How To Fit A Toilet Seat

Do all toilet seats fit the same?

Are toilet seats a standard size? – No, there isn’t a standard size for all toilet seats, due to a variety of toilet styles. To find out the best seat for your toilet, you will need to measure your loo. Read below for how to do this. There are key measurements that you will need, even though most seats are adjustable to fit the most common toilet bowl shapes. The measurements are:

The distance between the fixing holes – where the screws are. This will often be a standard measurement of 155mm, but it is worth checkingThe width of the toilet bowl at its widest pointThe length from the front of the bowl back to the two seat-fixing holes

By using these measurements, you can be sure to buy the correctly sized toilet seat.

How do I make sure my toilet seat fits?

What Size Toilet Seat Do You Need? You’ve come to the right place! It’s not always easy to know what toilet bowl size you have, or if the toilet seat you need is universal. We’re here to help. Every year our Customer Service team takes calls from people wondering, “Are all toilet seats the same size?” It’s a good thing they ask, because toilet seats are designed to fit one of two bowls: round or elongated.

1. A round toilet seat absolutely won’t fit an elongated bowl, and, as you may have guessed, the opposite is also true.
2. How to figure it out? Grab a tape measure and a way to record what you find and let’s get started.
3. As we said, toilet seats come in two sizes: round and elongated,
4. Every toilet seat is one of these two, indicated on its packaging.

Using a tape measure, determine the distance between the center of the mounting holes in the back of the toilet. The standard measurement for this distance is 5 ½”, with a midpoint of approximately 2 ¾”. Place the hook of your tape measure at the midpoint and measure to the outside edge of the toilet bowl rim in front.

How do I know what shape toilet seat I need?

1. Shape and Size – Toilets come in different shapes and sizes, and to find the right seat you have to work out what shape and size your pan is. Most commonly, toilet seats come as round or oval shapes, but square design toilet seats are also popular. You should be able to tell simply by looking which shape your toilet pan is, and it always best to match your toilet seat with the shape of your pan.

Fixing centre distance – the point between the two fixing holes of your toilet. Width at widest point – the width of your toilet pan at it’s widest point. Total depth – The distance your toilet pan sticks out from the wall or cistern.

Does toilet seat shape matter?

As previously mentioned above, the shape of your toilet seat plays a rather large role in determining how comfortable it is to sit on. Elongated seats are considered more comfortable than round ones. But, this will likely vary from person to person.

Should toilet seat be up or down while peeing?

It’s safer for pets – We’ve all seen animals drinking from toilets in films, but these comical scenes are no laughing matter in real life. The water in your toilet bowl has been sloshing around with all sorts of unpleasant bacteria. You don’t want germs like that on everything your dog sniffs, licks or chews, much less in their tummies. Dogs may be the prime culprits when it comes to drinking from the toilet, but cats come with their own problems. It’s certainly not unheard of for a cocky or curious feline to slip and fall in the loo. If you thought cleaning up after a toilet-drinking canine was bad, you’ve clearly never watched an angry wet cat ricochet off every wall and ceiling in the house.

Does it matter if toilet seat is too big?

If the toilet lid and seat are longer or wider than the ceramic, the toilet seat may not sit right on the toilet, which causes noticeable and uncomfortable wobbling. At the same time, a seat that is too small will not completely cover the edges, again causing instability.

Do you need a plumber to install a toilet seat?

Maybe the old toilet seat has cracked, or it looks worn and grimy. Perhaps you’d like to upgrade to something in a different color or style. Whatever the case may be, there’s no need to call a plumber just yet. Replacing a toilet seat is a simple project that you can accomplish with some basic tools. Read below for step-by-step instructions on how to install a toilet seat.

How often should you change your toilet seat?

How Often Should You Change Your Toilet Seat, According To Experts Step into the bathroom with us for a minute, please, and answer this question: When was the last time you changed your toilet seat? While we’re sure your has a regular cleaning schedule sometimes things slip under the housekeeping radar.

