Buying a potty seat is a huge milestone; it signals the end of diaper duty is finally in sight. However, the specific gear you choose can make or break the experience.
The adult toilet looks like a giant, watery abyss to a small child, so finding a seat that makes them feel safe is crucial.
We have been there many times. We did the dirty work of testing and comparing various styles to see what actually works.
We created this list of the 10 best potty chairs and seats for every situation. We reviewed our top picks based on comfort, cleaning ease, stability, and “cool factor” for your kid.
Check out these top-rated potty chairs and seats to get your little one on the path to being diaper-free.
- Sturdy and durable material
- High backrest and splash guard
- Easy waste removal
- Large splash guard
- Cushioned removable seat
- Secure on the toilet
- Realistic looking
- With a storage area
- Pretend flush with a flushing sound
- For car-loving toddlers
- Two-in-one function
- Handles and non-skid bottom
- Interactive flushing noise
- Impressive function
- Handles for stability
- Perfect theme for girls
- Pretend flush handle
- Durable material
What Is a Potty Chair?
A potty chair is essentially a standalone, miniature toilet. It sits directly on the floor so your child can plant their feet firmly for leverage. It features a bowl area to catch waste, which you empty manually.
Portability is a huge plus here. Potty chairs are usually lightweight, meaning you can move them from the bathroom to the living room or playroom. When your toddler feels the urge, the potty is right there (1).
The main drawback is the “ick” factor. You have to clean the bowl after every use. While pooping is natural, carrying a bowl of waste to the big toilet isn’t everyone’s favorite chore.
Let’s look at the variations available.
Types of Potty Chairs
- Standard potty chair: These are budget-friendly, single-piece units. They are durable but can be harder to clean since you have to rinse the entire chair.
- Two-piece potty chair: These feature a main frame to support your child and a removable inner bucket for waste. These are much easier to clean.
- Fancy potty chair: These come with bells and whistles like flush sounds, lights, cushioned seats, or stickers. Some even have storage drawers for wipes.
- Multi-functioning potty chair: These convert into a step stool or a seat reducer for the big toilet as your child grows. They offer great long-term value.
How to Choose a Potty Chair
While basic models work, certain features make the process smoother:
- Splash guard: This raised section at the front keeps pee inside the bowl. It is non-negotiable if you have boys, but it helps keep girls clean too.
- Stability: You do not want the chair sliding across the tile while your child tries to sit. Look for non-slip rubber feet or a weighted base to prevent tipping.
- Design: Toddlers are visual creatures. A potty that looks like a toy or features a favorite character can remove the fear factor.
What Is a Potty Seat?
A potty seat, also known as a “reducer” or “ring,” sits directly on top of your adult toilet seat. It makes the opening smaller so your child feels secure and won’t fall in.
These are excellent for taller toddlers or children who aren’t afraid of the big toilet.
The primary benefit is cleanliness. Waste goes straight into the toilet, so you just flush it away. Plus, once your toddler is ready, you simply remove the ring without needing to transition them from a floor chair to the toilet.
Always measure your toilet seat shape (round vs. elongated) to ensure the reducer fits securely.
Types of Potty Seats
There are generally two main styles:
- Regular potty seat: This ring sits on the toilet seat and is easy to remove for adults. However, your child will likely need a step stool to climb up.
- Potty seat with ladder: This combines the reducer ring with attached steps and handles. It gives children independence to climb up and sit down without your help, though it is bulkier to store.
How to Choose a Potty Seat
Look for these specific features to ensure safety and hygiene:
- Fastening method: Some seats use suction cups, locking wings, or a non-slip rubber friction grip. A secure fit is vital so the seat doesn’t wobble and scare your child.
- Splash guard: Just like floor chairs, seat reducers need a hump at the front to deflect urine down into the bowl.
- Material: You can choose between soft, cushioned vinyl or hard plastic. Cushions are comfier but can crack and trap germs over time. Hard plastic is easier to sanitize.
- Storage hook: Some models come with a hook that hangs on the toilet tank. This keeps the potty seat off the floor but within reach when not in use.
Product Reviews
We tested durability, stability, and “kid-appeal” to find these top 10 potty training solutions.
Baby Bjorn Potty Chair
Best Potty Chair for Big Toddlers
If your toddler is tall or sturdy, the Baby Bjorn Potty Chair is a fantastic choice. It is built from robust plastic that stays stable on the floor, and the slightly taller seat height prevents uncomfortable knee-bending for long-legged kids.
The high backrest is the standout feature here. It allows your child to lean back and relax, which helps them release comfortably without rushing.
