Image: MomJunction Design Team
Unlike a decade ago, today’s moms and dads have a wide range of choices when it comes to baby diaper ranges. The most convenient of all is the pull-up diaper. Like regular trousers, they can be easily pulled up and down. The best pull-ups for toddlers are made of breathable, soft materials with excellent absorbency and intricate design and are specifically designed for a baby’s soft skin. Here is a list of the best pull-ups, along with a detailed buying guide, to make your purchase decision easier.
Top Picks
13 Best Pull-Ups For Toddlers
1. Best For Odor Absorption: Goodnites Nighttime Bedwetting Underwear
The Goodnites disposable bedwetting trousers have strengthened double-leg barriers to prevent leaks and five-layer protection. It also includes an elastic waistband that provides a comfortable, underwear-like fit. These disposable potty training pants provide 40% more protection than regular training pants and are 100% leak free (1). The absorbent underwear have received positive reviews for being printed in children’s favorite Marvel characters.
Pros
- Fits all body types
- Absorbs odor
- Multiple absorbent layers
- Provides overnight protection
- Available in various sizes
Cons
- Might not be unisex
"These pull-ups came to the rescue at night with their great absorbency. My son loves wearing them due to the kid-friendly design and cozy fit. But I could not escape from rare leaks. Still, I would recommend it."
Point to consider2. Best Parabens-Free: Pampers Easy Ups Training Pants
Pampers training pants, featuring the Trolls characters, are a fun and simple way to get your child ready for underwear. The 360° waistband stretchy pull-ups move with your kid for a real-life fit that makes it easy for them to pull their training trousers up and down (2). These trusted training diapers have been tested by many and also come with dual leak-guard barriers to keep leaks at bay. Furthermore, the hypoallergenic material is dermatologist-approved, ensuring it is safe for your child. Here’s a review video showcasing a tester’s experience to help you better understand the easy-up pants.
Pros
- Suits both girls and boys
- Pediatrician-recommended
- Parabens free
- Latex-free
- Breathable material
- Offers hours of protection
Cons
- May have artificial fragrance added
"After noticing diaper rashes on my little one, I tried this training pant, and it was amazing. Its absorbency was commendable for both day and night. The easy tear-aways made it easy to remove the diapers without undressing my baby. I would recommend it."
3. Best Soft And Stretchy Sides: Huggies Pull-Ups
These pull-ups, from the trusted brand Huggies, feature exclusive Mickey Mouse music-themed images that fade when wet to encourage your child to stay dry. These soft and comfortable pull-ups have received positive reviews and are designed to offer hours of protection. The disposable diapers are easy to open and have refastenable sides that make changing your child’s training pants easy (3). The adjustable sides let you modify your child’s waistband while also allowing you to check for messes readily. These training pants feature exclusive Disney graphics that fade when wet and provide a visual cue to help your child learn to stay dry.
Pros
- Underwear-like fit
- Soft and stretchy sides
- All-around coverage
- Overnight diapers
- Breathable material
Cons
- Some may find it hard to remove them
"I found this one when I was looking for a mess-free option for my child’s potty training. They are adjustable, and their velcro sides eliminate the need to undress my little one. Even though they are apt for daytime use, I noticed they are not the best for nighttime."
Did you know?
Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product has earned its stripes, with over 6,480 reviews on Amazon.
4. Best Plant-Based Materials: Huggies Pull-Ups New Leaf
The New Leaf training pants by Huggies, a trusted and tested brand, are made of a cottony-soft, breathable, and high-absorbency cloth. They have an underwear-like construction that allows effortless up and down motion. The soft, refastenable sides with adjustable waistline provide a secure fit. Each set features front and back designs of Disney’s Olaf, Sven, and Kristoff. Click here to check out a reviewer’s experience with testing these adjustable and disposable diapers
Pros
- Made from plant-based materials
- Hypoallergenic pull-ups
- Wetness indicator
- Breathable training underwear
- Available in multiple sizes
Cons
- Might not be unisex
"These pull-ups worked well for my toddler, who was transitioning from a diaper to potty-training pants. They are soft and comfortable, so my young one wore them without any complaint. I was satisfied with the absorbency it offered but the fitting needed a bit of adjustment."
