Finding the best toilet seat is a crucial element of comfort. It’s one of the most important things in the bathroom – yet one we rarely stop to think about. Considering that we spend a certain amount of time on the toilet on the daily basis, it’s worth it investing in something comfortable.
But how do you pick a good toilet seat? Obviously, we do so by reading toilet seat reviews. This way, you will know for sure that the product you have chosen is actually reliable and that it is the most comfortable on the market. We’ll also give you some tips for choosing the right model for you.
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Benefits of Good Toilet Seats
At this point, you might be thinking: why spend all that money on a toilet seat when I’m only going to sit on it for a few minutes a day? Well, those minutes are actually very important – because that is when you are the most vulnerable. Plus, since the action you are performing on the toilet is, well, delicate, an uncomfortable toilet seat might prevent you from doing the deed properly.
Therefore, your toilet seat is very important – and there are a few reasons why you should invest in a good one. Among these reasons are the following:
1. They Are Comfortable
Imagine having to do a certain business on your toilet – one that would keep you there for quite some time. When you’ve been sitting on the toilet for the last 10 minutes, trying to pass a new Angry Birds level, you start feeling each nerve in your bottom area – particularly if you have been sitting on a very uncomfortable seat.
However, a good seat will be so comfortable that you would not mind sitting on it for a couple of hours. Regardless of its type and design, you won’t feel like your thighs will die under you if you do not get up. A good toilet seat will be so comfortable, it will feel like a high-quality chair. You can turn on your bathroom exhaust fan, grab a newspaper, and then get down to business.
2. They Are Stylish
Let’s face it: looks matter to us. It may be “just a toilet seat,” but if you have just one bathroom in your house, everyone visiting you will see that toilet seat. For this reason, you cannot buy something that looks ugly – people won’t even want to use it, and it will ruin the effect of your bathroom design.
A good toilet seat will be able to compliment every other part of your bathroom. No matter if you are going for a traditional design or a modern one, there are toilet seat designs that will make every look achievable. You just need to find the one that has the right pattern, and your bathroom will look just perfect.
3. They Serve Their Purpose
Although these are important aspects, a toilet seat doesn’t just have to look good and be comfortable – it will have to serve its purpose as well. For example, if your bathroom is constantly cold when you use it (e.g. in the winter), a nicely shaped seat won’t do much to take away your problems. However, if you take one that also has heating properties, then the thought of using it in the middle of a cold night will no longer be so dreadful.
This is why, when you are shopping for toilet seats, you have to be sure that they serve their purpose. Some are meant to keep you warm during winter – and others are meant to save on paper use by offering a washing feature. Some are meant to look good in big bathrooms, whereas others are meant to fit the smaller rooms. Regardless of their purpose, they need to be worth the investment.
Best Toilet Seats Comparison Chart
| PRODUCT | DETAILS | ||
|---|---|---|---|
 | Delta Faucet Morgan Round Front Slow-Close White Toilet Seat |
| View On Amazon |
 | KOHLER K-4636-0 Cachet Elongated White Toilet Seat |
| View On Amazon |
 | Mayfair Molded Wood Toilet Seat with Easy Clean |
| View On Amazon |
 | BioBidet Supreme BB-1000 Elongated Toilet Seat Adjustable Warm Water |
| View On Amazon |
 | Kohler K-4775-0 Brevia with Quick-Release Hinges |
| View On Amazon |
 | Toto SS114 01 SoftClose Elongated Toilet Seat Cover |
| View On Amazon |
 | Bath Royale BR620-00 Premium Round Toilet Seat |
| View On Amazon |
Best Toilet Seat Reviews
1. Delta Faucet Morgan Round Front Slow-Close White Toilet Seat
If you are looking for a good toilet seat that will not be too expensive, or too cheap looking, then you might want to give this one a try. This one is relatively new on the market, but those that have used it up until this point have rated it a high-quality model – and an overall good investment.
What most people seem to appreciate about this product is that it is very easy to install. All you have to do is bolt it in the toilet, and you do not even need to have previous DIY experience. The entire process should take less than 5 minutes – which includes unpacking the toilet seat.
