How To Install A Toilet Seat: Our Quick & Easy Guide For DIYers
Contents
Replacing a toilet seat takes about 15 minutes and a few basic tools. Here is how to check the fit, take off the old seat and install the new one.
Tools You’ll Need
- A tape measure
- A flat-head screwdriver to pry open the bolt caps
- A screwdriver and adjustable pliers for the bolts and nuts
- Gloves and a disinfecting cleaner for the hinge area
Check That You’re Using The Right Sort Of Seat
On most US toilets, the seat mounting holes sit about 5 1/2 inches apart, center to center. Measure from the center of the holes to the front of the bowl: TOTO notes that a round-front bowl measures 16.5 inches and an elongated bowl 18.5 inches. Buy a seat labeled for your bowl shape.
How To Remove An Old Toilet Seat
Flip up the plastic caps at the back of the seat to reach the bolts. Hold each nut under the bowl with pliers and unscrew the bolt from above.
If a metal bolt has rusted tight, apply penetrating oil and wait a few minutes before trying again. Lift the old seat off and clean around the holes before fitting the new one.
How To Install A New Toilet Seat
Tighten plastic nuts and bolts by hand, then give them only a gentle snug with pliers. Overtightening can strip plastic threads or crack the hinge.
Conclusion
Read our recommendations on the most comfortable toilet seats on the market today!
Sources
- Will a WASHLET Fit a Non-TOTO Toilet?, TOTO USA
- How To Replace a Toilet, Family Handyman