The ergonomic design supports their posture perfectly.
Baby Björn knows that potty training happens at different ages. The high back makes it secure for smaller starters, while the legroom accommodates older toddlers.
The plastic is 100% BPA-free, so you don’t have to worry about chemical exposure.
Pros
- Sturdy, tip-resistant design.
- High backrest supports posture.
- Effective splash guard.
- Removable inner bowl for easy cleaning.
- BPA-free materials.
Cons
- Smooth plastic can sometimes stick to skin in humid weather.
Our Ratings
Baby Bjorn Smart Potty Chair
Best Travel Potty Chair
Baby Björn hits the list again with the Smart Potty. It features a similar ergonomic shape to their larger chair but in a much smaller footprint.
This unit takes up minimal space in a car trunk or even a large tote bag. Despite the smaller size, it retains the comfortable curves that prevent red marks on your child’s legs.
The durability is excellent. It handles weight well without bowing or flexing, and the BPA-free plastic is safe for daily use.
Rubber edging along the bottom keeps it from skidding across hotel bathroom floors.
Pros
- Compact profile fits in small spaces.
- Easy-to-clean removable bowl.
- Durable, rigid plastic.
- Non-skid base stays put.
Cons
- Splash guard might be too low for some boys.
Our Ratings
SkyRoku Potty Seat for Toddlers
Best Potty Seat for Boys
The SkyRoku seat is a lifesaver for parents of boys. We chose it specifically for the aggressive splash guard at the front. It creates a high barrier that keeps everything contained in the bowl, saving you from constant floor mopping.
Beyond the splash guard, the seat offers great security. It has a small backrest and grab handles, which help nervous toddlers feel anchored while sitting high up on the toilet.
The seat cushion is soft and inviting, unlike cold hard plastic.
I love the stability of this model. You can adjust the fixing arms underneath to clamp onto your specific toilet rim tightly. Plus, non-slip strips add an extra layer of grip.
Make sure you check your toilet shape; this works on round and elongated bowls but not square ones.
Pros
- High, effective splash guard.
- Soft, cushioned seat.
- Grab handles for security.
- Adjustable fit prevents wobbling.
Cons
- Not compatible with square toilet seats.
Our Ratings
GrowthPic Toddler Toilet Seat with Ladder
Best Potty Seat for Girls
If your child wants independence, the GrowthPic seat delivers. The built-in ladder allows your toddler to climb up, turn around, and sit down without you having to lift them every time.
The design is appealing and friendly. Available in cute colors like pink or grey, it softens the look of the “scary” adult toilet.
Comfort is key here. The seat is cushioned, allowing your child to sit for longer periods if they are struggling to go.
The wide step provides a safe platform for turning around, and the grab handles at the top offer stability. It also folds up reasonably well, so you can lean it against the wall when adults need the bathroom.
Pros
- Promotes independence with built-in stairs.
- Adjustable step height.
- Folds for storage.
- Comfortable cushion.
Cons
- Assembly instructions can be confusing.
- Does not fit square toilets.
Our Ratings
Summer Infant My Size Potty Chair
Best Toilet Look-Alike Potty Chair
The Summer Infant My Size Potty is the ultimate “copycat” tool. It looks exactly like a standard toilet, just shrunken down.
The realistic details are fantastic. It features a flush handle that makes a satisfying “whoosh” sound, which is a great reward for a job well done. The top tank even has a compartment for wipes or small books.
Your child can practice lifting and closing the lid, just like mom and dad. You remove the inner bowl to dump the waste, so it stays hygienic.
It includes a clip-on splash guard. It is fairly large and effective, but you have to make sure it is clipped tight so curious hands don’t pull it off.
Pros
- Realistic design encourages mimicry.
- Built-in storage for wipes.
- Rewarding flush sound.
- Good height for most toddlers.
Cons
- Splash guard can detach if handled roughly.
Our Ratings
Gimars Portable Potty Training Seat
Best Travel Potty Seat Cover
For families on the go, the Gimars portable seat is essential gear. It folds down into a small square that fits easily into a diaper bag or large purse.
The polypropylene construction is hinged, allowing it to collapse quickly. When you need it, you simply unfold it and place it on the public toilet seat.
It fits almost any toilet shape, including the open-front “U” shapes common in commercial restrooms. It supports up to 60 pounds, which is plenty for a toddler.
The design covers the contact points of the public seat, keeping little hands and legs away from germs. Silicone pads help keep it from sliding, though you should always supervise active wigglers.
Pros
- Folds small for easy travel.
- Fits most public toilets.
