Potty Training Help: Real Experiences & Reviews
Potty training can be a tricky time, and finding the right tools to help your child transition smoothly is key. Having used different products for each of my kids, I wanted to share my experiences and insights on the options we tried. Here’s a breakdown of three popular potty training solutions, along with a bonus option that covers all the bases!
Cooseya 2-in-1 Toilet Seat with Ladder
The first product I want to highlight is the Cooseya 2-in-1 Toilet Seat. This one stands out for its versatility, as it functions not only as a toilet seat but also as a step stool. It has a built-in ladder with non-slip steps and a sturdy design that makes it easy for kids to climb up and down. There’s even a place for them to rest their feet while they’re sitting, which is great for giving them stability and confidence.
My Thoughts
I loved this one for my youngest, who was initially reluctant to use the toilet after getting pinched by one of those toilet seat inserts. We let her pick out the design on Amazon, and she was thrilled with it! Having her be part of the decision-making process made her more excited to use the toilet, which was a huge win for us. The seat is well-designed, and I liked that it feels safe, with handles on either side for extra support. However, it is a bit larger than some other options, making storage a little awkward. We used to hang the smaller insert seats on a hook behind a cabinet door, but this one didn’t fit as neatly in our space.
Product Features
2-in-1 Usage: This multifunctional toilet seat can be used as both a training seat and a step stool, which comes in handy for washing hands or reaching higher places.
Kid-Friendly Design: Lightweight and easy for kids to carry or move around by themselves, plus it folds for easier storage.
Safety First: Non-slip steps and handles ensure your child can safely mount and dismount the toilet.
Overall
The Cooseya 2-in-1 Toilet Seat is a fantastic option for parents looking for a fun, safe, and multi-functional toilet seat for kids. The slight inconvenience with storage is outweighed by how much my child loves using it.
Munchkin Potty Training Seat
Next up is the Munchkin Potty Training Seat, which is probably the most straightforward option on this list. It’s a simple, smaller seat designed to fit snugly into your regular toilet seat, making it easy for kids to use the adult toilet.
My Thoughts
Next, we tried the Munchkin® Sturdy™ Potty Training Seat, a straightforward and affordable option that fits right onto your existing toilet seat. This one definitely gets the job done at a lower cost. It’s the most basic of the options we’ve used and does require a separate stool to allow the child to get up on the toilet independently. We found ourselves having to help with that step, which might be a deal-breaker if you’re looking for a more independent solution.
Product Features
Simple Design: A smaller toilet seat insert that fits securely into your regular toilet seat, providing a comfortable fit for your child.
Inexpensive: One of the most affordable potty training seats on the market.
Easy to Clean: Smooth surface makes cleaning simple, which is always a bonus when potty training!
If you’re looking for a no-fuss, budget-friendly option, the Munchkin Sturdy Potty Training Seat is a great choice. It’s not as fancy or feature-packed as some others, but it’s effective and simple to use. Just be ready to help your child climb up, or pair it with a step stool if you’re aiming for independence.
Little Chicks Easy-Clean Toddler Toilet Training Potty Chair
Now, let’s talk about the Little Chicks Easy-Clean Toddler Toilet Training Potty Chair, a standalone potty chair that’s completely separate from the adult toilet. The child uses this little chair, and when they’re done, you remove the bowl to clean it. Simple in concept—but a bit more of a chore in practice.
My Thoughts
I’ll be honest, this was my least favorite option. The cleanup just wasn’t for me. Every time I had to take the bowl out and wash it, it made me wish we were using one of the other toilet-based seats. That said, there’s no denying that it served its purpose. I actually think it helped our little one connect the dots with potty training because they were able to go to the bathroom at the same time as us. The chair made it easier for them to feel involved and part of the routine, which I believe helped things "click" a bit faster.
Product Features
Standalone Potty Chair: This chair sits on the floor separate from your toilet, so your child can go anywhere.
Removable Bowl: Once your child is done, the inner bowl can be removed for easy (but not always pleasant) cleaning.
Child-Friendly Design: It’s at the perfect height for toddlers and has a comfortable seat to help them feel secure while using it.
If you’re looking for something that’s more standalone and portable, and you don’t mind the cleanup process, the Little Chicks Easy-Clean Toddler Toilet Training Potty Chair could be a good fit. While it wasn’t my favorite due to the mess factor, it may be the perfect solution for parents who prefer a dedicated potty chair.
Bonus: 3-in-1 Potty Training Set (Potty Chair, Toilet Seat Insert, and Step Stool)
Minimiss 3-in-1 Potty Training Set
For parents looking for an all-in-one solution, a 3-in-1 Potty Training Set is a fantastic option. This set typically includes a separate potty chair, a toilet seat insert, and a step stool. It covers all the bases and gives you the flexibility to choose the method that works best for your child at each stage of their potty training journey.
My Thoughts
Honestly, if we’d had this set earlier, it would have saved us the trouble of experimenting with different options. Having everything in one bundle means you get to try the potty chair when they’re just starting, use the insert once they’re more comfortable, and offer the step stool for independence. It’s a little pricier than the individual options, but in the long run, it's worth the investment—especially if you plan to reuse it for multiple kids. This is definitely what I’ll be buying for our newborn when it’s time for potty training!
Product Features
Potty Chair: A standalone chair for those early days when they’re just getting started.
Toilet Seat Insert: Once they’re ready to graduate to the big toilet, this fits right onto your regular seat.
Step Stool: Helps them reach the sink or use the toilet independently.
Convenient and Versatile: This combo covers every stage of potty training, giving you the flexibility to switch between methods as needed.
If you’re looking for a complete solution that will grow with your child, the 3-in-1 Potty Training Set might be just what you need. It covers every stage, making the process smoother for both parent and child.
Some of these options worked better than others for us, but having a few different methods on hand definitely helped make the process smoother. Potty training is rarely a one-size-fits-all experience, so don’t be afraid to try a couple of different solutions to find what works best for your child!
