Choosing the right toilet seat type may seem like a minor decision, but it plays a significant role in both the comfort and functionality of your bathroom. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to determine the best type of toilet seat for your specific preferences.

In this article, we'll guide you through the different types of toilet seats on the market today. we'll cover their features and different toilet seat sizes. Finally, we'll tell you how to find the right toilet seat.

Whether you're looking for durability, ease of cleaning, or advanced features, understanding the features and differences of each toilet seat type is key to ensuring a perfect fit for your home.

Toilet Seat Types by Shape

When choosing a toilet seat, its shape is one of the most critical factors as it impacts comfort, aesthetics, and compatibility with your toilet. Below are the four main types of toilet seat shapes to help you make an informed decision：

Round Toilet Seats

Round toilet seats are the most traditional and commonly found in older homes or compact bathrooms. They are ideal for smaller spaces due to their compact design.

Round toilet seats usually measure around 16.5 inches (42 cm) from the mounting bolts to the front of the seat. They are budget-friendly and widely available, making them a practical choice for most households. However, they may not offer as much seating space or comfort compared to elongated options.

Elongated Toilet Seats

Elongated toilet seats provide a modern look and are designed for enhanced comfort. They are longer than round seats, typically measuring about 18.5 inches (47 cm) from the bolts to the front edge.

Elongated seats are perfect for contemporary bathrooms and are often preferred for their ergonomic design. However, they require more space, better suited for larger bathrooms. <Check elongated vs round toilet>

D-Shaped Toilet Seats

D-shaped toilet seats offer a sleek and modern appearance. They blend elements of both elongated and square seats.

They usually measure around 17.5 inches (44 cm) in length and are designed for comfort and aesthetics. Their unique style pairs well with modern sanitary ware, making them ideal for luxury bathrooms.

Square Toilet Seats

Square toilet seats are a bold and modern choice, often found in high-end or designer bathrooms.

With sizes averaging 16-18 inches (40-46 cm), these seats provide a flat and clean-lined look. Square seats complement square-shaped toilets.

They also offer a striking visual appeal but may require careful compatibility checks due to their less common design.

Toilet Seat Types by Material

The material of a toilet seat significantly affects its durability, comfort, aesthetics, and maintenance. Here's a breakdown of the most common materials used in toilet seat manufacturing:

Plastic (PP and UF)

Plastic toilet seats are the most popular option due to their lightweight, affordability, and ease of maintenance. There are two main types:

Polypropylene (PP): Known for its durability and resistance to stains, PP seats are affordable and ideal for everyday use.

Urea-Formaldehyde (UF): UF plastic seats are heavier and more robust. They offer a ceramic-like finish. Therefore, they are scratch-resistant and easy to clean.

Both types are water-resistant and ideal for modern bathrooms. <See UF toilet seat vs PP toilet seat>

Engineered or Moulded

Engineered or molded seats are crafted using advanced materials like thermoset plastic or resin. These seats provide enhanced strength and come in unique finishes. They are scratch-resistant and long-lasting. They are suitable for premium bathroom designs.

Wood

Wooden toilet seats, often made from natural or laminated wood, add warmth and elegance to a bathroom. They are sturdy and comfortable. However, they require extra care to prevent moisture damage.

Stainless Steel

Stainless steel toilet seats are highly durable, resistant to corrosion, and easy to clean. They are most commonly used in public restrooms and industrial spaces due to their robust and hygienic qualities.

Stainless steel also provides a sleek and modern look for contemporary bathrooms.

Toilet Seat Features

From basic functionalities to advanced enhancements, toilet seat features have evolved to cater to comfort, convenience, and hygiene. Here are some popular toilet seat features to consider:

Bidet Seat

Bidet toilet seats are an excellent choice for improved personal hygiene. They incorporate built-in water jets or nozzles that provide a gentle and cleansing spray.

Bidet seats often include temperature controls, adjustable water pressure, and drying functions. They reduce the need for toilet paper, making them eco-friendly and cost-effective in the long run.

Ultra-Slim Seat

Ultra-slim seats are designed for minimalism and aesthetics. With their sleek and streamlined appearance, they provide a modern look while maintaining durability.

These seats are lightweight, easy to clean, and fit perfectly into contemporary bathroom spaces.

Soft Close Toilet Seat

Soft close toilet seats use a slow-closing mechanism that prevents the seat and lid from slamming shut.

This feature not only reduces noise but also minimizes wear and tear over time. This can extend the life of the seat. It is perfect for households with children or during nighttime use.

Quick Release Toilet Seat

Quick release seats are designed for easy cleaning and maintenance. They feature a detachable mechanism that allows you to remove the seat with a simple click.

This provides better access to hard-to-reach areas. This ensures a more hygienic and hassle-free cleaning process.

Raised Toilet Seat

Raised toilet seats are designed to assist individuals with mobility issues, such as seniors or those recovering from surgery.

These seats add extra height, typically between 2 to 6 inches. So it is easier to sit down and stand up. They provide enhanced comfort and support for those with limited movement.

Padded Toilet Seat

Padded toilet seats feature soft cushioning, offering extra comfort for prolonged use. They are ideal for individuals with medical conditions like arthritis or those who need additional support.

Available in vinyl or foam materials, padded seats also add warmth in colder environments.

