People do not only use the bathroom to relieve themselves but also to spend some quiet time reading their favorite book, sit on the toilet genuflecting, or just to relax while seated when they have the luxury of time to do so. With these intentions, it is but right to own a sturdy toilet seat that is comfortable and functional at the same time.
But with so many brands, types, and models of the toilet seat in the market today, it is indeed quite difficult to choose which one to buy. Worry no more! If you are reading this article, we will help you decide through our top picks when it comes to the best seats available right now. Here are our top picks on different types of toilet seat.
So, why do I need a new toilet seat?
Having recently moved into a new home and decided to change the entire décor to fit your preferences, why not have your toilet decor match that of your entire home. Maybe you have been staying in your current home for quite some time and are tired of looking at your somewhat lopsided, faded and stained toilet seats. The most informed thing to do would be to change your toilets seats to achieve the beauty in your bathroom. Obviously having an entire bathroom remodeling will only incur heavy costs (which is unnecessary really). I have been online to search for toilet seat reviews but all I could find is “how to repair toilet seats articles.” I therefore had to use the available information to create an article that is going to help you choose the best toilet seats.
Best Toilet Seat Reviews ( Updated for 2019)
| Name | Shape | Type | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Toto SS114#01 (Editor’s Choice) | Elongated | SoftClose | Check Price |
| Mayfair 148E2 | Round | Molded-Wood | Check Price |
| TOTO SS154#01 | Elongated | SoftClose | Check Price |
| TOTO SS113#01 | Round | SoftClose | Check Price |
| Comfort Seats | Elongated | Solid Wood | Check Price |
| Comfort Seats C1B4E290 | Elongated | Molded Wood | Check Price |
Best Soft Close Toilet Seats
It is indeed frustrating when you hear toilet seats slammed whether after use or when it just happens on its own. Not only does the noise affect people but the noise that the toilet seat slammed creates will make you have an assumption that the seat is broken and needs replacement and that is additional expense. And with that, you might probably be in need of ideas on the best soft close toilet seats in the market today. Here is the list for your reference.
Toto SS114#01 Traditional SoftClose Elongated Toilet Seat
- SoftClose action reduces injury and eliminates "Toilet Seat Slam"
- Molded bumpers
- Comfortable ergonomic design
- Solid High-Impact, High Gloss Polypropylene
- Length 18-1/2-Inch, Width 14-Inch, Height 1-1/2-Inch
This soft toilet seat from Toto, which is a very popular brand on bathroom fixtures, is one of the superior products of its kind in the market today. Like any other bathroom products, Toto has elevated simple bathroom items into luxurious products for all types of bathrooms.
It is made of solid, high impact, and glossy polypropylene. As such, it is designed to survive harsh chemical ingredients present in several cleaning solutions formulated to clean toilet seats. This Toto soft close toilet seat model number SS114#01 is designed to be installed above the bowl using mounting bolts; hence, it provides easy installation advantage.
It has a soft close action mechanism which gently lowers the toilet seat when closing; thus, you avoid toilet slam.
With a very comfortable ergonomic design, you don’t feel numbness after using the seat toilet.
It has molded bumpers to keep the seat secure and provide durability to it.
Made of solid, high impact, and very glossy polypropylene; thus, it is designed to withstand shock and undue damages to the soft close toilet seat.
Resistant to cleaning solutions that has harsh chemical ingredients.
Check your bathroom size for fit as this one is measured at 18.5 inches in terms of length, 14 inches for width, and 1.5 inches depth.
Why this is the Best Soft Close ?
With a price of $39.50 (in most stores), there are several things that separates this soft close toilet seat from those that cost only $29.00 and lesser. For one, it has a molded bumper design to help users sit on it very comfortably even for an extended period of time. It is molded inwards; thus, it gives a grip to your behind and provides total support while users sit on it. You are assured that there is no balancing motion when sitting on this soft close toilet. It also has a larger opening than other similar units such as the Toto SS154#01. The molded bumper helps cleaning the toilet seat very easy. It is one of the very few models which can really claim of having an ergonomic design. It is crafted with polypropylene which is a very high grade kind of plastic, guaranteed to last longer. The inward mold is just right compared with Kohler which is too inward and creates a “drowning” feeling when you sit on the toilet seat.
- Delivers slam free toilet seat; thus, users avoid being annoyed or shocked with slamming noises.
- Very easy to install; no need to hire other people to do it for you.
- There is a bit of a problem with the hinge; it tends to loosen after a few uses.
- Many users were disappointed to discover that their purchase was not as sturdy as Toto claimed it to be.
As a whole, this slow close toilet seat from Toto delivers what it promises when it comes to reducing toilet slam. Some users may just need to check how they use the product to ascertain the real reason why it failed for them. They might think that the toilet seat will still remain gentle when it closes despite using force to close it down.
Mayfair 148E2 000 Slow-Close Molded Wood Toilet Seat
- NO SLAMMING: Seat closes slowly and quietly with a tap to eliminate...
- NO MORE WIGGLE: With the STA-TITE fastening System your Seat will...
- INSTALLS WITH A SNAP: The STA-TITE Seat Fastening System is easy to...
- QUICKLY AND EASILY REMOVES: For cleaning or replacement
- RESISTS CHIPPING AND SCRATCHING: Durable enameled wood seat provides a...
The best soft close toilet seats are not dominated by Toto; there are other brands and models as well like this one from Mayfair.
Toilet seats for this brand are designed to fit either round or elongated conventional toilets bowls coming from different manufacturers.
Whisper – Close hinge mechanism; thus, it moves slowly and quietly when it closes the seat slam free.
This toilet seat has easy clean and change hinge mechanism so that it will be easy to remove and clean the seat or when it is time to be replaced.
It is made of durable molded wood set in high gloss finish so it will survive chipping and scratching over time and period.
Fits rounded or elongated toilet bowls from different manufacturers.
Maid in America and only produced with environment friendly processes and materials.
Equipped with STA-TITE mechanism; hence, seat remains in place and no loosening of the fastening system of this toilet seat from Mayfair.
