Need to replace a broken toilet seat or simply ready for an upgrade? You might be wondering how to choose the right one. With the variety of shapes, sizes, and types available, picking the perfect seat can feel overwhelming!
In this article, we’ll teach you everything you need to know about choosing the best toilet seat for your needs. Ready to take the plunge?
Measuring Your Toilet Seat
Taking accurate measurements is the first step in choosing your new dream seat. Three key measurements need to be taken for all toilet seats, and some also require specialty measurements. Keep reading to learn all you need to know about measuring a toilet seat.
Items you’ll need
- Tape measure
- Pen and paper or notes app to record measurements
- Screwdriver (optional)
To ensure you purchase a toilet seat that fits, you’ll first want to know your current seat’s measurements. There are three key measurements (don’t forget to record each measurement after you take it!):
- Length: Start by measuring from the center of the two bolt holes (also known as mounting holes) at the back of the toilet to the front edge of the bowl. Make sure you measure straight down the center of the bowl. Depending on your seat’s construction, you might need to snap up the bolt covers to take the measurement properly.
- Distance Between the Bolt Holes: Next, measure the distance between the two bolt holes. If your seat has bolts with covers you haven’t lifted yet, you’ll need to do so now—a screwdriver can come in handy for this. In the US, the default distance between these bolts is 5.5 inches, while in Europe it’s between 6 and 6.5 inches—but you’ll want to play it safe and take a measurement anyway.
- Width: Lastly, you should measure the seat’s width from side to side. Be sure to measure across the widest point of the bowl, which should be across the middle of the seat. In the US, the standard width for toilet seats is usually around 14 to 14.5 inches, but it’s important to take a proper measurement to ensure you pick a seat that fits—this is especially true if you have an older toilet.
You now have the measurements you’ll need for a standard toilet seat. Read on to see if any specialty measurements apply to you—and learn how to choose and install the right toilet seat.
Learning: Reading our full guide about measuring your toilet could help.
Specialty Measurements and Considerations
Specialty toilet seats can require additional measurements and considerations to ensure a proper fit. If you’re purchasing one of the toilet seats below, first record your key measurements as explained in the previous section.
Bidet Toilet Seats
Bidet toilet seats are an amazing way to keep clean and can really up the luxury factor in your bathroom, but there are a few things to keep in mind before investing in one.
You’ll first need to determine which type of toilet you have: a one-piece or two-piece toilet. Two-piece toilets feature a separate base and tank bolted together, while one-piece toilets are, as the name suggests, created from one piece of porcelain.
Since bidet seats require a minimum clearance between the toilet tank and seat, you also need to measure this distance. To do so, measure from the front of the toilet tank to one of the bolt holes. Finally, make sure the bidet seat you’re purchasing is compatible with your type of toilet and its measurements.
Raised Toilet Seats
Raised toilet seats can help people with mobility issues regain the freedom to use the bathroom. While there are a few universally sized raised toilet seats that can fit both round and elongated toilets (jump to the next section to learn more about toilet shapes), most only fit one or the other—so it’s important to know your key measurements.
To ensure you purchase a seat of the correct height, you’ll also need to measure from the floor to the top of your existing toilet seat (measurement A). Then measure from the floor to the back of your knee (measurement B). Subtract measurement A from measurement B—this is the height you’ll want to choose for your raised toilet seat.
If you are considering a raised seat with handles or armrests, ensure there is enough space between the toilet and any nearby walls or fixtures to accommodate them. Also know that most raised toilet seats come with a weight capacity—for safety reasons, make sure you select a model that fits your weight.
Potty Training and Child Toilet Seats
These seats fit on top of your toilet and are a great way to teach your little one how to use the big potty. Most training seats fit either round or elongated toilets, so refer to your key measurements while making your selection for a seamless fit.
Some potty training seats include an attached step ladder—if you’re in the market for a seat like this, you’ll want to measure from the floor to the top of your toilet seat to ensure you purchase the proper height for your child.
Toilet Seat Options: Making the Right Selection
Now that you’ve taken your measurements, it’s time to start looking for your perfect new toilet seat. Here’s what you need to know about the range of toilet seat shapes, materials, and features.
Seat Shape
the US, the two most common types of toilet seats are rounded and elongated. You may be able to tell which type you have by simply looking at your toilet, but it’s always a good idea to measure to be sure. If your bowl length measurement is around 16.5 inches, you’ll want to purchase a round seat. If it’s closer to 18.5 inches, you need an elongated seat.
In
Finally, if your toilet is non-standard (or if you just like to keep things simple), it may be easiest to buy a seat that’s designed for your toilet. To ensure you get a perfect fit, you’ll want to check your toilet’s model and purchase a matching seat accordingly. You can usually find the model name or number stamped inside the toilet tank lid by carefully lifting the lid, flipping it over, and looking inside.
