Cloth Training Pants: Everything You Need To Know
Are you thinking about potty training your little one? If so, reusable training pants, also known as potty training pants, are a great option to consider. I know that you're searching different combo of this term, so whether you're looking for a washable pull up or a cloth trainer, we got you in this next section on everything you need to know about cloth training pants.
These pants are designed to help children transition from diapers to underwear while minimizing messes and accidents. In this article, we'll explore the benefits of reusable training pants and provide tips on how to choose the right ones for your child.
Interested in learning more about cloth diapering? Check out our comprehensive guide on Cloth Diapering 101,where we break down the different types of cloth diapers and provide tips and tricks for success.
What are Reusable Training Pants?
A reusable training pants is a hybrid between cloth diapers and underwear that is designed to help children transition from diapers to underwear during the potty training process. Unlike pull ups that you find at the grocery store, reusable training pants are washable, sustainable, and can be reused multiple times.
Generally, a cloth trainer will look and feel like regular underwear, but they are made with an absorbent layer that helps catch accidents and will have a waterproof exterior to keep pants kinda dry (I say kinda because it's not 100% fool proof and if you need that experience, you probably need to go back to diapers)
PS we have a fantastic collection of kids sustainable underwear focusing on brands and products that are comfortable, durable and kids will want to wear. I got frustrated with cheap underwear for it's elastics that dig and it's material that it's see through.
Types of Reusable Training Pants
As with everything, there are many different styles of trainers on the market - all designed by passionate people looking to put their favourite features into an easy on and off product that will help transition into underwear. Many brands will integrate some or all of these features into their products, while others will focus on key characteristics to identify their niche product.
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Pull-On Training Pants: These are designed to be pulled up and down like regular underwear. They likely have a PUL exterior that is either built into the product or on the exterior, and typically sized to fit your kid. Many pull-on training pants have an absorbent layer that can hold small accidents, and designed like an All In One Cloth Diaper in that's all sewn together for easy on and off diapering.
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Snap-On Training Pants: These training pants have snaps on the sides, which allows for easy removal in the event of an accident. Snap On Training Pants offer many of the same features of a pull on trainer. Some of these will have a pocket in them for adding inserts, otherwise will not. And of course, generally see a PUL exterior, and rise snaps to adjust the length of the trainer. Many Snap-on trainers are one-size fits most with a brand size range to accompany toddlers.
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Pocket Training Pants: These training pants have a waterproof outer layer, but require an absorbent insert. The insert may be provided and they likely have features of a pocket cloth diaper, and snap on trainer. These Pocket Training Pants generally offer a wider size range and allow for more versatility in maximize absorbency.
- All-in-One Training Pants: These are designed to be an all-in-one solution, with an absorbent layer and waterproof outer layer built in. They are easy to use and can be a great option for parents who want a simple and convenient solution. It's unlikely you'll be able to add additional inserts. These can come in a heavy wetter night time pull up style, or a daytime style.
Why Choose Reusable Training Pants?
There are several reasons why parents choose reusable training pants over disposable options - but most of us get frosted at disposable training pants being expensive and one time yes. Yes, it's not recommended to reuse disposable training pants even if your child doesn't pee in them. This can lead to rashes and skin irritations for some children. These include:
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Eco-Friendly: Reusable training pants are a sustainable option that helps reduces waste. Simply wash like underwear with a though rinse and you're good to go - or follow your cloth diaper wash routine cycle.
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Cost-Effective: While reusable training pants may cost more upfront than disposable options - especially if you might be using them for a long time for nights or a difficult training journey. They can also be passed down to other kids or friends.
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Comfortable: Reusable training pants are designed to be comfortable for children to wear. They come in a range of sizes, styles, and materials to offer kids comfort, but also they need to feel wet!
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Easy to Clean: Reusable training pants can be washed and dried in the same way as regular underwear. Many brands are also machine washable and can be tumble dried on low heat. - which is all to remind us that cloth diaper laundry can be simple and needs to be simple.
How Much Will It Cost to Use Trainers?
Unlike cloth diapering, the number of cloth trainers you might need can vary widely depending on your child, your expectations and where you're at with this whole potty learning journey. We generally see a recommendation of 6-8, but I would be conservative with 4-6.
Let's build out some cost scenarios for cloth training pants.
| Brand/Product | Key Features | Price | Stash Size | Total Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Zero A Trainer by Lil Helper | Waterproof PUL outer layer, absorbent bamboo inner, adjustable snaps | $24 each | 6 diapers | $144 |
| Kinder Cloth Diaper Co Trainer | Waterproof PUL outer layer, absorbent bamboo insert, adjustable snaps | $20 each | 6 diapers | $120 |
| Generic Disposable Training Pants | Plastic outer layer, absorbent core | $0.50 each | N/A | $180 |
Note: the total cost for the disposable training pants is based on assuming 6 diapers used per day for 6 months at a cost of $0.50 per diaper. Actual cost may vary depending on usage and the cost of the specific brand purchased.
