Transformers strollers: the best models for your child
When a baby has appeared in the family, in addition to the necessary paraphernalia (cot, baby clothes, care products, etc.), you need to purchase a stroller. They come in various types and shapes. Most users are advised to buy transforming strollers, as they are very practical and have a large species diversity.
Special features
Stroller in the usual for all the sense appeared in the XVIII century in England. Outwardly, it looked like a small cart, which was rolled by a little donkey or pony. Such a vehicle could afford only the rich strata of the population. Over time, models improved and became easier, more practical and cheaper.
It is necessary to highlight the functional features of the transformer stroller:
- It is possible to throw the handle on the opposite side. The kid can look at the road or at the mother during the walk. You can also adjust the height of the handle.
- The special cradle carrying with a firm bottom is included in the package. It has a detachable visor and handles for carrying. It is very convenient to use it for transportation of the child from the house to a carriage.
- The carriage is transformed into a walking version. The baby is fixed with special straps, it can freely move its legs and handles. Also installed in front of the protective bumper table. As a rule, it is made of plastic. Such a transformation is needed when the child is already sitting.
- The back can take 3 positions: sitting, reclining, lying down. It is very convenient when the child is tired and wanted to sleep, and mom needs to visit another store or they did not have time to get home.
- Most models have rotating front wheels. They improve the maneuverability of the stroller and help overcome obstacles in the form of curbs, stones and other things. With them it is much easier to turn to the side or turn around, because you do not need to lift the front part.
The peculiarity of transforming wheelchairs is that they simplify and shorten the search for the necessary option - their multifunctionality allows using them from the very birth of a child to the age of three without acquiring additional funds for transporting the baby.
Advantages and disadvantages
Transformers strollers have a number of positive and negative points that must be taken into account when buying. The advantages of this model include:
- The ability to use such a stroller from the moment a child appears until the day when he can move independently. The presence of a separate cradle makes it possible to transport the infant, not only from home to the stroller, but also in the bus, hospital, train, plane. He can sleep there and lie down when necessary. Children grow up very quickly and parents can not always have time to get the necessary things. If the child can already sit, it means that it is possible to transform a carriage into a walking variant and there is no need to buy a separate variant.
- High level of maneuverability and terrain. As a rule, these strollers have large, wide-set wheels. This makes the transformer more stable on the road, and also increases the convenience of movement. This especially helps in the fall-winter period. Clods of dirt and drifts always make it difficult. It is worth noting that the rotating front wheels are especially appreciated by moms.They help to maneuver and go around obstacles in the form of holes, stones, road cracks.
- Reversible pen. Thanks to her, you can easily protect your child from direct sunlight. Just throw the handle and roll the stroller forward on the other side. It is also convenient because the child can be turned facing the road and it will be much more fun and interesting for him to walk in the fresh air.
- Optional accessories. Almost all strollers are equipped with special covers for winter and summer. In winter, you can additionally warm the top of the case so that the child does not blow. In the summer, a raincoat is worn, which in bad weather will not allow the baby to get wet with the stroller. In the summer, a large number of insects fly. To protect the child from mosquito bites and pesky flies will help mosquito net. It does not always come bundled, but it can be purchased separately. There is also a large portable bag. Usually it is mounted on the handle. It is convenient to put in it all the necessary things that will be needed during the walk (bottle, wet wipes, diapers, toys). In the lower part (under the cradle) there is very often a metal basket for storage and transportation. It can be used to add purchases or the same toys that a child plays in the sandbox or on the playground.
- Affordable price. This model stroller can afford almost any family. Price will vary due to additional amenities and accessories. Accordingly, the more expensive the transformer, the more comforts and accessories it includes.
- Ability to unfasten fabric elements. Strollers too get dirty. Both outside and inside. Therefore, it is very important to be able to wash the covers and protect the child from dirt and accumulated dust.
