious basket.
They get their name from the way they fold in a manner that's a lot like an umbrella. Some are easy to fold with one hand, while others require two hands or more effort.
Folding is simple
The way in which pushchairs fold is the most important aspect when buying one. Not only does it determine how easy they are to carry, but also how much space they take up when folded. The majority of manufacturers have their folding mechanisms designed with different lifestyles in mind with some focusing on compactness, while others concentrate on speed or ease of use. Choose a pushchair that has a concertina or scissor fold if you're looking for a pushchair that is easy to fold. These are renowned for being easily foldable and are perfect when you plan to use public transportation or travelling with your child.
These pushchairs usually feature a seat that faces both the parent and the child (for bonding, reassurance and to let them explore the world around them). They are generally suitable for babies as young as 6 months. Some also come with a decent recline (although not as flat as the infant car seat) and are compatible with a variety of accessories, including buggie bags seats, seat liners, and moses baskets/pram sheets that are fitted.
Apart from the ease of folding it is important to consider other aspects that you should consider when choosing a buggy such as whether or not the fabric is machine washable and whether it has wheels that release quickly. Having quick-release wheels is particularly important because it allows you can easily clean off any wet or dried mud.
Some pushchairs come with the scissor fold. This is the place where the entire buggy collapses in half like scissors and then folds down into a rectangular shape. This type of pushchair stroller can be the easiest to fold since you have to lift the handle, then close the seat. However, it can be difficult to store in tight spaces and isn't suitable for use on public transport as it may not fit in smaller car boot spaces.
There are also pushchairs, for instance concertina, which fold into three or more sections. These pushchairs are compact when folded, however they can be difficult to handle and require two arms. They can also be tricky to store because they have a long rectangular shape when they are in a closed position. They are however, lightweight and often small enough to be used as baggage for flights and are a great choice for families traveling.
Lightweight
Finding the right pushchair for you can be a challenge. The terminology and folding mechanisms can be confusing. The type of folding you choose can affect the ease of transport and store your pushchair.
Choosing a light pushchair can make a huge difference for those with limited storage space at home. There are many different models that range from compact pushchair umbrella folds down to multi-functional travel systems with car seat adapters and carrycots. Some of them can be used right from birth using baby carrycots, however it is essential to check the specifications for lie flat of any model that is intended for use with a newborn.
A pushchair that folds as an umbrella is a convenient and easy option. It occupies a small space. The name of these pushchairs pushchairs comes from the fact they fold similarly to an umbrella. This allows them to fit easily into most storage spaces and vehicle boot spaces. They are often incredibly light, and the majority of them come with a rain cover to protect your child from the elements.
Concertina-style pushchairs are a different option. They fold into three or more sections, with the frame and the seat collapsing into themselves. They are the most compact and convenient to store. They require two hands to open and shut.
Many pushchairs will come with a footmuff, a reversible (and washable) seat liner as well as a carry strap and a secure pouch attached to the hood to help keep your children dry, warm and comfortable during colder weather. Some brands will include these as part of a bundle while others sell them as separate items.
Always check whether the fabrics for your pushchair are machine washable, as this will allow for faster and more efficient cleaning. In addition to this it is essential to check frequently if the brakes are working correctly and if there is any mud on the wheels to get rid of it using an hosepipe or pressure washer.
Easy to transport
It is possible to choose an infant stroller that can be folded down to a compact size if you plan to use it on public transportation or take it on holiday. This kind of pushchair is also light to carry and allows to store in your car boot or in a small vehicle.
A wide selection of folding pushchairs are available for you to pick from, and the way they fold varies from brand to brand. Some are designed for speed and convenience, while others are compacter and can be folded using two hands or even just one hand. The Cybex Libelle is a great example of this, as it does is not just able to fold down, but also folds inwards. This makes the buggy a neat, square bag that fits in many hand luggage allowances.
The selection of pushchair brakes is a different factor to consider There are foot pedal brakes, handle brakes or a mixture of both. Foot brakes are the most popular and work by pressing a single foot pedal which locks both rear wheels. This is ideal for parents who are always moving around but require to slow down or stop often. Handle brakes are found on three-wheeled pushchairs and jogger style strollers, they are more sensitive than foot brakes and can be used to alter the speed of a run for example. City pushchairs typically have combination brakes, which combine a foot brake with an adjustable lever that activates the opposite brake for maximum control.
Based on your baby's age depending on the baby's age, you might want to choose a stroller with a lying-flat seat or is compatible with travel systems which means you can connect a carrycot. Some of these pushchairs are able to be folded very quickly with the carrycot still on the frame. Alternatively, a lightweight carrycot which is simply pulled flat onto the frame can be used.
If you are thinking of flying with your baby pram in a pushchair, it's worth visiting the website of the airline to make sure the dimensions and weight are within the carry-on baggage allowance. Verify that the stroller can pass through a standard airport doorway, and can be lifted and lowered over steps. It is recommended to bring a raincover with you if you intend to use your stroller during a vacation to shield it from rain and puddles.
Easy to store
The foldable pushchair is a great option for parents who are constantly on the move. They are easy to fold and take up very little space in the boot of your car. These are also great for holidays and public transport. Some models are also suitable to be used with a car seat.
Some models are so small that they fold almost flat. They're perfect for those who don't have a lot of storage space at home, or in your car boot, but they could be more cumbersome to transport than buggies that are larger.
Some pushchairs fold into three or four sections. These are known as concertina, fold in half, or 3D styles. These are easier to carry but require both hands to fold and unfold. They can also be quite large when folded, so aren't ideal for cars with smaller trunks.
Other models fold in a scissor-like fashion, where the seatback folds towards the front of the buggy, and the frame is collapsed into a flat, square-ish shape. They're simple and quick to fold and can be used on public transport, but the resultant long rectangular shape might not fit in smaller car boots.
Many pushchairs have sun canopy. They are typically made of SPF fabric, which protects the child from sun. Some brands include it in the price while others sell it separately. The best travel pushchair options come with an adjustable hood, which means you can wash them as needed. Also consider a footmuff that will keep your baby warm during colder weather.
Be sure to read the instructions of the manufacturer before washing your pushchair. Certain fabrics can't be machine washed. If you've found mud on your wheels, use a pressure washer or hose to wash it off. If this fails then you can use a mild sterilising fluid 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 occurs, you'll need to begin by removing any mildew or mould that is loose with a soft-bristled brush before washing and rinsing as per the directions.