10 Foldable Pushchair-Related Projects To Stretch Your Creativity
Buying a Foldable Pushchair
A foldable stroller (visit the next document) is perfect for trips that are short or during holidays. They are light and suitable for babies as young as four years. They come with large wheels, and a nice basket.
Their name comes due to the way they fold. It's akin to an umbrella. Some models fold with one hand, which is a breeze while others require a bit of involvement or two hands.
Folding is easy
The way in which pushchairs fold can be an important factor when you are looking to purchase one. Not only does it determine how easy they are to carry, but also how much space they take up when folded. Most manufacturers design their folding mechanisms with different lifestyles in mind with some focusing on compactness, while others concentrate on speed or user-friendliness. If you're looking for a stroller that is easy to fold then you should look for one that has a concertina or scissor type of fold. These are renowned for being easily foldable pram and are great when you plan on using public transportation or traveling with your child.
These types of pushchairs often include a seat with a view of both the parent and the child (for bonding, reassurance and to allow them to explore the world around them). These pushchairs are suitable for babies as young as 6 months. Some have a decent recline position (though not flat like an infant car seat) and can be used with other accessories like buggie bags or seat liners. They also come with a moses baskets that are fitted with a pram and car seat sheet.
You should also consider other factors when choosing the buggy you want to use, such as the fabric and whether it can be washed in the machine. Having quick-release wheels is particularly important because it means that you can easily clean off any wet or dried mud.
Some pushchairs come with a scissor fold, which is when the whole buggy is folded in half like scissors and then swells into a long rectangular shape. This kind of pushchair is generally the simplest to unfold since you only need to lift the handles upwards and then close the seat back. However, it can be difficult to store in small spaces and isn't suitable for use on public transport because it may not fit in smaller car booties.
There are also pushchairs, such as concertina, which fold into three or more sections. These pushchairs are compact when they are folded, but can be difficult to maneuver and require two arms. They can also be tricky to store because they have a long rectangular shape when closed position. They are however, lightweight stroller and often small enough to be used as cabin baggage on flights. They are a great choice for families who travel.
Lightweight
The variety of pushchairs available is huge and finding the one that is right for you could be difficult. The jargon can be confusing, and the folding mechanisms are particularly difficult to comprehend. The kind of folding you select can affect how easy it is to transport and store the pushchair.
A lightweight pushchair pram is an excellent choice for those with limited storage space. There are a variety of different kinds of umbrellas, from compact folds down to multi-purpose travel systems that include carrycots and car seat adapters. Some of these can be used as early as birth with a newborn carrier, but it is important to know the specifications for models that are intended to be used with newborns.
An umbrella-folding pushchair can be an easy and efficient option that occupies little space. These types of pushchairs get their name due to the fact they fold down similarly as an umbrella, which allows them to be tucked into a variety of storage and vehicle boot space. They're typically extremely light, and the majority of models come with an umbrella cover to shield your child from the elements.
A concertina-styled pushchair is an alternative option that folds into three or more sections, with the frame and seat overlapping each other, before collapsing on itself. They are the smallest, easy to store and 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 secure pouch on the hood to keep your children dry, warm and comfortable in colder temperatures. Some brands include these items as part of a set, while others sell them separately.
Always look to see whether the fabric used for the pushchair is machine washable. This allows for faster and more efficient cleaning. It is also important to make sure that the brakes are working properly and clean any mud from the wheels with an hosepipe or pressure washer.
Easy to transport
If you plan to take your pushchair along with you on holiday or use it regularly on public transport you might prefer a model that folds easily into a compact size. This type of pushchair can be light to carry and easy to store in a trunk or in a small car.
There are a variety of brands of folding pushchairs, and the way that they fold can vary. Some focus on speed and ease of use, while others offer a more compact one-handed, two-handed, or even a one-handed fold. The Cybex Libelle is a perfect example of this, as it does doesn't just fold down, but also folds inwards. This makes the buggy a neat, square package that can fit into a variety of hand luggage allowances.
There are two types of brakes for pushchairs including foot pedal brakes as well as 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 must stop or slow down frequently. Handle brakes are found on three-wheeled pushchairs and jogger style strollers strollers. They are more sensitive than foot brakes and can be used to change the speed of a run, for example. Combination brakes are often seen on city pushchairs and combine a foot pedal with an adjustable hand lever that can activate the other brake for 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 put the carrycot on it. Some of these pushchairs fold very quickly leaving the carrycot on the frame. You can also use a lightweight carrycot that is placed flat on the chassis.
It's a good idea to check the airline's site to make sure the dimensions and weight of the pushchair fall within the baggage allowance for carry-on bags. It's also important to check whether the stroller can pass through a standard doorway, and that it is able to be pushed up and down stairs in an airport. If you are planning to use your pushchair during a vacation, it's best to carry an umbrella with you to protect it from showers and puddles.
Easy to store
Foldable pushchairs are an excellent option for parents who travel frequently. They are easy to fold, and they require very little space in the boot of your car. They're also great to take on public transport or for holidays. Some models are even suitable for use with a car seat.
Some models fold down so small they're almost flat. They're great for those who don't have a lot of storage space in your home or in your car boot, however they can be more heavy to carry than buggies that are larger.
Alternatively, there are some pushchairs that fold in three or more sections, referred to as concertina 3D or fold-in half styles. These are less cumbersome to carry, but they require two hands to fold and unfold. They can also be quite long when folded, which makes them ideal for smaller cars.
Others fold in a scissor style in which the seatback folds toward the front of buggy, and the frame is collapsed into an unflattering, square-ish form. These are quick and easy to fold and are also suitable for public transport. However, the long rectangular shape they create might not fit into small car boot sizes.
Many pushchairs come with a sun canopy, usually made from SPF fabric, which helps protect your baby from sun. Some brands include this feature in the price, while others offer it as an accessory. The best options come with an adjustable hood, which means you can wash them as needed. Also consider an infant foot warmer that will keep your baby warm during colder weather.
Make sure you read the directions of the manufacturer before washing your pushchair. Certain fabrics are not machine washed. If you've found mud on your wheels, use a pressure washer or hose to wash it off. If this isn't working, try a mild sterilising liquid and dry the fabric outside. If you leave your pushchair in an un-dry or wet condition for too long, the fabric may be damaged and mildewed. If this happens, you'll need to begin by removing any loose mildew or mould using a soft-bristled, soft-bristled brush prior to washing and rinsing according to the instructions.