Plus, considering that it has a soft-close mechanism, you won’t be the source of any noise in the house. You can finish your business without being embarrassed – and since there will be less impact, the hinges will also last longer.
Pros
- Versatile and perfect for each age group – no matter if we’re talking about adults or children
- Soft Close system that does not allow the seat to make any noise
- The installation process is very simple
Cons
- The screws tend to loosen up after some use
- The opening feels very small for some
2. KOHLER K-4636-0 Cachet Elongated White Toilet Seat
If you are looking for a toilet seat from a highly esteemed brand, this model from Kohler should be able to fit your standards. With a white, glossy surface, this one should be suitable for most bathrooms – no matter if they are traditional or modern.
The installation is fairly straightforward thanks to its quick attach hardware. You won’t even need any tools to install this seat. Moreover, if you want to give the seat a thorough cleaning, you can use the quick-release hinges to remove it.
Featuring a Quiet Close technology, this seat will not only be quiet and less embarrassing, but it will also last longer. Plus, once installed, the seat remains sturdy and in its place for quite a long time.
Pros
- Very conveniently priced
- Installation is a breeze
- Quiet Close system that prevents the lid from slamming
Cons
- Some say the seat is uncomfortable
- The plastic hinges are prone to breaking
3. Mayfair Molded Wood Toilet Seat with Easy Clean
If you want to give your bathroom a mysterious, classier look, then you might want to go for this black toilet seat. The advantage of this seat is that even if it gets mineral buildups over time (the kind that cannot be cleaned), they still won’t be as visible as with a white seat.
This toilet seat has been equipped with STA-TITE, a no wiggle system that will keep the seat in its place. This way, even if you are slightly on the heavier side, the seat is not as likely to break or shift from its place.
The installation is literally a snap. Granted, you will need a wrench to ensure that everything is nicely tightened – but the process itself is relatively easy to go through. Since it also resists scratching and chipping, you won’t need to take it off anytime soon.
Pros
- Installation is very easy and straightforward
- Wood construction that makes it more durable
- Resistant to scratching and chipping
Cons
- Might still move around after a while
- The finish is not quite durable
4. BioBidet Supreme BB-1000 Elongated Toilet Seat Adjustable Warm Water
Are you tired of continuously having to wipe each time you use the toilet? What if you run out of toilet paper? Or what if you still don’t feel clean enough to get out of the bathroom after that? In this case, this bidet toilet seat should be able to help you out.
With its 3 in 1 nozzle, not only will it clean the posterior parts, but it will also reach the lady parts. This will lead to improved hygiene, but only as long as you keep the toilet seat and wand clean.
You may adjust the temperature of the water and the seat easily for better comfort. Moreover, since the lid is Quiet Close, you won’t hear it slamming at any point. It will make the hinges last for longer – and you feel less embarrassed over the fact that the toilet seat was placed down.
Pros
- Great for personal hygiene
- Eco-friendly and reduces the need for toilet paper
- The heated seat makes it perfect during winter
Cons
- The seat runs out of heat fairly quick
- The opening of the seat is small for some people
5. Kohler K-4775-0 Brevia with Quick-Release Hinges
If you need something affordable, not too fancy, but which can do its job, you might want to try out this toilet seat. Made from high-quality polypropylene (PP) plastic, this model is highly resistant to chipping and staining.
The contoured seat is meant to provide comfort to the user – and while it may not have any padding, it is still great to sit on. That’s because the shape of the seat conforms to your thighs – offering you great comfort even if the dimensions of the toilet seat are reduced.
The quick attach hardware makes this toilet seat very easy to install – in most cases only taking a matter of minutes. Moreover, the quick release hinges make it very easy for you to remove the seat in order to clean it. In the event that something breaks, you also have a one-year warranty that should cover any damage.
Pros
- Very affordable
- The metal screws are very durable
- Very easy to install and remove
Cons
- The screws are likely to come loose at some point
- Some say it might actually be quite difficult to install
6. Toto SS114 01 SoftClose Elongated Toilet Seat Cover
Toto is very popular for creating comfortable toilet seats with ergonomic designs. With its molded bumpers, this is the kind of toilet seat that you should be able to stay on for a long time – if the need really asks for it. It may not have padding, but it offers great support.