Did you know?Why We Think It's Worth Buying
The product boasts 4,694 reviews on Amazon, and many buyers have said they would purchase the product again.
5. Best For Sensitive Skin: Joonya Pull-Up Pants
Joonya’s high-performance diapers use a patented channel technology to keep wetness away from the baby’s delicate skin (4). The diapers have a soft feel, and the double-layer design makes them ultra-absorbent. Free of latex, chlorine, perfumes, heavy metals, and dyes, these hypoallergenic diapers are gentle on sensitive skin. Plus, the unisex design and print make these slim and lightweight diapers suitable for both boys and girls.
Pros
- Non-toxic build
- Non-irritating
- Breathable backsheet
- Suitable for overnight use
- Eco-friendly
Cons
- May not be easy to put on
6. Best Refastenable: Pull-Ups Skin Essentials Training Pants
Pull-Ups’ Skin Essentials potty training pants are made of soft and breathable materials to prevent rashes. They provide targeted absorbency to stop leaks and have refastenable sides for quick changes and inspections on the go (5). The pants are dermatologist-approved and free of harsh ingredients, fragrances, and lotions. These pull-ups also have Disney’s Frozen graphics that fade when wet—a feature that can make potty training easier for you and your child.
Pros
- Hypoallergenic
- Leak-free build
- Soft to the touch
- Chlorine-free
Cons
- Might run small for some
7. Best Hypoallergenic: Eco by Naty Pull-Ups Training Pants
Pull-ups from Eco by Naty offer a flexible underwear-like fit that the child can effortlessly slide up and down. Owing to this feature, it is perfect for potty training. They have adjustable tear-away side panels that make changing easy for parents. In addition, the fiber core of these potty training underwear-like pull-ups is highly absorbent, which prevents leaks and keeps your toddler’s skin dry and clean. These pants are certified by TÜV Austria, ÖKO-TEX, and Vegan (6).
Pros
- Made from plant-based materials
- Hypoallergenic
- Fragrance-free
- Available in multiple sizes
Cons
- They may be too thin
"I found these training pants soft and convenient with the side-ripping option as it saves me from messy situations. It is ideal during travels. Its absorbency was commendable at night. However, I came across occasional leaks. I’m satisfied with the overall performance."
8. Best Latex-Free: Cuties SleepOvers
Sleep Overs from Cuties are flexible, and its ultra-absorbent core traps in wetness and provides great leakage protection throughout day and night. The absorbent pull-ups have stretchable side panels that move with the body to ensure a snug fit and are soft, absorbent, and safe. The inner liners are infused with aloe, botanicals, and vitamin E to prevent skin irritation. This training diaper offers hours of protection. The inks used in the graphics are free of lead and heavy metals, ensuring safe use (7).
Pros
- Dermatologist-tested
- Hypoallergenic
- Latex-free
- Suits sensitive skin
- Chlorine-free
- Maintains toddler’s healthy skin
Cons
- Elastic may not be strong
"I was pleased by the absorbency this diaper offered at night. It is suitable for heavy wetters. However, my child was a little uncomfortable with the sizing, so I had to go a size up."
9. Best Elastic Waistband: The Honest Company Clean Conscious Training Pants
Honest Clean Conscious Training Pants feature a stretchy waistband that allows toddlers to pull them on and off like regular underwear. Made of plant-based materials, these paraben- and latex-free pants are gentle on sensitive skin. Their super absorbent core makes them ideal for overnight use, and the lightweight, breathable design ensures your child moves freely. The hypoallergenic pants have vibrant prints and are available in multiple sizes to suit different body types (8).
Pros
- OEKO-TEX STANDARD 100 certified
- Perforated seams
- Dual layer protection
- All-around stretch
- Fragrance-free
Cons
- Might run small for some
10. Best Eco-Friendly: Bambo Nature Premium Training Pants
Bambo Nature’s disposable potty training pants are free of toxic chemicals, allergens, and chlorine. These training pants have a three-layer construction with a highly absorbent core that can withstand several wettings, lasting overnight. It also includes a completely permeable baby-friendly back sheet to keep a baby’s delicate skin dry. The pants are certified to Nordic Swan Ecolabel, Asthma Allergy Nordic, and the FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) standards. These dermatologist-tested pants can be used for both boys and girls (9).
