How to Buy a Good Toilet Seat?

What should the ideal toilet seat be like? Who would bother their head with such trifles?! Yet! A good toilet seat is a product of significant practical and design importance. A properly sized and shaped toilet seat will ensure comfort during use. Made from durable materials, it will last for years. When chosen to match the bathroom's decor, it will enhance its aesthetic value. What else should you pay attention to when choosing a toilet seat?

What should the dimensions of a toilet seat be?

A toilet seat should perfectly fit the toilet bowl, so its sizes are crucial. The best way to purchase the right model is to remove the old toilet seat and take it to the store for comparison. If, for various reasons, this is not feasible, you can trace the shape of the old seat and use that template while shopping. The last option is to take measurements of the seat itself according to the following instructions:

• measure the width at the widest point of the seat,
• measure the length from the mounting point to the end of the seat,
• measure the distance between the hinges for mounting.

If we do not have an old seat or we bought just the bowl, we should take measurements directly on the ceramic surface. Measure the width similarly as above, the length from the center of the mounting hole to the end of the seat, and the distance between the mounts from the center of the holes. To avoid mistakes and save yourself trips to the stores, it's best to buy a whole set from one manufacturer. It's also worth choosing seats equipped with metal hinges, as they are much more durable than plastic ones.

The shape of the toilet seat is important

When selecting a toilet seat to fit the existing toilet bowl, we must pay attention to its shape, among other things. It's known that toilet bowls differ in appearance. Generally, oval models dominate the market, although ovals can vary greatly. There are also square bowls with slightly elongated sides or those that resemble a square. When choosing a seat, one should consider its functionality, the bathroom's decorative style, and the ease of keeping the seat clean. It's known that it's easier to clean an oval seat devoid of angles and nooks than a square or rectangular one.

For the seat to be perfectly fitted to the toilet bowl, it's advisable to choose one that comes from the same manufacturer as the toilet bowl and forms a set with it. Usually, for a specific model of the toilet bowl, the manufacturer offers several models of toilet seats. Regardless of the type of product selected, it's important to remember that even slight differences in the shape or size of the toilet seat can cause difficulties in stable installation. A wobbling toilet seat causes discomfort during use and can be easily damaged. Most models have the option for horizontal and vertical adjustment, meaning they can be fitted to the width and length of the bowl, but this is limited. An exception is universal oval seats, which have average dimensions and a relatively large adjustment range for hinges.

What materials are toilet seats made of?

Toilet seats are made from various materials. As a result, they differ in appearance, quality, price, durability, scratch resistance, and ease of maintenance. The diverse shapes and colors of products available on the market allow matching the seat to the decorative style of any bathroom. To make the most informed choice, let’s take a closer look at each of the options:

Polypropylene seats

Polypropylene is a soft plastic used for producing toilet seats meant for most standard ceramic bowls. It is popular due to its low price and wide availability. Due to its lightness and flexibility, it also has lower durability. Under heavier loads, it easily warps and is prone to scratches. A seat made of white plastic will quickly turn yellow, which is why manufacturers offer models in a wide range of colors. Decorative prints are also available, which can liven up the monotonous interior of the toilet and positively impact its design.

Duroplast seats

Duroplast is a popular material with exceptional sanitary properties. It is hard, resistant to cracks and scratches. It does not warp and does not discolor. Duroplast seats are often coated with special antibacterial layers, ensuring maximum hygiene. Typically, these seats are equipped with solid, durable metal hinges recommended by specialists. Thanks to the robust fastening system, the toilet seat does not change its position and does not scratch the bowl's surface.

MDF and pressed wood seats vs. wooden seats

These are a more functional alternative to wooden seats. They resemble wood in appearance but are actually a perfect imitation. Unlike their more prestigious counterpart, they do not require specialized maintenance and are easier to keep clean. Since they come in various designs and colors, it’s not difficult to match the seat to the color of the bathroom tiles and ceramics. MDF seats are cheaper than wooden ones, but they do not match them in visual value and quality.

Polyester resin seats

They have a gel-like, transparent cover. Thanks to the possibility of embedding various objects in them, interesting decorative effects can be easily achieved. They are very popular due to their exceptional durability. They are resistant to damage and do not require special hygienic treatments.

Stainless steel seats

Stainless steel is expensive, but a toilet seat made from this material is extremely elegant and practically indestructible. It is used in exclusive hotel bathrooms and restaurants.

What are the advantages of a slow-closing seat?

When selecting a toilet seat, it's worth paying attention to whether it is slow-closing or not. A slow-closing seat has several advantages and is particularly recommended for bathrooms used by a larger number of household members, including children:

• it does not generate noise associated with the sudden closure of the lid,
• it protects the toilet bowl from cracking,
• a special cushioning system prevents damage to the seat,
• it is safe for children,
• it enhances comfort when using the toilet.