Made from high-gloss polypropylene (PP) plastic, this toilet is expected to last for quite a long time. Plus, the Toto SoftClose system will ensure that there is barely any impact on the hinges – therefore, increasing their durability.
The toilet seat is easy to install and adjust. It includes all the mountings necessary, and you may easily take it off at any point to wash it and keeps things hygienic. Considering the coating that it received from Toto, this seat is also resistant to scratches and other damaging factors (such as mineral buildups).
Pros
- Very easy and straightforward to install, since it comes with all the attachments necessary
- SoftClose system that prevents any slamming of the seat
- Resistant to stains and scratching
Cons
- The plastic hinges are rather weak
- The seat tends to shift (play) after a while
7. Bath Royale BR620-00 Premium Round Toilet Seat
If you need something sturdy, but do not want to seem as if you are overdoing it, then you might want to give this toilet seat a try. Made from high-quality polypropylene plastic, this toilet seat has the ability to withstand harsh chemicals and to prevent the absorption of bacteria. One wipe is enough to keep it clean.
Featuring a slow-close system, the lid for toilet seat will not break down under impact. Not only will you not feel the embarrassment of everyone hearing you slam the lid, but you can also protect the hinges.
Last but not least, this seat has received an antibacterial coating that is resistant to chipping. Plus, since it features a two-year warranty, you may always get a replacement if it breaks or something goes wrong with it. Overall, it’s a very durable piece that will look great for every bathroom.
Pros
- Anti-fade technology that keeps the seat like new for a longer time
- Quick to install and remove, making it very easy to clean as well
- Slow-close system that makes it more resistant in the long run
Cons
- It tends to wiggle after some time, particularly if the bolts were not tightened properly
- Might be difficult to install for some people
Toilet Seat Types
The types of toilet seats are basically decided based on two things: their material and their shape. Each material will have its own features and benefits, just as each shape will be convenient in its own way. Here is how you can practically categorize toilet seats.
1. Types Based on Materials
When it comes to material, there are two types of toilet seats that you may go for: wood or plastic. Similarly, each of these types can be broken down into several different types – just so you know that choosing a toilet seat is not just a “let’s just pick one” kind of action. Here is what you can go for.
1.1. Wood toilet seats
Wood toilet seats represent a great choice for bathrooms sporting a more traditional style – and the advantage is that they can be found with various finishes. You can go for a natural oak design – or you may go for a plain white one. It will all depend on your preferences.
Wood toilet seats are generally made either from molded wood or bamboo wood. Both of these are natural, and they may be different when it comes to their color and texture.
These wood toilet seats have received multiple layers of coating, making them very hygienic and easy to clean. Plus, thanks to these layers, you will not have to worry about any splinters getting where they are not supposed to. In most cases, toilet seats made from pine, oak, and mahogany are the most suitable ones.
Veneer toilet seats have also gained quite a lot of popularity, due to the fact that they are a cost-effective and eco-friendly alternative to solid wood. Simply put, these seats use wood waste that is recycled and molded into the intended shape. There may be limits to the final product when compared to standard wood – but they are still high quality enough.
1.2. Thermoplastic toilet seats
Thermoplastic (or polypropylene) toilet seats are also a great choice when it comes to contemporary toilets. These toilet seats can also be broken down into several subcategories, depending on the plastic that is used to make them.
In most cases, ABS toilet seats are the most common option, as they are quite affordable. Some are made using plastic injection molding (PP toilet seats), which look great – but have fairly low chemical resistance. This might cause its color to fade quite a lot in the long run. This is why you should search for stain-resistant ABS plastic when choosing your toilet seat.
2. Types Based on Shape
Once more, when looking at toilet seats, there are three types that you may go for based on their shape: circular, elongated, and open front toilet seats. These toilet seats are all convenient in their own way, depending on your preferences or on the size of your bathroom. Here is what you might want to consider purchasing.
2.1. Basic round (circular) toilet seats
Circular toilet seats represent the standard kind that you can find in most standard American homes. Suitable for round toilet bowls, these toilet seats are generally a good choice for those that are running low on bathroom space. They are quite small – and while most models are white, you may also find colored versions or some with patterns.