Pros
- Eco-friendly
- Available in multiple sizes
- Easy to use
- Multiple absorbent layers
- Offers overnight protection
- Has a wetness indicator
Cons
- Might have sizing issues
"I did not notice any leakage after using these pull-ups. I also love that they are biodegradable, comfortable, and offer a snug fit. However, I feel they are less suitable for heavy wetters and active sleepers."
11. Best Absorbent Material: Comfees Premium Training Pants
Comfees Premium Training Pants could be the ideal option if you want to potty train your child or transition them to regular underwear. The pants have a soft build for comfort and a wetness indicator to show when it is time to change them. Their super absorbent core prevents leaks for over 12 hours, and the tear-away sides make changing super easy (10). The stretchable waist band allows the child to put on the pants just like regular underwear, and the vibrant prints are a bonus.
Pros
- Offers a snug fit
- Soft to the touch
- Stretchable waistband
- Available in multiple sizes
Cons
- Not unisex
12. Best For Preventing Diaper Irritation: Natural Blossom Pull-up Diaper Pants
The Natural Blossom pull-ups are dad-and-mom-approved and designed to absorb up to 17oz, preventing skin irritation throughout the day and at night. The super absorbent baby-friendly polymer (SAP) on the diaper reduces contact with the baby’s skin. They fit the child comfortably and perfectly without any clumping. It ensures a smooth transition for the baby to be potty-trained.
Pros
- Hypoallergenic
- Free of harmful chemicals
- High absorbency
- Ideal size fit
Cons
- Stocking issues
"I was surprised by the softness of these diapers, and they prevented rashes on my child. Its absorbency is also quite satisfactory. I would recommend it if your baby has sensitive skin."
13. Best Wetness Indicator: Huggies Pull-Ups Training Pants with Learning Designs for Girls
The Huggies learning designs pull-ups feature Disney’s Doc McStuffins and the new Minnie Mouse and Sofia the First. Each pair of training pants also includes a design that fades when they get wet. It also has more absorbency to help the child stay dry. The stretchy waistband helps your kid practice putting on and taking off the training pants, and the easy-open sides allow for quick changes.
Pros
- Wetness indicator
- Glow-in-the-dark design
- Feels like regular underwear
- Overnight disposable diapers
Cons
- Might not be unisex
"These pull-ups were a worthy addition to my young one’s potty training gear. Their velcro sides were convenient, particularly in messy situations. However, they can’t be considered as a replacement for overnight diapers. Overall, they are decent!"
How To Choose The Right Pull-Up Diapers?
Here are some important points you should consider before choosing a pull-up diaper.
- Absorbency: Since pull-ups are designed to build confidence, highly absorbent material is essential for you and your child to feel safe. However, also ensure the breathability of the pull-up to ensure your child stays comfortable.
- Stretchy waistline: One of the aims of toilet training is to teach your child how to put on and take off their underpants. It’s crucial to have a waistline that’s secure and flexible.
- Sides that tear away: As essential as it is for your child to be able to put on pull-ups on their own, accidents can happen. You’ll need a pull-up diaper with tear-away sides in an emergency so a parent can swiftly remove it.
- Design: Children will be more enthusiastic about toilet training if you buy them pull-ups with characters or graphics.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the difference between pull-ups and training pants?
Training pants are similar to underwear, whereas pull-ups are more like diapers and are more absorbent than training pants.
2. Are pull-ups as absorbent as diapers?
Pull-ups are generally made of the same material (sodium polyacrylate) as diapers, and they work in the same way. However, pull-ups may be a little more absorbent and more suitable for night use than diapers.
3. When should my child start using pull-up diapers?
Pull-ups were once only advised for the transition to potty training; therefore, they were rarely used before the age of two. However, the latest generation of pull-ups is now recommended for children as early as one year.
Natalie Perez, a parenting blogger and influencer, says, “The advantage of pull-ups is that they help potty-training toddlers get used to the act of pulling diapers down and up like underwear. I started with pull-ups and switched to washable and extra-padded training pants as my child got better at it and didn’t have many accidents. This approach has made potty training much less messy.”
4. Should a three-year-old be in pull-ups?
It is recommended to continue using pull-ups until your baby is potty trained.
