How to Install a Toilet Seat

When the toilet seat no longer looks elegant or has been damaged, it is easy to replace it with a new one. Installing a toilet seat is very simple. It does not require any specialized skills or tools. All you need are pliers, a screwdriver, and good intentions. The task shouldn't take more than a few minutes. You can do it yourself. Below is a step-by-step guide. So, let's get to it!

Choosing a New Toilet Seat

When deciding to remove the old one and purchase a new toilet seat, you need to take a few factors into consideration:

• size - specifically, three measurements: the length of the bowl (measured from the mounting), its width, and the distance between the hinges. To ensure that all components will be compatible, it is best to choose a toilet seat from the same manufacturer as the toilet bowl;
• the type of material it is made of;
• design - the toilet seat should harmonize with the other elements of the bathroom décor;
• frequency of toilet use. If there are many users, it is best to install a slow-close seat to avoid hearing the noise of a slamming lid.

Removing the Toilet Seat from the Toilet Bowl

You have already made your choice, so the first step is behind you. You can start removing the old toilet seat. It's not difficult! You just need to unscrew two nuts that hold the seat. In most cases, they are butterfly-shaped, so you can do this with your fingers. However, if they are tightly screwed, use the tools prepared for this purpose. It may happen that the screws are stuck. In this case, a special product should be used to help loosen and unscrew them without much trouble. If the old hinges turn out to be functional, you can reinstall them; otherwise, you will need to replace them with new ones.

Cleaning the Toilet Bowl

Before installing the new toilet seat, take the opportunity to thoroughly scrub and disinfect the toilet. Without the seat installed, you will have easier access to all the nooks and crannies. Be especially careful to clean the holes where the hinges are located and the area under the toilet bowl rim. It is best to spray them thoroughly with descaling agents and leave it for a few minutes. This will make it easier to clean them later. Remember to exercise special caution. Aggressive detergents can irritate mucous membranes and cause skin burns. They can also damage the toilet seat. Every product purchased in a store contains information about its chemical composition, and the enclosed instructions describe how to use it.

Installing the Seat - The Final Step to Success

Finally, it's time to check your skills and install the purchased seat. You have probably opted for a more comfortable, albeit slightly more expensive, slow-close seat. This is undoubtedly an excellent choice. Before installation, double-check that the size is correct, and the mounting holes align with the openings in the ceramic bowl. If necessary, you can always return the seat or exchange it for the correct model. To check, simply place the product on the toilet bowl without removing the protective film. The seat must completely cover the entire surface of the toilet. If everything is in order, you can start:

• insert both bolts into the mounting holes in the bowl,
• place washers or gaskets on them,
• secure the washers with nuts,
• from underneath, tighten the nuts, but not too tightly so you can maneuver the bolts,
• position the bolts so that they fit into the mechanisms of the seat latches,
• after removing the seat, tighten the nuts securely,
• install the decorative covers,
• mount the seat on the bowl,
• check the functioning correctness.

We hope that the above guide clearly informs how to correctly install a slow-close toilet seat. Since every toilet seat is different, manufacturers rush to assist customers and include assembly instructions with every product. It is worth using them.