If we talk about the shortcomings of the transformer stroller, there are not so many of them. These include the following features:
- Great weight. Almost all models weigh from 9-11 kg. When there is no help from the outside, it is very difficult to lift the stroller to the desired floor. Therefore, it is worthwhile to think in advance about your convenience. As a rule, transformers are acquired by people in whose houses there is an elevator or special rails on the stairs. It is also difficult to roll it uphill, but the weight of the child and the bag are still added to the weight of the stroller. As a result, it weighs about 15-16 kg. But if you roll it on a flat surface without a slope, here a lot of weight becomes its advantage - the wheelchair will be more stable.
- In the folded state, the stroller has large dimensions. This model even when folded will occupy a decent part of the space. For its transportation will need a car with a roomy trunk. For this reason, it is not at all comfortable to travel with her in public transport (it will be hard at the same time to keep the child and the transforming carriage).
- Some species have difficulty accessing the luggage net when the backrest is lowered as low as possible. This nuance does not apply to all wheelchairs. Therefore, it is worth considering it in advance (even when choosing a stroller in the store). Very often the child falls asleep during the walk, and the mother tilts the back so that the baby is comfortable. At this time, she can make purchases that need to be put in the basket under the cradle. In this position, it will be very difficult to do this, since it is necessary to raise the seat. As a result, the child wakes up and cries.
Kinds
The transforming stroller is ideal for families who do not want to spend extra money. It can be used from the first birth days of the baby up to 2.5-3 years. These strollers are sometimes called jeeps, as they have excellent maneuverability and maneuverability. Very often, this model is confused with a 2 in 1 stroller.
Transformers have only 2 types:
- Stroller with a simplified transformation. In this embodiment, you can do the walking version by raising the backrest. To make a recumbent's cradle, the back is lowered and a carrying bag is placed on it, which has a solid base.
- Stroller with a complicated design. Here, the transformation is not as fast as in the first version. The walking variant is carried out due to fastening of additional seat belts and the plastic handle little table. These parts are mounted on buttons or special locks.
If we talk about the model 2 in 1, then it has a special chassis, which is alternately installed either a cradle with a protective hood and a plastic case, or a pleasure seat. That is, there is no transformation.
Weight and dimensions
Dimensions of wheelchair-transformers are very diverse. As noted earlier, almost all models are heavy (from 10 to 20 kg). But there are lightweight options that are more mobile and practical to use.
The width of the stroller is determined by the distance between the two front wheels. It is better to measure it in advance and check whether it will pass freely in the doorway in the house. If there is a car, then it is necessary to measure the height and thickness of the transformer when folded, because sometimes it will have to be transported in the trunk. The stroller must fit freely there so that during transportation it will not scratch or bend.
There are several popular models that are considered the easiest and most convenient for parents and children.
One of the most frequently purchased ones is the Chicco Urbun Plus Crossover. This is an Italian stroller-transformer, but the plant itself is located in China. It is valued for its low weight - 11 kg. The peculiarity of this model is that it has a narrow body. Due to this, the wheelchair can freely drive into a regular elevator (not a cargo), pass through standard doorways. It is easy to fold and lift.
A wider body has a Polish transformer "Marimex Galaxy". This option is suitable for families where a large child was born. He will be there spacious and comfortable. And thanks to the lightweight frame it is easy to carry and move.
Low weight differs another Polish stroller - "Adamex Young". The manufacturer claims that it maintains proportions of weight (15 kg) and size (the cradle has dimensions of 40 by 85 cm), so that the mother will not feel any tension or discomfort during the walk. Also, this model has small volumes when folded, which simplifies its storage.
Excellent characteristics has a premium stroller from Germany - "Gesslein F6". The size of the carrycot is 84 by 34 cm, which is quite spacious. The total weight is 15 kg.
Today there is a lot of high-quality and convenient transforming carriages. The most important thing before buying them is to find out the exact dimensions so that in the future there will be no unpleasant surprises.
How to choose?
