How To Get The Right Toilet Seat: A Personal Experience

Have you ever bought a toilet seat that wasn’t comfortable, didn’t fit properly or simply didn’t match the aesthetics of your bathroom? I have. It was a frustrating and expensive mistake, and I don’t want anyone else to make the same one. That’s why I’ve put together this guide on how to get the right toilet seat.

Step by Step Guide

Step 1: Measure Your Toilet Bowl

Before you start shopping for a toilet seat, you need to know the size of your toilet bowl. Measure the distance between the two bolts that hold the seat in place. This measurement is called the bolt spread. Most toilets have a bolt spread of either 5 ½ or 6 inches.

Step 2: Determine the Shape of Your Toilet Bowl

Toilet bowls come in two shapes: round and elongated. Round bowls are circular in shape and are typically found in older homes. Elongated bowls are oval in shape and are more common in newer homes. Measure the length of the bowl from the center of the seat bolt holes to the front edge of the bowl to determine the shape.

Step 3: Choose the Material

Toilet seats are made from a variety of materials, including plastic, wood, and cushioned vinyl. Plastic seats are the most affordable and easy to clean, while wooden seats are more expensive and can add warmth and elegance to your bathroom. Cushioned vinyl seats are the most comfortable but can be difficult to clean.

Step 4: Decide on the Style

Toilet seats come in a range of styles, from plain white to decorative designs. If you’re looking for a classic look, choose a plain white seat. If you want to add some personality to your bathroom, opt for a decorative design.

Top 10 Tips

Measure your toilet bowl before you start shopping.
Consider the shape and size of your toilet bowl.
Choose a material that suits your needs and budget.
Decide on a style that matches the aesthetics of your bathroom.
Look for a seat with adjustable hinges for easy installation.
Consider a slow-close feature to prevent slamming.
Choose a seat with quick-release hinges for easy cleaning.
Look for a seat with built-in antimicrobial protection.
Consider a heated seat for added comfort.
Read reviews and compare prices before making a purchase.

Pros and Cons

Like anything else, toilet seats have their pros and cons. Here are a few to consider:

Pros:

They can add comfort and style to your bathroom.
They are easy to install and replace.
They come in a range of materials, styles, and colors.

Cons:

They can be expensive, especially if you opt for a high-end model.
They can be difficult to clean, especially if you choose a cushioned vinyl seat.
They may not fit properly on all toilet bowls.

Personal Review and Suggestion

After my frustrating experience with a poorly fitting and uncomfortable toilet seat, I decided to do my research before making another purchase. I opted for a wooden seat with adjustable hinges and a slow-close feature. It was more expensive than a plastic seat, but it has held up well over time and adds warmth and elegance to my bathroom. My suggestion is to invest in a high-quality seat that meets your needs and budget. Read reviews, consider the pros and cons, and measure your toilet bowl carefully before making a purchase.

FAQs

Q: How do I know what size toilet seat to buy?

A: Measure the distance between the two bolts that hold the seat in place. This measurement is called the bolt spread. Most toilets have a bolt spread of either 5 ½ or 6 inches.