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Types of Toddler Toilets

Many types of toilet seats, or "potties," are available to choose from as you prepare to toilet train your child. Although the design details vary, the two basic options are a potty chair or a potty seat. Some seats are designed for dual use.

Portable potty chair

A potty chair is a self-contained miniature version of a toilet. It is placed on the floor and provides easy access for your child. The toilet seat where your child sits is similar to a normal toilet seat, although the waste collects in a pan or bowl beneath it and must be emptied and cleaned after each use. These potty chairs allow your child to:

  • Get on and off the potty without help.
  • Place his or her feet flat on the floor. This supports the feet and allows your child to push his or her feet against the floor while passing a stool.

Potty seat

A potty seat attaches to your regular toilet, and waste goes into the toilet bowl. A potty seat requires a solid step stool (often included). Many potty seats have a backrest and grips or armrests. The seat needs to be firmly attached to the regular toilet; a loose seat can scare a child and hinder training progress.

By Healthwise Staff
Primary Medical Reviewer John Pope, MD - Pediatrics
Specialist Medical Reviewer Thomas Emmett Francoeur, MDCM, CSPQ, FRCPC - Pediatrics
Last Revised March 24, 2011

Last Revised: March 24, 2011

Author: Healthwise Staff

Medical Review: John Pope, MD - Pediatrics & Thomas Emmett Francoeur, MDCM, CSPQ, FRCPC - Pediatrics

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