When customizing a bathroom to suit your taste and standard, the toilet seat can often be an afterthought. But choosing the best toilet seat can really make a design statement and also improve your quality of life - in addition to protecting you from what's in the bowl.
In fact, you may not be aware of how much time you spend on your personal throne.UK activefound that Brits spend an average of 3 hours and 9 minutes on their toilet every week – that's a whopping 164 hours a year. When we all spend so much time on the toilet, it's probably best to invest in a seat that offers our butt optimal comfort in a style we love.
In this article, we'll take a look at the best options available so you can find the perfect toilet seat for you. Whether it's a simple oval design, a stylish wooden number, or a sleek seat loaded with the smartest features, there's sure to be something below that will wow you. However, there are some important questions to ask yourself before taking the plunge. Therefore, first read our buying guide.
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Best Toilet Seat: At a Glance
- Best Oval Seat:The Bath Co. wooden toilet seat
- Best Budget Wood Seat:Argos Home wooden toilet seat
- Best Plastic Seat:Clarity Universal Duroplast-Toilettensitz
- Best Family-Friendly Seat:Storemic Toilettensitz
- Best Smart Seat:Forum Mito Smart Toilettensitz
How to choose the best toilet seat for you
What type of seat can I buy?
The most important thing when shopping for a toilet seat is to check the size of your bowl - ordering your ideal seat and then realizing it doesn't fit isn't good for anyone. Unfortunately, there is no standard toilet seat size, so you will need to measure your own toilet.
To do this, you need to take off your current toilet seat and determine the shape that fits your toilet. Overall, the shape of your toilet seat will likely be dictated by the shape of your toilet bowl if you want the most stable and aesthetic result possible. Conventional toilets usually require oneoval shapedSeat; the most common option out there. There are alsosquareSeats that offer the most modern design and an increasingly popular combination of both in the form of SlimD shapedseats.
Once you know that, you can start measuring the length of your seat: measure the distance from the front edge of the toilet to the center of the holes that attach the toilet seat to the back. You'll also need to know the width measurements from the widest point and the distance between the mounting holes to keep everything in place.
What materials and features are best?
Once you know the size and shape of your bowl, you can move on to choosing the seats that match your desired aesthetic and have all the features you need.
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Seats generally come in two materials: Duroplast plast(or thermoplastic) and engineered, molded or solidBaum. Wood is the classic option, offering a thicker and generally more stable experience compared to plastic. That doesn't mean all plastic seats are unstable, however, as many modern-style seats - which are often made out of plastic to suit modern bathroom aesthetics - provide an incredibly comfortable base. Plastic is also often more scratch and stain resistant than wood. It might be a little less reliable in terms of durability, but if your plastic seat also has a soft-close feature, you should be fine - as long as nobody makes the habit of standing on the seat or lid.
As far as features go, there are plenty of exciting ones to choose from. The most elaborate are "smart seats", which often include:Bidet,drying systemand aSeat with adjustable temperaturefor the cold winter months.
A far more common feature is the option ofsoft closingLid designed to close slowly, quietly and in a controlled manner to prevent slamming. Because of this, they can be safer in family settings while reducing unnecessary noise in the home. Equally useful for familiesnorth family, which features a smaller fold-down bowl that attaches to the family's small bottoms.
How much will that cost?
As you might expect, a higher price tends to translate to more comfort, durability, and an overall sturdier build. You don't want to have to keep changing your toilet seat after you find a style or design you like. Therefore, it is better to fund something more durable. Many higher quality seats cost between £50 and £100. However, if you're on a tighter budget there are basic seats for around £10 that are perfectly fine, especially more durable wood options.
If you want features like a bidet or heated seats, you'll also have to pay extra. But again, the long-term reliability and quality of these features tends to be higher, resulting in a correspondingly higher price.
But don't worry too much about the cost when you read our list of the best buys below. All in all, we try to give you the best value for money, no matter what style you choose. So read on to find the best toilet seats in different styles.
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1. The Bath Co. Wooden Toilet Seat: Best Oval Seat
out of stock:63 kr. |Buy now at Victoria VVS
This seat from The Bath Co. offers you both a comfortable seating experience and something beautiful to look at. Its gloss white finish gives a clean finish to a traditional reinforced wood seat. Thanks to the soft close and zippered zinc hinges, you not only have a quiet toilet, but also an easy release when you really want to scrub your toilet clean under the seat. To make the job even easier, the brackets are also fixed at the top.
