Closing a Graco stroller depends on the individual model, but most can be done in one of three ways: the FastAction Fold, the two-handed handlebar fold, and the pull and lift strap fold.
While it is always a good idea to refer to your model’s manual for detailed instructions, the following are some general instructions for the most frequent types.
One hand Fast action fold
This is the signature folding mechanism for Graco, which is mostly found in jogging and standard travel systems. (“FastActionâ„¢ Fold Jogger Click Connectâ„¢ Travel System”, n.d.)
Prepare the stroller.
1. Lock the rear wheels using the foot brake.
2. Remove any trays and associated car seat carriers.
3. Fold back the canopy to ensure it is fully collapsed.
Find the fold strap.
The folding strap is usually in a pocket in the seat pad area; thus, the canopy needs to be fully folded back to do this.
Lift and fold.
Pull the strap upwards and immediately begin lifting the stroller to activate the fold motion. The stroller should be able to stand on its own after folding, thus it is assumed to be self-folding.
Two-hand handlebar fold
This is mostly used for older strollers and double strollers. (“5 Easy Steps to Close a Stroller Perfectly”, n.d.)
Prepare the stroller. The back canopies need to be folded, thus the back brakes should be engaged.
Releasing a lock can be different depending on the model. Some users might have to shift a thumb switch while twisting the handle, while other users might switch buttons.
Some other users might have to squeeze two levers on the outer edge of the handlebars. For users who have other models, there might be different instructions.
Start folding. After unlocking, the users should push down the handle toward the front wheels of the devices. Continue pushing until the frame clicks to a folded position, confirming that the frame is locked properly.
Two-hand pull trigger folding is a technique that is usually used on modular Graco strollers. Strollers of other brands might implement different techniques.
How to Collapse a Stroller: Essential Safety Tips
Prepare the stroller. Lock the wheel brakes, and take off the infant car seat first. Rules say the safest position is with the car seat in an upright, forward-facing position. (“Graco Ready2Grow Series Stroller Owner’s Manual”, n.d.)
Find both triggers. There should be a right on top of the handlebars, or to the right or left of the user’s handlebars.
Lift both triggers and push the stroller down to fold. Lifting both triggers engages the latch, letting the foldable stroller stand up on its own.
Lighten the Load: Remove extra pieces, attachments, and trays to make the stroller easier to fold.
Check Seat Position
Ensure the seat is in the upright, forward-facing position.
Armrest System Maintenance: More precisely, the bottom of the armrest system. Using the armrest system attached to the base will greatly assist in the installation of the safety seat/reducing the height.
Make sure the rest is in the appropriate position. If the base is too low, the system functions can be torn without any need for tools.
Also Read:Â Can A Bumpy Stroller Ride Cause Brain Damage?( Updated 2026)
How to Fold the Graco Ready2Jet™ Stroller — Step by Step
Before folding the stroller, ensure your child is safely removed and clear the seat of any heavy items or storage.
Activate the one-hand automatic fold. Locate the fold button or lever, which is usually found just beneath the right handle grip. Note that its exact location may vary depending on the style of the frame.
Press or pull it. This stroller offers a self-folding mechanism that does a one-hand fold, and it’s almost no effort at all.
After it self-folds, it allows the stroller to fold into a self-standing compact upright form. Graco Baby+2Amazon+2Amazon.
It does fold upright, so it does take up less width, and it’s much easier to handle and store.
Optional is the use of the belly bar as a carry handle.
The belly bar is removable. Also, it holds onto the bar, which is convenient for the transportation of the folded stroller. The Stroller Mom+1Graco Baby+2Amazon+2.
How easy is it to store or transport?
It only weighs 13.2 lb, which makes it ultra lightweight and compact, so it’s easy to store or carry around Manua.ls+3Graco Baby+3Amazon+3.
Quick Summary Table
| Step | Action |
| 1⃣ | Remove child and items |
| 2⃣ | Engage brakes (optional) |
| 3⃣ | Fold canopy |
| 4⃣ | Find fold strap or lever |
| 5⃣ | Pull strap to fold |
| 6⃣ | Allow stroller to self-collapse and stand upright |
| 7⃣ | Secure fold and carry |
TIPS & NOTES
The upright self-standing fold for quick storage works well, though some users report it may wobble when upright. Keeping it balanced with your leg as you load might help. You may also find this design useful when taking your child to restaurants and other facilities where a seat is not provided. You can read more on it on Reddit, The Stroller Mom, Graco Baby, and on Amazon.
