Toilet Seats

 

Upgrading your toilet seat is a fantastic, simple and cost effective way to improve the look of your bathroom. With that in mind, we know it can sometimes be a bit of a minefield trying to find just the right option, so that's why we've put this handy guide together to help make the process easier.

What are the different types of toilet seats?

While you might think that choosing a new toilet seat is pretty straightforward, there are a number of different types, as toilet seats have different methods of fixing and different features. Some of these types include:

• Top fixing toilet seats: Some toilet seats will feature top fixing hinges while others - normally the more traditionally styled items - will have bottom fixing hinges which use bolts that secure the seat from underneath.
• Soft close toilet seats: These are toilet seats with soft closing mechanisms which mean that the lid closes both gently and silently. These seats are great if you have small children and want to avoid the risk of them slamming the seat on their fingers.
• Quick release toilet seats: These seats utilise an innovative hinge mechanism which allows you to quickly release and easily remove the toilet seat from the pan.
• Anti-bacterial toilet seats: These seats have some form of antibacterial treatment incorporated into their material at the time of manufacture, or applied as a coating. This protective layer helps to stop bacteria multiplying on the toilet seat.

 

Will a universal toilet seat fit my toilet?

This all depends really. If you're not going for a direct replacement which is designed to fit your specific toilet, you do need to be careful. For example, close coupled toilet seats can be very different to back to wall toilet seats, so a truly universal toilet seat isn't really possible.

To make sure your new toilet seat fits, you will need to take some accurate measurements. Our toilet seat size guide explains how to identify your toilet shape and take the measurements you'll need before choosing a replacement. These measurements are the total depth of the pan (back to front), the internal width of the pan, as well as the width at the widest point, and also the fixing centre distance.

What materials are toilet seats made from?

Generally, toilet seats are made of either plastic or wood. With wooden toilet seats, the choice is then between MDF or solid wood, such as mahogany or solid oak. Plastic toilet seats are usually cheaper, easier to clean and ideal for sleek, contemporary units. Wooden finishes, on the other hand, tend to look more at home in traditional settings. Whichever material you choose, it needs to be good quality.

What colours are available?

Toilet seats are available in a huge range of colours - or you could even opt for a more novelty design. Alongside a classic choice like a cream or white toilet seat, there are more modern options, such as a sleek black toilet seats or designer grey toilet seats, or even more quirky colour choices like blue toilet seats, teal and peach.

Are they easy to fit?

Toilet seats are certainly one of the easier items to fit when it comes to bathroom upgrades, and they shouldn't pose any problems when tackling the job yourself (as long as your measurements are correct!).

For more information, watch our video on how to replace a toilet seat: 

Some seats tighten into place from above the toilet, while others have nuts that you need to reach underneath to tighten. If you can't get underneath yours, you'll need a top-fixing seat that fits your toilet. The instructions that come with the seat will show you how to line it up and tighten it in place.

 

Why does my toilet seat keep moving?

Your seat may move if the fittings have worked loose, parts have worn out or it isn't the right fit for your toilet. The pads underneath should rest on the toilet rim so the seat doesn't rock when you sit down.

If it still moves after you've followed the fitting instructions, you may need replacement fittings that suit your seat. Tightening it further won't fix broken parts or make a seat fit if it's the wrong size or shape.

 

Can I replace the hinges instead of the whole toilet seat?

Sometimes. If the seat and lid are still in good condition and compatible spare hinges are available, you may not need a whole new seat. Remember, though, that toilet seat hinges can look alike without fitting the same seats.

 

How do I clean a toilet seat without damaging the finish?

A soft cloth and a gentle cleaner are usually enough for everyday cleaning. The instructions that come with your seat will tell you which cleaners are safe to use. Bleach, harsh cleaners and rough scouring pads can damage some seats.

The underside and hinges need a wipe too, followed by a soft (and dry!) cloth. With wooden and MDF toilet seats, water can get into chips or damaged edges. If the seat starts to swell or the coating peels, it may need replacing.