Key Specifications - Shape:Oval;Material:wood from wood;Dimensions (TCD):37,6 x 46,2 x 5,6 cm;Distance between the hinges:Adjustable (5"-7.1");Weight:2,96 kg;Soft-Close?And;Make:Top
Buy now at Victoria VVS
2. Argos Home Wooden Toilet Seat: Best budget wooden seat
out of stock:Ab 10 £ |Buy now from Argos
If your budget is tight, Argos has a range of stylish wood options for you.
Sturdy and easy to install, the seats are made from molded wood and feature stainless steel hinges that should last for years to come. You have a choice of a light oak effect, a darker antique pine, or a deep mahogany seat - meaning there should be an option that suits most bathroom aesthetics - while still providing a solid wood base to sit on. And from just £10 you can't go wrong with it.
Key Specifications - Shape:Oval;Material:Baum;Dimensions (TCD):36,5 x 45,5 x 5 cm;Distance between the hinges:Adjustable (8.5 - 17.8 cm);Weight:3 kg;Soft-Close?NO;Make:Top
Buy now from Argos
3. Clarity Universal Duroplast Toilet Seat: Best plastic seat
out of stock:30 kr. |Buy now at Victoria VVS
If you are looking for an easy-to-clean, scratch-resistant plastic, this seat from Clarity is for you. Unlike other thermoset seats, this seat is durable and has a ceramic-like feel, so you can feel confident in your work. Clarity states that the seat is universal for most oval toilets as the length can be adjusted between 17 and 18 inches. However, it is always best to check the dimensions of your toilet. It has hinges to attach it to the bottom, which may be a hassle for some; But once the seat is in place, you'll be able to sit comfortably for years.
Key Specifications - Shape:Oval;Material:thermosetting plastics;Dimensions (TCD):37 x 44,5 x 4,5 cm;Distance between the hinges:16,6 cm;Weight:1,6 kg;Soft-Close?NO;Make:Bund
Buy now at Victoria VVS
4. Fashion Slim D Toilet Seat: Best D Shape Toilet Seat
out of stock:44 kr. |Buy now at Victoria VVS
Due to their unusual shape, there are many D-shaped toilet seats that cost a pretty penny. Mode Bathrooms, on the other hand, is selling a thermoset D-shaped seat for under £50 - which is a real bargain. Like the D-shape itself, this seat has the modern flair of a thin, flat look befitting the year 3000. While this may not be to everyone's taste, we think it would add a great, elegant accent to any bathroom.
Using the adjustable hinges, installation should take well under five minutes while still allowing for easy lifting for easy underseat cleaning. All in all, the Mode Bathroom toilet seat is an acquisition that is as practical as it is tasteful.
Key Specifications - Shape:D-shaped;Material:thermosetting plastics;Dimensions (TCD):36 x 43,5 x 4 cm;Distance between the hinges:Adjustable (11-25cm);Weight:2,7 kg;Soft-Close?And;Make:Top
Buy now at Victoria VVS
5. LUXFLOW LYRA-R: Bester Bidet-Toilettensitz
out of stock:59 kr. |Buy now on Amazon
For a gentler, more hygienic cleanup than toilet paper, a bidet is a must, and luckily many toilet seats come with one, making it an excellent all-in-one package. This option from LUXFLO offers excellent value for money by using a twin nozzle, saving you time and effort. Installation is just as easy, especially since the bidet does not require electricity to operate.
Best of all, it comes in regular U-shape, D-shape, and XL oval sizes, so almost everyone can experience a fresh cleanse. The only thing to note is that the seat is a bit flimsy if you're used to a thick wood design, but don't let that put you off as this is a good deal for a bidet-toilet seat combo you're going to be using once know get used to the change.
Key Specifications - Shape:D-shaped;Material:Plast-Polymer;Dimensions (TCD):37 x 48 x 6,2 cm;Distance between the hinges:Adjustable (5.4"-6.75");Weight:2,73 kg;Soft-Close?And;Make:Double
6. Storemic Toilet Seat: Best family-friendly toilet seat
out of stock:31 kr. | Buy now on Amazon
If you have a young family, it can be tiring to regularly unpack a set of toilet seats, not to mention the difficulty of storing them. This Storemic seat makes life a little easier and gives your child a little more independence by including a seat for small buttocks. It sits between the main toilet seat and is easily held up by a magnet and out of the way so it can be used by anyone of any size. It also has a soft-close function so that no child can smash the seat immediately after purchase. It also has a non-slip seat so that nobody slips into the bowl itself. What's more, the stain, fade, chip and scratch resistant plastic material is also antibacterial and costs under £30. Then you know that this seat is an asset for the whole family.