• While it is easy to know when your toilet seat needs to be sanitized, what about when it needs replacing? Of course, if the toilet seat breaks or cracks, you’ll need to swap in a new one.
• And when you do purchase a new one, spending a little bit more on a higher quality seat means less likelihood of breaking and fewer reasons to replace.

Things get a little less clear, though, if the seat isn’t broken. Is there any reason to replace a seat just because it’s been around awhile? We reached out to a few experts to find out. “In general, a toilet will outlast the toilet seat several times over,” says Summer Little, owner of Atlanta interior design firm,,

You should expect to replace a toilet seat every five years or so, depending on usage. No one wants to be greeted by a dingy toilet seat, so if there is a crack or stains remain even after cleaning, it’s ready for retirement.” Sean Richardson, Director and Plumber at, agrees that most toilet seats last between 5 and 10 years.

“Wood toilet seats, though used less often now, need to be changed most often. The finish can wear off over time and break more easily due to water damage. Cheaper plastic seats can similarly discolor over time and become an eyesore,” he says, adding that the hinges are most likely to become brittle and break over time.

1. In the end, it’s up to your own judgment.
2. If it has become damaged or stained, it is best to invest in a new one.” Vickie Larue, a paint and home expert within Orlando, Florida, has a few additional situations that could call for a new toilet seat.
3. Specifically, if the seat cover breaks, preventing you from being able to lower the lid, or if you’re the parent (or grandparent) of young children, swapping toilet seats after the kiddo finishes potty training is a good idea.

If you have just moved into a new apartment, home, or even dorm, Jed Silverlake, founder & CEO of, notes that another good time to make the switch is when you move in: “If you have recently moved into a new home, it is a good idea to replace the toilet seat for hygiene purposes.” Seems reasonable enough! Thanks for your feedback! : How Often Should You Change Your Toilet Seat, According To Experts

Do all toilet seats move?

How much toilet seat wiggle is normal? – A slight wiggle is normal when lifting the lid or seat and pushing left or right. This is due to the design of the quick-release mechanism, which makes removing the seat fast and easy for thorough cleaning. To test your toilet seat wiggle, close the lid and gently push the seat left or right.

Why doesn’t my toilet seat soft close anymore?

Why Does My Soft Close Toilet Seat Not Work? – If your slow close toilet seat no longer closes properly, the dampers or hinges are probably worn and need replacing.

Why do soft close toilet seats work?

Soft-close toilet seats work because they have a special type of hinges that make the toilet seat close on its own very slowly and quietly. Some soft-close toilet seat hinges can be adjusted to make the seat close more slowly.

Which toilet seat is best?

Some options are made of porcelain, which is the most common material for toilets themselves as it’s easy to disinfect, but this material is generally loud, cold, and breakable. Porcelain toilet seats are fine to use, but we mostly recommend plastic and wood options for upgrading the seat that comes with your toilet.

What is the most common toilet seat shape?

Toilet seat shapes – We stock the following shapes: Round toilet seats By far and away the most common shape available, traditional toilets usually require a round-shaped toilet seat, Square toilet seats Usually found with contemporary style toilets, a square toilet seat (or, more accurately, a rectangular toilet seat) features sides which are roughly parallel.

Which toilet shape is most comfortable?

Size & shape – The first thing to consider when choosing a toilet is the size and shape, and how much space it will take up in your bathroom. Toilets generally come in one of three bowl shapes: elongated, compact elongated, and round. The elongated toilet is very common and usually considered more comfortable, while the round toilet is smaller and generally more appropriate for bathrooms dedicated to children or for very tight spaces. The three basic toilet bowl shapes. Tip: Measure your bathroom to determine if the toilet you like will fit. The standard height of a household toilet is between 14″ and 15″ tall. However, the Americans with Disabilities Act mandates that toilets should be at least 16.5″ tall.

