When to start using a bedwetting alarm?

A bedwetting alarm is a safe and effective solution to help treat bedwetting in children. But when is the right time to start using one? This is a top question on parent’s mind. According to the experts, the right time is different for every child and family. However, there are some tell tale signs. Read further to discover the top 6 signs your child is ready to start using a bedwetting alarm:

Your child is between the ages of 5-7 years old: This is one of the most common times parents start using a bedwetting alarm. At this point, children start to have the development and maturity to acknowledge the alarm, go by themselves to the bathroom and get back to bed.

Motivated to stay dry: Initially, children may not be too bothered about wetting the bed, and just see it a nuisance to be solved easily with clean bed sheets. The only one it may be bothering is you! In this case, it may be necessary to wait until your child is motivated and bothered or feeling embarassed by bedwetting. This can be prompted after a sleepover with friends or an overnight trip with family. Being motivated can help contribute to the success of using a bedwetting alarm, especially if they are making comments about wanting to wake up in a dry bed. 

No constipation: Constipation can make bedwetting worse. For this reason, best not to start with bedwetting treatment when your child is struggling with constipation.

Dry diaper: Is your child’s daytime diaper still dry after a full nights sleep?  This could be a sign your child is ready to sleep in their underwear instead, and no longer needs to wear pull ups. By waking up dry, they are already naturally transitioning to no longer needing to wear a diaper.

No big plans ahead: Starting with using a bedwetting alarm, it is important your child has the time (and you!) and no big changes ahead. Try starting the treatment when there are no big pending events, and accidents can happen. Be ready with a full set of extra sheets (in case they do) and you can react quickly.

Your child is aware of bedwetting alarms: Involve your child in the process of purchasing and receiving a bedwetting alarm. Learn about how to use it together and involve him/her in the process. By understanding how it works and what he needs to do at night will help him become motivated and independent.

All children are different, and will reach these milestones at different times. When did your child start using a bedwetting alarm?