Buying a Foldable pushchair car seat

A foldable pushchair stroller (this page) is perfect for short trips or on holidays. They are light and suitable for infants as young as four years old. They have large wheels, and a nice basket.

Their name is derived from the way they collapse. It's like an umbrella. Some fold easily using one hand, while others need two hands or more effort.

Easy to fold

The way that pushchairs fold is a crucial factor in buying one. It determines how easy it is to carry and how much space it occupies when folded. The majority of manufacturers design their folding mechanisms with different lifestyles in mind and some focus on compactness whilst others focus on speed or ease of use. Look for a pushchair with the scissor or concertina fold if you are looking for a pushchair which is easy to fold. These are known for being easily foldable, and are ideal when you plan to use public transportation or travelling with your child.

These types of pushchairs often include a seat with a view of both parents and the child (for bonding, reassurance and to let them explore the world around them). They are usually suitable for babies from 6 months. Some have a decent reclining position (though not flat like an infant car seat) and are compatible accessories such as buggie bag, seat liners, and moses baskets that are fitted with a pram sheet.

It is also important to consider other aspects when selecting a buggy, such as the fabric and if it can be washed in the machine. Quick-release wheels are important because it means that you can easily wash away any mud that has dried or become wet.

Some pushchairs come with a scissor fold, which is when the whole buggy folds in half, like a pair of scissors and then flattens into a long rectangular shape. This type of pushchair can be the easiest to fold, as you only need to pull the handle and then close the seat. However, it can be difficult to store in small spaces and is not suitable for public transport because it may not fit into smaller car boots.

There are also pushchairs, such as concertina, which fold into three or more sections. These pushchairs are the most compact when folded, however they can be difficult to handle and require two arms. They can also be difficult to store as they have a long, rectangular shape when they are in a closed position. But, they're light and small enough to use as cabin baggage for flights. They are a great choice for families traveling together.

Lightweight

Finding the perfect pushchair for you could be a challenge. The terminology and folding mechanisms can be confusing. The type of folding you select can affect the ease with which you can transport and store the pushchair.

Choosing a lightweight pushchair can make all the difference for those with limited storage space at home. There are a myriad of different models of umbrellas, from compact folds to multi-purpose travel systems that incorporate car seat adapters and carrycots. Some of these can even be used right from birth using a newborn carrycot, although it is important to verify the specifications for lying flat of any model that is designed for use with a newborn.

A pushchair that folds like an umbrella is a practical and simple option. It takes up a tiny space. These types of pushchairs get their name from the fact that they fold down similarly to an umbrella, allowing them to fit perfectly lengthways into most forms of storage and vehicle boot space. They are often incredibly light, and the majority of them come with rain covers to shield your child from the elements.

Concertina-style pushchairs are a different option. They fold into three or more sections with the frame and seat collapsing into them. They are the smallest and easy to store. They require two hands to open and close.

Many pushchairs will have an adjustable footmuff, a reversible (and washable) seat liner, a carry strap and a safe pouch on the hood that will help keep your children dry, warm and comfortable in colder temperatures. Certain brands will include these items as part of a bundle, whereas others sell them separately.

Verify that the fabric of the pushchair can be washed by machine. This makes cleaning much easier and faster. Additionally, it is important to regularly check the brakes are working correctly and if there's any dirt on the wheels, get rid of it using a pressure washer or hosepipe.

Easy to transport

You might choose a pushchair that can be folded into a compact form when you plan to use it on public transportation or take it on holiday. This kind of pushchair is also likely to be lightweight to carry and easy to store in a car boot or in a small car.

A wide selection of folding pushchairs are available to choose from and the way they fold varies from brand to brand. Some are designed to be fast and easy to use and others are smaller and fold with two hands or even one hand. The Cybex Libelle is a good example of this, as it does not only folds down but also inwards. This makes the buggy a neat square bag that fits in many hand luggage compartments.

There are two kinds of brakes for pushchairs including foot pedal brakes as well as handle brakes. Foot brakes are the most commonly used and work by pressing one foot pedal that locks both rear wheels. This is a great option for parents who need to stop or slow down frequently. Handle brakes can be found on joggers and pushchairs with three wheels. style strollers, they are more sensitive than foot brakes and are able to change the speed of a run for instance. City pushchairs typically feature combination brakes, which combine a foot brake and an adjustable lever that activates the brake opposite to give you maximum control.

You may want to choose one with an option to lie flat or that is compatible with a travel system so you can attach the carrycot. Some pushchairs fold very quickly leaving the carrycot on the frame. You can also choose a light carrycot that can be pulled flat onto chassis.

If you're thinking of traveling with your child in a pushchair it's worth checking the airline's website to make sure the dimensions and weight are within their carry-on baggage allowance. Make sure that the pushchair will pass through a standard airport doorway, and is able to be lifted and lowered over stairs. If you are planning to use your pushchair during a holiday, it's a good idea to take a rain cover with you to protect it from rain and puddles.

Easy to store

Foldable pushchairs are an excellent option for parents who frequently travel strollers. They are easy to fold and take up very little space in the trunk of your car. They are also ideal for holidays and public transport. Some models are compatible with a car-seat.

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

There are also pushchairs that fold into three or more sections, known as concertina 3D, fold-in-half or fold-in-half designs. These are easier to carry but require both hands to fold and unfold. They can also be quite large when folded, which makes them ideal for cars with smaller trunks.

Other models fold in a scissor fashion, where the seatback folds toward the front of buggy, and the frame collapses to an unflattering, square-ish form. They're simple and quick to fold and can be used on public transport, but the resulting rectangular shape may not fit into smaller car boots.

Many pushchairs come with sun canopy. These are usually made of SPF fabric, which protects your baby stroller from sun. Some brands include it in their price while others sell it separately. The best options include an hood that can be removed, so you can wash them as required. Also look for a footmuff that will keep your baby warm during colder temperatures.

Most pushchairs can be wiped down with a damp cloth, but some fabrics are not machine-washable, so check the manufacturer's instructions. If you notice mud on the wheels, you can try using a hose or pressure washer to rinse off the dirt. If this isn't successful then you can try an unscented sterilising solution and dry the fabric outside. If your pushchair is left in a damp, wet or mouldy condition for too long, it could cause damage to the fabric and cause mildew and rot. If this happens, first clean off any mildew or mold with a soft bristled brush. Then wash and rinse the area as directed.