5. Are pull-ups good for toddlers?
Yes, they make the transition from diapers to underwear more effortless. They also help toddlers to be independent and help at various stages of potty training.
6. Can my baby pee and poop in pull-ups?
Yes, they can until they are potty trained. Moreover, pull-ups are highly absorbent.
7. At what age should my baby stop using pull-ups at night?
This may vary among children. Some little ones can wet their bed even at four or six years. So stop using pull-ups whenever your little one is potty trained thoroughly.
8. How should I hygienically change my toddler’s soiled pull-up?
Follow these steps to ensure a safe and hygienic change of a soiled pull-up (11).
- Before changing a child’s pull-up, perform hand hygiene and keep supplies like wipes, clean clothes, disposable gloves, and a plastic bag for soiled items handy. Cover the changing area with a non-absorbent paper liner to cover the changing area fully.
- Place the child safely on the toddler changing table. Gently tear the sides and remove the pull-up. Using wet wipes, gently clean the toddler’s skin, ensuring all areas are free of waste to prevent rashes or irritation.
- Check for any skin issues before putting on the clean pull-on the child.
- If the soiled pull-up contains solid waste, shake it into the toilet before disposal (if applicable).
Why Trust MomJunction?
Vibha Navarathna is experienced in writing for pregnancy and baby products, and understands what’s good for the children. Here, she has created a list of the best disposable and reusable pull-ups for toddlers to purchase online, including features such as odor-free, easy-to-tear sides, unisex, and paraben-free. She also included the pros and cons of the products and a buying guide to help you choose the right product.
The Bottom Line
Pull-up diapers are more convenient to use than regular diapers. Irrespective of the brand you settle for, the diaper should be thoughtfully made using materials that are gentle on your baby’s skin. And since the fitting of a pull-up diaper cannot be adjusted, make sure you opt for diapers with a super-elastic waistband to avoid rashes or tightness. Finally, pick a pull-up diaper with colorful prints and characters, and your baby will look cuter. We recommend the Huggies Pull-Ups for their adjustable and stretchable design. Next in line is the clinically proven, hypoallergenic Goodnites Nighttime Bedwetting Underwear, which prevents odors. We also like the Pampers Easy Ups Training Pants, which are free of parabens and latex.
Infographic: How To Know If Your Child Is Ready For Pull-Up Diapers?
Once your child displays signs of being ready for toilet training, they can begin wearing pull-up diapers. These pants assist in a seamless and mess-free transition from diapers to underwear. To identify the signs that indicate your child is ready for toilet training and, consequently, pull-up diapers, refer to the following infographic.
Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
References
- Goodnites® Nighttime Underwear For Boys.
https://www.goodnites.com/en-us/bedwetting-products/nighttime-underwear-for-boys - Pampers® Easy Ups™.
https://www.pampers.com/en-us/products/pampers-easy-ups-trainers-for-boys-and-girls - Pull-Ups® Potty Training Pants For Boys.
https://www.pull-ups.com/en-us/potty-training-products/potty-training-pants-boys - Skin-Loving Forest-Friendly Pull-Ups – Bulk Carton
https://joonya.com/products/pull-ups?_pos=1&_sid=e28e82d46&_ss=r&selling_plan=9130737975 - Calzoncitos entrenadores para ir al baño Pull-Ups® Skin Essentials™ para niñas
https://www.pull-ups.com/es-us/potty-training-products/skin-essentials-girls - Eco Pull-on Pants.
https://www.naty.com/us/en/for-baby/eco-pull-on-pants/eco-pull-on-pants/31502.html - Sleep Overs.
https://www.cuties.com/learn/our-youth-pants - Training Pants
https://www.honest.com/training-pants/H01TPT.html - Bambo Nature Pants size 6.
https://www.bambonature.com/products/bambo-nature-pants-size-6-15-kg-33-lbs-38-pcs - Comfees Training Pants
https://www.mycomfees.com/cmf-t-comfees-training-pants - Caring for Our Children: National Health and Safety Performance Standards; Guidelines for Early Care and Education Programs Third Edition.
https://www.inclusivechildcare.org/sites/default/files/resources/documents/CFOC3_color.pdf
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