Frequently Asked Questions
Please see the questions and answers below for further information.

I have heard that Maclaren buggies are being recalled in the USA. Why is this?
Maclaren has noticed a small increase in the number of incidents in the USA where children have trapped their finger in the hinge joint of the buggy whilst their carer is folding or unfolding it so, as a precautionary measure, they have initiated a voluntary programme, which involves distributing a set of covers for the elbow joints of the buggies to consumers.

Maclaren buggies are not actually being returned to stores for refund or repair. In the USA, the term 'recall' is used for a variety of corrective or precautionary actions and Maclaren USA and in this case it refers to the distribution of covers for the elbow joint.

The elbow joint hinge mechanism of an umbrella design buggy poses a risk to the child if they inadvertently come into contact with the buggy when it is being unfolded/opened by the carer. When the buggy is fully opened and erect there is no risk of finger entrapment.

Is there a similar programme planned for the UK?
In consultation with UK Trading Standards, our analysis suggested that the number of incidents in the UK and Europe did not warrant similar action, especially as there is no product defect or non-compliance with industry standards involved.

However after listening to our customers we are providing covers to those consumers who wish to have them.

We do however, continue to stress to all of our customers that carers keep their children clear of their buggy while it being unfolded or folded , which prevents injuries of this type happening. Your buggy is safe when used in accordance with operating instructions.

As a precaution, we have already placed additional warning labels on the buggy and in the instruction manual, stressing that carers should take the basic precautions and keep children away from the buggy while it is being unfolded or folded.

How do I get a set of covers?
Please enter your details on the order form on this website.

How do I install the covers?

Please check the demo:

Hinge cover instructions: Single | Double

What are the basic precautions?
The main instructions are to:

  • Keep children clear of the stroller during opening and folding.
  • Always use the safety harness.
  • Always apply the brakes when stationary.
  • Never leave your child unattended - even with the harness fastened.
  • Don't overload the buggy. Heavy items hanging from the handles can cause it to topple over.
  • Don't let children play or climb on a stroller and don't carry a second child on a stroller designed for one child.
  • Negotiate curbs carefully. Wherever possible always carry a stroller down flights of stairs.

Are Maclaren Buggies safe?
Yes, Maclaren buggies meet - and often exceed - all of the stringent EU compliance standards for products in our category and there have been no product defects or non-compliances.

Buggies are mechanical products that, like many other products, invariably have scissor or pinch points that cannot be eliminated, hence the need to be careful operating the product around children.

Maclaren's famous umbrella buggies have served as the benchmark for quality for this category and have maintained outstanding records for safety and durability for over 40 years. The classic Owen Maclaren multifold buggy design has been adopted by many brands around the world and tens of millions of buggies sold have a similar design.

Do I need to do anything to my buggy?
No. We would only stress that you keep children away from the buggy whilst unfolding or folding it.

You should also keep the buggy clean and check that it is good working order before you use it. If you have any problems, contact Maclaren Customer Services or contact one of our service centres (listed on our website).