This post is sponsored by Pampers but all of the opinions within are those of The Everymom editorial board. We only recommend products we genuinely love.
"Welcome to yet another milestone in your kiddo’s life—and yes, it is all happening way too fast. Whether this is your first time potty training or your next go-around, I totally get your trepidation about this big step in your LO’s development. Potty training has no shortage of horror stories (a couple of us can add to that lore), but don’t freak out just yet. While I’ll never claim potty training is “fun” (for parents at least), it certainly doesn’t have to be a nightmare with proper preparation and support. I polled all the expert moms on our team, and together we’re providing you with our tried-and-true tips.
As moms who’ve been through it, we’re partnering with our friends at Pampers to bring you The Everymom’s Potty Training University. School is in session, and in today’s installment, we’re breaking down everything you need to know before you start—from signs of readiness to training methods to potty essentials you can trust (enter: the training pants that have saved us time and time again). Whether you’re wondering if it’s time to jump in, figuring out your plan of action, or stockpiling your training cart, we’ve got you covered. Read on for everything you need to know before you start:
Step 1: Figure out if your kid is ready
Toddlers can typically begin potty training during the 18 to 36-month range, but the exact timing truly varies from kid to kid. Some kids are eager and willing at 2, while others (like a few of our kids) are every bit of 3 (or older). More important than age, these are the signs of readiness kids should exhibit according to experts:
Physical signs of potty readiness:
- Staying dry for longer periods
- Can walk to and sit on the potty
- Ability to pull pants up and down
- Follow simple two-step instructions
- Communicate the need to go potty
Behavioral signs of potty readiness:
- Showing interest in using the toilet
- Expressing discomfort with dirty diapers
- Mimicking adult bathroom behaviors
- Ability to say no, which shows independence
- A desire to cooperate more than engage in power struggles
However, even if your child is showing signs they’re ready to toilet train, it’s important you feel ready, too. This process requires a significant amount of patience and dedication. Take into consideration what other life changes are occurring in your family as well. For instance, maybe you’ve just welcomed a second little one. That may not be the best time to introduce another change for you or your firstborn. Make sure to plan ahead and start the transition when you and/or another caregiver can properly devote the energy to toileting.
Pro tip: We recommend introducing training pants before officially starting training so your LO can become familiar with the pushing and pulling motions. We even let our kiddos practice putting them on their stuffed animals since role-play is extremely beneficial for kids learning a new skill. Get them excited by choosing trainers with character designs and feel most similar to undies like these Easy Ups. But don’t worry, we’ll share more of our top training products in step three.
Easy Ups are available online or in most major retailers so you can easily stock up before the big transition.
Step 2: Choose a potty training method
Possibly the most overwhelming decision in this process is choosing which approach to implement. We did the legwork for you and broke the most popular toileting methods down into easy-to-digest categories. Keep in mind that there’s no right or wrong way to do this—every child is different, so select a method that fits best with their personality (and yours).
| 3-Day Method | Child wears no undies for the first couple of days at home, and parent directs child to potty as soon as they show signs of “going.” |
| Child-Led Method | Child “leads” the potty training process, which is done on the child’s schedule or when they are “ready.” |
| Parent-Led Method | Parent creates a structured routine for potty training with consistent or timed trips to the potty and provides reinforcements or rewards. |
| Gradual Method | Parent incorporates potty in their child’s routine at an early age and gradually shifts to undies only as child uses potty more consistently. |
| Combination Method | A combination of everything above! |
3-Day Method
Also known as the “weekend” or “bare-bottom” method, this fast-track training has become especially popular over the last few years. There are a few variations, but the process usually starts in stages/days. In stage one, the child spends at least a full day naked or without pants at home, which helps them (and you) easily identify their body’s cues. Once they are making it to the potty consistently, you’ll start stage two and introduce pants (no undies yet) and be able to leave on short outings. Stage two lasts the longest as they practice the new skill. You’ll finally introduce undies in the last stage once they’re having minimal to no accidents.
- Pros: It’s very effective and works well for parents who need to quickly train kids (like before they start school). This method promotes independence long-term since they learn body awareness vs. only going when you tell them to.
- Cons: No clothes means more mess. Some parents may not be comfortable with the whole naked thing, either. It also means being constrained to one place (your house) for a long period of time.
Our experience: A few of our editors tried this method with their kids and have had a variety of successful and unsuccessful experiences. It seems many toddlers struggle to get fully trained during this short amount of time (my own included), so don’t feel discouraged if this method doesn’t end up working out for you either. Plus, using Easy Ups training pants can be the solution to enabling your kiddo to make progress towards undies without all the mess and stress.
Child-Led Method
Pediatrician T. Berry Brazelton introduced this philosophy in 1962, which follows the child’s “lead” by introducing the potty once they show interest. It can be started at any age between 2 and 3 but can often take much longer than other methods since it’s based on the child. However, because they are taking the lead, it reduces the likelihood of regressions later on.
- Pros: Feels more relaxed than other methods and doesn’t require setting aside time for potty training as it happens naturally over time.