- Prevents direct contact with public seats.
- Cute designs available.
Cons
- Can pinch skin if the hinges aren’t fully locked flat.
Our Ratings
The First Years Training Wheels Potty Chair
Best Potty Chair for Boys
The First Years Training Wheels Potty is a hit with car-obsessed toddlers. It looks like a little race car with wheels and racing decals, turning a boring chore into a pit stop.
This is a versatile 3-in-1 system. You can use it as a floor potty, remove the seat ring to use on the big toilet, and turn the base over to use as a sturdy step stool.
The splash guard is quite high, which is excellent for boys. The handles on the side give them something to hold onto while they “drive.”
While fun, it is on the smaller side. It works best for younger or smaller toddlers starting their journey around 18 months.
Pros
- Fun race car theme.
- 3-in-1 functionality (potty, seat, stool).
- High splash guard.
- Includes non-skid feet.
Cons
- Too small for tall or older toddlers.
Our Ratings
iLove Dual Height Step Stool
Best Step Stool for Potty Training
The iLove Dual Height Step Stool is the perfect companion for toilet training.
I chose this because the two-step design accommodates toddlers of different heights. The top step reaches 10.5 inches, which is perfect for reaching the toilet seat or the sink for handwashing.
It is incredibly sturdy. The steps feature soft-grip rubber, and the base is lined with thick non-slip material. It holds up to 190 pounds, so you can even use it yourself in a pinch.
The clean white and grey aesthetic fits any bathroom decor.
This isn’t a single-use item; it will be useful around the house for years, helping kids reach kitchen counters or bookshelves safely.
Pros
- Dual steps for growing kids.
- Excellent non-slip grip.
- High weight capacity.
- Versatile use throughout the home.
Cons
- No side handles for support.
Our Ratings
Regalo 2-in-1 My Little Potty Chair
Best Learn and Laugh Potty Chair
The Regalo My Little Potty Chair focuses on the reward system. The realistic flush button makes a genuine water sound, giving your child immediate positive feedback after they go.
You will need batteries to keep the fun going, but the motivation it provides is worth it.
Functionally, it includes a removable cushioned seat that is soft on little bottoms. The back tank opens up to store wipes or small toys.
It includes a splash guard, though it is integrated into the soft seat rather than a high hard plastic wall, so positioning is key.
Pros
- Interactive flushing sound.
- Removable soft seat.
- Storage compartment.
- Side handles for stability.
Cons
- Splash guard is a bit low for aggressive sprayers.
Our Ratings
The First Years Minnie Mouse Potty Chair
Best Potty Chair for Girls
The First Years Minnie Mouse Potty is a charming choice for Disney fans.
This is a versatile 3-in-1 system: it’s a floor potty, the seat detaches to fit on the family toilet, and the base flips to become a step stool.
The aesthetics are great for buy-in. It features bright pink colors, a bow handle, and Minnie graphics. The “flush” handle offers a cheering sound to celebrate success.
The plastic is durable and wipes down easily. The low profile makes it easy for small children to sit, though taller toddlers might find it a bit low to the ground.
Pros
- Engaging Disney theme.
- 3-in-1 design converts to stool.
- Cheering flush sounds.
- Easy to wipe clean.
Cons
- Components can separate easily if kids play with them roughly.
Our Ratings
FAQs
What Age Should You Buy a Potty Chair?
You should buy a potty chair when your child shows readiness signs, usually between 18 and 24 months. However, having the chair in the bathroom a few months early allows them to get used to seeing it and sitting on it fully clothed, which demystifies the process.
What Type of Potty Seat Is Best?
The “best” type depends on your child’s personality. A standalone chair is best for anxious children who fear falling into the big toilet. A seat reducer (ring) is best for confident climbers and families with limited bathroom floor space.
How Long Should Toddlers Use a Potty Seat?
Most children use a potty seat or chair until they are big enough to balance on the regular toilet seat without fear of falling in, usually around age 3 or 4. Once their legs are long enough to balance comfortably, you can phase out the gear.
Are Potty Chairs Discouraged From Childcare Settings?
Yes, many daycares prohibit standalone potty chairs due to sanitation regulations. They typically use child-sized toilets or seat reducers on regular toilets. It helps to ask your provider what they use so you can try to replicate that setup at home for consistency.
How Do I Clean a Potty Chair?
For a standalone chair, empty the contents into the toilet, rinse the bowl with hot water, and wipe it down with a disinfectant wipe or spray after every use. Once a week, give it a deep clean with a bleach solution (1 tablespoon bleach per gallon of water) to kill lingering bacteria.
