I’ve become quite experienced at unfolding Graco strollers over the years. Having gone through the process hundreds of times, I’ve learned some tips and tricks to make it quick and easy. In this blog post, I’ll share my experience on the proper techniques on how to unfold Graco stroller.
How to Unfold Graco Stroller
Key Points
- Identify which type of Graco stroller you have – umbrella, jogging, or multi-functional
- Release the folding lock and extend the stroller handle
- For umbrella strollers, spread the stroller legs apart
- Engage the front wheels by giving them a firm push
- For multi-functional strollers, extend the back wheels and seat
- Check that all locks and latches are securely fastened
My Experience with Graco Strollers
As a parent for the past few years, I’ve used various Graco stroller models including the Snap N’ Go, Glider Lite, and Click Connect. Unfolding strollers becomes second nature after a while, but I remember struggling in the beginning to get the hang of it.
With experience unfolding umbrellas, joggers, and multi-functional strollers, I’ve learned where the key lock mechanisms are. I know to pay attention to engaging the front wheels properly and extending all the moving parts fully. These days, I can get even a double Graco stroller set up in under a minute
>> Read more: How to fold Graco Stroller
Types of Graco Strollers
Graco offers several stroller varieties, each with their own specifics when it comes to unfolding. The main types are:
Umbrella Strollers
Graco umbrella strollers are lightweight and designed for portability. Models like the Snap N’ Go and Spree are simple to fold and unfold in seconds.
Jogging Strollers
Graco joggers like the FastAction and Glider Lite feature air-filled tires and performance suspension for serious runners. Unfolding requires engaging the front wheel lock.
Multi-Functional Strollers
Graco’s multi-functional strollers include options like the Click Connect and Modes. These feature bassinets, reversible seats, and accept infant car seats. They have more parts to unfold and lock for full extension.
How to Unfold a Graco Umbrella Stroller
Based on my experience, here are the key steps to easily unfold an umbrella Graco stroller:
- Place the stroller on the ground and locate the folding lock or latch. For most models, it’s near the handlebar.
- Release the folding lock. You’ll hear a click when it disengages.
- Holding the handlebar, use your other hand to push down to extend the stroller handle into its full upright position.
- With the handlebar extended, grab the stroller legs beneath the seat and gently spread them apart until they are fully extended.
- Give the front wheels a firm downward push. This will engage them for rolling.
- Double check that the fold lock is released, the handle is extended, and the wheels are engaged. Your umbrella stroller is ready to roll
Expert Tips for Unfolding Graco Jogging Strollers
Drawing from my experience with Graco joggers, here are some pro tips for getting them set up quickly and properly:
- Find the release handle underneath the stroller handlebar. Lift up on it to disengage the folding lock.
- Rotate the stroller handle upward into the extended position until it clicks in place.
- Push down on the colored front wheel lock lever. This engages the front wheel for maneuverability.
- Spread the rear legs apart until the crossbar that connects them snaps into place.
- Give the stroller a shake to make sure nothing is loose. Check that the front wheel rolls smoothly.
>> Read more: How to open Graco stroller
Unfolding Multi-Functional and Double Graco Strollers
As an experienced parent, I can attest that Graco’s multi-functional strollers have a few more steps to unfold them properly:
- Release the folding lock near the handlebar. Extend the handle until it clicks locked.
- Push down on the rear frame on both sides until the rear legs are extended.
- Grab the seat near the shoulder straps and pull up to unfold it into the upright position.
- For strollers with bassinets or reversible seats, extend both seat options fully.
- Firmly push the front wheels down making sure they can swivel and roll smoothly.
- Fasten the parent tray and check that all locks are engaged. Your stroller is ready
This same process applies to double Graco strollers like the Roomfor2. Just repeat the steps for both seats and ensure all parts are securely in position.
Points to Remember When Unfolding Any Graco Stroller
No matter which Graco model you have, keep these tips in mind for smooth unfolding every time:
- Find and release the folding lock first before extending any parts.
- Push down on the stroller handle until it clicks into the locked position.
