Bedwetting Alarm Not Working: 4 Common Mistakes

Mistake 1: Expecting child to do everything themselves.

Many children sleep through the loud sound or can't process what they need to do when they wake to the alarm. This is normal in the beginning.

Fix: It takes a few weeks for the right response to be learned. Remember, in the beginning the alarm should also alert parents. When you hear the alarm, go to your son or daughter's room. Help them get the alarm turned off and walk to the bathroom. Once they begin acting independently, you no longer need to respond to the alarm.

Mistake 2: Thinking the alarm won't work if used 2 weeks and still no dry nights.

Everyone wants to see dry nights immediately! This usually does not happen. Behavioral conditioning is a process and takes time. The average child takes 8-12 weeks to become permanently dry.

Fix: Be realistic. Little signs of progress can be observed on the road to dryness. Smaller wet spots and fewer wetting episodes mean change is happening.

Mistake 3: Not using consistently. Stopping too soon.

Some families start off strong for the first week or two, but then become complacent about using the alarm every night. Everyone is excited when a few dry nights are observed and kids are anxious to stop the alarm. Wetting gradually restarts if the alarm isn't used until 14 dry nights are achieved.

Fix: Know that consistency is important. If nights away from home interrupt your alarm use, get back on track as soon as possible.

Mistake 4: Not choosing the right alarm for your child and your family.

Bedwetting alarms are all a little different. They sense moisture and alert the user but the way that they do that varies. The alarm that you choose must be one that your child can easily attach, will agree to hook up every night and gives them the best chance of responding.

Fix: If your bedroom is on a different floor, you can choose a wireless alarm with 2 receivers or know that you could hook up a baby monitor so that you can hear the alarm when it sounds. If your child sleeps in a room with their sibling, a personal wearable alarm that sounds and vibrates might be a good choice.

By avoiding or correcting these common mistakes, your child can soon begin to experience many dry nights!