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What Are Training Pants (+ When To Start Using Them)?


a little girl building a block tower

Training pants are underwear for toddlers who are transitioning out of diapers. They are designed to be easy for little ones to pull on and off by themselves.


Popular ones include Pampers Easy Ups (introduced in 2002) and Huggies Pull-Ups (released in 1989). Understandably many parents may use the term "pull-ups" to describe training pants, but that's actually a registered trademark of the Huggies brand. Huggies probably isn't upset with the mix-up, as the clever name presumably brings their brand more attention. But we wanted to make sure you knew there are more disposable and reusable options to choose from.

Brand

Description

Reusable training pants with characters kids may already know and love

Reusable cotton training pants for ages 1 to 7

Reusable training pants with snaps

Snapped and snap-less training pants that are reusable

Environmentally-conscious disposable training pant

Compostable disposable diaper made with bamboo

Chlorine-free disposable training pant with wetness indicator

Reusable training underwear meant to catch little pre-bathroom accidents (not big releases)

Vegan disposable diaper made with cotton and bamboo

Whole Food's disposable training pant

Amazon's disposable training pant

Plant-based disposable training pant that hopes to offer 12-hours of wetness protection

Chlorine-free disposable training pant with wetness indicator (and limited sizing)

Disposable training pants founded by a celebrity couple that aims to be gentler on the planet

Disposable training pants with refastenable sides and disappearing characters when wet

Reusable training pant for little pre-bathroom accidents (not big releases)

Reusable training pant for little pre-bathroom accidents (not big releases)

Disposable training pants with refastenable sides and disappearing pattern when wet

Hypoallergenic and traditional disposable training pants that are soft, comfy, and absorb most accidents

How Much Do Training Pants Cost?


Prices vary, but disposable training pants generally range from $0.30 to over $1.00 per pair. And reusable training pants range from $2.00 to $10.00 per pair. If your little one is wearing training pants daily, a reusable version could be paid for in less than a month.


Of course price isn't the only factor to consider when buying. You'll also want to take into account the fit, where your child is in their potty training journey, and what your laundry capacity is. This means are you willing to do laundry every day if they soil their reusable training pant, clothes, and/or sheets on a frequent basis?


What Age Do Children Start Using Training Pants?


 Between one and two years old, or a little later. Some parents graduate to training pants when their little one ...


  • tugs at a wet diaper

  • shows interest in the potty

  • is dry after a nap

  • is dry for more than 2 hours

  • isn't as patient with diaper changes, or

  • can change their bottoms independently


When it comes to potty training -- there are children who are developmentally ready and motivated -- and those that are not! Supporting wherever they are in their journey can foster a smoother transition.


How Long Do Children Wear Training Pants?


Parents and brands mention 0 to 4 years old. However, Big Elephant has training underwear designed for a 70 lb 10 year old.


What Happens If A Child Loves Training Pants But Isn't Ready To Potty Train?


This can totally happen! Some children may love the ability to dress and undress themselves in super cute undies, but continue to use training pants as traditional diapers. As a result, it's important to shop based on their needs (and yours).


What Are Most Families Looking For In A Training Pant?


Many families want a reusable training pant that doesn’t leak. While others believe the child feeling wet may speed up the training process. Another family may want an absorbent disposable product that is eco-friendly and gentle on their little one's skin. And some families just want to make sure the transition is enjoyable for everyone.


How Are Training Pants Different From Bedwetting Pants?



Bedwetting pants have larger sizes, because they are typically for older children who are still learning to control their bladder throughout the night. On the other hand, training pants are often smaller and may be used throughout the day for a child who is still learning to use the potty. This means that training pants are often worn during the day and the night until the child grows out of them, or learns to hold their urine while they sleep.


Are Training Pants FSA/HSA Eligible?


Currently, Cuties are the only training pants that seem to be FSA/HSA eligible. This means that families can use tax-advantaged funds from their flexible spending accounts (FSA) and health savings accounts (HSA) to minimize the recurring costs. If you want to check the status of your preferred brand, Amazon has a section dedicated to FSA/HSA eligible products. You can browse eligible products here.

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