As milestones go, potty training is up there as one of the most eventful of your baby’s early years. It can sometimes feel like you’re taking one step forward and two back, but he’ll get there eventually. It’s just about patience and encouragement – plus, some handy buys to hopefully help him along.
My Carry Potty, £19.99, cheekyrascals.co.uk
This travel potty doesn't need separate bags. And it doesn't look like a potty until you open it. Genius.
Bright Bots Washable Trainer Pants, £16.95 for four, merrygorounduk.co.uk
With an absorbent pad covered with comfy cotton terry.
Kids Stuff Crazy Soap, £2, boots.com
This can be moulded into different shapes…balls, ducks, the Eiffel Tower. Gentle on skin too.
Koo-di Wetec Baby Seat Protector, £6.99, koo-di.co.uk
An machine-washable seat protector to line buggies and car seats for the accidents.
Cheerios, £3.19 for 565g, tesco.com
Nothing works better at getting a little boy to wee in the loo than a handful of floating Cheerios to aim for!
Mamia Easy Pants, £2.99, aldi.co.uk
These disposable nappies pull on like pants – perfect for when you're mid potty-training but can't afford an accident.
Dry Like Me, £3.50, drylikeme.com
These absorbent pads fit inside pants, allowing accidents to happen but minimising the mess.
Hippychick Mattress Protector, £13.50, hippychick.com
Soft cotton waterproof sheet to protect carpets, sofas and toddler beds.
Toilet Finder app for iPhone and iPad, free, iTunes
Download this free app that finds all the public loos within running distance.
Little Circus Potty Chair, £14.99, Mothercare
With non-slip feet, the chair design of this potty makes it comfortable to sit on, particularly for larger toddlers who need a bit more leg room. Plus, the removable insert and splashguard make for easy cleaning.
Training pants, £5.49, Bambino Mio
These machine-washable cotton pants have a waterproof layer and absorbent inner pad, while the easy-to-pull-up design encourages your tot to be independent. Choose from seven designs and four sizes.
Have You Seen My Potty?, £6.99, Hodder
Reading your toddler a story before starting potty training is always a good plan. There are plenty to choose from depending on the type of stories he enjoys.
Peppa Pig Step Stool, £5.99, Mothercare
Give your toddler a step up to the toilet or sink with this step stool, with non-slip surface and base, which also comes in a Thomas The Tank Engine design.
Potette Plus, £14, Bibs and Stuff
The perfect kit for holidays and car journeys. This portable potty can stand alone or attach to an adult toilet seat, and then folds down flat into a hygienic bag. Your toddler uses one of the handy liners, which you get rid of like a normal nappy. Genius!
My Potty Friend, £35.99, Fisher-Price
The big mama of potty training, this starts as a potty and converts into a mini “toilet” (think flush handle, paper holder and seat) to get your child used to the whole set-up. He’s also rewarded with songs and cheers – which, let’s be honest, is definitely what’s missing from the grown-up bathroom experience.
