When is the right age to toilet train?

The truth is, every child is different and might feel comfortable and ready to learn the ropes of the toilet at varying ages. So what’s the general rule of thumb for the best toilet training age?  

Well, most children show signs of being ready for toilet training between the ages of 18 and 24 months old. However, some may not feel ready to go independently until around 3 years old. The important thing to remember is that there’s no rush – your child will gravitate towards using the toilet by themselves when they’re ready, and trying to start it too early might make for a longer toilet training journey.  

Toilet training is a process that involves both your toddler’s body and mind. First up, they need to become aware of their own body signals, including their bladders and bowels. Getting comfortable with the body’s signals of needing to urinate or defecate is a skill that usually pops up between 18 and 24 months of age.  

Secondly, your toddler needs to learn how to use the toilet. To do this, they need to know how to understand instructions and follow them. They’ll also need to know how to sit or stand comfortably, as well as how to pull down their underpants and pull them back up.   

Last but not least, once your toddler has bladder and bowel control and they understand how to use the toilet, they need to be excited and ready to use it. Toilet training troubles tend to arise when toddlers don’t want to use the toilet, so it’s important to remember your little one will be ready when it’s the right time.   

What are some signs your child is ready to start toilet training?  

While it can be different for every little one, the general signs that a toddler is ready to start their toilet training adventure can include:   

• They show signs that they’re about to pee or poop, like grunting, squatting or freezing  
• They can follow simple instructions  
• They ask to use the toilet or toilet  
• They don’t like to be in wet nappies  

One of the best ways to help your toddler feel comfortable in their transition period from nappies to big kid underwear is to pop them into our Reusable Toddler Day-time Training Pants. Designed to catch any leaks that might make life uncomfortable for your little one, there’s no better way to make them feel empowered in their own bodies than staying secure and dry in Reusable Training Pants.