The stroller is best acquired before the appearance of the child, since the time of onset of labor cannot be planned in advance. It must be chosen taking into account the living conditions (floor, the presence of an elevator in the house), financial possibilities, technical characteristics, as well as in accordance with the sex of the child. Thanks to modern technology (ultrasound) you can find out the sex of the child with almost 100% accuracy.
As a rule, for the girl they take a pink or just a light stroller, and for the boy a blue or green one.
The first thing you should pay attention to when choosing is the weight of the transformer. The harder the wheelchair, the more difficult it will move. Do not forget that the weight of the child and the things that are necessary during the walk will be added to the main weight.
In the store, you can try to ride and lift the stroller. If there is no feeling of comfort, then it is better to refuse such an option.
Particular attention should be paid to the material from which the body and frame are made. The best option is alloy steel. It is lighter and stronger than iron. It is very important that the legs and racks are not made of plastic.
If we talk about the material for the outer skin, it is better to give preference to polyester. This is an environmentally friendly fabric that does not let the sun's rays, does not get wet and does not burn.It has excellent thermal insulation qualities, does not fade and does not fade. Also, its advantage is a large variety of colors.
A good option would be eco-leather. Of course, she has few colors, but she also has a number of advantages. It does not pass moisture, it is easy to clean (any contamination can be wiped off with a normal wet cloth), and it is not blown.
For interior upholstery flax or cotton would be the best option. They will not allow to accumulate moisture, and also will not create discomfort to the baby.
It is desirable that all fabric parts are unfastened. This is very important, as the child can stain the stroller, both inside and outside.
Especially carefully should choose wheels. There are 2 options: inflatable or solid. To say that some option is better is very difficult. It all depends on the condition of the roads along which the stroller will move. If the asphalt surface is in good condition, then we can safely take the first option. But sometimes they will have to be pumped up.
If roads with obvious defects (cracks, a lot of caustic debris), then you should take solid rubber wheels. They are not afraid of nails, broken glass, holes.
Many wheelchair owners do not recommend purchasing models with plastic wheels. They quickly erased on the asphalt and lose their shape. Because of this, the stroller begins to shake. Moreover, such wheels with time can simply crack. Their only advantage is that in winter they cope better with snow-covered roads than rubber.
A good option would be a hybrid, where the plastic case has a rubberized bezel. Their size is important. The larger the wheel, the more comfortable it will be to move. Small wheels will constantly get stuck, get stuck in the snow and mud.
It is very convenient when the wheels can be disconnected. They can be removed and washed. Thus, from the stroller will not remain dirt in the hallway.
The depreciation system also requires special attention. It is best to purchase a model in which the basket is attached to the belts and not to the springs. This option is much more comfortable for the baby. Also, the stroller itself is much smoother and more agile.
There must be brakes on the wheels. Their reliability must be checked even in the store.
The back of the stroller must be rigid and not waste of the weight of the child. Otherwise, the baby may begin problems with the spine.
The lifting mechanism should work smoothly and properly, without jamming and creaking.
It is necessary to give preference to wheelchairs-transformers, where the handle can be thrown and change the height. The adjusted handle on the height of the parent will add additional comfort during the walk.
It is advisable to select a model where there is a sufficiently large distance between the cradle and the storage basket. The main thing is to have free access to it - the child does not need to be lifted or moved.
A pleasant addition will be the availability of additional accessories in the form of a mosquito net, a raincoat or a warming fabric wrap. If they are not included, then it is advisable to purchase them, since during the walk the child should not experience discomfort from mosquitoes, raindrops or drafts.
It is necessary to approach the choice of a carriage very seriously and responsibly. First you need to look at all the models, evaluate their advantages and functionality. It is very important that the baby is comfortable and pleasant to be in it.
How to fold?
That the transforming carriage well served all operational term, it is necessary to use it for designated purpose. Sometimes it is required to transport it to another city or to a country house, and for this the wheelchair needs to be properly disassembled and folded so that it fits in the trunk of the car or on the bus.
The transformer is simple. The most important thing is to follow the instructions that come with the kit. Also at the time of purchase, you can ask the seller to show several times how to assemble it and expand it back.