To get a perfect fit with your toilet bowl made by other manufacturers, check the measurement first as this product measures 18.9 inches for its length, 14.1 inches for the width, and 2.6 inches for its depth.
- No need to replace existing toilet bowls just to enjoy this easy clean and soft close toilet seat from Mayfair.
- Easy to install toilet seat and can be detached easily if you want to perform deep cleaning and needs to be removed to do so.
- Toilet seat produces minimal noise when it closes after you use it.
- Tap mechanism to close it; thus, no slamming motions produced.
- Needs extra push if you want to remove the toilet seat.
- It takes 15 seconds to close; for some this might be time consuming.
The manufacturer was not really pulling its customer’s legs when it said that this product produces whisper like sound when it closes.
Mayfair 48E2 000 Slow-Close Molded Wood Toilet Seat
- NO SLAMMING: Seat closes slowly and quietly with a tap to eliminate...
- NO MORE WIGGLE: With the STA-TITE fastening System your Seat will...
- INSTALLS WITH A SNAP: The STA-TITE Seat Fastening System is easy to...
- QUICKLY AND EASILY REMOVES: For cleaning or replacement
- RESISTS CHIPPING AND SCRATCHING: Durable enameled wood seat provides a...
Here is another alternative when it comes to soft close toilet from the Mayfair company.
This product offers the same benefits similar to its other products such as easy to remove and complications free cleaning. As it is made of wood, it offers reliability, stability and durability.
Includes whisper close hinge mechanism that it closes slowly and very quietly.
You only need to tap it to close.
Built with stress-free clean and change hinge mechanism to make it easy for you to remove it for cleaning or replacing.
Durably molded and made of wood and finished with gloss finish; thus, you have a toilet seat that can resist scratching and chipping off.
Fits different toilet bows from different manufacturers.
Made in the U.S.A. and only uses environmentally friendly materials and processes.
To enjoy amazing benefits of this product, check your own bathroom measurements first as this product is measured at 16.9 x 14.4 x 2.3 inches.
- Even if you make slamming motions, it will still close very gently.
- Great toilet seat especially during the night as it is noise free; thus, you do not annoy and disturb people who sleep lightly and wake up easily by just hearing little noises.
- Reliable to give whisper like sound when you close it and durable at the same time as even if you slam it, it will still close very slow, gently, and quietly.
- Can be installed without asking help from a handyman.
- Produces squeaky noise during first few uses.
- It may not chip or scratch off easily but some users reported discoloration after months of using it.
It’s another great toilet seat from Mayfair.
KOHLER K-4636-0 Cachet Quiet-Close with Grip-Tight Bumpers Elongated Toilet Seat
- Quiet Close lid closes slowly and quietly without slamming
- Grip Tight bumpers add stability and prevent shifting
- Quick Release hinges allow seat to be unlatched from toilet for easy...
- Quick Attach hardware for fast and secure installation
- Color matched plastic hinges
One of the best soft close toilet seats that comes from neither Toto nor Mayfair; Kohler is another trusted brand when it comes to bathroom fixtures and accessories.
This Kohler toilet seat is specifically designed to fit a majority of elongated seats available in the market. This product features both innovative technology and subtle styling when you want distinctiveness with regards to toilet seats.
Here are the several features you will like in this toilet seat from Kohler:
It is built with Unique Grip-tight bumpers to hold the seat very firmly in place and avoid wobbling or shifting while you use it.
With Q3 advantage feature in order to prevent the seat from slamming and as a mechanism for easy installation and cleaning.
Fits either one or two piece elongated toilet seats.
Ergonomically designed to provide greater comfort and fit
This product measures 14.2 x 18.6 inches.
- Very easy to clean as you do not need to have extensive skills in terms of fixing and installing bathroom gadgets, fixtures, and accessories
- Stain resistant as it is made of high solid polypropylene material.
- More hygienic as it offers little body contact between the skin and the seat
- Reportedly uncomfortable as it has a funnel like design that users feel that they are inserted inside the toilet bowl.
This is a good product; however, the manufacturer should take into considerations the feedback provided by the reviewers to make this product even more great for potential users.
TOTO SS154#01 Traditional SoftClose Elongated Toilet Seat
- SoftClose action reduces injury and eliminates "Toilet Seat Slam"
- Comfortable ergonomic design and Molded bumpers and Mounting Hardware...
- Solid High-Impact, High Gloss Polypropylene
- Resistant to chemicals and cleaning agents
- Length 18.5", Width 14", Height 2.625"
Toto is not known to compromise their integrity when it comes to their products. Here is another product that will testify once again that they are indeed manufacturers of the best soft close toilets seats in the market today.
This product utilizes Toto’s latest innovation in smart toilet seat technology. Another alternative slow close toilet seat that is still loaded with the usual features Toto is known for. Here’s another toilet seat that rids toilet seat slam syndrome.
Here are features that users find very nice for this specific model:
Soft close mechanism that gets rid of toilet seat slam consequence after every use.
Ergonomically designed to offer maximum comfort for users and molded bumpers to get rid of instability while using or sitting in the toilet seat.
Made of high gloss and solid-high impact polypropylene to ensure durability in the long run.
Chemical and cleaning agents resistant; thus, it will not be subjected to damage when you use cleaning solutions with harsh ingredients and chemicals.
This product measures 18.6 in terms of length, 14.4 in terms of width, and 3.5 inches in terms of depth.
- Built with the usual features Toto products are popular with.
- Easy to install and clean with no need for an extra hand for help.
- Has a good fit so you will not feel uncomfortable during prolonged usage of this Toto soft close toilet seat.
- Some users still find the seat angled inwards; thus, it is uncomfortable for them to sit on it for an extended period of time. One solution to this is to adjust toilet habits.
This product did not disappoint as it provides the same comfort similar to other soft toilet seat from Toto.
With this list, we do hope that you will find the best soft toilet seats for your toilet bowl today.
Best Elongated Toilet Seat (Elongated Shape)
TOTO SS154#01 Traditional Elongated Toilet Seat
- SoftClose action reduces injury and eliminates "Toilet Seat Slam"
- Comfortable ergonomic design and Molded bumpers and Mounting Hardware...