- Cons: Some kids can struggle to make progress without clear guidance or consistency from parents. Going back and forth between diapers and undies or training pants could also feel confusing for them.
Our experience: This method may work best for you if your LO has an older sibling who can influence their desire to use the potty from a young age. We recommend providing lots of positive reinforcement to increase their natural interest, such as “potty parties” (like a dance party every time they go), poop sprinkles (yes, we can confirm this works), or character-themed training pants and potty seats.
Parent-Led Method
In this approach, parents implement a potty schedule and guide the child to the potty during set intervals (like before nap time, after meals, or even hourly). This method sticks to the belief that if kids are posed the question, “Do you need to potty?” they will most likely say no. This eliminates that scenario and provides them with plenty of opportunities to successfully go in the toilet. Following a schedule will eventually start a predictable pattern for their bodies to follow. The feeling of needing to “go” will become associated with sitting on the potty and translate to the child holding it until they reach the seat.
- Pros: Works well for children with multiple caregivers or in a daycare setting since everyone can follow the same schedule. There are fewer accidents since a kid can wear training pants between trips to the potty.
- Cons: It takes longer than the fast-track method since the child isn’t immediately learning to sense their body’s cues and is instead following the parent’s guidance. Some kids can also show more resistance, especially if they are in the middle of playing.
Our experience: Rewards and extra encouragement will help combat child resistance to sitting on the potty. Think sticker charts, fun prizes, and over-the-top celebrations whenever they successfully sit (regardless of going or not).
Gradual Method
Somewhat of a fusion between child-led and parent-led, the gradual method has the parent initiate toilet training and incorporate it into the child’s daily routine. But rather than following a strict schedule and making an immediate switch to undies, parents work their way there based on the child’s receptiveness. They may start with a couple of scheduled trips to the potty or designated diaper-free times and eventually make the shift once the kid seems eager and ready.
- Pros: Because parents are “gently” guiding while still following a child’s cues, it’s easier to get the kid’s overall buy-in.
- Cons: The lack of consistency could be confusing for kids who prefer predictability or attend daycare with more strict toileting rules.
Our experience: Bring out the potty as early as possible to spark their interest and familiarize them with sitting on it (even if they’re fully clothed). If you have a kid that thrives on structure, then approaches like this may not be for them.
Combination Method
A combination of everything above! Schedules, sticker charts, no pants at home, training pants during outings, prizes—anything goes. If your kid’s personality doesn’t quite fit with any of these methods, take your fave elements from each and do what works best for both of you.
- Pros: Less stress, more vibes.
- Cons: If your daycare or preschool isn’t on board with whatever combo you’ve implemented over the weekend, your progress could be wasted.
Our experience: Whatever you choose to do, make sure everyone involved stays consistent.
Step 3: Stock up on the essentials
Training Pants
Regardless of what method you go with, training pants will be an essential part of your child’s potty training process. Whether your kid only uses them at night or during outings, choosing training pants that prioritize comfort and absorbability is key. The main complaint parents typically have about training pants is cost and that they still feel like diapers. That’s why we swear by Pampers Easy Ups since they’re more affordable than leading competitors and the material and cut feel similar to undies.
Easy Ups have dual leak-guard barriers with up to 100 percent leakproof protection, so no messes overnight or during accidents. They’re super soft, like cotton undies, making them comfy and easy to move in. Several of our kids have sensitive skin and haven’t experienced any skin reactions using Easy Ups since they’re dermatologically tested and hypoallergenic. Our kiddos also have no issues pulling up and down because of the 360 stretchy waistband—a must during those close-call trips to the potty. And when your LO is too close to “going” to push them down in time, Easy Ups have easy-tear sides to make removal extra quick. As a team full of Bluey fans (kids and parents alike), their adorable designs are such a fun bonus (there’s a My Little Pony design, too!).
Pampers
Choose from fun Bluey and My Little Poney designs to help build excitement for your little one.
Avaiable in sizes 2T-3T to 5T-6T, conveniently find your kids’ perfect fit online now!
Pampers
Just cause they’re using the toilet doesn’t mean the wipes are officially gone. Toddlers won’t fully learn how to clean themselves for quite a while, so wipes are a much easier way to ensure they stay fresh and clean. These plant-based wipes are 5x stronger than leading brands, hypoallergenic, and fragrance free.
Potty
There’s a whole world of potties, and each has different features or operates in different ways. Purchase a potty (or maybe multiple) based on the training approach you’re going with. If you’re considering a bare-bottom method, we suggest purchasing one that’s easy to move around the house so your LO has constant access (and hopefully fewer accidents). If you’re going the gradual or parent-led route, a potty seat that attaches to the big toilet may be your preferred option. Parents who want their children to lead the training process would benefit from character-themed potties to help organically encourage their kids’ desire to use the toilet.
Frida Baby
This potty makes a realistic flushing sound, which many kids find exciting and motivating when learning. With a built-in compartment for wipes or toys, plus a removable bowl that makes clean-up easy, it’s a super practical tool to utilize!