You don’t have to choose an ADA compliant toilet for your home, but you may find that a 15″ toilet feels small to you because you’ve gotten used to the higher public toilets. Comfort height toilets come up to 19″ tall, which is roughly the same height as your dining room chairs and makes it easier for seniors or people with back problems to sit down and stand up.

Tip: Consider both who will be using the toilet in the short run, and who might use the toilet in the long term when deciding how tall of a toilet you want.

Which toilet seat is best round or square?

– Of course, one of the burning questions most people have when they come across a square toilet is whether or not it’s actually comfortable. Although most of us are used to circular varieties, the square toilet seat is often said to be more comfortable than traditional shapes.

This is because a square toilet seat often delivers more support underneath the thighs when seated – much like a chair. You might also find that the opening within the square toilet seat is also a bit larger than in conventional options, while the ergonomic contours of the toilet seat give the user the same level of comfort over long periods of time.

Square toilet seats aren’t for everyone, but they do offer a strikingly bold look and work well in a number of contemporary settings, delivering both comfort and support. If you’d like further advice regarding square toilets, or would like to take advantage of our custom 3D design service, please get in touch with one of the Commercial Washrooms team on 01202 650900.

How do I know if I need a round or oval toilet seat?

Should I buy a toilet with a round front or elongated bowl? The toilet is one of those fixtures in your home that you take for granted. You don’t always think about the specifics until you need a new one, or you need to do some maintenance. So, round or elongated; does it matter? Let’s go through it!

The ‘what’ – what is the difference between round front and elongated? The ‘why’ – why do you care? Pro’s and Cons – Elongated bowlPro’s and Con’s – Round front bowl The ‘What’ – as in – what’s the difference?

One of the most basic things to understand about your toilet is if it features a ’round front’ or ‘elongated’ bowl. This refers to the measurement from the seat bolt holes to the tip of the bowl. A round front bowl generally has a dimension of approximately 16.5″ from the seat bolt holes to the tip of the bowl. An elongated bowl is approximately 2″ longer, or about 18.5″. (Note: these dimensions can change from manufacturer to manufacturer, but there is almost always about a 2″ difference between the 2 sizes). The Why, as in.why would you care? When indoor toilets were first introduced, they were all designed with ’round front’ bowls – one size fits all. As more research was done, elongated bowls were added to the mix. There used to be a significant cost difference between the two choices, but that really isn’t the case any more.

So, choices are largely decided by personal preference and available space, So, which should you buy? Let’s look at some Pro’s and Con’s for both: Pros and Cons Elongated Bowls: Pros: Elongated bowls are generally considered to be more attractive and comfortable than round front bowls, but as with most things, this is a matter of taste and can be affected by an individual’s height and weight.

Elongated bowls are also considered more ‘hygienic’ in that the larger surface area of the bowl makes is easier for men and children to use with less mess. The longer bowl size is also a requirement for ADA use, and the longer/wider bowl is generally easier to use for those with mobility issues.

• Cons: The primary reason some don’t choose an elongated bowl is space.
• In very small bathrooms, an elongated bowl simply might not fit or, might feel too crowded.
• In some rooms we have dealt with over the year, the extra inches meant that the bathroom door literally couldn’t close! In a space that tight, it’s always important to measure first!) Also, if a bathroom is primarily being used by small children, the larger opening size can be more difficult for them to negotiate.

But remember, children do grow, and there are children’s ‘potty seats’ to help in the early years. You want your toilet to last a long time, so it really makes sense to choose based on long term, rather than short term needs. Round Front: Pro’s: Space! Some bathrooms are very small and only a round front bowl will fit.

Round front is also a better fit for small children, (but see above; this is a temporary ‘pro’). Cons: Most people prefer the appearance of an elongated bowl. Also, the smaller surface area of a round front bowl tends to be more difficult for children and men to use without accidental mess, so it’s a bit less hygienic.