- Solid High-Impact, High Gloss Polypropylene
- Resistant to chemicals and cleaning agents
- Length 18.5", Width 14", Height 2.625"
For many, elongated toilet seat is more comfortable than round ones and would prefer to equip their toilet bowls with elongated toilet set also. The first question that users will be interested to know is how this model is different from the TotoSS114#01. Looking closely at the photographs, you will notice that the Toto SS154#01 has edging or lining on the seat cover while the SS114#01 model doesn’t. Second, the closure mechanism and mounting bracket are more exposed on SS104 unit and enclosed in the SS154#01 model.
Why This Toilet Seat?
Say goodbye to annoying sounds of “toilet slam” with this other soft close toilet seat from Toto. It is also manufactured using very sturdy, high grade, and high impact resistant plastic, guaranteed to survive prolonged use as well as wear and tear. The seat and its cover is embedded with built-in SoftClose hinge and mounting system too which ensures gentle, smooth, and quiet lowering down of the seat. Like the other Toto soft close toilet models, the SS154#01 is also engineered with the highest standard quality in terms of design; thus, it has tightening mounting bolts for above the bowl and complications free installation of the toilet seat. It also comes with a cover and the whole seat and lid is resistant to cleaning solutions and chemicals. This ensures that you have a hygienic toilet seat at all times. With measurements of 18.6 x 14.4 x 3.5 inches, taller users will not have difficulty sitting on it as the toilet seat is thicker so it adds height for the knee and the feet to be comfortable when one seats on it.
Why we pick this?
The feature of this soft close toilet seat is it finally gets rid of accidental slamming and banging. So users will no longer get annoyed with the disturbing and irritating sound this creates. In terms of appearance, the edging or lining on the seat cover gives it a luxurious appeal. This elongated soft close toilet will survive harsh chemicals and strong cleaning solutions; thus, deep cleaning it poses no additional problems for cleaning and hygiene of the toilet seat.
What are the Drawbacks? What to do about it?
The mold is just too inward and will create some discomfort by just merely looking at it so how much more when one sits on it, especially for longer period of time like reading several chapters of pocketbook? If this is the case, it is wise to do reading and other time consuming habits out of the toilet.
Best Round Toilet Seat
TOTO SS113#01 Transitional SoftClose Round Toilet Seat
- SoftClose action reduces injury and eliminates "Toilet Seat Slam"
- Molded bumpers
- Resistant to chemicals and cleaning agents
- Solid High-Impact, High Gloss Polypropylene
- Length 16-1/2-Inch, Width 14-Inch, Height 3-1/8-Inch
There are two reasons why people choose round toilets; either to save on space or save money. Generally, round toilets are cheaper probably because of its size which tends to utilize lesser amount of materials to manufacture. So those households with limited toilet and bathroom space are not ideal for elongated toilet as it is more extended in shape than rounded ones; thus, it takes up more space. Either way, one should complement it with a toilet seat that is devoid of annoying noise when it is accidentally slammed or slams on its own.
Why This Soft Close Toilet Seat?
Toto SS113-01 completes the triumvirate on the soft close toilet. The SS14#01 is Toto’s answer for the traditional and basic toilet seat, the SS154#01 is the soft close elongated toilet seat, and this model is their soft close round toilet seat. This soft close toilet is packed with similar features found in the other two models such as manufactured using only high grade and impact resistant plastic. It is built with SoftClose hinge system too which reduces toilet slam noise. Tap on the seat and it lowers slowly, gently, and quietly. Tap the seat cover and it will perform the same function similarly. Users will find the mounting system very convenient during installation as it is top mounted, easy to place, and locks the seat cover to the toilet bowl.
The reason?
It really reduces the noise “toilet seat slam” created when it is accidentally slammed or slams on its own. It also provides solutions many users want other than eliminating slamming situations such as top mounted installation where you do not need to lie down on the floor to insert the hinges and knobs to lock the toilet seat on the toilet bowl. As it is rigidly moulded, it stays in place and will not wobble or wiggle while users sit on it even for an extended period of time. It is also a great relief to find that this toilet seat is cleaner and chemical friendly so deep cleaning it to ward off germs and microbes will not damage the soft close toilet.
What are the Downsides? What to do about it?
There are some minor issues to contend with this product. First, there are reports that this Toto Soft Close toilet can break easily or will develop cracks later. This is very alarming as cracks can be a living quarter of harmful bacteria, virus, and other microbes. But, nowhere in the reports state how it was broken easily. In addition to breakage, some users found that it wobbles after prolonged use. It is recommended to check the hinges from time to time to see if it is securely lock. Some people are worried as wood absorbs moisture and moisture inhibits bacteria, mold, and growth of other microbes. The trick here is to clean the surface after every use if you are paranoid with this health issue.
Best Wooden Toilet Seat
We have enumerated five models as our top picks for best wooden toilet seat. This kind of toilet seat is a perfect alternative if one finds plastic as too boring and want more style inside your toilet.
Comfort Seats Solid Wood Toilet Seat
- Style: Elongated
- Material: Molded Wood
- Seat Type: Piano Decorative Finish CFWC
- Solid oak construction - Natural light oak
- Piano finish - fully sealed with 1 mil of high gloss polyurethane
Why This Wooden Toilet?
Part of the reasons why customers prefer wooden toilet seat are good design, durability as it is corrosion free, and appearance. This premium toilet seat is made of solid wood built with brush nickel hinges. It has the usual closed front and includes a seat cover. It also meets customers’ requirements of easy to install feature and it comes with self-aligning mechanisms. It’s ideal for those who have impeccable taste and want stylish design when it comes to toilet and bathroom accessories. Customers will be delighted to know that a selection of wood is handpicked and not randomly selected so users will be confident that they have a durable wooden toilet seat. The hinge system is PVD coated with nickel; thus, it is corrosion free and will last longer.
Why this is the top Wooden ?
