POTTY TRAINING: 101
This past week, we wrapped up potty training with our last little one — and I still can’t believe it’s over. It feels like just yesterday we were changing diapers around the clock, and now we’ve officially moved past that stage. Maybe it’s because we’ve done this a few times and picked up some helpful hacks along the way, but it really did go smoother than I expected. Still, there’s something a little bittersweet about watching your baby grow up right in front of you. Whether you’re brand new to potty training or knee-deep in toddler life for the fourth time, one thing is true — it’s always a journey.
Here’s are my favorite tips to tackle potty training like a pro—even when you’re out in public—and keep the bed (mostly) dry at night.
The Basics: Potty Training at Home
Before we even get into the public and nighttime stuff, let’s cover a few quick wins for home base:
Ditch the pressure. Every kiddo has their own timeline. Some kids are potty prodigies at 18 months; others take their sweet time until 3 or 4. Totally normal.
Let them lead. If they’re showing interest, go for it! Signs include staying dry for a few hours, pulling at their diaper, or the infamous hiding to poop (they always look so guilty).
Make it fun. Cute undies, sticker charts, even a “potty dance” for every success—whatever motivates your little one, run with it.
Be consistent-ish. Accidents will happen. Keep calm and grab a towel. Set timers for potty breaks, and keep the bathroom easily accessible.
Potty Training in Public
Taking a potty-training toddler out into the wild is… bold. But it can be done without total chaos.
Tips for public outings:
Pack a potty kit. Think: extra clothes (top, bottom, socks, undies), plastic bags, wipes, and a travel potty or seat cover. Throw it all in a zip-up tote and leave it in the car or stroller.
Use training pants. If your kiddo is still getting the hang of things, these are great for car rides or long errands. They feel like underwear but offer some protection.
Schedule potty stops. Before you leave the house, hit the potty. When you get somewhere, hit the potty. Before you leave, hit the potty again. It’s a routine, not an option!
Master the public bathroom. Automatic toilets can be terrifying. Keep sticky notes handy to cover the sensor or find family restrooms when possible. Bring hand sanitizer for good measure.
Bonus: Have a “code word” for potty so your toddler isn’t yelling “I NEED TO PEEEEE!” across Target.
The Bedtime Battle: Preventing Nighttime Accidents
Okay, you’ve survived the day. Now for the final boss: dry nights.
Here’s how to make it happen:
Limit liquids before bed. Try cutting off drinks an hour before lights out, and make a habit of the bedtime potty trip.
Use a mattress protector. Even with the best intentions, accidents happen. Save your sanity (and your mattress) with a waterproof cover.
Try a dream pee. Some parents swear by waking their child for a quick potty trip a few hours after they fall asleep.
Be patient. Nighttime dryness takes longer—sometimes much longer. The body has to learn to hold pee all night or wake up in time. Don’t stress if your 5-year-old still wears overnight pull-ups. Totally normal.
Potty training is messy, hilarious, and a little crazy—but it doesn’t last forever. One day you’ll realize you haven’t cleaned up an accident in weeks, and you’ll want to throw a tiny party (and maybe a bonfire for those leftover diapers)
So hang in there, stock up on snacks, and remember: you’ve got this. And if today was a three-accident kind of day? There’s always tomorrow—and coffee.