Folding a Graco Ready2Grow™ 2.0 double stroller requires locking the brakes, removing car seats, and pressing the side buttons on the handle to pull the latch upward for a self-standing collapse.
Grabbing the handle of a loaded double stroller at the end of a long walk usually means one thing: getting it closed fast and loaded into the trunk. The Ready2Grow 2.0 was designed to fold like a single stroller, but the procedure is specific to this model. Pressing the wrong trigger or leaving a car seat attached can jam the mechanism. This guide walks through the exact steps, the common mistakes that stop the fold cold, and what to do when the frame won’t budge.
What Makes the Ready2Grow 2.0 Fold Different From Older Models?
The 2.0 version uses a one-step, self-standing fold that collapses the frame flat with two side buttons on the handle. This is a distinct mechanism from Graco’s older double strollers. The DuoGlider requires sliding a red dot on the handlebar and twisting it forward, while the original Click Connect model uses side triggers near the cup holders. Using the wrong technique on the wrong model can damage the folding latch.
The key difference in the 2.0 is the storage latch — it engages automatically when the frame is fully collapsed, letting the stroller stand upright on its rear wheels and handle without tipping over.
How Do You Prepare the Stroller Before Folding?
Preparation takes about thirty seconds and prevents most folding failures. Skip any of these steps and the mechanism may bind or the stroller may roll mid-fold.
- Lock the rear brakes. Push both brake pedals down until they click. The stroller must be stationary before you touch the handle.
- Remove all car seats. Never fold the stroller with an infant car seat attached to the front or rear position. The seat or the folding mechanism can be damaged.
- Remove the elevated rear seat if you want the most compact fold possible. Leaving it attached increases the folded footprint but does not prevent the fold itself.
- Close both canopies and rotate the front canopy forward to its closed position so the fabric doesn’t catch on the latch.
- Check the seat baskets for toys, blankets, or loose items that could get trapped in the collapsing frame.
The Exact Folding Sequence for the Ready2Grow 2.0
Once the brakes are locked and the seats are clear, the actual collapse takes about five seconds. The Graco owner’s manual and official video tutorial show the same sequence.
- Press the folding buttons on both sides of the handle simultaneously. They are located on the inner surface of each handle grip.
- Pull the folding latch upward while holding both buttons. The latch releases the frame.
- Push the handle down toward the ground. The frame will begin to collapse on its own. Guide it the rest of the way until it’s flat.
- Listen for the automatic storage latch to engage. When it clicks, the stroller is locked in the folded position and will stand upright on its rear wheels and handle.
The stroller rests stably on its rear wheels and curved handle, with the frame flat and the storage latch visibly locked. If it wobbles or the frame springs back, the latch hasn’t engaged — repeat the press-and-pull step.
For parents who need a compact, self-standing fold for frequent trunk-loading, the article on the best compact double stroller for travel compares the Ready2Grow 2.0 against other space-saving models.
How to Unfold the Stroller Correctly
Opening the stroller is simpler, but skipping the snap-check is the most common unfolding mistake. If the frame isn’t fully locked, it can collapse while a child is in the seat.
- Release the storage latch. Pull the latch located near the handle.
- Lift the handle upward until the frame pops open fully.
- Ensure you feel and hear the frame snap fully into place before placing any child in the seat. Pull gently on the handle to confirm the lock is secure.
- Reattach the elevated rear seat or infant car seat before use.
| Stroller Model | Fold Mechanism | Self-Standing When Folded |
|---|---|---|
| Ready2Grow 2.0 / LX 2.0 | Side buttons on handle + pull latch upward | Yes, automatic storage latch |
| Ready2Grow Click Connect (older) | Side triggers near cup holders | No, lays flat on side |
| DuoGlider | Slide red dot on handlebar + twist forward | No, requires manual latch |
| Graco RoomFor2 | One-hand fold trigger on handle | Yes, with locking latch |
| Graco Sit and Stand (older) | Pull lever + fold frame | No, stands on wheels |
| Graco Jogger (e.g., FastAction Fold) | Gravity fold with handle pull | Yes, locks automatically |
Troubleshooting: When the Ready2Grow 2.0 Won’t Fold
The folding mechanism is mechanical and rarely jams, but a few situations stop the collapse. Each has a straightforward fix.
The handle buttons won’t press
Check that both brake pedals are fully engaged. If only one brake is locked, the safety interlock may prevent the buttons from depressing. Lock both pedals and try again.
The latch pulls but the frame doesn’t move
A car seat or an infant carrier still attached to the rear seat is the most likely cause. Double-check both seating positions — the front seat can also have a base installed. Remove all attachments and retry.
The storage latch won’t engage
This usually means the frame isn’t collapsed all the way. Push the handle down firmly toward the ground until you feel the latch click. If it still won’t catch, check that the canopies are fully closed and not blocking the folding path.
The stroller doesn’t stand upright when folded
The self-standing feature relies on the storage latch being fully engaged. If the stroller tips over, the latch hasn’t locked. Collapse it again, pushing the handle flat and listening for the click.
| Issue | Likely Cause | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Buttons won’t push | Both brakes not locked | Engage both rear brake pedals fully |
| Frame won’t collapse | Car seat attached | Remove all infant carriers and seats |
| Storage latch won’t click | Frame not fully compressed | Push handle down further toward ground |
| Stroller tips over | Latch not engaged | Refold and confirm click before letting go |
Finish With the Right Fold
Fold the Ready2Grow 2.0 by locking the brakes, removing all seats, pressing both side buttons, and pulling the handle latch upward until the storage latch clicks and the stroller stands alone. Match your model — if you have an older Click Connect or a DuoGlider, the folding sequence is entirely different and trying the 2.0 method will not work.
FAQs
Can you fold the Ready2Grow 2.0 with one hand?
No, the mechanism requires pressing both side buttons on the handle simultaneously while pulling the latch, which takes two hands. The collapse itself is one continuous motion once both buttons are pressed.
Does the front seat need to be removed before folding?
No, the front seat can stay attached for the fold. Only remove the elevated rear seat if you need the most compact footprint. The mechanism is designed to fold with the front seat in place.
Why does my Graco stroller fold but then pop back open?
The automatic storage latch isn’t engaging fully. Push the handle all the way down toward the ground until you hear the latch click. If the frame still springs back, check that no fabric or toys are blocking the latch path.
Is the fold the same on the Ready2Grow LX 2.0?
Yes, the LX 2.0 shares the exact same folding mechanism and procedure. The only differences between the two models are seat padding and included accessories.
Can I fold the stroller with a Graco SnugRide car seat attached?
No, the official manual warns against folding with any car seat installed. The seat or the car seat’s base can be permanently damaged. Always remove the car seat before collapsing the frame.
References & Sources
- Graco Baby. “Ready2Grow 2.0 Double Stroller Product Page.” Official product details, self-standing fold description.