Buying a foldable pushchair (click the next document)

A foldable pushchair is a great solution for holidays or quick excursions. They are usually lightweight and are suitable for babies from four years old and up. They also have wheels that are large enough and a sturdy basket.

Their name comes from the way that they collapse. It's like an umbrella. Some fold easily with just one hand, whereas others need two hands or more effort.

Easy to fold

The way in which pushchairs fold can be the most important aspect when buying one. It determines how easy to carry and how much space it takes up when folded. Some brands focus on compactness, while others are more concerned with speed or ease of usage. Look for a pushchair with an orchestra or scissor fold if you're looking for an easy pushchair to fold. They are able to fold flat and are perfect for those who plan to use public transportation or travelling with your child.

These pushchairs usually feature a seat that faces both parents and the child (for bonding, comfort and to let them explore the world around them). They are usually suitable for babies from 6 months. Some have an adequate recline (though not flat like an infant car seat) and can be used with other accessories such as buggie bag seats, seat liners, and fitted moses baskets/pram sheets.

In addition to the ease of folding it is important to consider other aspects to take into consideration when selecting a buggy, such as whether the fabric is machine washable, and if it has quick-release wheels. Quick-release wheels are essential because they let you easily clean any dirt or sand.

Some pushchairs come with scissor folds, which is when the whole buggy folds in half, like scissors and then swells into a long rectangular shape. This type of pushchair could be the most simple to unfold because you just have to lift the handle, then close the seat. However, it is difficult to store in tight spaces and isn't suitable for public transport as it may not fit into smaller car boot spaces.

There are also pushchairs, like concertina that 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. When folded they can be a challenge to keep in storage due to their long rectangular shape. However, they are light and compact enough to be used as cabin luggage on flights. They are an excellent option for families that travel.

Lightweight

Finding the perfect pushchair for your needs can be difficult. The terminology and folding stroller mechanisms can be confusing. The type of folding you choose will affect how easy it is to transport and store your pushchair.

A lightweight pushchair is a great choice for those who have limited storage space. There are many different kinds, ranging from compact umbrella folds down to multi-functional travel pram systems with car seat adapters and carrycots. Some of these can be used as early as birth with a newborn carrier, but it is crucial to check the specifications for models that are intended to be used with newborns.

A pushchair that folds in the same way as an umbrella is a useful and easy option. It occupies a small space. These types of pushchairs get their name due to the fact that they fold down similarly as an umbrella, allowing them to fit into the majority of storage and vehicle boot space. They are often incredibly light, and the majority of them come with an umbrella cover to shield your child from the elements.

A concertina-style pushchair is another option that folds in three or more sections, with the frame and seat overlapping each other, before collapsing into itself. They are the most compact and easy to store. They require two hands to open and close.

Many pushchairs include the footmuff as well as an adjustable seat liner (and washable), the carry strap, as well as a secure pouch that can be attached to the hood. These features can ensure that your child stays warm, dry and comfortable in the colder winter months. Some brands offer these in a bundle, whereas others offer them as individual items.

Check if the fabrics of the pushchair can be washed using a machine. This makes cleaning much easier and quicker. In addition, it is important to regularly check the brakes are working correctly and if there's a speck of mud on the wheels to get rid of it using an hosepipe or pressure washer.

Easy to transport

If you're planning to take your pushchair along with you on vacation or use it frequently on public transport, you may prefer one that folds easily into a compact size. This type of pushchair can be light to carry and easy to store in a boot or in a small car.

A variety of folding pushchairs are available for you to pick from, and the way they fold differs from brand to brand. Some are focused on speed and convenience, whereas others offer a more compact or a one-handed fold. The Cybex Libelle is a standout example as it doesn't just fold down, but in too, so the whole buggy is an elegant square box that is smaller than most hand luggage allowances making it ideal for travel.

The choice of brakes for pushchairs is a different factor to consider - there are foot pedal brakes, hand brakes, or a combination of both. The most commonly used brakes are the foot brakes, which operate by pressing one pedal to secure both rear wheels. This is ideal for parents who are always on the go but who 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 change the speed of a run, for example. Combination brakes are typically found on city pushchairs and incorporate a foot pedal with an adjustable hand lever that can activate the other brake for maximum control.

Based on your baby's age depending on the baby's age, you might want to choose a stroller that offers a lie-flat seat or is travel system compatible which means you can connect a carrycot. Some of these pushchairs fold very quickly, leaving the carrycot on the frame. You can also choose a light carrycot that can be folded flat on the chassis.

If you're considering flying with your child in a pushchair it's worth visiting the airline's website to ensure that 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 up and down steps. If you plan to take your pushchair on vacation, it's best to bring a rain cover with you 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 they take up a small amount of space in the boot of your car. They are also ideal for public transport and vacations. Some models are also suitable for use with a car seat.

Some models are so compact that they fold up almost flat. They're ideal if there is little space in your car or home boot. However they're heavier than buggies that are larger.

Alternatively, there are some pushchairs that fold down into three or more sections, referred to as concertina, 3D or fold-in-half styles. They are more convenient to carry but require both hands to fold and unfold. They can also be quite long when folded, so aren't suitable for cars with smaller dimensions.

Other models have scissor-style folding, where the seat back folds towards the front of the buggy, and the entire frame is collapsed into a square-ish flat shape. They're quick and easy to fold and can be used on public transport. However, the resulting long rectangular shape may not fit in smaller car boot sizes.

Many pushchairs come with a sun canopy, typically made of SPF fabric to shield your child from sun. Some brands include this in the price, while other brands offer it as an accessory. The best travel pram options include an hood that can be removed, so you can wash them if required. Consider an afghan, too, as they are ideal for colder temperatures and keep your baby pram warm.

Make sure you read the directions of the manufacturer prior to washing your pushchair. Certain fabrics can't be machine washed. If you notice mud on the wheels, try using a hose or pressure washer to wash off the dirt. If this fails then you can try an unscented sterilising solution and dry the fabric outdoors. If your pushchair is left in a damp, wet or stale for too long, it may damage the fabric and lead to rot and mildew. If this occurs, you'll have to start by brushing off any mould or mildew that has escaped using a soft-bristled, soft-bristled brush prior to washing and rinsing as per the directions.