Toilet Seat with Night-Lights

Night-light toilet seats come with built-in LED lighting that illuminates the seat in low-light conditions.

These seats enhance convenience and safety during nighttime use, especially in homes with children or elderly individuals. They are energy-efficient and often feature motion-sensing capabilities.

Heated Toilet Seat

Heated toilet seats offer luxurious comfort by providing warmth during use, particularly in colder climates.

Many heated seats allow you to adjust the temperature settings to suit your preference. Some models even include energy-saving features to optimize performance.

Deodorizing Toilet Seat

Deodorizing toilet seats feature built-in air purifiers or odor-neutralizing technology that eliminates unpleasant smells.

Using filters or fans, these seats ensure the bathroom remains fresh and clean. This feature is particularly beneficial for shared or high-traffic bathrooms.

How to Find the Right Toilet Seat?

Choosing the right toilet seat may seem simple. But with so many options available, a thoughtful approach ensures you get the best fit for your needs, style, and budget.

Follow this guide to make an informed choice:

1) Ask Yourself

Before exploring options, ask yourself the following questions:

Which bathroom are you planning to update?

Is it a guest bathroom, a children's bathroom, or your main en-suite? For guest bathrooms, simple yet stylish designs work well. For kids, consider durable and easy-to-clean seats.

Are you dreaming of a luxurious bathroom retreat?

For a spa-like feel, opt for advanced features like heated seats, bidet functionality, or soft-close lids.

What kind of look are you going for in your bathroom?

Whether your bathroom is modern, traditional, or minimalistic, matching your toilet seat style enhances the space's overall aesthetics.

2) Select Toilet Seat Styles to Fit Your Bathroom

Toilet seat styles range from ultra-slim, soft-close, and standard close to padded or bidet options. Choose a style that matches your bathroom theme and serves the practical needs of its users.

3) Choose a Toilet Bowl Shape and Consider the Compatibility

Toilet seats are available for round, elongated, square, and D-shaped bowls. Measure your toilet bowl length, width, and mounting bolt distance to ensure compatibility.

4) List the Features You Prefer

Identify the features most important to you. Some popular options include:

Soft-close Mechanism to prevent slamming.

Quick Release Seats for easy cleaning.

Heated Seats for added comfort.

Night-Lights for nighttime convenience.

Bidet Functions for superior hygiene.

5) Check If It Has a Durable Build

Durability matters when investing in a toilet seat. Plastic (PP and UF) seats are lightweight, easy to clean, and affordable. For a premium finish, wooden seats offer sturdiness and warmth. But they require extra care to avoid moisture damage.

6) Review the Cost and Set Your Budget

Toilet seats come at various price points. Set a realistic budget while ensuring the seat meets your needs. Basic models are budget-friendly. In contrast, premium seats with features like bidets or heating cost more but add long-term value.

7) Avoid the Noise

If slamming toilet seats irritate you, opt for a soft-close toilet seat. These seats close gently and quietly, reducing noise and wear over time.

8) Make Sure It Is Easy to Install

Look for toilet seats that are easy to install, even for DIYers. Most models include universal fittings and detailed instructions, ensuring quick and hassle-free installation.

9) Examine If It Is Easy to Clean

Hygiene is a top priority. Consider two factors:

Plastic vs. Wood: Plastic seats are water-resistant and easier to clean than wooden ones.

Quick Release Feature: Seats with a quick-release mechanism can be detached easily. You can reach hard-to-reach areas for thorough cleaning.

FAQs

These are commonly asked questions about toilet seats.

1) How much should you pay for a toilet seat?

Basic plastic or wooden seats typically cost between $15 to $50. Mid-range options with soft-close features or quick-release mechanisms range from $50 to $100.

Premium seats with advanced features like bidet functions, heating, or nightlights can range from $150 to $500+. It all depends on your needs and budget.

2) How do I know my toilet seat size?

Measure the bowl's length, width, and bolt spacing. Start from the center of the mounting holes to the front edge of the bowl for length.

Standard sizes are 16.5 inches for round seats and 18.5 inches for elongated seats.

3) Are toilet seats the same size?

No, toilet seats are not universally the same size. They primarily come in round, elongated, and D-shaped designs. Accurate measurements ensure a proper fit.

4) Does the type of toilet seat matter?

Yes, the type of toilet seat matters for comfort, functionality, and aesthetics. Consider features like soft-close, quick-release, or bidet functions to suit your needs.

5) What type of toilet seat lasts the longest?

Toilet seats made from durable plastic (UF – Urea Formaldehyde) or stainless steel tend to last the longest due to their resistance to wear, moisture, and scratches.

The Bottom Line

How to know which toilet seat to buy? The article offers you the answer.

Choosing the right toilet seat is about balancing functionality, style, comfort, and budget. Most importantly, don't forget to measure your toilet bowl accurately and ensure ease of cleaning for long-term use.

If you are searching for the best type of toilet seat for your bathroom, look no further. Jabra Sanitary offers a variety of sleek, easy-to-install toilet seats for you to choose from. If you still hesitate to make a purchase, please ask us for help!

More Reading

• How to Measure a Toilet Seat
• Toilet Seat Buying Guide
• Finding the Best Seat For Your Toilet