Last Updated on January 12, 2026 by Susanna Zuyeva
After lugging heavy grocery bags up three flights of stairs and dealing with a sore shoulder for weeks, I knew something had to change. I spent the last month testing three highly-rated folding grocery carts to see which one actually delivers on its promises.
The difference was immediate. No more multiple trips. No more strained muscles. Just smooth rolling and easy storage.
Quick Comparison Table
| Feature | Wellmax WM99024S | Blomoba Wagon | Gioventù Cart |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weight Capacity | 66 lbs | 220 lbs | 80 lbs |
| Wheel Size | 3″ front / 7″ rear | 360° rotatable | 5.5″ all wheels |
| Material | Premium Metal | Carbon Steel + Oxford Fabric | Stainless Steel |
| Weight | Lightweight | Medium | 15 lbs |
| Special Feature | Snap-on wheels | Flexible handle | Single-hand fold |
| Best For | Apartment living | Heavy loads & outdoor use | Quick errands |
Our Top Picks
Best Overall: Wellmax WM99024S – Perfect balance of capacity, maneuverability, and compact storage for daily grocery runs.
Best for Heavy Loads: Blomoba Collapsible Wagon – Holds 220 lbs and works equally well for camping or beach trips.
Premium Choice: Gioventù Folding Cart – Premium build quality with removable basket and 3-year warranty.
Detailed Product Reviews
1. Wellmax WM99024S Grocery Utility Shopping Cart
Testing Results: How It Felt in My Hands
The moment I unboxed the Wellmax, I was impressed by how solid it felt despite being lightweight. Assembly took me less than 3 minutes – just snap the back wheels on and you’re ready. The ergonomic handle fit comfortably in my grip, and the silver metal finish looked far more expensive than the price tag suggested.
Performance: How It Worked in Real-Time
I loaded this cart with 60 lbs of groceries (tested on my bathroom scale) and rolled it over cracked sidewalks, up curbs, and through narrow grocery store aisles. The 360-degree front swivel wheels made turning effortless. When I got home, the 7-inch rear wheels handled my apartment building stairs better than I expected.
The folding mechanism is genius. It collapses completely flat – I measured it at just 4 inches wide. It now lives behind my bedroom door, taking up almost no space.
What I Like
- Smooth maneuverability: Those swivel wheels are game-changers in tight spaces
- Genuinely compact storage: Actually fits in small apartments unlike other “foldable” carts
- Rust-resistant metal: Left it outside during an unexpected rain – no rust spots appeared
- 66 lb capacity: Handles a full week’s worth of groceries for one person
- Snap-on wheels: Makes storage even more compact when you pop the back wheels off
What Could Be Better
- The basket is open-top, so small items can fall through (I use a reusable grocery bag inside)
- Not ideal for stairs if you’re carrying maximum weight – the cart itself is light but balance gets tricky
- The wheels can be loud on tile floors
How I Clean It
I wipe down the metal frame with a damp microfiber cloth after grocery trips. For tougher dirt, I use mild dish soap and water. The wheels occasionally need hair and debris removed – I just use scissors to cut away any tangled mess. Takes less than 2 minutes monthly.
2. Blomoba Collapsible Wagon with Wheels
Testing Results: How It Felt in My Hands
The Blomoba arrived in black, and the 300D Oxford fabric felt thick and durable immediately. Setup was slightly more involved than the Wellmax but still took under 5 minutes. The telescopic handle adjusts to multiple heights, which I appreciated since I’m 6’1″ and most carts feel too short.
Performance: How It Worked in Real-Time
I pushed this wagon to its limits. I loaded 180 lbs of camping gear (tent, sleeping bags, cooler, chairs) and pulled it across grass, gravel, and sand during a beach camping trip. The carbon steel frame didn’t bend or creak once.
The 360-degree wheels performed beautifully on uneven terrain. What really impressed me was how stable it remained even when fully loaded – the wider base prevents tipping that I’ve experienced with narrower carts.
What I Like
- 220 lb capacity: This is a beast. Handles family-sized shopping or outdoor equipment
- Versatile terrain handling: Worked equally well on beach sand and city streets
- Water-resistant fabric: Spilled a drink inside – wiped clean with no staining
- Adjustable handle: Comfortable for different heights and pushing vs. pulling
- Compact fold: Collapses to 7.48″ x 16.54″ x 12.20″ – fits in most car trunks
What Could Be Better
- Heavier than the Wellmax, so it’s not ideal if you have to carry the empty cart far
- The fabric can hold odors if you transport fish or strong-smelling items
- Takes more trunk space even when folded compared to metal frame carts
How I Clean It
The Oxford fabric wipes clean with water and mild detergent. For deeper cleaning, I spot-treat stains with a soft brush and soapy water. The metal frame gets the same treatment as the Wellmax. After beach trips, I rinse the wheels with a hose to remove sand. Air dry completely before folding to prevent mildew.
3. Gioventù Folding Shopping Cart with Removable Basket
Testing Results: How It Felt in My Hands
The Gioventù feels premium from the first touch. The stainless steel construction is noticeably more refined than standard metal carts. At 15 lbs, it’s the heaviest of the three, but that weight translates to stability. The single-hand fold mechanism worked exactly as advertised – press the quick-release button and it collapses smoothly.
Performance: How It Worked in Real-Time
I used this cart primarily for quick grocery runs and farmer’s market trips. The removable basket is the standout feature – I can detach it and carry it like a tote while keeping the cart frame outside. The undercarriage storage compartment holds another 20-30 lbs, which I used for canned goods and drinks.
The EVA wheels are noticeably quieter than the others. I could roll this through my apartment building at 6 AM without waking anyone. The rear wheel brakes provided excellent stability when loading or unloading on inclines.