Although compact, the foldable design might not fit all overhead cabin spaces on airplanes. It is best to inquire with your airline. A useful review is on The Stroller Mom.
At 13.2 lbs, the Ready2Jet stroller is one of the lightest options available. It was specifically designed not to need additional adapters, thus enhancing portability. All information can be checked on the Graco Baby, Amazon, and the Manual.
Also Read: Can Baby Eat In Stroller?
How to Fold the Graco Modes™ Nest2Grow® Stroller
Follow these quick steps.
Step 1: Prepare the Stroller.
Remove the child and any stored items from the seat and storage basket.
Assemble the stroller on a flat area and make sure the brakes are on to avoid any movement.
Step 2: Collapse the Canopy.
Start by folding the canopy back in a gentle manner until it rests against the handle and frame.
Step 3: Recline and Adjust.
Depending on your model, the seat can always be reclined if needed, or check that it’s in a neutral position.
Make sure there are no latches or straps that need some adjustment or slack.
Step 4: Activate the Folding Mechanism.
Find the folding release lever or press the button, which is usually by the handle or on the right side.
While pressing or squeezing the handle, lower the seat on the stroller or pull up the frame.
Step 5: Collapse the Frame.
Slump the stroller and it should fold inwards, meaning the wheels and the handles should get closer.
Make sure the frame is compact and securely placed to compact the stroller.
Step 6: Secure and Carry.
Fully engage the latch on the stroller. Once the latch is engaged, the stroller can now be carried freely.
Use the carry handle or the bumper bar to lift and carry the stroller with ease.
Please note:
Avoid the hinges when folding the stroller so your fingers do not get pinched.
Make sure the stroller is completely folded and locked before lifting or storing.
If your model has a different folding method, such as one-hand folding, it may differ a little, but the video shows the correct method for this stroller.
How to Fold and Unfold the Graco® FastAction™ Stroller SE
Here is a video on YouTube that shows how to fold and unfold the Graco FastAction SE Stroller. Graco has trademarked a one-second, one-hand, self-standing fold for the stroller.
How to Fold the Graco Fast Action SE Stroller
Prepare the Stroller
Please ensure there is no child or any belongings, and the stroller is standing on a flat surface.
Locate the Folding Strap
The simple folding mechanism is a strap located under the seat, usually between the knees or at the seat hinge.
Pull the Folding Strap
Use one hand and pull up on the strap with considerable force. The stroller should be almost fully collapsed.
The Fold
When it comes to folding, this is the most convenient and time-saving method, which is also the simplest. The Fast Action SE model is built so that it can be folded and stored in a standing position. By pulling the strap, the stroller will begin to fold. The position the stroller will end up in is small and manageable, which makes its self-standing capabilities quite useful.
Also Read: How Long Do Strollers Last? (Updated 2025)
How to Unfold the Graco Fast Action SE Stroller
Unlock the Fold
The stroller needs to be positioned on its wheels, and the latch that has been holding the stroller folded needs to be located.
Release and Lift
To unlock the frame, the folding strap must be removed or pulled. While this is being done, it is necessary to hold onto the frame or the handle and gently lift the stroller. It will open up to a fully open condition.
Make Sure it Locks Completely
The stroller can be placed on the ground after a clicking sound is made, which is when the frame is fully secured.
Quick Reference: Folding vs. Unfolding
| Action | What to Do |
| Fold | Remove items → Pull the strap under the seat → Stroller collapses upright |
| Unfold | Release the latch or strap → Lift handle → Ensure frame locks before use |
Helpful tips and safety reminders
Use One Hand: Folding a stroller and holding a baby can be difficult, so this stroller has been designed so that it can be used with only one hand.
Be Careful: Keep your hands and fingers away from the hinge areas when folding or unfolding the stroller. Check the Gentleman’s Strap: Be sure to double-check that the belt is properly secured, as it is often the cause of the malfunction.
Model Fluctuations: Some Graco strollers may have a different folding method. If this method is not accessible, see if the model has a specific strap, button, or lever that may be folded.
(help.gracobaby.com, YouTube, download.gracobaby.com)
FAQS On How to close the Graco stroller?