Customers will find this wooden toilet seat very safe since it is coated with anti-microbial properties to prevent the growth of odour causing bacteria and germs anywhere in this product. It has a close front cover to prevent slamming the seat and for child safety as well. The manufacturer assures its easy installation feature as users will only need a screwdriver to install this wooden seat. For most people, wood is stronger than plastic. All the more, it is durable due to its PVD nickel coating which guarantees that this toilet seat is corrosion free. The surface of this toilet seat is multi-coated, guaranteed to achieve a beautiful finish and will not absorb water once you clean it. Users will find no difficulty cleaning this wooden toilet seat. It is also slam free as you only need to tap the seat and it will slowly lower down to close the toilet. It is built with alignment mechanisms; thus, no worries on tilting and sliding of the seat.
What are the Drawbacks? What to do about it?
Despite its slowly closing features, this toilet seat is not at all slam free. This is a minor issue as one needs to check the installation process and find out if it was done correctly; it might be too loose, causing the slamming syndrome.
KOHLER K-4694-0 Ridgewood Molded-Wood
- Color-matched plastic hinges
- Compression-molded wood provides a look and feel that cannot be...
- Made of compression molded wood which provides a look and feel that...
- Designed to fit one and two-piece bowls
- Elongated-closed front seat
Consistency is very important to some customers. This is why they will only buy a wooden toilet seat if it has features that will not look odd on their existing toilet bowls. This molded wooden toilet seat from Kohler is just perfect for individuals who has this requirement in mind.
Why This Wooden Toilet?
Many customers are not so keen with product specifications and if they cannot decide whether to choose one or a two-piece toilet, surely this wooden seat will fit the bill. This wooden toilet seat was designed to complement both one-piece and two-piece toilet and is constructed conventionally so that it will complement the usual toilet bowls most households use. This elongated toilet seat is designed with durability and comfort in mind which are two factors most customers are looking for when it comes to toilet seats. It is durable due to its compression mold design and at the same time features a subtle style and elegance to the toilet. This also makes it comfortable as it fits traditional toilets most households own.
Why this is the perfect Wooden?
The wooded part will not look like a separate object on top of your toilet with its matching polypropylene hinges that matches the color of the existing toilet and provides secure attachment of the seat to the toilet. It is ideal for customers who require more than a beautiful design but are also very keen on attractive finish and durability. The ergonomic designed provides premium comfort especially for those individuals who love to be mentally productive while sitting on the toilet. Like any other Kohler products, it has the same quality of combining aesthetics and functionality; thus, it not a problem if it is going to be installed on either a one-piece or two piece toilet. It boosts of looks and feel that other toilet seat materials cannot provide. With the lid cover covering the whole seat, it does provide a very clean looking toilet seat at all times.
What are the Downsides? What to do about it?
Based on an honest assessment after using the product, some buyers find the fact that this toilet seat lowers gently as a questionable factor. Yes, initially it lowers slowly, but towards the middle part, it lowers fast and then slams on the toilet bowl. A tightening of the hinges will solve the problem but will continue to do so once the same problem occurs. At the onset, it feels cold to sit on it but it will warm up after several minutes of sitting on it. This is normal especially if you use it in the morning where it has accustomed to the room temperature prior to your use.
Bemis 1500EC 000 Wood Elongated Toilet Seat
- QUICKLY AND EASILY REMOVES: For cleaning or replacement
- HINGES: Plastic twist to unlock and lock
- HARDWARE: Non-corrosive bolts and wing nuts
- RING BUMPERS: two color matched bumpers
- RESISTS CHIPPING AND SCRATCHING: Durable enameled wood seat provides a...
Cleaning the toilet is another area where many customers are very sensitive with. They want that the whole toilet seat is removed easily so that they can clean it thoroughly and once done, they can easily install it back to where it belongs. This molded wood elongated toilet seat from Bemis fit this requirement.
Why This Wooden Toilet Seat?
We have to understand that many customers are price sensitive and only want to spend money on products that offer best value for them. It helps if the product has a very affordable price tag and carries features wanted by regular customers. First, the price of this toilet seat is between the low to mid-price range. It also has a very easy installation system that it takes longer time to remove the old toilet seat than replacing it with this new wooden toilet seat. To attach the toilet seat, just slide down the bolt through the hole and tighten it underneath the toilet seat. The two-lock hinge system ensures that the seat will stay in place, and with just one quick twist; the hinges will loosen and makes the toilet seat easy to remove to clean it very thoroughly. Using a molded wood construction and finish with high gloss elements, you have a sturdy and very glossy toilet seat. The high gloss finish helps avoid chipping or scratching the unit.
Behind the pick…
It is quite a surprise to discover that when you open the box, you will not find any instruction manual on installation. It only proves one thing, installation is not as cumbersome as you think and any normal individual will figure out how to attach this Bemis toilet seat to the toilet bowl. Now, the hinge and screw installation eliminates a wiggling syndrome in the long run. Just look underneath and tighten the screw to eliminate the wiggling motion. Cleaning is less complicated and bacteria and other harmful microbes will not grow in between spaces as the seat can be removed quickly. You can also deep clean it thoroughly and once done, just slide through the bolt and screw to tighten.
What are the Drawbacks? What to do about it?
It’s not exactly real wood but a compression of sawdust and the construction of this toilet seat is an issue for some users. It is important for these people to be reminded that it is manufactured with molded wood to create a lightweight wooden toilet seat in order to avoid toilet slam which will be a frequent occurrence if it is made of handpicked wood which makes the toilet seat very heavy; thus, the slam syndrome.
Best Black Toilet Seat
Bathrooms and toilets do not need to be all white. Break the monotony and dare to be different by installing a black toilet seat in your toilet bowl. Here are the top two picks for the adventurous and modern users who want to install black toilet seat to break the tedium of their toilet and bath.
Comfort Seats C1B4E290 Deluxe
- Specially formulated wood composition ensures strength and durability
- Multi-coat surface finish provides a beautiful, long-lasting and...
- Factory installed hinges ensure perfect alignment between the cover...
- Simple to install, corrosion proof, self-aligning hardware
- Color matched bumpers provide a decorative finish
Why This Black Toilet Seat?