Key Specifications - Shape:Oval;Material:Polypropylene;Dimensions (TCD):37,1 x 44,7 x 5,5 cm;Distance between the hinges:Adjustable (4"-7");Weight:7,08 kg;Soft-Close? And;Make:Top
STOREMIC toilet seat, soft-close toilet seat white with quick-release function, easy installation from above. Family toilet seat with integrated child seat, standard toilet seats with adjustable hinges, O-shape
33,75 £ buy now 
7. Aidapt Viscount 4 Inch Raised Toilet Seat With Lid: Best Raised Toilet Seat
out of stock:46 kr. | Buy now from Argos
Many people take it for granted, but for those with limited strength, flexibility, or restricted movement, even seemingly simple tasks like getting up from the toilet can be difficult.
A raised toilet seat like this from Aidapt means less pressure on your bent knees and legs. It works by attaching it to your existing seat and raising it four inches, which is more than enough extra height for most people. Additionally, Aidapt says it should fit most UK toilet bowls, making it an easy purchase for anyone who needs a little extra height in the bathroom.
Key Specifications - Shape:Suitable for multiple;Material:ABS recyclable plastic;Dimensions (TCD):35,5 x 40 x 13 cm;Distance between the hinges:N / A;Weight:1,27 kg;Soft-Close? NO;Make:For clipping
Buy now from Argos
8. Forum Mito Smart Toilet Seat With Remote Control: Best Smart Toilet Seat
out of stock:499 kr. | Buy now at Victoria VVS
If you've always wanted to treat yourself to the ultimate toilet seat, now is your chance with this incredibly versatile seat from Forum Mito. This toilet seat offers almost everything you could possibly want. Too cold? It has five adjustable temperature settings. Want a bidet-style clean? No problem: there are front and rear wash systems that provide temperature and pressure-adjustable water in an oscillating or pulsating jet. Too wet after said cleaning? There's even a customizable heat drying system. All this is equipped with a combination of a comfortable seat and a soft-close lid.
Add in the odor control provided by an automatic deodorization and charcoal filtration system, and you almost have the perfect machine. Unfortunately, all of this costs significantly more than your standard £500 seat. However, if you want incredible amenities for your bathroom, there is no better choice.
Key Specifications - Shape:D-shaped;Material:thermosetting plastics;Dimensions (TCD):48,5 x 48 x 19 cm;Distance between the hinges:Adjustable (12-18cm);Weight:7,08 kg;Soft-Close? And;Make:Top
Buy now at Victoria VVS
FAQs
Which brand is best for toilet seat? ›
- Best Overall. Kohler Brevia Elongated White Toilet Seat. ...
- Best Wooden. American Standard Elongated Front Wood Toilet Seat. ...
- Most Affordable. Bemis Commercial Open Front Toilet Seat. ...
- Best Quiet-Close. Kohler Cachet Quiet Close Toilet Seat. ...
- Best Cushioned. ...
- Best Mid-Range. ...
- Easiest to Clean. ...
- Most Durable.
900SC-001 Centocore Molded Wood Toilet Seats are a thick polypropylene shell over a wood core that won't crack, chip, dent, flatten, flake, fade or peel like other wood seats.
What is the most comfortable toilet in the world? ›The Bottom Line. We chose the Kohler Santa Rosa Comfort Height One-Piece Toilet as the best overall toilet because of its comfortable height, quiet-close lid, and sleek appearance that fits any bathroom style.
What are the strongest toilet seats made of? ›The hinge material selection should focus on durability, with stainless steel and zinc-plated options being the most durable and plastic being the least durable. If the toilet seat is in the home's main bathroom, consider high-end materials. Bolts are available in metal or plastic.
Is a wood or plastic toilet seat better? ›If you prefer a toilet seat that offers design options with a more substantial feel, with a variety of hinge options, choose a beautiful enameled wood seat. If you're looking for color selections while still having a toilet seat that provides durability, choose a plastic seat.
What's more durable wood or plastic toilet seat? ›Though plastic toilet seats can be flimsy, a quality seat can be just as comfortable and sturdy as a wooden seat, though it's never going to be quite as durable. Plastic is so easy to keep clean, and that's a huge benefit when you're dealing with such a germ-ridden fixture.
Why do my toilet seats keep breaking? ›The type of hinges used to attach your toilet seat also play a great role in its durability. If your hinges are weak and cheap, they will break easily hence forcing you to buy a new toilet seat.