Seat Material
Looking for a toilet seat that matches your bathroom’s aesthetic? Maybe your goal is comfort or ease of cleaning. You can choose from several toilet seat materials that will influence these factors. Here are some common types:
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Thermoplastic Seats
One of the most popular options, thermoplastic seats are durable, lightweight, and come in colors to suit any decor. Thanks to their plastic hinges, these seats are easy to remove and clean. They’re also cost-effective and resistant to damage.
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Duroplast Seats
Duroplast is a stylish and contemporary option for your toilet seat. Just like the name says, it’s a durable material that will look beautiful for years—so although it can be more expensive than plastic, it’s often a worthwhile investment. Duroplast’s composition also gives it antibacterial properties, helping you maintain a clean and healthy home.
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Wooden Seats
A classic and natural-looking option, wooden toilet seats add a touch of class to a traditional bathroom aesthetic. You can choose from solid or composite wood, as well as from a variety of finishes and stain options to fit your style. Not only does wood look distinguished and rustic, but it’s also long-lasting. It can be more comfortable than plastic in certain climates since it doesn’t get as cold. However, wooden seats can be harder to clean and maintain and may not work with every bathroom’s decor.
Learning: Read this guide of differences between wooden and plastic toilet seats here.
Seat Features
To truly level up your bathroom, you may want to consider a toilet seat with premium features. Here are a few available options:
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Soft and comfortable, padded seats (also known as soft or cushioned seats) are the choice for those longing for a luxurious bathroom experience. They’re also warmer than plastic seats, making bathroom trips much more comfortable during cold weather.
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Nightlight Seat
Tired of stumbling around in the dark or jolting yourself awake with bright overhead lights during nighttime bathroom trips? A nightlight seat may be your solution. These seats feature a built-in light that makes finding your way to the toilet a breeze. They’re also great for kids’ bathrooms. While some of these seats are battery-powered, others require an outlet—make sure you have one close by if that’s the case.
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Heated Seat
If you dread taking a seat on a cold throne on winter mornings, consider a heated toilet seat. The pinnacle of luxury, these seats often come with different heat settings to suit your preferences. Like some nightlight toilet seats, be aware that many heated seats need to be plugged into an outlet.
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Soft-Closing Seat
Since these seats incorporate hinges that close slowly and without slamming, they’re a lifesaver for those sensitive to loud noises. They’re also great for homes with kids—you’ll never have to worry about your little one smashing their fingers in the toilet seat lid.
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Deodorizing Seat
If a fresh scent is your top priority, you’ll want to look into a deodorizing seat. These seats use scent packs or carbon filters (or a combination of the two) to maintain a clean scent throughout your bathroom. Some also have a built-in nightlight to help you safely find your way in the dark.
Installing Your New Toilet Seat
Once you’ve measured, researched, and purchased your new toilet seat, it’s time to install and start enjoying it! Let’s learn how.
Items you’ll need
- Adjustable wrench
- Screwdriver
- WD-40 spray (optional)
- Small hacksaw (optional)
Remove the Existing Seat
Note: Before removing your old seat, clean the toilet bowl and seat thoroughly to maintain hygiene while you work.
To remove the seat, find the bolt covers and pop them off—you can use your screwdriver to make this easier. Then, find the nuts and loosen them with your adjustable wrench by turning them to the left. Using a screwdriver, remove the bolts at the base of the hinges along with any washers—use a bit of WD-40 to loosen stuck bolts. Usually, a screwdriver or WD-40 will get the job done, but if the bolts still won’t budge, you can use a hacksaw to remove them.
Install Your New Seat
Your new seat should come with all the hardware you need for installation. Unpackage your new seat, then set it in the old seat’s place by aligning the hinges over the bolt holes. Drop the bolts into the bolt holes and attach any washers. Then thread the nuts onto the bolts and tighten them by turning them clockwise. You might be able to thread the nuts with your hands, but if you can’t, simply use a screwdriver. Be careful not to overtighten to avoid damaging the seat. Snap any plastic hinge covers in place. Congratulations—you’ve successfully installed your new seat!
Learning: Take a minute to read through our toilet installation guide here
Our Opinion
Picking the perfect toilet seat doesn’t have to be as hard as it seems. Armed with the information in this guide, you can choose your new seat like a professional. First, take careful measurements so you’ll know exactly what size and shape toilet seat you need. Then, have fun choosing a material and color that matches your bathroom’s vibe.
Don’t forget to consider a toilet seat with special functions that will take your daily bathroom routine to the next level. By choosing a seat with the right fit, materials, and extra features, you’ll have a functional throne fit for royalty!