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Bedwetting in children

Bedwetting is common and often runs in families. It can be upsetting, but most children and young people will grow out of it. See a GP or school nurse for advice.

Things you can do at home to help with bedwetting

Do

  • give your child enough water to drink during the day

  • make sure your child goes to the toilet regularly, around 4 to 7 times a day, including just before bedtime

  • agree with your child on rewards for positive actions, such as a sticker for every time they use the toilet before bed

  • use waterproof covers on their mattress and duvet

  • make sure they have easy access to a toilet at night

Don’t

  • do not punish your child – it is not their fault and can make bedwetting worse

  • do not give your child drinks containing caffeine, such as cola, tea and coffee – this can make them pee more

  • do not regularly wake or carry your child in the night to use the toilet – this will not help in the long term

Important: Bedwetting in young children is normal

Many children under the age of 5 wet the bed.

It can take some time for a child to learn to stay dry throughout the night.

Non-urgent advice: See a GP if:

  • you've tried things you can do at home and your child keeps wetting the bed
  • your child has started wetting the bed again after being dry for more than 6 months

Treatments from a GP

If your child keeps wetting the bed, a GP will be able to suggest options such as:

The GP will check if treatment is helping. They'll also be able to offer support if you are finding it hard to cope.

If these treatments do not work, your child may be referred to a specialist.

Causes of bedwetting

There are many reasons why a child might wet the bed. Causes include:

Bedwetting may also be caused by an underlying health condition such as diabetes or constipation.

Information:

More information and advice on bedwetting

Page last reviewed: 11 April 2023
Next review due: 11 April 2026