To fold a standard transformer stroller, you must perform the following steps:
- First, the rain cover or upper heater will be removed (if available).
- The cradle is taken out and the bag is removed from the handle.
- The handle is thrown to the rearmost position. To do this, you need to raise (or press, it all depends on the model) clamps and fold it to a characteristic click.
- The footrest is lowered. She also has either buttons on the sides or clamps.
- The wheels are locked in a straight position and put on the brakes.
- Next, the stroller "breaks" in half. To do this, you need to click on the special locks. As a rule, they are located on the sides of the case.
- If desired, remove the wheels. They can be fixed with a “pin” or clip.
Folds the stroller in reverse order.
Overview of manufacturers and models
Today, children's goods stores have a large assortment of transforming baby carriages. But the more options, the harder it is to determine the model. It is very important that the cost of the stroller matches its quality and functionality.
To purchase a high-quality model, it is best to first read the reviews of real buyers or talk to moms on the playground, where you can even try to ride the stroller and see if it fits
Alis amelia
One of the cheap and high-quality options is the “Alis Amelia” model. Their production is engaged in a company from Poland. Users note that such a stroller has small dimensions and freely passes through a standard doorway. Its wheels are not inflatable, but solid. This is very convenient, since they do not need to be periodically pumped up, and there is also no likelihood that the wheel will burst. They are easily and quickly removed, which allows you to wash off the accumulated street dirt. Also, the owners note good depreciation, which softens the ride over bumps and stone paths.
The basket for transportation and storage is small. According to the manufacturer, there you can put items that do not exceed 2 kg in total. The flip handle, like most models, has a comfortable thickness and a corrugated coating. Due to this, it does not slip out of the hands and does not rub corn. On the handle is a medium sized bag. There can fit the necessary things to walk.
Comes with a carrycot. Many parents point out that it has awkward pens. They are not very strong and thin. There is a danger that a child may fall out. Stationary cradle with thin inner walls and synthetic upholstery, which the owners do not like very much. Therefore, it is necessary to additionally forgive a blanket or diaper for the convenience of the baby.
The stroller is quickly transformed into a walking version when the child is older. The only negative - thin seat belts, which are suitable only for a calm baby. If he is active and likes to get up, the child will easily come out of them. This stroller has a practical hood that perfectly protects from sunlight and wind.
The disadvantages include a large weight - 13 kg, as well as the rapid deterioration of the mechanisms that are responsible for unfolding the cradle in the stroller.
Marcus
The budget option is the “Marcus” model. It has the same functions as the above. Wheels are different - they are inflatable. Weight a little more - about 15 kg. Owners appreciate this stroller for maneuverability and stability. It easily overcomes obstacles in the form of snow-covered roads, rocky streets, roads with flaws (with pits, curbs, cracks).
Moms have several drawbacks:
- The carrycot while carrying the handles outweighs. Because of this, the child may fall out.
- The seatbelt system is uncomfortable. We have to unfasten each item separately.
- Spokes on wheels eventually become rusty, which must be removed.
If we consider this model as a whole, then we can say that it has good cushioning, a spacious cradle, small dimensions, excellent throughput and an affordable price.
Montana
A good option is the stroller "Montana". Almost all owners note that it has large inflatable wheels, which more than ever help to drive on Russian roads. But they do not rotate around its axis, as in previous models. The set provides a pump.
At a carriage a convenient portable cradle. It has a hard and durable frame that reliably protects the child from accidental impacts. Cloth handles are quite thick and durable, and the head of the baby does not outweigh during wear.
The owners note that the stroller has a comfortable handle that is adjustable to the height of the carrier. All fabric covers and parts are unfastened and can be washed in a conventional washing machine. In a set there is a raincoat and a mosquito net.
Transformer has few minuses:
- the wheels must be periodically lubricated, otherwise a characteristic creak appears;
- the kit does not provide a bag for small items;
- large weight stroller.