Summer by Ingenuity
With its lifelike design, this potty helps kids feel like they’re using a real toilet. It includes a convenient flushing handle and removable potty seat that can transition to a standard toilet, making it very versatile for long-term use.
Bluey
Match your LO’s Bluey Easy Ups to this adorable Bluey-themed potty. Designed for comfort, this sturdy potty chair offers a high backrest and armrests for added support, making it great for longer sits and learning periods.
Jool Baby
If you’d rather skip the mini potty, this seat fits securely on top of most adult toilets, eliminating the need for a separate potty.
PAW Patrol
If your little one is a big PAW Patrol fan, this is an absolute must-buy. Easily attach the seat to any toilet with the convenient hook feature to make training easy and accessible in any bathroom.
Frida Baby
Ideal for families on the go, this foldable potty seat fits easily into a diaper bag and provides a clean and secure spot for toddlers to use public restrooms. It’s lightweight yet sturdy, making it perfect for travel!
Books and activities
Arguably, the most important part of the pre-potty phase is exposure. The more familiar your kid is with all things toileting, the smoother this transition will feel for them. Talk about the potty, watch shows or videos with their favorite characters, play with potty-training toys, read books, and, if you’re comfortable, let them accompany you to the bathroom. Make the potty a very natural part of their daily routine (even in theory) leading up to the big shift.
Becky Davies
This interactive book features sound buttons, making potty training more engaging and fun. The encouraging tips in this book helps ease toddlers and parents into the training process while keeping things light and fun.
Mo Willems
Make potty training fun and light-hearted with this endearing story featuring a crew of supportive sign-wielding mice. First-time potty goers will be amused and inspired by Mo Willems’ signature wit and style.
Sara Conway
This playful board book follows Dino as he embarks on his potty training journey, offering a fun and relatable way to introduce toddlers to the concept. With engaging illustrations and simple language, it helps make potty training less intimidating while encouraging young readers to follow along with Dino’s progress.
Violet Giannone
This guide is specifically designed to help little girls feel confident about potty training. With bright illustrations and clear, simple instructions, it makes the process fun and easy to understand. It also includes tips to help parents navigate the transition smoothly, making it a useful resource for the whole family.
Violet Giannone
Tailored specifically for boys, this potty training book uses fun, engaging illustrations to make the process enjoyable. With simple, straightforward language, it guides toddlers through each step of using the potty, helping them feel confident and capable. Parents will appreciate the helpful tips included for making potty training smoother.
Bluey
Toddlers can role-play using the potty with this mini Bingo toy and her matching “dunny.” Both pieces have moving parts so Bingo can actually sit on her toilet just like your little one.
Just Play
This adorable Elmo plush is not just a cuddly companion—it’s also a super helpful potty training tool. With fun sounds and phrases, Elmo encourages your child to use the potty, making the process feel less intimidating.
eDollable
This adorable accessory set includes everything kids need to care for their dolls during potty training. Featuring a mini doll potty, bib, pacifier, diaper, and feeding bottle, it encourages playful fun while reinforcing real-life potty training routines.
Rewards
If you plan to provide reinforcements during potty training, then stock up on their favorite stickers or small trinkets to use as incentives. A few of us have had success with sticker charts and reward “tiers” with specific toys tied to a specific number of successful trips to the potty. And if you’re apprehensive about rewarding them during training, rest assured that none of our kids demanded stickers or toys for longer than a month or so—eventually, they forgot all about it. But some kids will push to earn bigger and more expensive prizes, so be mindful of your child’s personality when choosing reinforcements.
Beach Kids
Use these Bluey stickers as a goal-based system to keep kids motivated during potty training, with making milestone achievements something to look forward to!
Disney Store
With beloved characters like Frozen, Disney Princesses, Minnie Mouse, and Paw Patrol, these vibrant stickers are designed to motivate and encourage toddlers as they achieve their potty training milestones.
Potty Prizes
This all-in-one set includes a colorful potty training chart, 14 exciting rewards, and engaging potty training toys designed to motivate little ones to stay consistent with their training. The kit also comes with a helpful e-book packed with tips and strategies to guide parents through the potty training journey!
Nobasco
Featuring a ton of different kawaii cat designs and other animals, these mini squishies are perfect small prizes as your child successfully uses the potty (plus, squishing them could relieve the stress that potty training can bring).
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Steph Alleva Cornell, Branded Content Editor
Since becoming a young mama in 2020, Steph has found joy in creating beautiful yet relatable content surrounding the raw realities of motherhood. She believes showcasing both the wonders and struggles of being a parent helps other mothers understand that they are not alone in their journey.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
McKenna Pringle, Branded Content Editorial Assistant
Ever since she began her editorial work and interned for The Everymom during college, McKenna’s dedication to this field and drive to gain as much knowledge as possible has only continued to grow day by day. She draws from her experiences as a nanny and passion for topical conversations to write thoughtful pieces on news, entertainment, culture, and lifestyle.
This post is sponsored by Pampers but all of the opinions within are those of The Everymom editorial board. We only recommend products we genuinely love.