Cost comparison is on par, with the biggest win to reusable trainers being you don't have to go out and buy more if you run out, and being able to pass them on to the next child in your family. This is a common benefit we've learned about cloth diapering throughout this series.
How to Choose a Cloth Training Pant
When choosing a cloth training pant, consider the following:
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Size: Check the reviews and size charts to see what products will fit your child at their current size. Determine if you'll need multiple sizes or if they will continue at the same size. If you want to use these trainers for a subsequent child, a one-size might be more favourable, my second was much smaller than my first when we started training and I had to buy more.
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Absorbency Goals: Determine if you need a pant for daytime or nighttime use. Some pants have options for adding absorbency or are designed specifically for nighttime use. Do you want to be able to add an insert, or are you looking for a padded underwear to help with accidents?
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Material: Consider what type of material you want against your child's skin, and if you have any preferences for the type of material inside the pant. Think about avoiding stay dry materials, the potential challenges of microfiber, and the higher cost of natural fibers.
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Closure: Determine if you need side snaps or pull-on options. Side snaps make handling poop easier since you don't have to pull the pant down, which can be inconvenient for the child.
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Brand Reputation: Research the reputation of different brands and read reviews to ensure you choose a reliable product. Not all trainers are made the same, and many sold on the internet have not been thoroughly product tests and developed for a positive experience. Seriously, they be sketch on the big sites.
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Price: Determine your budget and look for a training pant that fits your needs within that budget. Keep in mind that higher-priced options may come with additional features or higher-quality materials.
Answering Common Questions about Cloth Training Pants
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| How do reusable training pants work? | Reusable training pants are designed to help children transition from diapers to underwear while minimizing messes and accidents - this is done by providing an underwear like clothing item that can capture some pee and provide a waterproof barrier between clothing. The amount of pee a reusable trainer can hold differs between brands and most are designed for accidents and not full bladders. |
| How are reusable training pants different from pull-ups? | Reusable training pants are washable, sustainable, and can be reused multiple times. This is because they features an absorbent textile core with waterproof exterior. Pull ups are single use, disposable and designed with paper, SAP, and additional products we know about in disposable diapers. |
| What are the different types of reusable training pants? | There are pull-on training pants, snap-on training pants, pocket training pants, and all-in-one training pants; but note that these types more speak to general characteristics and features that brands can imploy to design a training pant. |
| Why should I choose reusable training pants? | Reusable training pants are eco-friendly, cost-effective, comfortable, and easy to clean. They can be gentle on your children's skin, available in fun colours and provide the confidence they need to tackle the transition to big kid underwear. |
| How much will it cost to use reusable training pants? | The cost of using reusable training pants will depend on the brand and the number of trainers you need - we did a cost comparison above and it's just below the cost of 6 months of using disposable pull ups. |
| How do I choose the right size of reusable training pants for my child? | Check the reviews and size charts to see what products will fit your child at their current size. It's important to ask the brand as well because weight guides are vague, see if you can find a clothing size comparison. |
| How do I choose the right material for reusable training pants? | Consider what type of material you want against your child's skin, and if you have any preferences for the type of material inside the pant. Think about avoiding stay dry materials, the potential challenges of microfiber, and the higher cost of natural fibers. |
| What closure options are available for reusable training pants? | Side snaps make handling poop easier since you don't have to pull the pant down, which can be inconvenient for the child. Some pants are designed to be pulled up and down like regular underwear and have an elastic waistband. |
| How do I choose the right brand of reusable training pants? | Research the reputation of different brands and read reviews to ensure you choose a reliable product. Keep in mind that not all trainers are made the same, and many sold on the internet have not been thoroughly product tested and developed for a positive experience. |
| How many reusable training pants will I need? | The number of cloth trainers you might need can vary widely depending on your child, your expectations and where you're at with this whole potty learning journey. A general recommendation is 6-8, but you might need more or less depending on your child and your preferences. |
The biggest downside is cost, and reusable training pants are not a must-have. They are an added nicety that some families feel they need. I think about my potty learning experience and it was one half the other. I'm not sure I can confidently make a recommendation one way or the other on value of cloth training pants.
Make Potty Training Easy and Eco-Friendly with Reusable Training Pants
Reusable training pants are a great option for parents looking for a sustainable, cost-effective, and comfortable solution for potty training their little ones. With a variety of styles and materials available, parents can choose the best option for their child's need
Ready to start your cloth training pants journey? Visit us for a great selection of cloth trainers and accessories to make your potty training experience smooth and sustainable. Shop now and enjoy a stress-free transition from diapers to underwear!
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