Potty Training Essentials: Must-Have Tools for Success

26 August 2025

Potty training—it's one of those parenting milestones that’s both exciting and nerve-wracking. One day, your little one is in diapers, and the next, you’re knee-deep in training pants, accidents, and celebratory high-fives.

But here’s the thing: potty training doesn’t have to be a messy, frustrating experience. With the right tools and a little patience, you can set your child up for success (and keep your sanity intact!).

So, what are the must-have potty training essentials? Let’s dive in.

1. The Right Potty Chair or Seat

First things first—you need a place for your little one to go!

Potty Chair vs. Potty Seat: Which One is Best?

- Potty Chair – A standalone, toddler-sized potty that sits on the floor. Easier for little ones to access, and some even come with fun designs or flushing sounds to make potty time exciting!
- Potty Seat – A smaller seat that sits on top of your regular toilet. Great for kids who want to "be like the grown-ups" and eliminates the extra step of transitioning from a small potty to the big toilet later on.

Pro Tip: Some kids prefer one over the other, so let them have a say! They’ll be much more excited to train if they love their potty.

2. Training Pants & Underwear

Once your child is ready to transition from diapers, training pants (or "big kid underwear") are a game-changer.

- Pull-Ups or Training Pants – These act as a bridge between diapers and underwear. They pull up and down like underwear but still offer some leak protection for accidents.
- Cotton Training Underwear – These are thicker than regular underwear and help contain small accidents while still letting your child feel wetness.
- Fun, Kid-Friendly Designs – Letting your child pick out their own underwear with their favorite character on it makes a huge difference in motivation!

Pro Tip: Once you're seeing dry training pants consistently, it's time to switch to real underwear.

3. A Step Stool

If you're using a potty seat on the big toilet, you’ll need a step stool to help your child get up there independently.

- For the Toilet – A sturdy, non-slip step stool helps kids climb up and feel secure while sitting on the big potty.
- For Handwashing – Having another stool near the sink encourages good hygiene.

Pro Tip: Look for a two-step design for extra stability, especially for younger toddlers.

4. Flushable Wipes

Let’s face it—regular toilet paper can be tricky for little hands! Flushable wipes make cleaning up easier and help toddlers feel fresh and clean.

- Gentle on Skin – Look for fragrance-free, hypoallergenic options to avoid irritation.
- Helps with Wiping Independence – Teaching toddlers how to wipe properly is a process, and wipes make it easier for them to get clean.
- Bonus: A Fun Wipe Dispenser – Some brands offer fun dispensers that make getting wipes more exciting for your little one.

Pro Tip: Even if wipes are labeled "flushable," toss them in the trash to avoid plumbing issues.

5. A Potty Training Chart & Stickers

Kids thrive on positive reinforcement, and a potty training chart is a great way to celebrate their progress.

- How It Works: Every time your child successfully uses the potty, they get to add a sticker to their chart. After a certain number of stickers, they might get a small reward (more on that next!).
- Make It Exciting: Use their favorite characters, fun colors, or even let them make their own chart. The more involved they are, the more excited they'll be!

Pro Tip: Keep the chart somewhere visible where your child can proudly see their progress.

6. Small Rewards & Incentives

A little motivation goes a long way when it comes to potty training. While you don’t need to go all out with expensive rewards, small incentives can encourage your child to keep going.

Some Fun Ideas:

- Stickers – Add one to their chart after each successful potty trip.
- Special Treats – A little snack (like a couple of M&M's or fruit snacks) can be a great motivator.
- Extra Story Time – Let them pick an extra bedtime story as a reward.
- A Fun Outing – A trip to the park or their favorite play place for a big milestone (like staying dry all day).

Pro Tip: Keep rewards small and simple, so they don’t expect a grand prize every time they use the potty.

7. Plenty of Spare Clothes

Accidents will happen—it’s all part of the learning process! Having extra clothes on hand ensures you're always prepared.

- Extra Underwear & Pants – Keep a few spares in the car, diaper bag, or anywhere you spend a lot of time.
- Easy-On, Easy-Off Clothing – Choose pants and underwear that your child can pull up and down easily to encourage independence.

Pro Tip: If you're heading out, bring a plastic or wet bag for soiled clothing.

8. A Potty Training Book (or Two!)

Books help kids understand what potty training is all about in a fun and engaging way.

Top Toddler Favorites:

- "Potty" by Leslie Patricelli – A simple, funny introduction to using the potty.
- "Everyone Poops" by Taro Gomi – A classic that helps kids understand that going potty is completely normal.
- "Big Girl Panties" & "Big Boy Underpants" – Encouraging books that make kids excited about underwear!

Pro Tip: Read potty books together while your child is sitting on the potty to keep them engaged.

9. A Travel Potty for On-the-Go Success

Public restrooms (or the lack of one) can be a challenge when potty training. A travel potty saves the day when you’re out and about.

Types of Travel Potties:

- Folding Seat Covers – Turns any public toilet into a toddler-friendly seat.
- Portable Potties – A small potty you can use in the car, at the park, or anywhere without a restroom nearby.
- Disposable Potty Liners – Makes cleanup a breeze when using a travel potty.

Pro Tip: Keep a portable potty in your trunk—trust me, you’ll be glad you did!

10. Loads of Patience & Encouragement

Last but definitely not least, you need a good dose of patience and encouragement. Potty training takes time, and every child is different.

- Expect Setbacks – Some days will be easier than others. That’s completely normal!
- Stay Positive – Celebrate small wins, and don’t make accidents a big deal.
- Follow Their Lead – If they’re resisting, take a break and try again later.

Pro Tip: Keep your sense of humor—because, let’s be real, potty training can be hilarious!

Final Thoughts

Potty training is a journey, but with the right tools, a little patience, and lots of encouragement, your child will get there. Equip yourself with these must-have potty training essentials, stay consistent, and before you know it, those diapers will be a thing of the past!

So, which of these potty training tools do you already have? If you’re just getting started, don’t stress—you’ve got this!