Black is an elegant color and this is the reason why some people want this color in any toilet and bath accessories. Wooden toilet seat doesn’t have to be in boring brown or the obvious oak and cedar finish. Black is also a good color imprint for wooden toilet seats not only with plastic and other molded materials; giving household owners free invitation for guests to use the toilet as visitors will be impressed with the enhanced appearance of the toilet because of its black toilet seat. Comfort Seat Molded Wood Elongated Toilet Seat in Black, like most wooden toilet seat is also enhanced with multi-coat finish; giving it a glossy and shiny appearance on top of providing the desired durability as the gloss finish prevents it from acquiring scratches and chips. Heavily chrome plated hinge and installation system further enhances its corrosion free element, giving all the more reasons that this indeed a durable toilet seat. It is self-aligning; thus, it eliminates the wiggle and wobbly syndrome commonly found in conventional toilet seat. The whole toilet seat looks good indeed that it will still look elegant even if it has no seat cover.
Why?
One of the most interesting feedbacks this product received is that a 200 pound male find this black toilet seat very comfortable to use. This is a great impression, further proving manufacturer’s commitment to make this product a combination of both elegance and durability. It is even more wonderful for users with Obsessive Compulsion Disorder as it is resistant to relatively stronger cleaning solutions; thus, sanitizing and deep cleaning it is not a problem regardless of frequency of cleaning. However, it is still wise to follow the manufacturer’s recommendation of cleaning it using only warm soapy water in order to preserve the gloss finish.
This is also more stable compared with conventional soft close toilet or toilet seat in general as it has four ring bumpers in the hinge system. Complemented with self-alignment mechanism, you have a wiggle and wobble stylish toilet seat.
What are the Drawbacks? What to do about it?
There are cases when this black toilet slams unless of course you need to control it by the hand. One thing to remember when choosing this product is that the manufacturer did not single out that this model has a soft close mechanism.
Reliance Products 9881-03 Luggable Loo Snap-on Toilet Seat
Why This Black Toilet Seat?
Black is a versatile color and regardless of material used, the product still looks good in this color. It is not surprising that many household owners especially the young and modern ones will opt for a black toilet seat to create a stylish atmosphere inside their toilet and bath.
It is one of the strongest and durable toilet seats in the market as it is manufactured with salient features like similar products out there. It is also ergonomically designed for added comfort on top of a seat bumpers design with inward molds for additional seat strength and durability. Users will also find its installation very easy to perform as it only needs a screwdriver to tighten hinges which are also corrosion free. People with issues on wooden toilet seat due to health reasons will find it comforting to know that this product is manufactured with a strong plastic material for those households with installed rounded toilet bowls.
To solve balance and fit issues, the manufacturer designed this black toilet with adjustable hinges; thus, users will not experience wiggling and wobbling movement when sitting on this toilet seat. Product inspection revealed that it is molded with Ultra-Violet Protection technology to protect the toilet from discoloration after prolonged usage. It is made of plastic, therefore, it augurs well with porcelain made toilet bowls as attested by some users. When it comes to cleaning, it only needs warm soapy water so your hands are protected from cleaning solutions with harsh ingredients. It also has a closed front cover which gives additional comfort when sitting on it.
What are the Downsides? What to do about it?
Some users find the hinge loosening after every use. However, upon thorough checking, the possible reason for this syndrome is that the hinges were not tightened so well. Some users were most likely afraid to twist it tightly for fear of damaging the toilet seat as it is made of plastic. There are also customers who bought this toilet seat and reported that it shows early signs of wear and tear like the size of the seat were perceived to have shrunk. Checking on the design of the product, you can tell that this toilet seat is quite thinner in terms of size and it creates an impression that it has shrunk especially if it replaced a thicker old toilet seat.
Toilet Seat Accessories
In some cases adding a toilet seat accessory to your existing toilet seat, may be enough to fix your problem without needing to replace the entire toilet seat.
Toilet Seat Pads
Air or gel-filled pads usually provide better pressure relief than a standard padded toilet seat, making them a good consideration if you are someone who is prone to pressure sores or you experience pain with increased sitting. A drawback is that they may move around a bit and potentially require frequent repositioning.
Toilet Seat Cushions
A hard plastic toilet seat can be extremely uncomfortable if you or a loved one are in pain, recovering from a surgery or just need some extra cushioning when sitting. A cushioned toilet seat riser can provide needed elevation and padding in a pinch. Models are available in different heights. Taller models can dual as an elevated toilet seat too. Most models connect to the toilet seat via velcro straps. Foam filled toilet seat cushions can have some drawbacks, which include: the cushions tend to break down and bottom out with time and they can wiggle a bit as you are transitioning on and off.
Toilet Seat Covers
An alternative to installing a heated toilet seat is to cover the toilet seat using a Toilet Seat Cover. While Toilet Seat Covers can certainly help to prevent you from landing on a cold toilet seat first thing in the morning, we are admittedly quite leery of this option from the standpoint of hygiene. The reality is that splashing of bodily fluids can and does occur when people use the toilet. A Toilet Seat Cover might be worth a consideration if you live alone or you have your own private toilet in the home AND you plan to wash the seat cover regularly. Most covers are machine washable.
Toilet Seats Night Lights
If you do not need a new toilet seat, but like the idea of having a night light to illuminate your path to the toilet at night, there are motion activated night lights available. They can be fixed to your existing toilet bowl or seat, allowing you to add this feature without needing to replace the entire toilet seat.
Toilet Splash Guards
Splash guards (aka urine deflectors) help to contain the urine inside the toilet. They can be useful for young boys. They can also be helpful for adult males who sit on the toilet to urinate. In particular, adult males that may have some physical or cognitive difficulties that result in decreased toileting skills. Most models can easily be removed allowing a user to transition on and off the toilet and then can be reapplied once a user sits down. Some models come as a splash guard only that clips to the toilet bowl, while others come attached to a toilet seat reducer. A toilet seat reducer can be beneficial for young children, to prevent them from falling through the hole in the seat.
Best Toilet Seat: Ultimate Buying Guide
Buying best toilet seats may be a bit challenging due to the variety of brands and toilet seat materials that filled the market.
You’d be sifting through different forms and makes like elongated, settle down, raised models, warm or cold model and even plastic or wooden model.
