Potty training is one of the biggest milestones in a toddler’s life—and a challenging one for many parents!
If you’ve been wondering which potty training method will work best for your little one, you’re in the right place. Every child is different, and the approach that works for one may not be ideal for another.
In this post, we’ll cover the most popular potty training methods, their pros and cons, and which children they’re best suited for.
Plus, I’ll share how my Potty Training Digital Bundle (which includes an activity book, potty training trackers, and affirmations for parents) can make the process easier for both you and your child.
And don’t forget to grab your free potty training charts at the end of this post!
3 Best Potty Training Methods
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1. The 3-Day Potty Training Method
If you’ve searched for potty training advice, you’ve likely come across the 3-Day Method.
This approach requires full commitment for three days, but the results can be impressive if done correctly.
I trained both my 2.5 year old girls in 3 days flat and was astounded that it actually works!
How It Works
- Choose a long weekend or any three consecutive days when you can be home with your child.
- Say goodbye to diapers (except for naps and nighttime if needed).
- Dress your child in easy-to-remove clothes or let them go diaper-free.
- Encourage frequent potty trips, reminding your child every 15-30 minutes using a cute potty timer
- Celebrate successes with positive reinforcement (cheers, stickers, small rewards).
- Expect accidents and handle them calmly, reinforcing that they’ll get better at it.
Pros
✅ Quick results—many kids show improvement in just three days. ✅ Encourages independence by helping kids recognize their own bathroom needs. ✅ Works well for toddlers who are ready and can communicate basic needs.
Cons
❌ Requires total commitment from parents for three days (no errands, outings, or distractions). ❌ Some kids may take longer than three days to fully grasp the process. ❌ Can be overwhelming for children who struggle with sudden change.
Best For
🔹 Toddlers who show signs of readiness (telling you when they’re wet, staying dry for longer periods, showing interest in the toilet). 🔹 Parents who can dedicate three full days to focus solely on potty training.
Make the 3-Day Method easier with my Potty Training Digital Bundle! It includes fun potty training activities, a progress tracker, and affirmations to keep you motivated. Get yours here!
2. The Child-Led Potty Training Method
This method follows your child’s cues and progresses at their pace, making the process more relaxed and stress-free.
How It Works
- Introduce the potty early (around 18-24 months) and let your child explore it without pressure.
- Encourage potty use, but don’t force it.
- Praise them for any interest shown in the potty.
- Let them decide when they’re ready to transition out of diapers.
Pros
✅ No pressure—your child progresses at their own pace. ✅ Reduces potty training resistance. ✅ Works well for highly independent children.
Cons
❌ Can take longer than other methods. ❌ Some kids may not fully potty train until age 3-4.
Best For
🔹 Kids who don’t respond well to pressure. 🔹 Parents who prefer a more natural, stress-free approach.
Tip: Use a potty training tracker from my Potty Training Digital Bundle to monitor progress without pressure. Grab yours here!
3. The Parent-Led Potty Training Method
In this method, parents take the lead by encouraging scheduled potty trips and offering consistent guidance.
How It Works
- Set a schedule for potty breaks (e.g., every hour, after meals, before bedtime).
- Praise and reward success.
- Use training pants or pull-ups as a transition from diapers.
- Gradually phase out diapers as your child becomes more confident.
Pros
✅ Provides structure and routine. ✅ Works well for children who thrive on consistency. ✅ Allows parents to guide the process rather than waiting for child readiness.
Cons
❌ Can be frustrating if the child resists structured schedules. ❌ May take longer than more intensive methods like the 3-Day Method.
Best For
🔹 Parents who prefer a structured approach. 🔹 Children who do well with routine and clear expectations.
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4. The “Naked and $75” Method
A popular approach from the book “Oh Crap! Potty Training,” this method involves letting your child go diaper-free at home.
How It Works
- Let your toddler be naked from the waist down at home.
- Keep a portable potty like this one nearby and encourage frequent use.
- Gradually introduce underwear once your child understands the process.
Pros
✅ Helps kids become more aware of their body’s signals. ✅ Often results in faster potty training.
Cons
❌ Can be messy (expect a few accidents on the floor!). ❌ Doesn’t work well outside the home.
Best For
🔹 Kids who dislike wearing diapers. 🔹 Parents who can tolerate some messes during the learning phase.
Which Potty Training Method is Right for Your Child?
Every child is different, and the best potty training method depends on their personality, readiness, and how they respond to change. Here’s a quick guide:
- Fast learners who adjust well to change? → Try the 3-Day Method.
- Independent kids who like to take the lead? → Go with Child-Led Potty Training.
- Children who thrive on routine? → The Parent-Led Method is ideal.
- Kids who need help recognizing bathroom cues? → Consider the Naked Method.
Make Potty Training Easier with My Digital Bundle! 🎉
Potty training can feel overwhelming, but my Potty Training Digital Bundle makes it simple and fun! It includes: ✅ A Potty Training Activity Book to keep toddlers engaged. ✅ Potty Training Trackers to monitor progress. ✅ Affirmations for Parents to stay positive during the process.
🎉 Get your Potty Training Digital Bundle today!
Grab Your Free Potty Training Charts!
Need extra motivation? Sign up below to download your FREE potty training charts! These printable charts make it easy to track progress and celebrate every little win. 🎉
👉 Get your free potty training charts here!
Happy potty training, mama! You got this! 💕
READ THESE NEXT:
15 Steps to Potty Train a Stubborn Toddler Girl in 3 Days
15 Clever Tips for Leaving the House While Potty Training
10 Truly Awful Potty Training Mistakes You Should Know About
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