Do any Graco strollers have distinct folding mechanisms?
Yes, Graco specializes in a range of unique folding mechanisms that span from a one-second, one-handed strap-pull to automatic self-standing folds. These developments add value to the strollers, especially for parents on the go.
Graco’s unique folding mechanisms
Fast Action Fold (Strap-pull)
This is one of Graco’s most famous folding systems. It is a common sight on most of the FastAction and FastAction Jogger models. It aims for ultimate ease of use.
How it works: There is a red strap that runs from the left side to the right side of the stroller and attaches to the very front of the seat. This strap is called the one-handed folding strap. When this strap is pulled with one hand, the stroller will fold in half in one second.
Key features:
One-second fold: Quick folding is possible to enable packing or storage.
One-handed operation: A design that enables a parent to carry their child with one arm and use the other to fold the stroller.
Automatic storage latch: The securing feature is activated whenever the stroller is touched to lock, keeping it in the folded position for safekeeping.
One-Handed Automatic Self-Stand Fold
This mechanism is found on the more lightweight and compact models, such as the Ready2Jet.
How it works: Sets of spokes on the wheels are activated by the horizontal squeeze of the lever on the handle, while a thumb slider sets a lateral lock. The stroller is then automatically folded and self-stands for easy storage.
Key Features:
Self-standing: The folded stroller frame is capable of remaining upright without falling over, which is useful for storage in a closet or at the entrance of a home or building.
One-hand operation: It is still possible to fold the stroller with only one hand while having one hand free to tend to the child.
Two-Hand Trigger Fold
All larger models of Graco strollers, especially double strollers such as the Ready2Grow, require the operation of both hands to promote safety and stability.
How it works: Fold triggers are located on the two sides of the handlebars. Pushing these in and pulling up enables the stroller to collapse.
Key Features:
Accommodating double strollers: This method is intended for the larger weight and two-seated size of a double stroller. Self-standing: In spite of their bulk, many double models include a self-standing fold, which facilitates easier storage.
Modes Reversible Seat Fold
This unique feature of the Graco Modes line allows for various seating arrangements and a more streamlined fold, which is a primary selling feature for the line.
How it works: The seat has to be put in the forward-facing upright position for the stroller to fold with the seat still attached. To achieve the most compact fold, the seat or car seat has to be removed. The stroller then folds into a self-standing, compact size.
Key features:
Compact design: The removable seat allows for a smaller folded footprint.
Maximum versatility: It has three modes of use and seat attachment/ detachment folding options.
What should I do if my Graco stroller won’t fold?
If your Graco stroller won’t fold, obstructions and disconnections within the folding mechanism, such as the distal handle, or disconnected and jammed locks, should be addressed first. Now, the accessories might be the remnants of the infant seat or the canopy; kindly check to see if any are obstructing the clear folding path. First, set the brakes, and while pulling the fold strap or trigger, try to realign the frame, unclenching as much as possible.
If you still can’t fold your Graco stroller: If the hinges and folds refuse to budge, try some WD-40 or its cousins. If the folding mechanism breaks, give Graco customer service a call. This schematic will help Graco figure out the problem and offer some spare parts as well.
Step-by-step Troubleshooting
- Check for obstructions:
All accessories must be removed for better folding, including the child’s tray or canopy and car seats.
- Lock the brakes:
Always engage the stroller’s brakes first before starting the fold.
- Locate the fold mechanism:
Step one is locating the fold trigger, handle, or strap underneath the seat box.
- Try the fold mechanism:
This slide of the motion pulls down to the end, then gently realigns the stroller frame side to side or up and down while pulling the strap or lever up.
- Apply Lubricant:
Use a lubricant such as WD-40 and spray it along the bolts and the hinges of the frame if the moving mechanism feels rigid.
- Look for a Torn Connection:
Check the folding part of the device and make sure the handlebar and frame connection point has not loosened.
- Unstick a Lock That is Engaged:
Use a flat-head screwdriver to press the side of the frame and the lock that may need to be disengaged for folding if the lock is stuck.
If the Stroller is Still Stuck:
You may need to get in touch with Graco customer support if you’re suspicious that there is a broken part. They offer specific support for particular models and can assist with ordering parts that need to be replaced.
Read more on baby-stroller
