Quick answer

For most potty training families, a cloth trainer like the Bear Necessities Trainer offers better value, less waste, and similar convenience to a pull-up. The trade-off is more laundry versus the throw-away ease of disposables.

Why absorbency matters for potty training

Cloth trainers are designed to catch small accidents while letting your child feel wetness—a key part of learning. The Bear Necessities Trainer uses bamboo terry lining and three layers of bamboo padding, giving it solid absorbency for leaks without feeling like a diaper.

Disposable pull-ups wick moisture away quickly, which can slow down the learning process. They are also single-use, creating more waste and ongoing cost.

Fit and independence

Pull-ups are easy to pull up and down, but they can sag when wet. The Bear Necessities Trainer has wide front and back elastic, making it easy for little ones to manage on their own while staying snug.

The new design includes snaps and an opening to add extra absorbency if needed—a feature most pull-ups lack.

Trade-offs at a glance

  • Cost per use: A Bear Necessities Trainer costs about $7.20 and can be reused hundreds of times. A pack of disposable pull-ups costs more over weeks of training. Upfront investment vs. ongoing expense.
  • Laundry effort: Cloth trainers require washing after each accident. Pull-ups go straight in the trash. More laundry vs. zero laundry.
  • Learning feedback: Bamboo terry lining lets your child feel wetness, encouraging them to recognize the sensation. Pull-ups hide wetness with stay-dry layers. Faster learning vs. comfort.
  • Adjustability: The Bear Necessities Trainer has snaps and an opening to add booster pads. Pull-ups have no such option. Custom absorbency vs. fixed performance.

Product facts

  • Bear Necessities-Trainer (old style): Lined with bamboo terry, pre-padded with 3 layers of bamboo, and has snaps plus an opening to add extra absorbency. This means you can adjust absorbency for heavy wetters or overnight use, something disposable pull-ups cannot offer.

    Bear Necessities-Trainer (old style)

    Bear Necessities-Trainer (old style)

  • Bear Necessities-Trainer (old style): Fits roughly 12–50 lbs and has wide front and back elastic for easy pulling up and down. Your toddler gains independence with a secure fit that doesn't sag, making potty training less frustrating for both of you.

Which should you choose?

Best for

  • Parents who want a reusable, eco-friendly potty training option
  • Toddlers who need adjustable absorbency for heavy wetters or overnight
  • Families who already cloth diaper and want a consistent system

Not ideal for

  • Parents who cannot commit to extra laundry during potty training
  • Caregivers who need a fully disposable solution for daycare or travel