Lexi Webster
Toilet seats come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and while most are made to fit standard-sized toilets, some may have specific size requirements. This means that not all toilet seats are the same size in Australia. To ensure a comfortable and functional bathroom experience, it is crucial to measure your toilet carefully and choose a seat that fits your specific toilet model. Additionally, the material of the toilet seat is an important consideration, as it affects both the aesthetics and functionality of your bathroom space.
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What You'll Learn
Toilet seats come in a variety of shapes and sizes
Toilet seats may be flat, sloped, or rounded, and the preferred profile is a matter of personal taste. Some people find sloped profiles more comfortable, while others prefer rounded seats as they can be easier to rise from. The toilet lid shape can match the toilet seat or be contoured differently. Contemporary toilet lids often have a square shape, with straight lines that fit well with minimalist bathroom trends. In addition, lids can provide a unique aesthetic by contrasting with the other sanitary ware in the bathroom.
Toilet seats are typically made of plastic or resin, which has numerous advantages. Plastic warms quickly, making the seat more comfortable, and it is easy to clean and flexible, coping well with the weight of the user. Plastic is also safe to sit on and will not splinter or produce shards. Other materials used for toilet seats include durable thermoplastic, which is heavyweight and long-lasting, and wood, which has aesthetic value but is heavier than plastic options.
The type of toilet seat hinge is another important consideration. Hinged toilet seats have a lid that is attached to the seat by one or two hinges, but there is a chance of the lid banging on the seat when shut, which can be noisy and may damage the toilet. "Soft-close" toilet seats are also available, which close slowly and quietly with a gentle push, thanks to special slow-closing hinges. These hinges will eventually wear out and need replacing.
To summarise, when choosing a new toilet seat, it is essential to consider the size, shape, material, and hinge type to ensure a comfortable, functional, and aesthetically pleasing addition to your bathroom.
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Measure your toilet bowl to find the right fit
Toilet seats are designed to fit one of two types of bowls: round or elongated. A round toilet seat will not fit an elongated bowl and vice versa. Therefore, it is important to measure your toilet bowl carefully to find the right fit. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do this:
Step 1: Identify the Shape of Your Toilet Bowl
Look at the bowl from above. A round bowl is more circular, while an elongated bowl is more oval-shaped.
Step 2: Measure the Bolt Spread
Place a tape measure across the centre of the bowl, from one bolt hole to the other. The bolt holes are the two holes where the bolts secure the toilet seat to the bowl. The standard bolt spread for toilet seats in Australia is approximately 150mm or 6 inches.
Step 3: Measure the Length of the Bowl
Place the hook of your tape measure at the midpoint between the mounting holes at the back of the bowl and extend it straight down to the front edge of the toilet bowl. A round toilet bowl will measure approximately 16.5 inches in length, while an elongated bowl measures approximately 18.5 inches.
Step 4: Measure the Width of the Bowl
Place a tape measure across the widest part of the bowl, usually near the back. The standard width of a toilet bowl is approximately 14 inches, but it can vary depending on the specific model and design.
Step 5: Compare Your Measurements
Compare your measurements with the specifications on the product pages of the toilet seats you are considering. If the measurements match, then the toilet seat will fit your toilet bowl.
It is important to note that not all toilet seats are the same, and toilet seat measurements may vary. Therefore, it is recommended to double-check your measurements and refer to the manufacturer's specifications before purchasing a new toilet seat. Additionally, some toilets may have specific brand or model requirements, so it is worth checking if your toilet needs a proprietary seat.
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Bolt-hole spacing varies across manufacturers and models
When buying a new toilet seat, it is important to ensure that it is compatible with your toilet model. Toilet seats are not entirely universal in Australia, and there is no standard size for all toilet seats due to the variety of toilet styles available. Therefore, it is crucial to measure your toilet bowl and understand the mounting options to find a suitable seat.
One critical aspect to consider when purchasing a new toilet seat is the bolt-hole spacing. The distance between the fixing holes, where the screws are attached, can vary across different manufacturers and models. While the standard measurement is typically 155 mm, it is recommended to check this distance before buying a new toilet seat. Bolt-hole spacing is not standardised, and there can be significant variations across different brands and models, as well as between old and new toilets.
To ensure compatibility, it is advisable to measure the distance between the fixing holes accurately. This can be done by measuring from the centre of the fixing holes to the front of the pan. By taking this measurement, you can compare it with the specifications of the new toilet seat you intend to purchase. It is also worth noting that hinges are usually specific to the toilet seat manufacturer and model, so knowing this information can help in finding the right replacement parts.
