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

A small pushchair lets your child to travel seated in a buggy. They are typically used to hop off and on public transport as well as to store in your car during day trips.

Many small pushchairs are used from 6 months, but an increasing number are suitable from birth with a lie-flat seat or an optional carrycot pack. Many also come with a great canopy and a handle bar that adjusts to accommodate tall or short caregivers.

Size

Many parents gravitate towards larger pushchairs from the beginning but for an expanding toddler who doesn't want spend every journey in a buggy and has space issues at home or in your car boot, a compact could be the best option. They're usually less expensive than a larger travel system and can last until your child are no longer in need of one which means you'll save money in the long run, too.

Some of the smallest pushchairs feature clever Z folds or concertinas to create a neat, square folded package and are super light for wheels that are this big. These pushchairs are also surprisingly spacious for their dimensions and can be used on the majority of airlines. Many also come with a lie-flat seating (although some are categorised as such because they have a slight recline) and the option of adding an infant carrycot.

Folding

Some ultra-compact pushchairs fold down so small that they're about the size of an average handbag. This is a desirable feature, particularly for parents with limited space in their car or who live in cities and use public transportation often. A few of the most well-known brands of pushchairs are offering compact models you can easily carry in and out of taxis and cafes. They also have models that can be used on planes, trains and even on public transportation. Babyzen YOYO, one of the pioneers of this smart stroller, is now joined by UPPAbaby Joolz, and Cybex. They typically feature clever concertinas or Z folds to create a neat, square folded package, are surprisingly light at 6-8 kilos and are often cabin approved for easier holiday travel.

It's important to keep in mind that a tiny folding pushchair does not necessarily mean an unrestricted buggy, even though it will be much less expensive than a full-size model. A lot of smaller models offer a decent level of comfort, with large seats that are comfortable and reclined enough for toddlers, and often many extras such as a sun canopy as well as a footmuff and rain cover.

The Micralite from UPPAbaby is available in black and aqua, along with peppermint and toffee. It also has a super-slick, one-hand folding mechanism. It's also extremely light at just 6kg and comes with a large basket, large wheels (albeit with smaller ones) and a decent recline. The only downside is that it does not have a lock, which some parents might find frustrating, and the hood isn't nearly as big as other UPPAbaby models.

Mamas & Papas Airo is another compact model that comes with a clever 360-degree rotation system, as well as a great protective hood. It also has an adjustable seat that can change to a parent-facing position at birth. You can also add an infant carrycot for the best in compact from-birth functionality however the price is a bit steep at PS149.

Other options include the lighter UPPAbaby G-Luxe, which has a clever one-hand recline feature, but does not have a flat seat and lacks a car seat adapter. The Babyzen YoYO Lite, which has a simpler but less-smart fold, is a good alternative for parents who want an easy-to-use, super-compact buggy for day-to-day city use.

Weight

The newest ultra-compact pushchairs, with their clever Z folds or concertinas that create a tiny space They're incredibly lightweight, weighing around the 6-8kg mark (and usually come with an adjustable shoulder strap to make them more comfortable to carry). The pushchairs are also certified for cabin use and allow you to take them onboard planes if you plan to travel often.

Even even if your plans don't include frequent flights, a small stroller is an ideal option if your car boot isn't big enough, you struggle with stairs or you rely on public transportation such as trains, buses, and the Underground. These compact strollers are built to be used from birth until the time your child reaches school age which is why they're a great option to a larger, more expensive pushchair.

However, they are not designed to handle uneven terrain or grass that is muddy. They're an excellent alternative to an all-terrain stroller or a travel system that may require tyres with air for the added traction and durability. They'll also cost less than a full-sized model! Second-hand Micralites are offered at a bargain price. They're typically in perfect condition, but do check for stains and missing features such as sun hoods and cup holders prior to making a purchase.

Safety

A small pushchair will likely be one of your most used baby items, so it's worth considering the finer details that ensure it is safe and comfortable for your child. Find a seat with soft padding that is comfortable for your child, and an adjustable handlebar to suit your height. You might also want to consider whether a single or linked handle is ideal for you since this will impact the ease of pushing push.

The wheels on your pushchair can also make a big difference. The smaller wheels are designed for pavements and smooth roads, while larger ones cope better with bumpy terrain, beaches or forest tracks. You may also see cheap pushchairs for sale marketed as "all terrain" but this could be an inaccurate description as they won't cope like a specialized buggy fitted with air-filled tyres.

For safety, most small pushchairs will have a front and rear braking system that will allow you to control the direction you are travelling. Many will have an accelerator pedal for the foot which is easily accessible, as well as a handbrake for those times when you are not moving. Some of the more premium models come with a brake button which allows you to lock both wheels. This is particularly beneficial for jogger style pushchairs or those who stop and start.

When buying a pushchair for a child from birth Look for an option with a flat-seating feature or one that comes with the carrycot. This allows newborns to lay flat, which is crucial to their development of their spine. Carrycots allow you to travel with your child right from the beginning and is ideal when you plan to use public transportation or flying frequently.

If the fabric of the pushchair can be cleaned by machine, cleaning will be much simpler. If it is not, you can spot clean the fabric using the mixture of mild detergent and water. Alternatively, some brands sell covers that are replaced in a variety of colors. You can also invest in an infant foot warmer to keep your baby warm during colder weather.