This versatility of options could get you confused especially if you are first time buyer. If you are looking for best padded toilet
and would prefer a bit of guide to enable you to make the right choice, this article has come really handy as it detailed things you need to know about toilet seats and went ahead to make recommendations of a few models that has proven to serve the user’s purpose.
The life span of toilet seats ranges between 6-10 years. Toilet seats are usually spoiled through cleaning routines although the majority of toilet cleaning methods are devised to sustain their glow and keep them rejuvenated.
Why you may need a new toilet seat
You may be tempted to think, what do I need the information for? After all, the choice of a toilet seat all boils down to personal preferences and opinion.
Yes, you may be right and although it finally boils down to this, getting the opinions of other will help you to know their experience with the toilet seats you plan to go for.
These are the reasons you may need new toilet seats
Are Toilet Seats Necessary?
Come to think of it, if this is indeed necessary, how come some toilet bowls do not come with toilet seats? The answer is of course very elementary, this is to allow customers to choose their own style, color, and type of toilet seat in order to enhance their bathroom. Whether you buy a wooden or plastic, elongated or round, or for one or two-piece toilet, toilet seats are necessary for health and sanitary reasons. While for households, toilet use are limited to family members; however, there are few instances when other people visit your homes and use the toilet and you want to ensure that your guests will not acquire germs and bacteria from your toilet; thus, the rationale for toilet seat.
Different Types of Toilet Seats for Different Use
There are two basic types of toilet seat: round and elongated toilet seats. The size of a toilet seat is determined by whether it is a round toilet seat or an elongated toilet seat. An elongated toilet seat is normally bigger in size than the round toilet seat.
The size of a round toilet seat is roughly 16.5 inches, while the size of elongated toilet seats is roughly 18.5 inches when measured from the front of the bowl to the center of the hinges at the rear side of the lid.
Choosing between Round and elongated toilet seat size
When looking to buy toilet seat, there are just two sizes of toilet seat you need to consider round size and elongated or oblong toilet seat. It is generally very easy to tell if your toilet is obliged shaped or round shaped. But if you’d love to measure to be sure, get your measurement from the front of the toilet bowl to the middle of the screws at the rear side of your bow or lid area.
- Round Toilet Bowl is 16.5 inches in size
- Oblong Toilet Bowl is 18.5 inches in size
The only difference between them is usually the width of the bowl from side to side. But this is not so much of an issue as the majority of the standard sized toilet seats and lids are able to cover nearly all toilet bowls, even if they’re to some extent narrower or broader than the other.
While choosing toilet seat, you must put your comfort into consideration first and foremost. Another factor you need to consider is how durable your choice of toilet seat is and whether it is produced with the best selection of materials. Also take into consideration the installation process of the toilet seat. It has to be simple to install and ought to suit your toilet type.
Elongated or Standard Toilets
Most noteworthy, you should understand some toilet seat designs fit standard bowls while others are for the elongated bowls. You will find such information in the product description. However, some seats can fit both toilet bowl types. Such are thus most relevant if you need a travel-worthy model.
Is it Best to Buy Elongated Toilet Seats?
It is a fact: Toilets waste-water. In many houses, bathrooms account for nearly 40% of the home’s total water use. Due to that, the ‘loo’ has truly become among the very essential fixtures seen in a house. Folks never really take into account the specifications or construction of the porcelain throne, there are at least one essential facet one should consider when investing in a toilet-bowl for the very first time. That said, that query is, “round or elongated?” Both characteristics offer their personal pros as well as cons, and eventually, that choice is left to purchaser’s taste.
Round
Round bathroom bowls are ideal for households who do not have much room and need a more streamlined toilet. They are generally much more popular in little flats and rooms. Also, their size makes them a perfect fit for kids, as they are petite and provide a cozier shape for bodies that are smaller.
Elongated
Elongated on the other hand, often cost a bit more but are favored by many grown-ups because they are discovered to be a lot more open with all the added sitting-room. In distinction to spherical toilet-bowl, folks further from the bathroom tank feel less confined and cramped; therefore, feel less cramped and confined and can sit further from the bathroom tank. An elongated toilet-bowl dimension is generally broad near the best and 18 1/2 inches long. Likewise, elongated toilet bowls are actually discovered in newer design houses, as they’ve gained increasing popularity within the past couple of years.
Aside from the fundamental, physical observations, there are several subtle yet significant items to take into account when selecting between a spherical and elongated toilet-bowl. In no special sequence, these characteristics are efficacy when cleansing, flushing operation, and model-year. Elongated type also offer cleanliness than spherical bathroom bowls. The cause of that is the additional surface region in the elongated bathroom bowls enable simpler accessibility cleaning. Also, due to the longer span, it is more unlikely that filth will get to the bathroom seat location.
Next, even though there’s some conjecture on this issue, a lot of people suppose that toilets have an improved flushing capacity. For legal reasons, all toilets constructed after 1994 in America are set to truly have a maximum water-waste of 1.6 gallons per flush. But since round bathroom bowls have less area to take into account, it’s assumed that per flush water is lost. But there happen to be no conclusive evaluations on the matter saying that form is much better compared to other.
Advantages of a Heated Toilet Seat
Provides Warmth
Many people like the fact that heated toilet seats give them warmth. In times when cold winter season arrives, a very inviting heated toilet seat is a cozy alternative to the ordinary one. Most people are familiar with the cold and numbing feeling of toilet seats whether they are being used at wee times of the night or the first breath of sunshine in the morning. This issue will be erased when you use a toilet seat that is heated.
Adds Comfort
The best part about using a heated toilet seat is the temperature control. You can adjust it depending upon your preference. It is also a good way to relax while you do your business in the bathroom. It can also relive you of muscle discomfort and aches. Many arthritic sufferers find relief when they heat toilet seats during the cold weather.
Loosen Stiff Muscles
Heat therapy is well known for relaxation because it targets pains and muscle aches. Minor discomfort can be relieved by seating in a warm toilet seat.
Very Little Electricity Usage
There is no need for you to worry about the electrical bill surges that will incur when you use a heated toilet seat. Aside from this, it is also environmentally friendly.
