If you have a little one at home, then you know the struggles of potty training. Switching from diapers to potty use can be highly stressful and time-consuming for any parent. Pull-ups are a great way to transition your child from diapers to big kid underwear. They are the entry point for most children in potty training. So when do you start using pull-ups?
Key Takeaways
- Pull-ups, also called nappy pants, have an absorbent core and can be used with children over 12 months old.
- Pull-ups are similar to diapers but have stretchy sides.
- The main difference between pull-ups and regular diapers is that you push pull-ups down to remove them as opposed to diapers that must be unwrapped entirely from the body.
- Pull-ups can help toilet training go more smoothly.
"When do you start using pull-ups?" Is a question that many parents ask when their child starts to show interest in using the toilet. Read on to find out more.
When Do You Start Using Pull-Ups?
You start using pull-ups when your child is ready to potty train or is 12 months old. Likewise, parents can use them when their kids sit unassisted and can pull their pants up and down without help.
If a child can climb up on furniture or the couch without assistance, they are ready for pull-ups. It's the same case when they have enough strength in their arms and upper body to support themselves while moving around.
What are Pull-Ups?
Pull-ups are disposable training pants with inner waterproof layers and elastic waistbands. Pull-ups come in different sizes: short, medium, and long. Despite having almost a similar absorbency rate to diapers, they are more expensive.
Pull-ups are made from soft cotton and can be used with kids over 12 months old. Pull-ups are non-binding, comfortable, do not iritate sensitive skin and do not restrict bladder or bowel function. The purpose of pull-ups is to act as a bridge between diapers and wearing underwear.
Since there’s no risk of a mess during potty training, your baby may pull the flexible sides up and down like they would their underwear. Pull-ups are a crucial part of potty training, which, depending on the child, often starts around age three.
Pros and Cons of Pull-Ups
To help you make the right decision, here are some merits and demerits of pull-ups:
Pros
- Pull-ups can help your child potty train more smoothly. If your child refuses to use the toilet, pull-ups can give them a sense of security and independence, making the transition easier.
- Pull-ups can save you money in the long run. If you use disposable diapers, you'll eventually be switching to pull-ups. Making the switch sooner can save you money in the long term.
- They're non-binding, comfortable, and do not restrict bladder or bowel movements.
Cons
- Pull-ups can be inconvenient. They're bulkier than diapers and not so good for night training.
When is the Best Time for Your Baby to Start Using Pull-Ups?
The best time for your baby to switch to pull-ups depends on each child's development. However, most experts agree that young toddlers are typically ready to switch to pull-ups between 12 months and two years.
If your child shows interest in using the toilet or potty, this is usually a good indication that they are ready to start using pull-ups. Please pay close attention to your child's cues and behaviors, and when you think they are ready, give it a go. There is no harm in starting too early. If your child isn't quite ready, they will let you know (see also when to stop using pull-ups).
Difference Between Pull-Ups and Diapers
Here are the major differences between pull-ups and diapers.
Pull-ups are meant to be pulled up and down, while diapers must be unwrapped entirely to be changed.
Pull-ups typically have an absorbent layer and a waterproof layer, while diapers also have a third layer, called a liner, which helps keep the diaper from leaking.
Pull-ups are generally more expensive than diapers. Pull-ups offer more features and benefits than diapers, like the flexibility to be moved up and down like regular underwear.
Pull-ups usually have built-in leak protection and are often more comfortable for children.
Are Pull-Ups Better Than Diapers?
Yes. Pull-ups allow your child to feel more independent because they can easily pull them up and down independently. They also help with toilet training because they have built-in absorbency for when messy accidents happen. Pull-Ups are better than diapers because they are more comfortable due to their elastic waistband and are less messy.
Why do Parents Use Pull-ups for Potty Training?
Most parents start using pull-ups for potty training because it makes the switch from diapers to potty use easier. Children get more control and are more motivated to stay dry since pull-ups resemble the sensation of wearing a regular diaper. Additionally, pull-ups often have fun designs or characters that can help make the potty training process more enjoyable for kids.
Pull-ups can be pulled up and down like normal underwear, giving kids a sense of independence and control during potty training. And if there are any accidents, clean-up is generally much easier with pull-ups than with traditional underwear.
How to transition to Pull-Ups From Diapers
Pull-ups, also known as training pants, are a great way to transition your child from disposable diapers to underwear. Follow the tips below to ease the transition from diapers to pull-ups:
Talk to your child about potty training and explain that they will soon be big enough to wear underwear.
Show them how to put on their pull-ups and take them off again. Use simple instructions to make the process easier.
Help them toilet train in their pull-ups and ask if they feel uncomfortable with any step involved. Please encourage them to tell you when they need to go and praise them when they do a good job.
When they consistently use the potty in their pull-ups without messes, it's time to start wearing underwear.
Whether to switch to pull-ups when a baby is about to start potty training is up to the parents. It's a matter of whatever works best for your child and your family.
If your child shows interest in using the toilet independently, it is probably a good time to shift from diapers to pull-ups.
FAQs
1. What Are Pull-Ups?
Pull-ups are disposables similar to diapers but with an elasticated waistband. They are the perfect way to transition your child from diaper changes to underwear. Pull-ups are the entry point for the majority of babies in matters of daytime potty training.
2. Are Pull-Ups Better Than Diapers?
Yes. Pull-ups are better than diapers. The disposables allow your child to feel more independent because they can pull them up and down on their own. They also help your child begin potty training and have a considerable built-in absorbency.
3. What’s the Main Difference Between Pull-Ups and Diapers?
The main difference between pull-ups and diapers is that pull-ups are meant to be pulled up and down, while diapers are fixed. You push pull-ups down to remove them instead of diapers that must be unwrapped from the body. Pull-ups also help with the potty training journey, unlike diapers.
4. When Do You Start Using Pull Ups?
You can start using pull-ups between 12 months and two years. However, it depends on your child's development, and each child is unique in their timing. Older toddlers showing discomfort with diapers usually indicates that they are ready for pull-ups.