Many people ask this question while selecting a new toilet seat. You use the toilet bowl every day, so parts of it wear out. The moving element often requires replacement, especially if you have a large family. You also start thinking about a new purchase if using your current seat brings physical discomfort. However, do not think that any option is suitable. For example, a toilet for tall person, seniors, or people with disabilities may differ in many parameters.
Standard Toilet Seat Models
There is no one size fits all toilet seat. When selecting, you should consider the dimensions of your toilet bowl’s model.
Shape
Selecting a new option following the toilet bowl’s shape is logical. In American homes, the most common are round and elongated models, and you can also find D-shaped and square ones.
Dimensions
To order a new seat, you need to take measurements of the main parameters. They are the width of the toilet at its widest point, its length from the front of the bowl to the hinges (in the center), and the distance between the fixing hinges.
- Many round models are typically 14 inches wide. The length is about 16.5 inches.
- The elongated options are also 14 inches wide. They have a length of about 18.5 inches.
- Typical mounting hole spacing, regardless of shape, is 5.5 inches.
What to Look for When Choosing a Toilet Seat
- First, choose a seat shape the same as the toilet one. The square option is not suitable for an elongated toilet bowl.
- Take measurements of the width, length, and distance between the fixing hinges. Although many models of common shapes have the same parameters, your toilet may have different dimensions.
- Fixing type. For popular models, the standard top fastening of the seat to the toilet is typical. The holes are located at the bottom of the tank on the toilet ring. However, modern models may use a bottom mount. If you have a non-standard model, you may order according to your parameters.
- If you experience discomfort, such as joint pain, while using your toilet, replacing the seat will not solve your problem. Most homes have standard-sized toilets for people of average height. They may be uncomfortable for people with disabilities and those lucky enough to be taller than average. Purchasing a toilet for a tall person will solve this problem. Specially designed models have an elongated bowl shape and slow-closing seats.
You can easily choose a new seat if you have a standard round-shaped or elongated toilet in your home. You just need to take accurate measurements. To replace the seats of unusual shapes, custom-made is possible.
What form do you find most comfortable? Share your opinion in the comments!