2.2. Elongated toilet seats
If you are looking for something with a little more thigh space, then you might want to try out an elongated toilet seat. Suitable for elongated toilet bowls, these seats provide more “wiggle room,” a wider seating area, and generally more comfort.
They are also a very good choice if you have at least a medium-sized bathroom that is not too cramped. You can visit our home page for more compact bathroom items, to go with the seat.
2.3. Open fronted toilet seats
Open fronted toilet seats are generally common in public restrooms, but you may also find them in many private houses as well. These toilet seats look like a U, with the front part being cut off from the design.
There is quite a lot of debate over why the U-shape for toilets has been created. Some say that this shape protects the seat from being dripped on during male urination. Others say that it protects the people from catching a disease since their genitals will not be touching that area in particular. Either way, they are considered more hygienic – mostly because there is no front to touch.
Open fronted toilet seats can be found in both round and elongated shapes. For this reason, you may purchase the one that is most suitable for the toilet bowl that you already have.
Toilet Seat Buying Guide
Buying a good toilet seat might be one of the easiest or most difficult things that you can ever do – all depending on the information that you have. Still, with all that info in mind, which one should you actually get? We know about the material and types – but aside from that, what else should we consider?
Keep in mind that you are probably going to use that toilet seat at least once every day – so you have to make sure that it is durable and comfortable. These guidelines should be able to help you pick the right toilet seat for you.
1. Durability
As mentioned, you’re going to use that toilet seat quite often – and you certainly do not want to buy replacements continuously. This is why you want to ensure that you buy one that is highly durable.
Some toilet seats have a maximum weight capacity, whereas others will have other durability features. You also have to consider the material from which it was made. While the most popular toilet seats are made from plastic or wood, there are also toilet seats that are more expensive – but made from different, high-grade materials.
Plastic is fairly durable, cheap, and quite easy to clean. Depending on the type of plastic that was used and the way in which it was pressed, some toilet seats might be more durable than others.
Wood toilet seats tend to be slightly more expensive compared to plastic models – but they are also more durable. That being said, you need to make sure the toilet seat was made from high-quality wood. You don’t want to end up with wood splinters in your most delicate areas.
2. Ease of Installation
A toilet seat that is well made should have a very easy installation. Most importantly, the toilet seat that you purchase should have all the bolts and nuts that you need to attach the seat on the toilet bowl. Some toilet seats will have you purchasing those parts separately, so you need to ensure that they are all included in the price.
Plus, depending on how complex a toilet seat is, you may or may not need a few tools to install it. Complex seats may be more high-tech and convenient – but depending on the case, you may need someone to help you install them. Make sure that you have the resources.
3. Costs
One of the most important aspects to consider is the cost of the toilet seat. Some items are quite expensive – but they also tend to be more durable. This way, you will not have to spend a lot of money on replacements – making the toilet seat cost-effective.
Bear in mind that you do not have to completely empty your pockets when you are looking for a good toilet seat. You can actually find a high-quality one at a low price. Moreover, if you buy a more expensive toilet seat, make sure that you at least get your money’s worth.
4. Closing System
When you are picking out a toilet seat, you might also want to take a closer look at the unit’s closing system. If you used to have a standard toilet seat with no actual special feature or closing system, then you also remember how embarrassed you felt each time the lid closed with a slam. At that point, everyone knew that you went to the toilet.
However, a toilet seat with a slow-close system will not produce any slam or noise – ensuring that the process actually remains quiet. Moreover, since there is not that much of an impact, the hinges will also be less prone to snapping. Even if the hinges were made from thermoplastic, a quiet-close system will at least make them last for a slightly longer time.
5. Toilet Bowl Compatibility
You might not think that it matters – but it really does. When buying a toilet seat, make sure that you get one that matches your existent toilet. An elongated toilet seat will not work well with a round toilet, just like a round toilet seat will not be mounted efficiently on a round toilet. You need to ensure that the shape and size of the seat match your toilet – which is why you should always check the dimensions.