How do I keep my toilet seat from cracking? ›One of the possibilities to prevent crack is to use Polypropylene (PP) material for the seat. The Polypropylene (PP) material is strong and elastic, hard to break the product made by the material.
Are one-piece toilets better than two? ›Because of their connected frame, one-piece toilets are easier to clean and maintain. Two-piece toilets tend to accumulate more bacteria in the space between the tank and bowl, which makes them harder to clean and the upkeep more time-consuming.
Why are Japanese toilets so nice? ›A Japanese toilet or smart toilet, as it's often referred to, is a toilet built with smart technology. Put simply, this means smart toilets can interact with their user via remote control access. With a press of the button, you can flush, spray and dry.
What is the highest priced toilet? ›
Currently, the costliest toilet ever assembled is sitting high in the International Space Station. In 2020, NASA launched a $23 million commode into space to test out its functionality on the ISS.
What is the best size of toilet seat? ›A round toilet bowl will measure approximately 16 ½” in length. An elongated bowl is approximately 18 ½” in length. Based on your measurement, order the appropriate seat – round or elongated – for your bowl. Our seats are designed to fit most manufacturers' round or elongated bowls.
Is BEMIS a good toilet seat? ›They are 100% rust-free and play no role in destroying the look of your precious toilet. The unmatched qualities and durability of the BEMIS toilet seats makes it an excellent choice for residential as well as commercial areas.
Are higher toilet seats better? ›However, we would recommend high toilet seats with additional support if you still feel you may need some extra help with your mobility. The added height will put less stress on your joints such as your knees and help you stand easier as well. The overall outcome should be increased confidence when using the bathroom.
How often should you replace your toilet seat? ›An average toilet's lifespan is about 15 to 30 years, and its original toilet seat shouldn't last that long due to obvious hygiene factors. Typically, you should change toilet seats after every five years, but there are some definite signs that tell you that you should replace yours immediately.
What type of toilet seat is easiest to clean? ›Plastic vs. Wood - As an example, plastic toilet seats are usually easier to clean than wood ones.
Which toilet seat is more comfortable round or elongated? ›Because they extend up to 31 inches from the wall, they take up more bathroom space and can be restrictive in a smaller bathroom. However, most adults find elongated seats more comfortable than round, and people with mobility issues can stand up from them more easily.
Which toilet seat last longer? ›Benefits of Plastic Toilet Seats
Although lighter in weight than enameled wood toilet seats, plastic toilet seats are durable, strong and long-lasting. They also give you the benefit of finish that resists wear, chips and stains.
No, not all toilet seats fit the same because toilets come in a variety of different shapes, so you'll need to check yours before buying. There are three types of toilet shapes commonly found in UK homes. These are round, D-shape, and square seats.
Why is an elongated toilet seat better? ›Elongated bowls are also considered more 'hygienic' in that the larger surface area of the bowl makes is easier for men and children to use with less mess. The longer bowl size is also a requirement for ADA use, and the longer/wider bowl is generally easier to use for those with mobility issues.
Should the toilet seat be up or down while pooping? ›
While it was also found to make the droplets larger and more concentrated with bacteria, the broad consensus among scientists is that it's more hygienic to flush with the lid down.
What is the most common type of toilet seat? ›Round toilet seats
By far and away the most common shape available, traditional toilets usually require a round-shaped toilet seat.
Most of the time, this is caused by missing parts or an installation issue. If your seat has been loose for some time, moisture, urine or cleaner residue under the mounting bases are likely causing the seat to slip. In this case, tightening the screws won't fix the issue.
How can I make my toilet seat more comfortable? ›- Install a safety frame around your toilet. ...
- Try a raised toilet seat or platform toilet base. ...
- Add cushioning to the toilet seat. ...
- Strategically install grab bars for better support. ...
- Consider a toileting aid. ...
- Try a commode or commode chair.
While a toilet typically lasts at least 15 years, toilet seats last only about 5 to 7 years before they begin to crack or become stained to the point that, no matter how hard you scrub, they no longer appear clean. That's when it's time to consider replacement.
Which toilet style is better? ›03/6Indian toilets can improve digestion
Squatting squeezes your stomach, which aids digestion by pressing, pressurizing and churning the food in your stomach. Sitting in western-style toilet does not put any pressure on our stomach and sometimes doesn't even lead to good and satisfactory clearance of stool.
Two-stage flush system toilets use about 20 percent less water per year than conventional one-flush-only toilets, and many qualify for WaterSense certification. However, you'll pay a slight premium. Dual-flush toilets cost 10 percent to 20 percent more than their conventional counterparts.
