Potty Training Essentials: What Parents Actually Need

Potty training is one of those milestones that’s as exciting as it is bewildering. Many parents aren’t even sure what they need to begin it!

The wide range of toddler toilet training products on the market doesn’t help. Too many choices may leave you overwhelmed with trying to separate potty training essentials from nice-to-haves. Luckily for you, this guide will help by cutting through the clutter.

Before You Buy: Is Your Child Ready?

No product can do the developmental work for you or your child. Even before you start stocking up on things like potty training essentials, you should check for readiness first.

Classic signs of readiness for toilet training are things like dry nappies for longer stretches, awareness of when they need to go, and interest in the toilet. For a full breakdown of the signs, head to our earlier guide on the right time to start potty training.

Wait for your child’s readiness before you begin potty training. Starting before that often makes the journey harder instead of easier.

Potty Training Essentials Every Parent Should Have

1. Toilet Seat Adaptor (Potty Insert)

A toilet seat adaptor or seat reducer is a smaller seat that fits securely inside your regular toilet seat to make it safe and comfortable to use for a small child. 

Without one, the standard bowl is too large for toddlers to balance on. The fear of falling in can even become a barrier to progress. Look for one with non-slip grips or handles your child can hold onto, and be sure to check if it actually fits your toilet before you buy!

2. Small Standalone Potty

Even if you have a toilet seat adaptor, a small standalone potty is worth having. It gives your toddler the option of “big toilet or your own potty”, which offers a meaningful sense of control to encourage cooperation.

A standalone potty can also help with night training. Just remember to choose one that’s easy to clean and stable enough not to tip in use.

3. Step Stool

A step stool is non-negotiable once your child starts using the full toilet. It allows them to climb up safely without assistance and also supports their feet while seated.

It doubles up at the sink for handwashing, helping your child build the full bathroom routine independently. Choose one with a rubberised, non-slip surface to keep things safe.

4. Easy-to-Remove Clothing

During potty training, clothing matters more than you may expect! Outfits with fiddly buttons or complicated zippers can mean the difference for kids making it to the toilet in time or not.

Stick to things like elastic-waist trousers, shorts, or skirts that your child can manage mostly on their own. This is a small wardrobe adjustment that you will quickly be glad for when training begins.

5. Training Pants

Training pants sit somewhere between a nappy and regular underwear. They’re more absorbent than standard underpants. 

Unlike a nappy, they let your child feel the sensation of being wet, which helps them connect the dots between needing to go and actually making it to the toilet. There are both reusable cloth ones and disposable options.

6. Cleaning Essentials

Accidents are part of the process, so you might as well be prepared for them. Keep wet wipes and a disinfectant spray on hand for quick clean-ups when training. 

A wet bag with a waterproof compartment and at least one full change of clothes will also help!

Nice-to-Have Toddler Toilet Training Products

These are just extras after the essentials, but many families find them helpful enough for them to merit a mention here.

• Children's books about potty training A good picture book for this can normalise the idea of potty training even before you start your own child’s training. Use it to introduce the topic!
  

• Sticker or reward charts Small, immediate rewards like stickers on a personal potty training chart build positive associations and serve as short-term motivators.
  

• Toilet flushable wipes (if age appropriate) Useful for cleaner results, but be sure to check if they’re genuinely safe for your plumbing system!
  

• Travel potty or portable potty seat A foldable travel potty or compact seat insert is a game-changer for you if you and your kiddo are frequently out and about.
  

• Mattress protector A waterproof protector is worth every dollar for naps and overnight, since nighttime dryness often takes longer to establish.
  

• Toilet splash guard (for boys) A clip-on splash guard can reduce the mess boys might make while they’re still learning to aim.

Tips for Choosing Potty Training Products

A few principles go a long way when choosing toilet training items. Above all, look for gear that’s safe and stable. Seats or stools should be firm and non-slip, for example, to minimise accidents.

Think about the type of cleaning the item’s materials also require. You’ll be wiping things down a lot. 

Consider portability too if you and your child go out often. Finally, think about letting your child choose some items, like underwear. It can spark their enthusiasm for the process!

The Right Gear Helps, But It’s Just Part of the Picture

Of course, successful potty training isn’t about having a full range of products. It’s also about supporting your child through the process, even if you only have the essentials.

Remember too that each child progresses at their own pace here. Focus on consistency and encouragement, and your child should master the toilet soon enough. Your support will always matter more than what’s in the bathroom cabinet, at the end of the day!

For more guides on the toddler years and beyond, head to our blog for other articles!