- Engage the front wheels last after fully extending the rest of the frame.
- Spread apart and extend both sides of the stroller simultaneously.
- Shake the stroller gently to make sure nothing is loose.
- Always check that the fold lock is disengaged before use.
How to Unfold Graco Stroller Click Connect
To unfold a Graco Click Connect stroller:
1. Place the stroller on the ground with the wheels down.
2. Locate the fold lock or release lever on the side of the stroller frame. This is often red or orange.
3. Release the fold lock by pulling up on the lever or pushing the button. This will allow the stroller to start to unfold.
4. Lift up on the stroller handle with one hand while gently pushing down on the seat with your other hand. The stroller frame should unfold easily.
5. Once unfolded, make sure the fold lock clicks back into place to secure the frame open.
6. Unclip the seat fabric from the storage bands to allow the seat to open fully.
7. Extend the canopy and you’re ready to go
>> Read more: How to open a Britax Stroller
How to Open Graco Stroller Click Connect
Follow these steps to open a Graco Click Connect stroller:
1. Place the stroller on the ground with the wheels facing down.
2. Find the fold release lever, usually red or orange in color. It’s located on the side of the stroller frame.
3. Pull up on the fold release lever to unlatch the folding mechanism.
4. Lift up on the stroller handle and gently press down on the seat with your other hand. This will allow the frame to unfold.
5. Once the stroller is unfolded, make sure the release lever clicks back into place to lock the frame open.
6. Unclip the seat fabric from the storage straps to allow it to open fully.
7. Extend or adjust the canopy as needed.
8. Double check that the stroller is completely unfolded and locked before use.
How to Unfold Graco Stroller Jogger
To open a Graco jogging stroller:
1. Place the stroller on the ground with all 3 wheels touching the floor.
2. Locate the fold release lever in the center of the stroller frame. It is usually colored red.
3. Pull up on the fold release and lift the stroller handle up to unfold the frame.
4. The stroller will unfold on its own with the weight of the handle. Allow the frame to fully extend.
5. Make sure the release lever clicks back into place to lock the frame open.
6. Unbuckle any straps holding the seat material together. Allow the seat to unfold.
7. Extend the canopy and adjust the handle height to your needs.
8. Double check that the wheels are locked in position before jogging.
How to Unfold Graco Fast Action Jogger
Follow these instructions to easily unfold your Graco FastAction jogging stroller:
1. Place the stroller on the ground with all 3 wheels down.
2. Find the red fold release lever in the middle of the stroller frame.
3. Lift up on the fold release lever to unlatch the folded frame.
4. While holding the lever up, use your other hand to pull the stroller handle up and towards you.
5. The stroller frame will unfold on its own. Allow the frame to fully extend.
6. Make sure the release lever clicks back into the locked position.
7. Unbuckle the seat straps and extend the canopy.
8. Adjust the handle height as needed.
9. Confirm the front wheel is locked in the swivel position before use.
How to Unfold Graco Pramette Stroller
Here are the steps to unfold a Graco Pramette stroller:
1. Place the folded stroller frame on the ground with the wheels facing down.
2. Find the fold release lever on the side of the stroller frame. It is usually colored red or orange.
3. Lift up on the fold release lever to unlatch the locked folding mechanism.
4. With one hand on the handle, use your other hand to gently push down on the seat. This will allow the frame to pop open.
5. The stroller will unfold on its own once released. Allow it to fully extend.
6. Make sure the release lever clicks back into place to lock the frame open.
7. Unfasten any straps holding the seat fabric together and extend the canopy.
8. Adjust the handle height to a comfortable position.
9. Check that the stroller is completely unfolded before placing your child in the seat.
Getting the Hang of It
Learning how to unfold Graco stroller takes a bit of practice, but once you get the steps down for your model, it becomes second nature. As a parent who has unfolded many strollers, I hope these experience-based tips help you quickly get your Graco stroller prepped for your adventures
If you have any other Graco stroller unfolding questions, feel free to reach out in the comments. I’m happy to lend my experience to help fellow parents master the stroller fold.
