Top three toilet training techniques in 2025

Read how real parents are making it work.

Times have certainly changed when it comes to toilet training. Although, how we approach toilet training doesn’t look too different and when our kids start is much later. In the 1940’s the average age for toilet training was around 18 months. Fast forward to 2021, a study by Schum found that in the USA, baby boys were staying in nappies until around 39 months.

A few things have shifted since then. The most obvious being how far nappy technology has come. Gone are the days of cloth and pins because today’s disposable nappies are more absorbent, more comfortable, affordable and just so convenient. Nappy designs have also changed a lot, with Nappy Pants being an absolute game changer for parents with toddlers. They’ve designed a soft and stretchy waistband that sits somewhere between underwear and a nappy to encourage autonomy. Clever right?

Parenting styles have also evolved. These days, many families favour child-led approaches over age-based milestones when it comes to starting toilet training.

Then of course, perhaps the biggest change – most parents work. In Australia, around 72.8% of couple families with children have both parents in the workforce whilst raising young kids. Modern parents are busier than ever and this naturally impacts time, flexibility and of course patience parents have for things like toilet training. 

In 2025 with the world of information at our fingertips, here are the Top Three Trends Toilet Training Trends parents are using for their kids. From the 3-day Lock Down method, Child-Led Toilet Readiness and the Elimination Communication Technique, discover what parents are trialling during this stage of life. A gentle reminder, like everything that involves small beings, plan for highs and lows – this stage is huge.

The 3-day Method

A very trending method employed by many parents, this one is exactly as its name suggests. It involves clearing your calendar for three days and focusing solely on toilet training. In fact it’s so popular that many online parenting platforms offer downloadable PDFs and paid video content to support toilet training parents during this phase. Kids are incredibly agile and a lot can be learned in three days. For some, this toilet training technique is magic.

How it works:

1. Ditch daytime nappies. On day one, you go straight to undies. The idea is to help your child feel the sensation of needing to go and recognise when they do go. Little kids love the idea of being “big,” so this method also leans into the excitement of wearing undies. You can make a big deal out of it such as picking special pairs together and talking about how undies are for big kids. It’s a simple shift that can really boost their confidence.
2. Watch them closely. You’ll spend the day close to your child, looking for cues that they need to go. Prompt them to sit on the potty regularly (every 15–30 mins at first), especially after meals, drinks or naps (think about when you generally need to go).
3. Praise the wins. Every successful wee or poo in the potty gets a big celebration – think any positive affirmation – clapping, cheering, stickers or small treats. Accidents? Totally normal. Just clean up calmly and keep going. Parents normally use SleepyNights for extra night support during this phase.

Why some parents love it:

It creates a focused window where your child starts to connect their body’s signals with the toilet. It becomes a kind of family project, all in, all at once and in just a few days, many kids gain real confidence and momentum.

Things to consider:

It works best when your child shows readiness signs (like staying dry for longer periods or showing interest in the toilet). It’s also helpful if you have a supportive environment  and zero plans for a few days, you’ll want to stay close to home.

Child-led Approach

A child-led (or readiness-based) approach to toilet training is all about waiting until your child shows they’re ready physically, emotionally and mentally, rather than pushing it based on age or a set schedule. This approach can often happen later in life (2.5years +) and is a gradual method. 

How it works:

1. Watch for signs of readiness. These can include staying dry for longer periods, telling you when they’ve gone (or are about to), showing interest in the toilet, or wanting to wear undies. Some other signs are hiding to do a poo or even asking to be changed.
2. Follow their cues, so instead of jumping straight into toilet training, start small. Casually introduce the potty by placing it somewhere visible like the bathroom with no pressure to use it straight away. Let them sit on it fully clothed, or give their teddy a turn. You can also start reading simple books about going to the toilet as part of your bedtime routine. These quiet, consistent moments help it all feel familiar and safe, letting them arrive it at themselves.
3. No pressure, no rush. If they resist or lose interest in it simply pause and try again later. The goal is to keep it positive and stress-free.

Why some parents love it:

It’s gentle, responsive and led by the child’s pace (after all, kids are so different) which often results in fewer battles and more long-term success. It also fits well into busy modern life where forcing a strict timeline just isn’t realistic as some parents simply can’t take 3 days off.

Things to consider:

This approach may take longer overall, and it requires more patience. But many parents find it’s worth it for the smoother, low-stress experience and works better for kids with stubborn, distracted or even sensitive personality types.

Elimination Communication Technique

Also known as “infant pottying,” Elimination Communication is a newer approach to toilet training, a gentle, responsive approach to toileting that starts from birth or early infancy. Instead of relying on nappies alone, parents learn to tune into their baby’s cues and often pop them over a sink, potty, or toilet at regular times throughout the day.If you’re interested to know more about a first hand experience we recommend tuning into this podcast. In many cultures around the world, this is why babies are toilet trained or toileted as some don’t have access to disposable nappies.

How it works:

1. Watch for cues. Look for signs your baby needs to “go”, such as fussing, grunting, squirming, or going suddenly still. These signals help you know when to offer the potty.
2. Use timing and sound cues to offer the potty at common times (after waking or feeding) and use a consistent sound like “psss” to help your baby connect the cue with going.

Why some parents love it:

Fewer nappies (and less mess). Parents also have said it builds a closer connection with their baby’s rhythm and helps kids to become more aware of their body’s signals as they grow.

Things to consider:

It requires more time, attention and patience. It’s not about “toilet training early” but rather responding to your baby’s natural instincts. Many parents use it alongside nappies, especially in the early stages.