Every child hits potty training readiness in their own time — and as a parent, it’s okay to feel unsure about when to start. In this first blog in our Potty Training Series, we’ll walk you through the common signs that your little might be ready to ditch the diapers, as well as a few lesser-known cues to look for; Plus, we’ll share a real-world checklist of what you actually need (and what you don’t). Spoiler: a waterproof mattress protector is the MVP nobody talks about — perfect for those first nap-time trials or overnight setbacks.
Don’t Rush the Flush
Potty training is a huge milestone — and for many parents, it can feel like a mix of anticipation, confusion, and a lot of Googling. “Are we late?” “Is my child ready?” “What if I start and it backfires?”
Take a deep breath! Every child develops on their own timeline, and recognizing the right readiness cues can make the whole process smoother and less stressful for both of you.
Let’s break down the signs your little one might be ready to start potty training — and what you’ll actually need to set them up for success.
Signs Your Child Might Be Ready to Potty Train
Not all signs need to be checked off, but here are the most common ones that show your child might be ready to give the potty a go:
Physical Signs
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Regular, predictable bowel movements
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Can sit still for short periods
Cognitive & Communication Skills
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Understands basic instructions like “sit down” or “let’s go potty”
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Can express when they’re going (or just went)
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Shows interest in the bathroom or copies what older siblings/parents do
Behavioural Readiness
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Hides to go poop or tells you after the fact
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Wants their diaper changed right away
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Starts pulling off their diaper or resists wearing one
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Shows pride in independence or “big kid” tasks
Did you know cloth diapers can actually help with potty training?
Unlike disposables, cloth diapers don’t contain stay-dry chemicals that wick moisture away from your baby’s skin. That means your little one can feel when they’re wet — which naturally builds awareness of their body’s cues.
This gentle feedback helps babies make the connection between going potty and feeling wet, which can lead to earlier and smoother potty learning down the road.
Timing Is Everything (And... It’s Okay If It’s Not Now!)
Most kids show readiness between 18 and 30 months, but plenty start earlier or later. If you try and it leads to tears, resistance, or stress — it’s okay to pause and try again in a few weeks.
Pro Tip: Readiness > Age: There’s no trophy for being the earliest. There is a smoother journey when your child is truly ready.
What You Actually Need to Start Potty Training (That No One Tells You About)
You’ve probably seen long checklists, but here’s the honest must-haves list from parents who’ve been through it:
The Realistic Potty Training Starter Kit:
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Child-size potty or potty seat for your toilet
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Step stool to help with getting on/off and handwashing
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Easy-off pants or training underwear
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Rewards (stickers, praise, or small treats if that works for your family)
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Wipes (they’re not just for babies!)
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Waterproof mattress protector ← the secret weapon
Why a Waterproof Mattress Pad Is Your Hidden Hero
Accidents happen. Nap time and nighttime can bring unexpected messes even after kids are doing great during the day. A waterproof mattress protector saves your sanity (and your mattress), especially during the early “whoops” phase.
It helps:
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Encourage nap-time independence (without panic)
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Simplify overnight cleanups
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Reduce laundry stress during setbacks
Want More?
We are about to change potty training for good! Potty training isn’t just about the potty — it’s about progress, patience! Head to our website and sign up for early product releases, VIP alerts, and insider updates as we roll out our brand-new collection. Don’t miss the drop—be first, be early, be in the know!
Nora’s Nursery Accessories for Potty Training Success
1. Waterproof Mattress Pads (coming soon...)
Your #1 MVP for night training. Accidents happen, and our soft, breathable, machine-washable mattress pads help protect the bed and save your sanity.
→ Perfect for naps, nighttime, or sick days when you're on high alert.
2. Wet Bags
Mess containment = peace of mind. Our Waterproof Wet Bags are ideal for stashing soiled undies or clothing during outings.
→ Bonus: Use one compartment for clean backup clothes and one for anything wet.
3. Diaper Covers
Our Diaper Covers or AWJ Pocket Diapers can double as reusable training pants when paired with a insert or liner. They’re trim, easy to pull up/down (or snap), and still give you peace of mind if accidents happen.
→ Great for at-home practice or nap-time protection.
4. Reusable Cotton Wipes
Just because you're ditching diapers doesn't mean the messes stop. Our soft cloth wipes are perfect for wiping little bums, cleaning up potty spills, or even sticky hands.
See more about the benefits of choosing natural reusable cloth baby wipes for your little one, why they are the best option for sensitive skin, how you can make your own homemade wipes solution and where to store them.
5. Travel Pod / Diaper Pod
With one large zipper opening, our Waterproof Diaper Pods have enough space to hold up to 7-8 pocket diapers or cover diapers with inserts. Handle comes with a detachable snap to be able to attach the pod as needed.
→Keep everything organized and compact for daycare, grandparents’ houses, or on-the-go potty practice.
→ Use it to store underwear, extra outfits, or mini potty essentials.
6. Cloth Liners (Optional)
If you’re in the transition phase but still using inserts or covers, cloth liners can help with easy cleanup and a dry-feel surface — especially helpful for sensitive toddlers.
It’s a Marathon, Not a Sprint
There’s no perfect potty training roadmap — but knowing the signs, having the right tools, and giving yourself (and your child) grace goes a long way. Whether you're starting next week or months from now, you're already doing great by just being prepared.
Stay tuned for blog 2 "The Transition from Diapers to Underwear: Potty Training Methods That Work" where we talk about the transition out of diapers, and different potty training methods! Coming soon!
