Buying a Foldable Pushchair

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

They have their name because of the way they fold in a manner that's a lot like an umbrella. Some are easy to fold with just one hand, whereas others need two hands or more effort.

Easy to fold

The way in which pushchairs fold can be a significant factor when purchasing one. It's not just about how they are easy to carry as well as how much space they take up when folded. Some brands focus on compactness, while others are more focused on speed or ease of usage. If you're looking to purchase a pushchair that is easy to fold choose one with the scissor or concertina style of fold. These are renowned for their ability to fold flat and are ideal for those who plan to use public transport or traveling with your child.

Many of these types of pushchairs also have an incline that is both towards the parent (for bonding and reassurance) and away from the parent (to allow them to explore the world around them). They are typically suitable for babies from 6 months. Some have a decent reclining position (though not flat like an infant car seats) and are compatible accessories like buggie bags, seat liners, and moses baskets that are fitted with a pram sheet.

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

Some pushchairs fold in a scissor-like fashion that is, the buggy is folded as a pair scissors and then folded into a rectangle. This type of pushchair is generally the simplest to unfold since you only need to lift the handles up and then close the seat back. However, it is difficult to store in tight spaces and is not suitable for public transport because it may not fit in smaller car boot spaces.

Apart from a scissor fold, there are pushchairs that fold into three or more sections, such as a concertina. These pushchairs are the smallest when folded, but they can be a challenge 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 are often small enough to be used as cabin baggage on flights. They make a great option for families that travel.

Lightweight

Choosing the right pushchair for you could be a challenge. The terminology 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 is a great option for those who have little storage space. There are many different kinds of umbrellas, from compact folds up 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 pram carrier but it is crucial to verify the specifications of models designed for use with infants.

A pushchair cheap that folds in the same way as an umbrella is a convenient and easy option. It occupies a small space. These types of pushchairs get their name due to the fact that they fold down in a similar way to an umbrella, which enables them to be tucked into most forms of storage or vehicle boot space. They're typically extremely lightweight, and a majority of models include rain covers to shield your child from the elements.

A concertina-style pushchair is a different option that folds in three or more parts, with the frame and seat over each other and then collapsing on itself. They are typically the most compact and easy to store, however they do require both hands to open and close.

A majority of pushchairs come with the footmuff, a removable (and washable) seat liner, a carry strap and a secure pouch attached to the hood that will help keep your children warm, dry and comfortable in colder weather. Certain brands will include these as part of a bundle, whereas others will sell them separately.

Always look to see whether the fabrics for your pushchair twin are machine washable, as this will allow for faster and easier cleaning. In addition, it is important to check regularly if the brakes are working correctly and if there's any mud on the wheels to get it out using an hosepipe or pressure washer.

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 type of pushchair will also usually be light to carry and easy to store in a boot or small car.

There are many kinds of folding pushchairs and the way they fold can vary. Some are designed for speed and convenience, while others are compacter and can be folded with two hands or even one hand. The Cybex Libelle is a perfect example of this, as it does not only folds down but also inwards. This makes the buggy a neat square package that fits into many hand luggage spaces.

The choice of pushchair brakes is another thing to think about There are foot pedal brakes, handle brakes, or a combination of both. The most common brakes are foot brakes, that work by pressing one pedal to stop both rear wheels. This is ideal for parents who are constantly on the go but who need to slow down or stop frequently. Handle brakes can be found on three-wheeled pushchairs as well as jogger style strollers, they are more sensitive than foot brakes and are able to change momentum during a run for instance. City pushchairs usually come with combination brakes that combine a foot brake and an lever that triggers the opposite brake for maximum control.

You may want to select a pushchair that has a lie-flat feature or one that is compatible with a travel system so you can put the carrycot on it. Some of these pushchairs fold up quickly, leaving the carrycot on the frame. You can also choose an ultra-lightweight carrycot that is placed flat on the chassis.

If you're considering flying with your baby in a pushchair, you should consider visiting the website of the airline to ensure that the dimensions and weight are within the carry-on baggage allowance. Make sure that the pushchair will fit through a standard airport doorway, and is able to be lifted and lowered over the stairs. You should bring an umbrella when you plan to take your stroller on vacation to shield it from rain and puddles.

Easy to store

Foldable pushchairs are an excellent option for parents who travel frequently. They are easy to fold and require very little space in the trunk of your car. They're also great for taking on public transport and for taking on holidays. Some models can be used with a car seat.

Some models fold down so small they're almost flat. These are ideal for those who have the space to fit them in your car or home boot. However they are heavier than larger buggies.

Additionally, there are pushchairs that fold in three or more sections, known as concertina 3D, fold-in-half or fold-in-half designs. They are less cumbersome to carry, but they require both hands to fold and unfold. They are also quite long when folded, so aren't suitable for cars with smaller dimensions.

Other models fold in a scissor style, where the seatback folds toward the front of buggy and the whole frame collapses to a flat, square-ish shape. They're quick and easy to fold and can be used on public transport. However, the resulting rectangular shape might not fit into smaller car boot sizes.

A lot of pushchairs come with a sun canopy, usually made from SPF fabric, which helps protect your baby from sun. Some brands include it in the price, while some sell it separately. The best options include an adjustable hood, which means you can wash them if needed. Look out for an afghan, too, as they are perfect for colder temperatures and keep babies warm.

Be sure to read the instructions of the manufacturer prior to washing your pushchair. Certain fabrics can't be machine washed. If you have mud on your wheels make use of a pressure washer or hose to wash it off. If this isn't working, try a mild sterilising liquid and dry the fabric outside. If you leave your pushchair in an un-dry or wet condition for too long, the fabric may be damaged and mildewed. If this happens, first brush off any mildew or mould with a soft bristled brush. Then wash and rinse according to the instructions.