Heated Water
Numerous users choose electricity as a factor when buying heated toilet seats. However, some people choose the more economical type which uses hot water. People have the choice of using electricity or hot water.
Who Uses Raised Toilet Seats?
It is a common misconception that only the elderly uses raised toilet seats. The truth is many individuals with various medications and sleeping devices need raised toilet seats to help them. Tall people also purchase these seats to help them install a toilet that is of perfect height. People who have posture issues can also benefit from this.
How Important Are Toilet Seat Covers?
Several toilet seat covers that people use nowadays are useless according to Charles Gerba, PhD, a professor at the University of Arizona.
Most people think that they can contract sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) on a toilet seat. The truth is that these organisms cannot survive on hard and cold toilet seats for a specific period of time. It means that once you enter a stall and sit on a toilet, these germs are most probably already dead.
However, fecal bacteria and MRSA bacterium can survive on these and transfer from one person to another through toilet seat contact. The chances of this happening are very slim and most likely will rarely happen to any individual. You need to have an open sore at the back of your thighs or buttocks which touched a surface of the toilet seat before you can acquire the bacteria. Another way is that the tissue you used for cleaning your urethra has also touched the toilet seat. The third way is you didn’t wash your hands after using the bathroom and touched your face afterwards.
Are Bidet Toilet Seats the Best Seat?
If you want the best method to clean yourself, use water. It is better than using dry paper.
Bidet seats enable you to clean your sensitive areas without any abrasive toilet paper. You do not have to risk yourself of further irritation. Here are more benefits of using bidet:
- Be eco-friendly. Many trees are being cut down year after year in the U.S. By choosing to use bidet toilet seats instead of toilet paper, you can help reduce the overall paper consumption.
- You can be more hygienic by simply using water. You can stop the spread of germs because you are not spreading bacteria across a certain area.
- If you have any medical conditions that inhibit you to use your arms or hands, you do not have to worry. Bidet toilet seats can help you when using the bathroom. People who have hemorrhoids trust bidets because of less abrasion to their sensitive area.
- New mothers and women do not like the feeling when they have to deal with menstrual periods. Instead of using tissue paper, water will make them feel clean. New mothers are quite sensitive in that area. They want to feel relax and more soothing.
- Seniors are having a hard time dealing with restrooms especially because of their age. Many care-givers are asked for wiping and assistance. It lowers the senior’s self –esteem when they do this. They do not want to depend on someone when they use a toilet. A bidet can help them restore confidence and regain some sort of independence.
What are the Top Toilet Seat Brands?
Bemis
Bemis is a known brand that manufactures toilet seats. They are one of the best in the market because you will definitely experience absolute comfort when you use their products. They are special because the Mayfair edition has these hinges that are crafted beautifully in top quality imported wood. You can even choose from a wide array of aesthetically appealing designs and wonderful colors that will satisfy anyone’s decoration needs.
They have a new innovation called whisper close technology. The hinges that is connected to the toilet seat doesn’t create a sound when the lid is being closed. Also, you do not have to worry about your small children being hurt because of accidentally slamming their hands when putting the seat down.
The easy to remove hinges is another awesome product specification. It is also user friendly and easy to install. You just need merely a few minutes to assemble the product. Cleaning is also easy. Just remove the seat, clean the toilet and put it back. The Bemis line is guaranteed to never tarnish. Last but not the least, the Duraguard that comes with Bemis toilet seats will help keep germs away.
Pros: Well-known brand, they have a variety of toilet seats available for any type of situation and need, they have “color” match, they’re eco-friendly and made in the USA.
Cons: So many choices!
Kohler
They sell elongated and round toilet seats. They won’t color match, but they do have a variety of colors. They have toilet seats with smart features that include: cleansing, lighting, and deodorizing toilet seats. They sell seats that are made of these materials: plastic, molded wood, and solid wood. Hinge types that they carry are: quick release, quick attach hardware, quiet closing, and standard hinges. They carry grip tight bumpers and have toilet seats that do not.
Pros: Well-known brand, variety of toilet seats, high-tech seats available.
Cons: Doesn’t list if they are eco-friendly or EPA supported.
Toto
For innovation, go with Toto. This brand has a way of knowing when to push the envelope in the industry, which is why the Neorest is the best toilet on the list. There were a lot of features with this toilet that came off as silly gimmicks when it first came out, but soon became some of the most sought-after features for a luxury toilet. Toto is also great for improving upon its established models, which is why its series of toilets show remarkable improvement the higher up you go in the line. Even with that improvement, there is heavy favoritism for the original/debut models. Toto creates toilets so great that even after it improves on the line, people still play favorites with the older models. That is a testament to brand satisfaction and Toto’s customer loyalty.
Pros: Well-known brand and lots of options to choose from.
Cons: Limited color choices and no environmental mentions.
Saniflo
Saniflo, much like Toto, is great at innovation, and offers a lot of luxury items at a better price than its competitors. A good example of this is the Sanicompact that is a direct competitor to Toto’s Neorest. Now the Neorest easily wins the head-to-head matchup, but the Sanicompact is still one of the top 5 products on the list. That is an incredible accomplishment, and it is the only product on the list that is in the same league as the Neorest. Saniflo does the same with its other line of toilets, filling them with great features but being careful not to price them too high. It doesn’t have the name recognition of Kohler or Toto but it still does an incredible job of making sure that its products contain as many features as possible without being too outside consumers’ budgets. This is a slippery slope in marketing that Saniflo has done a good job of skating. It’ll be interesting to see if it can keep up with the likes of Toto without fading into the background.
Pros: EPA partner, concerned about environmental impact, has lots of variety toilet seats to choose from, child-friendly seats with potty training toilets attached.
Cons: Lesser-known brand, has a limited color variety available, and no high-tech warming and cleaning toilet seats.
When choosing the right toilet seat brand, you’ll have to think about your specific needs and wants. Is it only you sitting on your throne, or do you have lots of visitors or a family as well? Do you want a standard toilet seat or a high-tech cleaning one? Do you live in a cold area where toilet seats can freeze? Is environmental impact a huge issue for you? These are all questions you should ask yourself while assessing each toilet seat manufacturer. Once you answer those questions, it will be easier to tackle which seat you should invest your money in.
