If you are looking to get a new toilet seat for a brand-new toilet, or replace a seat for an older toilet, you may be feeling slightly overwhelmed about how to choose a toilet seat that meets your needs. There are a ton of different options available and even minor details in how the toilet seat is described can throw your judgment off and make you second guess your decision. My goal is to cover some basic info about toilet seats to narrow down your choices and get the best seat for you.
How to Buy the Right Toilet Seat
When it comes to how to buy the right toilet seat, there are a number of relevant factors to keep in mind.
Sizing the Toilet Seat
Finding the right size seat is the most important thing to consider when buying a new toilet seat. The shape of the toilet bowl is the easiest way to find the correct size. Most toilets are either a round/circle shape or an elongated/oval shape. A round bowl will be roughly 16 ½” front to back whereas an elongated bowl is around 18 ½” front to back. D-shaped toilets, corner toilets, and other unique toilets may require non-standard seats. Tank shape can also be a factor, especially as it relates to the hinges. Pay close attention to this if you’re interested in a bidet seat.
The distance between the toilet seat bolts has been standardized for the most part and will measure 5 ½” from bolt to bolt. Most of the big manufacturers, including Toto, Kohler, American Standard, Mansfield, and Gerber will have this 5 ½” spacing between the seat bolts. If you end up wanting a different shaped toilet or a different measurement between the seat bolts, you’ll need to do a bit more research into the exact seat you need.
Seat Material and Finish
A large majority of toilet seats are going to match the finish of the toilet. White is by far the most popular finish for a toilet, but keep in mind that not all whites are exactly the same. Toto, for example, has two different whites, one being called Cotton and the other being an off-white called Colonial White. There are many different colors available beyond white, too.
Matching your toilet seat color to the new seat color can be tricky because most non-standard shades have been discontinued. For that reason, it’s best practice to match your toilet color with a color chip from Bemis to ensure you get the most accurate match to your toilet’s finish.
Choosing a toilet seat material is all personal preference. I personally believe that the plastic seats being made today are the most durable and comfortable seats on the market. Wood seats feel a little more substantial, but often have the finish wear and age over time. Vinyl seats are comfortable, but often crack or split due to age, use, and the cleaning substances used on them.
Seat Features
Toilet seats can come with a handful of convenient or stylish features, including:
I always recommend getting a slow-close seat. It prevents the loud bang when someone goes to close the lid in the middle of night. These seats are great quality and usually meet most people's needs. If you end up having a different shaped toilet, a different measurement between the seat bolts, or if you have any questions or need any assistance in choosing the right toilet seat, please contact us.
