Night-time Potty Training: How to Help Your Child Stop Using Nappies at Night

When is a child ready to stop wearing a nappy at night?

There are a few clear signs that your child might be ready to go without a nappy overnight:

• The nappy is dry several mornings in a row
• Your child wakes up and says they need to wee
• They go for a wee before bed and manage to stay dry until morning
• They show interest in sleeping without a nappy

The most important thing is that your child is involved and excited – that makes the transition smoother and more successful.

Tips for Successful Night-time Potty Training

Going from nappies at night to dry nights is a process. Here are some practical tips to help you and your child along the way:

1. Start when your child is ready

Don’t rush to ditch the night nappy. Some children are dry at night by 2.5 years, while others need a nappy until they start school. Both are completely normal!

2. Always wee before bedtime

Make it a routine to visit the toilet just before sleep. It helps reduce the risk of accidents during the night.

3. Protect the mattress

Use a mattress protector or waterproof sheet to make night-time clean-ups easier. Keep spare sheets handy for quick changes.

4. Limit drinks in the evening

Offer plenty to drink during the day, but try to reduce fluids in the hour before bedtime.

5. Choose easy-to-remove pyjamas

If your child wakes up needing to wee, simple clothes they can manage themselves are best.

What if there’s an accident at night?

Accidents are part of the learning process. Try not to show disappointment or frustration. Instead, say something like, “Oops, looks like the bed’s a bit wet. Let’s change the sheets and sort it out.”

Give your child reassurance and show that you’re patient. Every child learns in their own time.

Should you wake your child to wee?

Some parents choose to lift their child and take them to the toilet while they’re half-asleep – for example, around 10pm. This might work for some families, but remember: the goal is for your child to learn to wake up when they need to go. Think of it as a temporary help, not a long-term solution.

When to wait before removing the night nappy

If your child sleeps very deeply, has a full nappy in the morning, or doesn’t seem mentally ready, it’s best to wait. There’s no need to rush – night-time potty training will happen when your child is ready.

Also read: When is it time for potty training? How to tell if your child is ready