Advantages of Wooden Toilet Seats
MDF (medium-density fiber board) seat manufacturing companies are employing ancient carpentry methods of sheets made up of wood flour coated in synthetic-resin changed lacquering and by compression.
The seats consist of pressed-wood fibers that are the reason they’re also called compressed wood seats. As a result of a multiple-layer coating, you get a hygienic, cozy, simple- to-clear area. The border, the priming, grinding and partly also the picture is usually handcrafted, most typically in China.
MDF bathroom seats can be found in a number of colors and layout choices; seat that is white nevertheless are being offered. In addition, there are differences in the manner of manufacturing the seats, but mostly it’s definitely a blend of artificial resins with wood floorings.
The seats in many cases are made from bamboo or wood. Bamboo and wood are natural compounds that may deviate from color and feel. As a result of a multiple-layer coating, a hygienic, simple-to-clear area is ensured but one that retains its normal appearance.
With respect to as well as the caliber of the coating procedure, the longevity of the seats may vary a great deal.
Pine, oak and mahogany are stuff quite frequently used for seats.
Particularly in the United Kingdom, genuine wood seats nevertheless perform an important part in the industry.
Disadvantages of Wood Bathroom Seats
Wood bathroom seats resist the exact same level of fat and use as plastic seats can but the enamel shielding the woodchips becomes scraped. Well made wood bathroom seat can persist several years, however, if the lid is slammed often, scratches, dents and chips tend to be much more prone to happen. If it takes place, the wood is exposed to dampness that causes the levels of wood to grow and eventually break or rot. Other types of seats like plastic, even though you scrape on the area, won’t normally chip or break under regular use. Should scratched do, the stuff isn’t vulnerable to rot as wood is, therefore a plastic seat can nevertheless be useful to more extended time. Wood bathroom seats may not be cost-effective in the future as plastic in case you factor in the price of replacing since scratched often wear faster.
Wooden vs. Plastic Toilet Seats
Wooden toilet seats are more prevalent relative to plastic ones. However, you shouldn’t be ashamed to buy a plastic toilet seat for home use. Generally though, wooden models offer greater comfort and warmth. Besides, they are sturdier and more durable.
On the other hand, plastic toilet seats are usually cheaper. You also may improvise them to finely accommodate unique modifications such as an automatic slow-close lid.
As such, when choosing a good toilet seat, either quality wood or plastic model will suffice. However, plastic models must not be put under heavy abuse since they are more likely to break. While wood ones may be expensive, they guarantee greater user comfort, versatility, and durability.
Why do Some People use Black Toilet Seats?
Cleansers are virtually using bathroom seats as an easy way to slice the time of community bathrooms. Bathroom seats that are black really are a strategy to hide the filth created on the surfaces. Toilet seats function as the house of 50 distinct bacteria per-square inch and when cleaners are not scrubbing it correctly, a zoo of all sorts of ailments and illnesses will inhabit it.
Are there Toilet Seats for Toddlers?
Yes there are. There are a lot of toddler potty seats in the market for parents to choose. To get a toddler potty seat, there are just two fundamental kinds to pick from, each having its pros as well as cons:
Pros:
- It is mobile. It’s possible for you to take it from room to room by means of your tot; therefore, it’s going to remain close when the impulse hits. And it is so little and lightweight you’ll be able to bring it to brief excursions.
- It is child-size and only for the tot, making it less daunting and more specific compared to large toilets.
- It is panic-free. Without danger of falling to the water, your tot might feel much more comfortable comfy and in management. And there is no-worry of your tot getting a tumble off the bathroom.
Your kid’s legs do not dangle off this close to-the-earth seat so she can go out there easily till something occurs. Plus, your child will have the ability to make use of her grounded toes to push-out BM’s.
FAQs About Best Toilet Seat
Q: What is the maximum weight that a standard toilet seat can hold?
A: The best seat can hold about 300 lbs. of weight easily. However, you should check the specification before you buy one.
Q: How can I know the right size seat that will fit my toilet?
A: The measurement is taken from the back of the seat to its farthest point (front). Also measure its width, along the space between the hinges.
Q: What can I use to wash my toilet seat?
A: You should use mild soap when washing your toilet seat since most bathroom cleaners are abrasive and harsh.
Q: What should I look for when buying a potty trainer?
A: It should be comfortable, require less maneuvering, and easy to operate. Soft close seats are often the best for additional durability and safety.
Q: Why is my toilet seat color fading?
A: Most bathroom cleaners should not be used to clean your toilet seat. They might be causing the discoloring and you should avoid them when cleaning your toilet seat.
Q: What should I use when cleaning my toilet seat?
A: We would recommend you to use water and mild soap when washing the seat.
Q: My toilet seat has a stain. What could be the cause?
A: This stain might have been caused by harsh products that you might have used to clean the seats. Avoid these products at all cost.
What Makes A Good Toilet Seat?
As you have read in this article, there are several top picks when it comes to the best loo seat. So, your concern now is to know what makes a good toilet seat. The answers are very simple. First, you have to determine the shape of your existing toilet bowl. Second, what characteristics or features you want to have: soft close toilet seat or conventional toilet seat, plastic or wooden, with fancy design or not, and other considerations. Third, check usage of the toilet seat. Are there children? Are your family members large in number and in size? How many toilets are there in the house? These are some of the questions to arrive at when it comes to characteristics of a good toilet seat.
A good toilet seat must be durable and will stand frequency and impact of use; thus, thick toilet seats are best for large families. Definitely, a soft close toilet is preferred regardless of whether you have children at home or not. It should be easy to install and can be removed easily so you can clean it as often as you want to make it more hygienic. It should also stay in place so as not to create discomfort when using it and be distracted with the wiggle and wobble it creates when nuts and bolts are loosened or it doesn’t align well with the existing toilet. Of course, it should be affordable and fortunately, the market right now on toilet seat is loaded with very reasonably priced models.
Let our top picks for the highest rated toilet seats this year 2019 help you decide which type to purchase (Soft Close, Elongated, Round, Wooden, Black) and what brand or model.