What is a comfort height toilet? ›How High is a Comfort Height Toilet? Comfort height toilets vary in height. By and large, the seat tends to stand between 17 and 19 inches from the ground (43cm to 48cm). In contrast, a standard traditional height toilet stands at around 15 inches (38cm).
Why don t Americans use bidets? ›Bidets haven't ever been widely embraced in American culture. A common origin story for this reluctance is that bidets were seen as lascivious because they were used in brothels as a form of emergency contraception.
Do the Japanese use toilet paper? ›Toilet paper is used in Japan, even by those who own toilets with bidets and washlet functions (see below). In Japan, toilet paper is thrown directly into the toilet after use. However, please be sure to put just the toilet paper provided in the toilet.
Why is there no soap in Japanese bathrooms? ›
Why? Well, that's the way it is in Japan in traditional buildings and clearly it cuts down on installation cost. The idea is to just wash down your hand, not to do a proper hand wash with warm water and soap.
How much should I spend on a good toilet? ›One-piece toilets: Can cost as low as $100 and as much as $5,000 for some models. Most cost between $250 and $600 with the average cost around $500. Two-piece toilets: Can cost as low as $100 with the most expensive toilets costing around $3,000. Most average around $100 to $300.
What is luxurious toilet? ›Luxury toilets make using the restroom a spa-like experience. From heated seats to a toilet bowl nightlight, luxury toilets have a range of amenities that make going to the bathroom extra comfortable.
Which type of toilet is the most common and affordable type? ›Two-Piece Toilets
A two-piece toilet type is the most common option available and the more popular choice among homeowners. This is largely because they're typically more affordable than one-piece toilets, as well as easier to install.
The shape of your toilet bowl can impact the space in your bathroom. If you have a small bathroom, a round toilet may be a better option as it takes up less space. However, a square toilet can add a more modern and luxurious touch if you have a larger bathroom.
Does toilet seat height matter? ›What makes a toilet ADA compliant? It all comes down to the height of the toilet seat. Standard toilet seats are usually no more than 15 inches from the floor, while the ADA requires toilets that are at least 17 inches and a maximum of 19 inches from floor to seat. These are generally called “comfort height” toilets.
Should a toilet seat overhang? ›Ensure the toilet seat covers the bowl completely, there should not be a gap around the edge and it should not overhang.
What height toilet is best for seniors? ›The best toilet height for seniors is typically around 17 to 19 inches from the floor to the top of the seat. These are considered a comfortable height for most adults, as it allows them to sit down and stand up easily without straining their legs or back.
Are plastic or wood toilet seats stronger? ›Though plastic toilet seats can be flimsy, a quality seat can be just as comfortable and sturdy as a wooden seat, though it's never going to be quite as durable. Plastic is so easy to keep clean, and that's a huge benefit when you're dealing with such a germ-ridden fixture.
Do all toilet seats fit every toilet? ›Do all toilet seats fit the same? No, not all toilet seats fit the same because toilets come in a variety of different shapes, so you'll need to check yours before buying.
What is the most comfortable toilet seat height? ›
Today's so-called "comfort height" or "right height" toilets feature bowls that are 17 to 19 inches high, as compared to the standard 15 inches of a regular toilet.
Do you have to buy the same brand toilet seat? ›There are many brands of toilet seats and they can go on each brand of toilets.
What is the most common toilet seat size? ›Typical width: 14" - 14-1/2" Typical round length: 16" - 17" Typical elongated/extended length: 18" - 19"
What not to use on a toilet seat? ›Avoid using aerosol products. Do not allow abrasive chemicals and cosmetics (such as fingernail polish and aftershave) to come in contact with the toilet seat, as they can damage the finish. Painted wood seats require special care and cleaning. Use only mild detergent (such as dish washing soap).
Is BEMIS a good toilet brand? ›They are 100% rust-free and play no role in destroying the look of your precious toilet. The unmatched qualities and durability of the BEMIS toilet seats makes it an excellent choice for residential as well as commercial areas.
What is the most hygienic way to clean a toilet? ›Using either disinfecting wipes or a combination of disinfecting spray and a rag, paper towels, or a sponge (that you reserve just for this task), wipe down all of the external surfaces of the toilet, paying special attention to any areas you touch regularly such as the seat and the flushing handle.
What is a comfort toilet seat? ›A comfort height toilet is known as an ADA toilet and meets Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements for adults (17 to 19 inches between the floor and the toilet seat). It's safer for those who have trouble getting up from a low seat, such as older adults or people with disabilities.