6. Padding
Depending on the toilet seat, you may go for standard models that have no padding – or padded models that provide more comfortable. When you stay for too long on a solid surface, it tends to become rather uncomfortable – this is where the padding comes into the story. Padding obviously makes the surface softer and cozier – therefore, eliminating the discomfort.
However, bear in mind that padded toilet seats tend to be less durable compared to one that has not been padded. Even a high-quality padded seat may end up wearing out before a standard, solid piece does. This is why, if you do not want to change your toilet seat for a longer time, you might want to reconsider padding.
7. Versatility
Think about it: you will certainly not be the only one to use the toilet. Your spouse is going to use it, your kids are going to use it, and your guests are also probably going to use it. This is why you need to ensure that the toilet seat you choose can be used by both adults and children. Go for versatility, because anything else won’t be of help – to you or your family.
8. Hinges
You may have purchased a fancy-looking toilet seat, with a scratch-resistant surface that looks like it will last for ages. And true, from the looks of it, it actually seems like it won’t get broken or scratched easily. But this may apply just to the lid.
Sometimes, even if the lid is very durable, the hinges generally aren’t. These are the first things that end up breaking – which is why you must make sure that they are qualitative. Avoid cheap-looking plastic, as those will break in as little as two weeks.
9. Mounting Type
When choosing a toilet seat, you should decide if you want to go for the integral bolt and nut mounting system, or the conventional kind. Technically speaking, integral bolt and nut mounting systems look very good in the beginning, and they have also proven to be quite durable.
However, when you have to remove them, then the whole process can be very frustrating and troublesome. This is because the nuts will have to be drilled out if you wish to remove the seat.
However, the standard bolt-and-nuts will not be as difficult to mount – and generally, you will not need to use any tools. If you do not have any experience with using tools, then an easier to install conventional mount might be a much more suitable option for you.
10. Extra Features
Last but not least, what are some extra features that your toilet seat brings to the table? For instance, if winters tend to be particularly cold in your area, you might want to go for toilet seats that have an integrated heating system. This way, all you need is an outlet to keep the seat warm. You won’t even have to spend all your cash on top-rated bathroom heaters anymore.
Also, do you know that moment when you want to go to the bathroom in the middle of the night, but do not want to scare the sleep away by turning the lights on? In this case, you might want to go for a model that has LED lights installed.
They are fancier and definitely more expensive – but for some people, these extra features might mean the world.
How to Install a Toilet Seat
Installing a new toilet seat can be rather difficult – but if you haven’t done it before, it can be quite challenging. Each toilet seat might have its own instructions – but for a standard toilet seat, here are the general steps that you will have to follow.
1. Pry the Bolt Caps of the Old Seat
Your toilet seat may or may not have bolt caps over the bolts. If it doesn’t, this might make your job easier. But if it does, then you might want to take a screwdriver and pop the bolt caps open.
2. Hold the Nut Underneath and Remove the Seat
On the underside of the seat bolt, you will see that there is a nut connected to the bolt. Use an adjustable wrench or your hands to unscrew the seat bolts and remove the nuts. Once you have done that, all you have to do is remove the seat.
3. Add the New Toilet Seat
Now that the old toilet seat has been removed, take the new one and align its bolt holes with those of the toilet bowl. Make sure that the anchor bolts go through the holes, and then begin screwing the nuts the same way you unscrewed them from the old seat.
Make sure that you have properly centered the seat before you have tightened the nuts. Also, don’t overdo it with the tightening; only do it until the nuts are just a bit beyond snug.
How to Keep a Toilet Seat Clean?
Toilet seats are the most prone to developing bacteria, which is why you want to make sure that you clean them properly and regularly. Here is how you can keep your toilet seat clean longer so that everything remains nice and hygienic.
1. Get the Detergent
There are several detergents that you may use to clean your toilet seat. Still, bear in mind that with the nature of some toilet seats, you might not be able to use harsh chemicals. If you do this, you might damage the toilet seat and stain it even further.
For one, you might want to look for special detergents that can clean toilet seats. If you ask the person responsible at the store, then you might be able to get a good recommendation. You might also mix some scouring powder with water and washing powder until a paste is formed.
