Technology Is Making Small Pushchair Better Or Worse?

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

A small pushchair is a small buggy on wheels that lets your child travel in a seated position. They are often used to get in and out of public transportation or keep in the back of your car for trips on the road.

Many small pushchairs can be used from 6 months however, a growing number are suitable for use from birth with a lie-flat chair or a carrycot that can be added. Many also come with a great canopy and the handle bar can be adjusted for tall or short caregivers.

Size

Most parents opt for larger pushchairs. However, if you have a child growing up who doesn't like to travel in a buggy all the time, and you have little space in your home or car boot and you're looking for something compact, an ultra-compact model could be the best option. They're usually cheaper than full-size travel systems, and will last until your child no longer requires one.

Some of the smallest pushchairs have clever Z folds or concertinas to create a neat, square folded package. They're also light for such large wheels. They also come with surprisingly spacious seats for their size and are cabin approved on many airlines to make it easier to travel. Some also have a lie-flat seat (although some are categorised as such because they have a small recline) and the option of adding a carrycot for newborns.

Folding

Some ultra-compact pushchairs fold up so small that they're as small as the size of a handbag. This can be a big selling point, especially for parents who don't have much space in their car's trunk or live in a city and use public transport often. A few of the most reputable pushchair brands are now creating their own versions of this category, offering compact models that you can effortlessly take into and out of cafes, taxis trains, planes and trains. The Babyzen YOYO was one of the first to pioneer this kind of super-smart buggy however, there are many more options from UPPAbaby, Joolz and Cybex. These typically have clever concertina or Z folds that create a neat, square-shaped package. They weigh in at 6-8 kilos and are often designed to be cabin-approved for a more comfortable holiday travel.

However, it's important to note that a small-sized folding pushchair doesn't necessarily mean a stripped-back buggy although it may be significantly cheaper than a larger model. A lot of smaller models offer a decent level of comfort, with a large seats that are comfortable and has enough recline for toddlers, and usually lots of additional features like a sun canopy, footmuff and rain cover.

The Micralite by UPPAbaby is a good example. It offers a very smooth one-hand fold and is available in peppermint, ginger, black, toffee or aqua. It's also light at just under 6kg, comes with a large basket and good-sized wheels with small ones. It also comes with an excellent recline. The only downside is the absence of a lock, which could be a problem for some parents, and the hood isn't as large as other UPPAbaby products.

Mamas & Papas Airo is another compact model that features a smart 360-degree seat rotation system and an excellent protective hood, as well as a lying-flat seat that can transform into a parent-facing seat from birth. You can also add the newborn carrycot to give you the ultimate in compact from-birth functionality however the price is a bit steep at PS149.

The lightweight UPPAbaby G-Luxe is another alternative. It has a one-hand recline that is smart, but it does not have an upright position. It also does not have an adapter for cars. The Babyzen YoYO Lite is a great option for parents who want a super-compact, easy-to use buggy. It comes with a simple, but less-smart, fold.

Weight

The newest ultra-compact pushchairs (click for info), with their clever Z folds or concertinas that make a compact package They're incredibly light, with a weight of around 6-8 kg mark (and often have an adjustable shoulder strap to make them easier to carry). They are also cabin approved which means you can use them on planes if you intend to travel frequently.

Even if you're not planning to fly often, a compact buggy can be a great option in the event that you only have a tiny car boot or struggle with stairs, or if you regularly rely on buses, trains and the Underground. They're also designed to last from birth until school age so are a great alternative to a more expensive second pushchair.

However, they're not designed to deal with uneven terrain or grass that is muddy. They're an excellent alternative to an all-terrain travel system or budget My Babiie MB51 Stroller - Lightweight Travel Buggy that requires air-filled tires for additional durability and traction. And they'll be a lot cheaper than a full-sized model too! You can also pick up an inexpensive Micralite second-hand for a bargain price. They're usually in excellent condition, but be sure to check for stains and missing features such as the sun hood and cup holders prior to you buy.

Safety

It's likely that your tiny pushchair will be one of the most frequently used items for your infant, so you should pay attention to the details that will make it safe and comfortable for your child. Choose an ergonomic seat cushion that is soft and comfortable for your child. Also, ensure the handlebar can be adjusted to your height. You might consider whether you would prefer a single handle or a linked handle, as this will affect how easy it is to push chair for sale.

The wheels on your pushchair will also make a big difference. Smaller wheels are usually made for smooth pavements and roads, while larger ones better handle bumpy terrain like trails through forests or at the beach. There are also pushchairs marketed as 'all terrain' however, this can be a bit of a misnomer because they aren't able to handle as well as a dedicated buggy with air-filled tyres.

For safety, the majority of small pushchairs have a front and rear braking system to ensure you can determine the direction you travel. Most have a brake operated by a foot that is simple to access and a handbrake when not moving. Some of the top models come with a brake button that allows you to lock both wheels, which is especially helpful for pushchairs that are jogger-style or those who frequently stop and start.

If you're purchasing a birth pushchair, choose one with a lie-flat seat option or one that comes with a carrycot. This allows newborns to lay flat, which is vital to their development of their spine. Carrycots allow you to travel with your child from the start and is ideal if you plan on using public transportation or flying regularly.

Make sure the fabric for your pushchair is machine washable, as it will make cleaning much easier. If you don't, it's possible to spot clean the fabric with a mixture of mild detergent and water. Some brands also offer replacement covers that come in a range of colors. You can also invest in an infant foot warmer to keep your baby warm in the colder months.