Foldable Pushchair Tips That Will Change Your Life

Buying a Foldable Pushchair

A foldable pushchair is an ideal solution for quick trips out and about. They are light and suitable for infants as young as four years. They have large wheels, and a nice basket.

They get their name from the way they collapse into a form that's like an umbrella. Some have one-handed folding that's easy and others require a bit more involvement or two hands.

Folding is easy

The way in which pushchairs fold can be an important factor when you are buying one. It's not just about how easy they are to carry as well as how much space they take up when folded. Many brands design their folding mechanisms with different lifestyles in mind with some focusing on compactness while others focus on speed or user-friendliness. Look for a pushchair with the scissor or concertina fold if you are looking for a pushchair that is easy to fold. These are renowned for their ability to fold flat, and are great if you plan on using public transport or travelling with your baby.

These pushchairs usually have a seat facing both parents and the child (for bonding, reassurance and to allow them to explore the world around them). They are typically suitable for babies as young as 6 months. Some have a decent recline position (though not as flat as infant car seat) and are compatible with other accessories such as buggie bag seats, seat liners, and fitted moses basket/pram sheet.

It is important to take into consideration other factors when choosing the right buggy, including the fabric and whether it is machine washable. Having quick-release wheels is particularly important because it means that you can easily wash off any wet or dried mud.

Some pushchairs feature the scissor fold. This is when the whole buggy is folded in half like a pair of scissors, and then folds down into a rectangular shape. This kind of pushchair is generally the easiest to fold as you just need to lift the handles and then close the seat back. However, it is difficult to store in small spaces and is not suitable for use on public transport because it may not fit into smaller car boots.

There are also pushchairs, like concertina, which fold into three or more sections. These pushchairs are the most compact when they are folded, but they can be difficult to maneuver and require two arms. They can also be tricky to store because they have a long rectangular shape when in a closed position. They are however, light and are often small enough to be used as baggage for flights and are therefore a great choice for families that travel.

Lightweight

The variety of pushchairs available is vast and deciding on the one that is right for you can be a challenge. The terminology and folding mechanisms can be confusing. The fold you select can have an impact on how easy the pushchair is able to be moved and stored.

Choosing a light pushchair can make all the difference for those with limited storage space at home. There are many different models that range from compact umbrella folds up to multi-functional travel systems with carrycots and car seat adapters. Some of these can be used as early as the time of birth with a newborn carrier, but it is important to check the specifications for models that are intended to be used with newborns.

An umbrella-folding pushchair is an easy and practical option that takes up very small space. The name of these pushchairs comes from the fact that they fold in a similar way as an umbrella. This allows them to fit perfectly into most storage spaces and boot spaces. They are often incredibly lightweight, and a majority of models will also come with a rain cover to protect your child from the elements.

A concertina-styled pushchair is an alternative option that folds in three or more parts, with the frame and seat covering each other and then collapsing into itself. They are the most compact and convenient to store. They require two hands to open and shut.

A majority of pushchairs come with an adjustable footmuff, a reversible (and washable) seat liner as well as a carry strap and a secure pouch attached to the hood that will help keep your children dry, warm and comfortable in colder weather. Some brands include these items as part of a set, while others sell them separately.

Check if the fabrics of the pushchair can be machine washed. This makes cleaning much easier and faster. It is also important to make sure that the brakes are working properly 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 plan to take your pushchair along with you on vacation or take it on a regular basis for public transport, you might prefer one that folds easily into a compact size. This kind of pushchair will also usually be lightweight to carry and easy to store in a trunk or small car.

A variety of folding pushchairs is available to select from and the way they fold differs from brand to brand. Some are focused on speed and convenience whilst others provide a more compact, two-handed or even one-handed fold. The Cybex Libelle is a good example, since it doesn't just fold down, but also inwards. This makes the buggy an attractive square package that can fit into a variety of hand luggage spaces.

There are two kinds of brakes for pushchairs that are foot pedal brakes and handle brakes. Foot brakes are the most commonly used and work by pressing the sole of a foot, which locks both rear wheels. This is an excellent option for parents who have to stop or slow down often. Handle brakes are commonly found on three-wheeled pushchairs as well as jogger style strollers, they are more sensitive than foot brakes and can be used to change momentum during a run for example. City pushchairs often feature combination brakes, which combine a foot brake with an lever that triggers the brake opposite for maximum control.

Based on the age of your baby and size, you may want to look for a pushchair that offers a lie-flat seat or is compatible with a travel system which means you can connect an infant carrycot. Some pushchairs can be folded very quickly with the carrycot left on the frame. Alternatively, the lightweight carrycot that is simply pulled flat onto the chassis can be used.

If you're thinking of traveling with your child in a pushchair, it's worth visiting the airline's website to make sure the dimensions and weight are within the carry-on baggage allowance. It's also important to check whether the pushchair can fit through a standard doorway and that it is able to be pushed up and down stairs in an airport. You should take raincovers with you if you intend to use your stroller during a vacation to shield it from rain and puddles.

Easy to store

Foldable pushchairs are a great option for parents who frequently travel. They are designed to be simple to fold and will take up a small space in the car boot. They're also great for public transport and for taking on holidays. Certain models can be used with a car seat.

Some models are so compact that they fold flat. They're ideal for those who have limited space in your home or car boot. However they are heavier than buggies that are larger.

Some pushchairs fold in three or four sections. They are referred to as concertina, fold in half, or 3D styles. They are easier to handle however they require two hands to unfold and fold. They can be quite long when they are folded, making them ideal for vehicles with smaller wheels.

Other models have scissor-style folding, where the seat back folds to the front of the buggy, and the frame collapses into a square-ish, flat shape. They're easy and quick to fold and can be used on public transport, however the resulting long rectangular shape might not fit into smaller car boots.

Many pushchairs come with sun canopy. These are usually made of SPF fabric, which protects your baby from sun. Some brands include this feature in the price, while others sell it as an accessory. The best options include a removable hood, so you can wash them as you need to. Consider a footmuff too, as they are great for colder days and keep your baby warm.

Be sure to read the instructions of the manufacturer prior to washing your pushchair. Certain fabrics are not machine washed. If you've got mud on your wheels, make use of a pressure washer, or hose to clean it off. If this doesn't work, you can try a mild sterilising liquid and dry the fabric on the outside. If your pushchair is in a damp, wet or mouldy state for too long, it could cause damage to the fabric and result in mildew and rot. If this happens, you'll need to start by brushing off any mildew or mould that is loose using a soft-bristled, soft-bristled brush prior to washing and rinsing as per the directions.