If you don’t have these at hand and you really need to clean the toilet sea, you might want to make a mix of baking soda and vinegar. This is actually a solution that will be both effective and will not damage your toilet seat in the long run.
2. Put on Protective Gear
In this case, the most important gear that you may want to focus on is a pair of gloves – but aside from that, you might also want to wear some clothes that you do not mind staining. This should particularly be the case if the detergent that you are using is a bleach-based one.
3. Scrub the Toilet Seat
Once you have wet the scouring pad and dabbed it into the paste, begin scrubbing at the toilet seat. Use circular lines to scrub at the outer part – all while being careful not to scrub too hard. This will prevent scratches from occurring on the toilet seat.
Clean the scouring pad, dab it in the paste again, and repeat the same action on the inner side of the toilet seat. Focus mostly on the sides, because that’s where the urine tends to linger. Make sure that you also put some emphasis on the hinges.
Before placing the toilet seat down, make sure that you have also cleaned the exterior of the bowl. If you don’t, the bacteria will start crawling over the seat from the moment it rests on the toilet.
4. Rinse the Toilet
Once you have rinsed the seat and the bowl, use a clean dampened cloth to remove the water from seat and toilet – or at least, the bulk. After that, take a dry cloth and complete the drying process. For proper cleanliness of the toilet, you might want to repeat this process every day.
Toilet Seats FAQ
1. What Is the Maximum Weight That My Toilet Seat Can Handle?
This will generally depend on the manufacturer – but most of the time, the standard toilet seat will be able to hold only about 300 lbs before it breaks. Even if it does not break instantly under the weight, there is still a high chance that it will deteriorate much faster in the long run. The hinges will be the ones that will have to suffer the most under heavyweight.
You may also find toilet seats that can handle more than 300 lbs worth of weight – but those will use a different array of materials. Read the specifications, and make sure that the materials are of a quality that is high enough to withstand such a weight.
2. Which Kind of Soap Should I Use to Wash My Toilet Seat?
It might be very tempting to use bleachers or abrasive soaps to clean a toilet seat – but the recommendation would be that you refrain from doing do. Abrasive soaps can scratch your toilet seat, with the harsh formula damaging it prematurely in the long run. Strong bleachers are also not that recommended, particularly if you are using a colored toilet seat.
When cleaning the seat, you might want to use a mild soap instead. Depending on the seat, you might find special soaps that have antibacterial properties, which will help you keep the toilet seat clean. For better results, you might want to clean it daily – or at least once every two to three days.
3. Why Has the Color of My Toilet Seat Begun to Fade?
If the color of your toilet seat has begun to fade, then it might be because you were using your standard bathroom cleaners on the seat. These cleaners are generally very harsh, and in most cases packed with bleaching agents – which will obviously not bide well for your toilet seat. If you see that your toilet seat has begun to change color, you might want to switch to a cleansing agent that is not as harsh.
4. Will Every Toilet Seat Fit Every Toilet?
If the toilet seats have the standard measurements for a certain type of toilet (elongated or round), then they should be fit for every standard toilet seat. Having said that, you may still want to check the dimensions and measure a toilet seat before purchasing it. Otherwise, you might just realize that the fit you got is actually very awkward.
5. Why Are There Yellow Stains on My Toilet Seat?
Whenever someone sees yellow stains on a toilet seat, they all think the worst: someone keeps missing the target. However, this type of stain is caused by something completely different than what we imagine – namely, mineral buildups. These buildups contain magnesium, calcium, and iron – which catch on very easily and are very difficult to take off.
However, it’s not impossible. You can remove these stains by using vinegar, borax powder, or trisodium phosphate. Depending on the gravity of the stain, you might want to scrub and leave the detergent there for a few hours.
Wrap Up
Finding the best toilet seat can be quite difficult, considering all the choices that you have available. There are so many factors to consider, from the shape to the material – and even the extra features that it comes with. However, if you purchase the perfect one for your bathroom, the investment will practically start paying for itself. All you have to do is be thorough.
Hopefully, our toilet seat reviews, along with our buying guide, have managed to guide you into making the right decision. All the products that we have chosen for you were appropriately priced – and based on the factors that we have recommended, you should be able to make the right choice.