Pilot
Pleasantly pleased with its functionality and practicality stroller "Pilot". Its biggest advantage is the weight - 10 kg, which is much less than the above models. The kit includes all the necessary accessories (mosquito net, bag, etc.). The cradle itself is quite roomy and spacious. On the hood there is a window with a grid. On a hot sunny day, you can open it and allow air to circulate.
The wheels are not inflatable, easy to detach, have a large diameter and good shock absorbers. The child does not shake on bumps and rough roads. If we talk about the negative sides, then many mothers note the poor maneuverability of the stroller when the handle is on the back of the baby. It is also noted that in a sitting position there is not enough space for a child to move comfortably. To change the angle of inclination of the back, you have to make an effort - the mechanisms are often seized.
Casper
Ambiguous about the stroller "Casper". Its positive qualities are:
- large protective hood;
- wide and big wheels with shock absorbers and brakes;
- capacious basket for storage and transportation of purchases and things;
- the presence of additional pockets on the hood.
Cons noted more:
- considerable weight - 18 kg;
- poor maneuverability;
- the wheels may fall off during the walk, as the fixing pin sometimes falls out;
- seat belts can rub the baby’s neck and legs;
- the cradle itself is not very spacious. A large child will closely walk in such a stroller.
Doona
An interesting option is the Doona model. It differs in that it can transform into a full-fledged car seat. Its clear advantage is its low weight - 8 kg. It is designed for children from birth to 9-10 months. Included are all the necessary accessories. All fabric covers are removed and they can be washed in a typewriter machine. Wheels of small diameter, the front rotate around its axis, and also have stoppers. This stroller will cost 3 times more expensive than the above models, but it is worth the investment in it.
As mentioned earlier, the stores are full of various models of transforming wheelchairs. The most important thing when choosing them is to weigh the pros and cons. High price is not a guarantee of quality.
Tips
That the carriage served as long as possible, it needs to be used only for designated purpose. Each model has weight limits prescribed in the manual that must be observed. Otherwise, the "crew" will quickly fail.
The basis of a pleasant walk are the wheels. Their original appearance and condition is very easy to maintain, if you follow the following rules:
- Try not to "draw" the wheels on the asphalt when turning. In order to turn, you need to slightly tilt the stroller towards you. This is not necessary if the front wheels can rotate.
- Do not crash into rocks and cracks on the road.Of course, you will not follow everything in a hurry, but during quiet skiing you should try to go around all the obstacles and not move them.
- Wheels need to be periodically lubricated and cleaned. This will prevent squeaks and crunches.
Clean the covers and wash the case also need to properly. Before washing the hood, the carrycot and other fabric covers, you need to remove from them all the plastic and metal fasteners that hold their shape. Mode on the machine must be set in accordance with the type of fabric. It is desirable that the material is not strongly wrung out. Otherwise, he will very quickly lose his form.
For washing, you can use both ordinary and special children's powder. This procedure must be carried out as the wheelchair is contaminated. Street dust health baby does not add.
As for the hull and the wheels, then for their high-quality cleansing is better to use ordinary soap solution. For the convenience of washing it is better to put the stroller in the bath. In a private house it is much easier to do this: you can simply wash all the parts under a stream of water from a garden hose.
Very often, parents leave the stroller for the next child. In order for it to retain its original appearance, you must perform the following steps:
- Make a complete cleaning of all parts and fabric covers.
- Thoroughly dry everything.
- Fold the stroller. If possible, remove the wheels.
- Pack it in a plastic bag. If it is stored in the garage or on the glassed-in balcony, then it must be periodically aired. This is necessary to ensure that there is no accumulation of moisture, as well as the formation of mold.
If any of the elements broke, you can try to fix it on your own. But if there is no faith in one's own strength, then it is best to contact the master or the store where the wheelchair was purchased.
Most transforming wheelchairs have a long warranty period - from 1 to 2 years. According to her shop is obliged to replace the item for free or to repair.
If you choose a stroller for newborns, pay attention to the innovative transforming stroller from L-SUN, the review of which is presented in the next video.