There are many accessories which can increase the levels of comfort within your bathroom and toilet seats are a prime example. However, choosing the right type of toilet seat can be challenging and even confusing on occasion. Not only will the designs of toilet seats vary, but other issues such as materials and the associated hardware are equally important to address.
Whether you are redesigning an entire bathroom or you have recently purchased a new toilet, making the right decisions at the appropriate time is key if you wish to save time and money. Let us, therefore, take a look at what types of toilet seat configurations you can choose from as well as what to take into account when choosing a new toilet seat.
The Types of Toilet Seat
Toilet seats can be grouped into a number of categories based on their dimensions, shape, sizes and materials used in their construction. It may also be possible to purchase a toilet seat that is manufactured by a specific brand if you are concerned about coordination or compatibility. Having said this, we should highlight an important point before moving on.
Selecting the right toilet seats will primarily depend upon the existing toilet. For instance, some types of toilet seats can only be fitted to a pan of a specific size. Basically, if you have a Roca toilet, you’ll want to pair it with a Roca toilet seat. Other types of toilet seats could instead be based on durability; specifically, if you happen to be dealing with a high.-traffic environment (such as a busy household or a commercial location. These are some of the reasons why selecting the most appropriate toilet seats is slightly more complicated than it may initially appear. Let’s now take a look at some specific variables as well as how each will impact the toilet bowl in question.
Toilet Seat Shapes
Modern toilets and their associated shapes come in a variety of different shapes. These shapes can sometimes have an impact on the functionality and they will often impact the ambience of the bathroom itself. Let’s, therefore, examine some common configurations.
Elongated Toilet Seats
Elongated toilet seats are often associated with traditional designs and some users feel that these toilet seats are also the most comfortable. This type of toilet seat is also associated with larger pans. They may also be slightly more expensive when compared to other versions.
Square Toilet Seats
As the name suggests, square toilet seats will be fitted to a pan of similar dimensions. Some individuals feel that these offer a slightly more modern appeal and like most toilet seats, you will need to choose the appropriate size to ensure a smooth fit.
D Shaped Toilet Seats
Similar to square models, these toilet seats will offer a contemporary flair and a unique overall appearance. They provide your bathroom with a sense of stylised luxury without overwhelming nearby elements.
Round Toilet Seats
Round toilet seats are ideal when accommodating a limited amount of space and most experts agree that these are suited for more traditional bathroom settings.
Toilet Seat Sizes
As you might have already imagined, toilet seats come in a range of different sizes. There is no definitive guide in this respect. However, the majority of toilet seats range in length from between 350 and 500 millimetres. Those who wish to purchase a new toilet seat will therefore need to measure the dimensions of the pan as well as the location of the hinges so that an informed decision can be made. it could also be possible to select a custom-made toilet seat if you happen to be dealing with a unique toilet configuration.
Toilet Seat Materials
There are many materials which can be used when engineering a modern toilet seat. Here is a handful of the most common:
- Plastic toilet seats
- MDF composite wood toilet seats
- Solid wood seats
Plastic toilet seats are arguably the most common. Constructed from acrylic or a similar polymer, plastic seats are lightweight and engineered to last. A plastic toilet seat could also be an excellent solution if you are on a tight budget.
Composite wood toilet seats (sometimes referred to as “MDF” seats) will provide your bathroom with a warm and organic appeal. Often associated with more traditional designs, these seats can be purchased in a number of different colours and grain patterns.
Some still consider wooden toilet seats to represent the best options. Natural wood seats are warmer during the winter months and are often quite durable. However, such models will normally cost slightly more than the alternatives highlighted above.
How Do I Fit a Toilet Seat?
As mentioned previously, the first step involves measuring the dimensions of the toilet pan. You will then need to record the distance (in millimetres) between the two post holes located in the rear of the seating area. Finally, gauge the distance between the front and back post holes. You can thereafter encounter the perfect toilet seat for these specific dimensions. Note that all seats are measured in terms of their length and width.
However, you might also require special configurations (such as a raised toilet seat). Raised toilet seats are often suited for those who have mobility issues. If a raised toilet seat is the best option, be sure to speak with a distributor to determine what dimensions are available.
Toilet Seat Fittings
Hinges are common fittings to take into account. One of the latest trends involves soft close seats. Soft-close toilet seats employ a series of hinges which help to buffer movements associated with opening and closing the cover. It is also thought that such configurations will reduce physical wear and tear over time.
Putting it All Together
Choosing the appropriate toilet seat for your needs should always involve the advice mentioned above. From soft close hinges to seats suited for smaller bathrooms, there are a number of stunning options at your disposal from a wide range of premium bathroom brands such as Roca, Vitra, and Ideal Standard. Please contact us if you have any other questions or you wish to obtain additional advice.