What I Like
- Removable basket: Shop without the cart frame – genius for crowded stores
- Quiet EVA wheels: Perfect for early morning or late night use
- Rear wheel brakes: Added safety on slopes and while loading
- Premium build quality: Stainless steel will outlast cheaper materials
- 3-year warranty: Best warranty coverage of the three options
What Could Be Better
- The highest price point of the three carts
- 15 lbs makes it less portable than the Wellmax
- The 80 lb capacity is lower than the Blomoba (though sufficient for most grocery trips)
How I Clean It
The stainless steel frame resists fingerprints and smudges better than painted metal. I clean it monthly with stainless steel cleaner spray and a microfiber cloth. The nylon mesh basket can be hand-washed in the sink with dish soap. The Oxford undercarriage wipes clean easily. The EVA wheels rarely need cleaning but I brush off debris as needed.
Our Expertise: Why Trust My Reviews?
I tested these carts over 30 days of real-world use, not just a single test drive. I’m a product reviewer who focuses on home and lifestyle items, and I’ve tested over 50 different shopping carts, wagons, and utility carriers in the past three years.
My testing process included:
- Loading each cart to maximum capacity and 20% over to test durability
- Using them on multiple surfaces (concrete, tile, carpet, grass, gravel, sand)
- Folding and unfolding each cart 50+ times to test mechanism durability
- Measuring actual dimensions and comparing to manufacturer claims
- Testing in various weather conditions including rain
- Evaluating long-term performance after 30 days of regular use
I purchase products with my own money or through affiliate partnerships, but I never accept payment from manufacturers for positive reviews. My recommendations are based solely on performance.
Buying Guide: What to Consider Before Buying
Weight Capacity vs. Cart Weight
Higher weight capacity usually means a heavier cart. Consider what you’ll typically carry. For apartment dwellers doing weekly grocery runs, 66-80 lbs is sufficient. For families or outdoor enthusiasts, invest in 150-220 lb capacity.
Wheel Configuration Matters
- Front swivel wheels: Essential for navigating tight grocery store aisles
- Larger rear wheels: Better for stairs and uneven surfaces
- EVA or TPR wheels: Quieter than hard plastic
- Rear brakes: Necessary if you live in a hilly area
Look for at least 5-inch wheels. Anything smaller struggles with curbs and obstacles.
Storage Dimensions
Measure where you’ll store the cart before buying. “Foldable” doesn’t always mean compact. The Wellmax at 4 inches wide beats most competitors. If you’re storing in a car trunk permanently, the Blomoba’s 7.48-inch folded width is acceptable.
Material Durability
- Stainless steel: Most durable, rust-proof, heaviest
- Metal with rust-resistant coating: Good balance of weight and durability
- Carbon steel with fabric: Excellent for outdoor use, requires more maintenance
Avoid carts with plastic frames if you plan to carry heavy loads regularly.
Basket vs. Open Frame Design
Open metal frames work great with reusable grocery bags but small items can fall through. Fabric basket wagons contain everything but can retain odors. Removable baskets offer the best flexibility but cost more.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can these carts handle stairs?
Yes, but with limitations. The Wellmax and Gioventù handle stairs better due to their wheeled design – you can tilt and roll them up step by step. The Blomoba wagon is better carried up stairs when loaded. None are ideal for stairs with maximum weight loads.
How do I prevent small items from falling through metal frames?
Use a reusable grocery bag or canvas tote inside the cart. I keep a folded bag in my car specifically for this purpose. Some users also add cardboard to the bottom.
Are these carts allowed in grocery stores?
Most stores allow personal shopping carts, but policies vary. I’ve used all three in major grocery chains without issues. The Gioventù with its removable basket gives you the most flexibility – remove the basket and leave the frame outside if needed.
Which cart is best for elderly users?
The Gioventù wins here. The rear wheel brakes provide stability, the handle is comfortable, and at 15 lbs it won’t blow away in wind. The single-hand fold is also easier for users with limited strength. However, if weight is a major concern, the lightweight Wellmax is easier to maneuver.
Can I use these for laundry?
Absolutely. I’ve used the Wellmax and Blomoba for laundry regularly. The Blomoba’s 220 lb capacity handles large families’ laundry loads. The fabric basket contains everything without items falling out. Just ensure your laundry detergent is sealed to prevent spills.
How long do these carts typically last?
Based on my testing and user reviews: The Wellmax lasts 2-3 years with regular use. The Blomoba’s weak point is the fabric, which may fray after 18-24 months of heavy use. The Gioventù’s stainless steel construction should last 5+ years easily, which justifies the higher price.
Do these work on cobblestone or brick sidewalks?
The Blomoba handles rough surfaces best due to its larger wheels and wagon design. The Wellmax works but you’ll feel every bump. The Gioventù’s 5.5-inch wheels are adequate for occasional rough terrain but not ideal if that’s your daily route.
Final Verdict
Choose the Wellmax WM99024S if you live in a small apartment, need something lightweight and compact, and primarily shop for one or two people. It’s the best value for everyday grocery shopping.
Choose the Blomoba Collapsible Wagon if you need maximum capacity, plan to use it for outdoor activities beyond grocery shopping, or regularly transport heavy loads. It’s the most versatile option.
Choose the Gioventù Folding Cart if you want premium quality, the quietest operation, and plan to use it for years. The 3-year warranty and removable basket justify the higher investment for serious shoppers.
I personally keep the Wellmax for quick trips and the Blomoba for weekend camping. You can’t go wrong with any of these three options – they all outperform the cheap grocery carts that break after a few months.