How to Fold a Pram

Folding a pram for the first time doesn't always go to plan. We've all been through the sudden panic when little one is strapped in to the car, it's pouring with rain and you're huddled underneath the open boot wrestling with your pushchair.

We can blame baby brain, lack of sleep, or the fact you threw away the instructions too early, but it doesn't stop the feelings of frustration and embarrassment you feel when you can't fold a supposed 'one-second fold' pushchair. 

So, in the hopes of saving you from your next stroller struggle, here’s a guide to folding a pram quickly and easily. 

Here’s what we’ll cover: 

• Steps to take to fold your pram 

• Can all pushchairs be folded? 

• What is the easiest pram to fold down? 

• Can a double pram be folded? 

• How to fold popular pushchair brands 

 Steps to take to fold your pram 

All prams have slightly different folding mechanisms, but the process for folding them all down is broadly the same. Following these steps should get you most of the way there, but you may need to look at specific instructions for your model to find release buttons, catches, and so on. 

1. Remove Your Little One

We probably don’t need to include this step, but just in case. Make sure to take your little one out before collapsing your pram. Ideally put them in a car seat, highchair, or some other safe spot. 

2. Apply the Brakes

Folding a pram can be tricky enough without it rolling around while you’re trying to do it. Applying the brake will make things easier and safer, so definitely do this first. Common places to look for brake controls are a foot pedal on the rear wheel axle, or a button on the handlebar. 

3. Remove Accessories as Required

You can clip bags, drink holders, parasols and more on your pram’s handlebar. Before trying to fold the pram down remove them first, otherwise they can get in the way. Over time you’ll get a feel for which things you can leave in place.

4. Adjust the Handlebars

Some prams require the handlebar to be in a specific position to fold down properly; others, folding it down is optional but leads to smaller, more manageable dimensions at the end. Find the handlebar height control and drop it down if required (or desired). 

5. Remove or Recline the Seat

On certain prams the seat section comes off entirely and taking it off makes it much easier to collapse the frame. Then the seat can rest on top of the folded-down frame once it’s packed in the car. Some other prams need the seat to be reclined to fold down properly. Again, you might need to find model-specific instructions for this step of the process.

6. Activate the Folding Mechanism

Six steps in, and here we arrive at the actual folding of the pram. Folding mechanisms are usually well hidden, and with good reason: no one wants their baby accidentally releasing the mechanism and folding themselves away. For an unfamiliar parent or carer though, this can be the source of much stress the first-time round. Have a feel around the handlebars or high up on the frame, and once you’ve found the mechanism and learned how it works, make sure to commit that information to memory. 

7. Collapse the Frame

With the mechanism activated you should just be able to fold the pram down in a smooth motion by pushing the handlebar forward and down. We say ‘should’ as this is another step where things can get tricky: check out specific instructions for your model if the pram isn’t folding. Resist the urge to apply too much force as this can damage or even break the mechanism. 

8. Lock the Frame in Place (Optional)

Some prams have clips or similar to hold the pram in the collapsed position. If yours does, consider using it.  

9. Store the Pram (Optional)

Once the pram is folded it should be easier to lift and store in your car boot, a storage cupboard, or somewhere else. Don’t forget to pack anything you removed as well: accessories, the seat, etc. There’s nothing worse than going to unpack the pram at the other end of a journey and realising the seat is still back where you started. 

Can all pushchairs be folded? 

Nowadays, the answer for most pushchairs is “yes.” Manufacturers understand that many parents are working with limited space, and having the option to fold your pushchair down makes it easier to store them. This also makes them more portable, whether it’s fitting more easily into the boot of your car or tucking under a seat on a train or a bus. 

Some prams might be more complicated to fold, such as larger models, jogger strollers, or traditional prams with older designs. 

Some, like folding strollers, are designed to collapse quickly and easily. While others, including very old styles, may not fold at all. 

If folding is a must-have for your pram, make sure to ask in store or read the product description carefully to check whether the model(s) you’re interested in can fold. And if not, there are more than enough other options to explore. 

What is the easiest pram to fold down? 

Realistically, the easiest pram to fold down is your pram once you’ve got familiar with the folding mechanism. Experience and muscle memory play a significant role in getting your pushchair down quickly and smoothly.

For a more product-centric answer, though, check out our list below. These are pram types or models known for smooth folding: 

Cabin-approved pushchairs:

These pushchairs are designed to collapse down small enough to fit in an aircraft cabin, and include easy to use folding mechanisms. Check out some popular models here. 

How to fold the Bugaboo Butterfly:

How to fold Joolz pushchairs:

Prams in this range feature one-hand folding - fantastic if you’ve got a wriggly little one who wants to be held while you’re packing down.  

How to fold the Nuna TRIV NEXT:

How to fold the Silver Cross Jet 5:

How to fold the Cybex Coya:

Can a double pram be folded? 

Yes. Although because of their larger frames and sturdier construction, the process may be slightly more complicated (if you’re using a double pram, you’re probably used to this already.) 

There is some overlap between the steps above and the steps to collapse a double pram, but we’d definitely recommend familiarising yourself with the specifics for your model - possibly before you buy it, to make sure you’re happy and confident with how it all works. 

Know when to fold them 

Folding a pram can be tricky, but we hope this post has shown there are ways to make the process smoother. To recap: get familiar with the general process, learn any specifics for your particular model, and practice. Each time you fold it down will be easier than the time before, and eventually you’ll wonder what all the fuss was about. 

It’s also worth learning about the folding mechanism and process before you buy the pram, ideally, and definitely before the first time you use it with your little one in tow.  

To learn more about prams you can browse our blog, or view our full range pushchairs to buy. If you’re looking to take the stress out of folding your pram up, check out our folding pushchair range which is full of prams that are purpose built to be easy to collapse with minimal fuss.