The Ultimate Guide to Toilet Seats: Everything You Need to Know

When you think about it, the toilet is an incredibly simple device. You put your bottom on the bowl, and you leave with your bottom a lot cleaner than when you arrived. However, toilet seats are also one of the most overlooked features in any home — until something goes wrong. That’s because while they may be small and seemingly insignificant, toilet seats are one of the primary entry points for pests and other unpleasant things that go bump in the night in your bathroom. 

They can also be a major source of discomfort if yours is cracked or coming off its hinges. For this reason, making sure you have a high-quality toilet seat that suits your personal style is just as important as all those other big-ticket items like faucets and bathtubs. The great news is that once you know what to look for, finding one won’t stress you out nearly so much as replacing it!

What to Look for in a Toilet Seat

There are a few key features to consider before you buy a new toilet seat. Toilet seats are available in a few different styles. Squatting toilets, which are common in Asia, and Western-style toilets, which are common in North America, feature different seat widths and mounting options. Toilet seats are available in a wide variety of materials as well. 

– Durability: While most toilet seats are built to last, they can still be susceptible to damage from use, insects, and other things that go bump in the night. That’s why it’s important to look for one that is built to last. Look for heavy-duty hinges and a secure locking mechanism to make sure your seat stays firmly in place. 

– Simple Installation: While an expert will certainly get the job done, installing a new toilet seat yourself is a great way to save money and get your bathroom looking spiffy all at once. That’s why it’s important to find a seat that has a simple installation method. 

– Cleanliness: The number one way to take care of a toilet seat is to clean it regularly with a mild, non-toxic cleaner. That way, you can avoid the most common issues people have with toilet seats and make sure yours is sanitary and comfortable.

Types of Toilet Seats

Round – Round toilet seats are the classic style that you will typically find in older homes and public toilets. They are smaller and generally require less maintenance than elongated seats, but they aren’t as comfortable for everyone. Round seats often come with a lid, but if you are looking for a lid-free seat, be sure to specify that when you shop around. 

Elongated – Elongated toilet seats are the standard in modern households, although they are gaining traction among people who have always used round seats and now want something a little more comfortable. They are built to be a little bit taller, which makes them more ergonomic and easier on the knees and hips. However, there are also some downsides. Because they are taller, some people find them more difficult to clean. And the hinges are often a little more intricate, which can make them more difficult to install. 

Wall-Mounted – Wall-mounted toilet seats are essentially a seat and a lid that are mounted on a wall in between your toilet bowl and floor. Wall-mounted seats are often used in bathrooms where space is limited and you want to create more room, such as in a basement bathroom and can be especially helpful for people with disabilities. Wall-mounted seats are less common and may be harder to find, so be sure to ask if a store doesn’t have any on hand.

Materials

As we said above, toilet seats are available in a wide variety of materials. All-plastic seats are the cheapest option, but they also tend to be more prone to breaking and discoloration over time. Unfortunately, metal toilet seats are the most expensive option, but they also tend to be sturdier and come with a longer lifespan.

Installation

Before you buy a new toilet seat, you’ll need to know how to install it. You can usually buy a new toilet seat online or in-store, and the packaging will have instructions for installation. For the most part, however, you’ll just need a screwdriver and a little bit of arm strength. If your toilet seat is loose or coming off the hinges, it could be a symptom of more serious problems with your toilet. Before you replace it, you should take a look at your toilet’s overall condition to make sure it’s safe to use.

Precautions

While a toilet seat is an essential part of any bathroom, it’s also a breeding ground for germs. This is especially true if you have kids or pets in your home. If you have kids, you’ll want to make sure they wash their hands thoroughly after they use the bathroom. You’ll also want to make sure they’re not sitting on the toilet seat. To keep your toilet seat clean, you can use disinfectant wipes after each use. You can also use a toilet seat cover to keep the seat sanitary.

Color Options

As we mentioned above, the color of your toilet seat can have a major impact on the look of your bathroom. When choosing a new seat, you can opt for a standard black or white seat, or you can get creative with a colored or patterned seat. You can also buy seats with a chrome or nickel finish for a more high-end look.

Final Words

The toilet seat is one of the most basic pieces of equipment in any bathroom, but it can also be one of the most important. If your toilet seat is broken, discolored, or otherwise in disrepair, it’s time to replace the thing. Replacing your toilet seat is a quick and painless process. The only real trick is finding the right seat for your home. Now that you know what to look for, you should have no trouble finding the perfect toilet seat for your bathroom!