Buying a Foldable Pushchair
A foldable pushchair is the perfect solution for holidays or quick trips out and about. They are light and suitable for babies as young as four years old. They have large wheels, and a spacious basket.
Their name comes due to the way they fold. It's like an umbrella. Some are easy to fold with one hand, while others need two hands or more effort.
Folding is easy
The way that pushchairs fold can be a significant factor when buying one. Not only does it determine how they are easy to carry and fold, but also the amount of space they take up when folded. Many brands design their folding stroller mechanisms with different lifestyles in mind, with some focusing on compactness whilst others focus on speed or ease of use. Choose a pushchair that has an orchestra or scissor fold if you are looking for a pushchair which is easy to fold. These are known for their ability to fold flat, and are great for those who plan to use public transport or travelling with your baby.
A majority of these Prams Pushchairs Prams Pushchairs also have a seat that faces both towards the parent (for bonding and assurance) and away from the parent (to enable them to discover the world around them). These pushchairs can be used by babies from 6 months old. Some also come with an adequate recline (although not flat, like an infant car seat) and are compatible with a range of accessories such as buggie bags seats, seat liners, and moses baskets/pram newborn sheets that are fitted.
It is important to take into consideration other aspects when selecting a buggy, such as the fabric and if it is machine-washable. The wheels that are quick-release are particularly important because it allows you can easily clean off any dried or wet mud.
Some pushchairs come with a scissor fold, which is when the whole buggy is folded in half like a pair of scissors and then swells into a long rectangular shape. This kind of pushchair may be the most simple to unfold, as you only need to pull the handle, then close the seat. It can be difficult to store and may not fit into smaller car boot sizes.
There are also pushchairs, like concertina, which fold into three or more sections. These pushchairs are compact when they are folded, but they can be difficult to maneuver and require two arms. When folded, they can be difficult to store due to their large rectangular shape. But, they're light and compact enough to be used as cabin luggage on flights. They are a great choice for families traveling together.
Lightweight
Finding the perfect pushchair for you can be difficult. The jargon and folding mechanisms can be confusing. The fold you choose will influence how easily the pushchair can be transported and stored.
A lightweight pushchair can make all the difference for those with a small storage space at home. There are a myriad of different models of umbrellas, from compact folds down to multi-functional travel systems with carrycots and car seat adapters. Some of these can even be used from birth with baby carrycots, however it is important to verify the specifications for lying flat of any model that is designed to be used with a newborn.
A pushchair that folds like an umbrella is a useful and easy option. It occupies a small space. The name of these pushchairs comes from the fact that they fold in a similar manner to an umbrella. This allows them to fit perfectly into most storage spaces and vehicle boot spaces. These pushchairs are generally light and many models come with a raincover to protect your child.
Concertina-style pushchairs are another option. They fold into three or more sections with the frame and seat overlapping before collapsing into themselves. They are typically the smallest and easiest 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 with a carry strap, and a secure pouch attached to the hood to keep your children warm, dry and comfortable during colder weather. Some brands will include these as part of a bundle, whereas others sell them separately.
Always look to see whether the fabrics for your pushchair are machine washable. This will allow for quicker and more efficient cleaning. It is also important to check that the brakes work correctly and to clean any mud that has accumulated on the wheels with the help of a pressure washer or hosepipe.
Easy to transport
If you're planning to take your pushchair with when you travel or if you use it frequently on public transport, you may prefer one that folds down easily into a compact size. This kind of pushchair is also light to carry and allows you to store in your car boot or small vehicle.
A wide selection of folding pushchairs is available to pick from, and the way they fold differs from one brand to the next. Some focus on speed and convenience whilst others offer a more compact one-handed, two-handed, or even a one-handed fold. The Cybex Libelle is a good example, since it not only folds down but also inwards. This makes the buggy a neat square package that fits into many hand luggage allowances.
There are two kinds of brakes for pushchairs that are foot pedal brakes and handle brakes. Foot brakes are the most commonly used and operate by pressing the sole of a foot, which locks both rear wheels. This is ideal for parents who are always moving around but have to slow down or stop frequently. Handle brakes can be found on three-wheeled pushchairs and jogger style strollers, they are more sensitive than foot brakes and can be used to alter momentum during a run for instance. Combination brakes are commonly seen on city pushchairs and combine a foot pedal and an adjustable hand lever that can activate the other brake to give you maximum control.
You may want to select a pushchair that has an option to lie flat or that is compatible with a travel system so you can connect the carrycot. Some of these pushchairs can fold up quickly with the carrycot left on the frame, or the lightweight carrycot that can be simply pushed flat onto the chassis can be used.
If you're considering flying with your baby in a pushchair, you should consider checking the airline's website to ensure that the dimensions and weight are within their carry-on baggage allowance. Verify that the stroller can pass through a standard airport doorway, and is able to be lifted up and over the stairs. If you do plan to use your twin pushchair during a holiday it's a good idea to carry an umbrella with you to protect it from showers and puddles.
Easy to store
The foldable pushchair is a great option for parents who are often moving around. They're easy to fold, and they take up very little space in the boot of your car. They are also great for public transport and holidays. Certain models can be used with a car-seat.
Some models fold so small they're nearly flat. These are ideal when you have limited space in your home or car boot. However, they can be heavier than buggies that are larger.
Some pushchairs fold into three or four sections. These are known as concertina, fold-3 in one pushchair-half, or 3D designs. These are easier to carry, but they require two hands to fold and unfold. They can also be quite large when folded, which makes them suitable for cars with smaller dimensions.
Other models fold in a scissor fashion, where the seatback folds toward the front of buggy, and the frame is collapsed into a flat, square-ish shape. They're easy and quick to fold and can be used on public transport. However, the resultant long rectangular shape may not fit into smaller car boots.
Many pushchairs come with a sun canopy, typically made from SPF fabric, which helps protect baby from the sun. Some brands include it in the price, while some sell it separately. The best travel pram options come with an hood that can be removed, so you can wash them as you need to. Also, look for an infant foot warmer that will keep your baby warm in colder temperatures.
The majority of pushchairs can be cleaned down with a damp cloth but certain fabrics aren't machine washable, so check the manufacturer's guidelines. If you've got 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 solution and dry the fabric on the outside. If you leave your pushchair in a damp 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 according to the instructions.