So, take a look at your space and decide which choice is best for you! There are no ‘wrong’ choices – as long as they are informed choices). The bowl size is only one of the choices you should consider when selecting a new toilet. You should also consider toilet height, (standard height or Easy Height), flush volume, type of flush, (in-wall, dual-flush, single-flush, wash-down etc), and of course, design.

Is there a one size fits all toilet seat?

Do all toilet seats fit the same? – The simple answer is no, there are a range of different toilet seat fittings. Some are bottom fixing (fitted from beneath the fixing holes) and some are top fixing (usually required when there isn’t access to the bottom of the pan, e.g.

• With a fully shrouded toilet).
• Each toilet seat will come with its own individual instructions.
• As well as fittings, toilet seats come with a selection of different hinges, from standard designs to soft close, which bring the toilet seat down slowly, minimising noise.
• To help with cleaning, you can simply lift some toilet seats straight off their fittings.

Most toilet seat hinges are made from nylon or stainless steel, as it provides good durability. Lower quality steel or other metals may be prone to rust.

Do toilet seats have different sizes?

Toilet Seats 101 Toilet seats are to toilets like tires are to cars. Goodyear, Firestone, Michelin, etc. each fit Ford, Chevrolet, Toyota, etc. Chruch, Olsonite and Bemis all fit Kohler, American Standard, Eljer normal-style toilets. Typically the brand of the seat is not the brand of the toilet.

Exceptions are some seats from Kohler and American Standard toilets which are branded Kohler or American Standard. These were probably sold with the original toilet and were private-labeled for them by OEMs such as Bemis, but still any seat brand will fit all toilet brands. Hence for example, if you are replacing a Church seat, it can be replaced with any brand available at the moment.

Toilet seat vocabulary:

• Rim or ring – The open seat.
• Cover – The lid/cover/top that closes over the rim.
• Bumpers: The spacers on the bottom of the rim and the cover.
• Hinges – The mechanical part that raises and lowers the rim and cover.
• Bolts – The threaded posts connecting the hinges to the toilet.
• Nuts – The nuts and washers that attach to the bolts.
• Bolt-spread – The distance between bolt holes on the toilet measured from center-to-center. Aka hinge-spread.
• A toilet seat is comprised of the rim for seating and the cover that closes over it. Mounting hardware (bolts & nuts) are included with the seat.

Normal seat: Here are the three criteria which distinguish a normal-style toilet seat:

1. The seat hinges are 5-1/2″ apart from center-to-center.
2. The hinges mount down vertically, not back horizontally.
3. The shape of the front of the seat is curved; not angular, square or squared-off.

If a toilet seat is different from any one of these features, it is special, unique and proprietary. Sizes: Normal-style toilet seats come in two bowl length sizes: Round or elongated. Round is also called “regular” and “plain.”* Elongated is also called “extended.” Some consumers say “oblong.” Although round and elongated are shapes, the shapes refer to the front-half of the seat. Dimensions: The widths of seats are not made in dimensional choices. Though there may be some fractional variance between wood vs. plastic or different brands and models. Materials: Toilet seats are made primarily of two material types:

1. Enameled wood.
2. Solid plastic.

Enameled wood is a composition of tiny wood shavings (almost saw dust) which are mixed with resin and compression-molded to form a solid material. The “wood” is then enamel painted. Since around 2000, MDF, Medium Density Fiberboard, has also been used to make “wood” seats.

Plastic seats begin as a molten material which is injected into a mold to form the product. The material and color are solid-through. Brands: Toilet seats are to toilets like tires are to cars. That is, there can be a Ford or a Chevy car. One might come with Firestone tires, the other might come with Goodyear tires.

When the tires wear out, they might get replaced with Michelin or Bridgestone. Any of the tire brands will fit each of the cars. There are many brands of toilet seats and they can go on each brand of toilets. Exception: Sometimes major toilet brands will have toilet seats private-labeled to match their product brand.