Additionally, some toilets may feature a hinge plate, which can become cracked or worn over time. Hinge plates are specific to certain toilet seat manufacturers and models, so if replacement parts are unavailable, it may be necessary to replace the entire seat. In such cases, seeking assistance from plumbing experts or authorised service agents for specific brands can be beneficial.
To summarise, when shopping for a new toilet seat in Australia, it is essential to consider the bolt-hole spacing variations across manufacturers and models. By taking accurate measurements and referring to the manufacturer's specifications, you can ensure that your new toilet seat fits securely and comfortably.
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Toilet seats are made from different materials
Toilet seats come in a variety of sizes and shapes, and it is important to measure your toilet carefully before purchasing a new seat to ensure a comfortable and safe experience. While most toilet seats are made to fit standard-sized toilets, some toilets may have specific size requirements.
Toilet seats are also made from a variety of materials, each with its own characteristics and advantages. Here are some of the most common materials used for toilet seats:
Plastic
Plastic toilet seats are the most common type and are usually made from lightweight plastic or durable thermoplastic. They are affordable, easy to clean, durable, strong, and long-lasting. Plastic seats also resist wear, chipping, and peeling, and are suitable for general household use. However, they may be less aesthetically pleasing to some and can be more prone to deforming and breaking compared to other materials.
Wood
Wooden toilet seats are made from solid wood or wood composite materials and are popular for their natural texture and upscale feel. They bring a sense of warmth and balance to the bathroom décor. Wooden seats can be waterproofed with special treatment, and their service life is generally more than 5-10 years. However, they require attention to moisture-proofing and anti-corrosion. Wooden seats are heavier than plastic options and usually more expensive.
Resin
Resin toilet seats are highly sought after for their luxurious appearance and outstanding texture. They offer a variety of design options, simulating textures such as stone and wood. Resin seats are known for their good quality, long service life, and ease of cleaning and maintenance. However, they tend to be more expensive than plastic options.
Stone
Stone toilet seats, made from natural stones like marble and granite, offer a premium texture and luxurious look. They have high strength, compression resistance, and a thermal effect. Stone seats are extremely durable, with a service life of more than 15 years, but they come at a high price.
Ceramic
Ceramic toilet seats are usually made to match the material of the toilet itself, providing a beautiful and unified appearance. They are easy to clean, highly durable, and offer good stain resistance.
Other less common materials used for toilet seats include acrylic, a specially treated plexiglass with high hardness and aesthetics, and PC board, an improved version of plastic with higher hardness and practicality.
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Toilet seat lids come in various shapes and designs
Toilet seats come in various shapes, sizes, and designs, and it is essential to measure your toilet carefully to ensure you purchase a seat that fits securely and comfortably. While most toilet seats are made to fit standard-sized toilets, some toilets may have specific seat size requirements.
Toilet seats come in three distinct shapes: round, oval (or elongated), and square. Round seats are the most common and traditional shape, typically measuring 16 inches long and 14 inches wide. Oval seats offer a modern look but require more space, usually measuring 18 to 19 inches in length. Square seats usually come in a standard size and feature a closed-front design.
Toilet seats are also available in various materials, each with unique qualities and aesthetics. Plastic toilet seats are the most common choice due to their affordability, ease of cleaning, and resistance to chipping and peeling. Durable thermoplastic is another option that offers the same benefits as plastic but with added weight and durability. Wooden seats provide a classic and elegant look, especially in traditional bathrooms, but they can be heavier and more susceptible to damage in moist environments. Stainless steel seats, often found in public places, can add a stylish, modern touch to a bathroom, although they may be cold to sit on.
For a quirky and unique option, polyresin or polypropylene seats offer a range of colours and designs, including clear seats with decorative features like fish or lobsters. These seats are lightweight, flexible, and perfect for adding a touch of personality to your bathroom.
Additionally, bidet toilet seats incorporate bidet functionality directly into the seat, offering adjustable water pressure, heated seats, and air drying. High-tech bidet seats may also include remote controls and self-cleaning nozzles, providing a hygienic and luxurious bathroom experience.
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Frequently asked questions
No, toilet seats in Australia are not entirely universal. While most toilet seats are made to fit standard-sized toilets, some toilets may have specific seat sizes, shapes, or bolt-hole spacing requirements. Therefore, it is important to measure your toilet carefully and choose the right size and shape of seat for your specific toilet model.
There are a few key measurements that you will need: the distance between the fixing holes (where the screws are), the width of the toilet, and the shape of the toilet bowl. The standard width of a toilet is around 14 to 20 inches, but some toilets may be narrower or wider depending on their design and shape. Common toilet bowl shapes include round, D-shape, square, and elongated.
In addition to size and shape, you may want to consider the material of the toilet seat. Common materials include plastic, thermoplastic, and wood. Plastic is affordable, easy to clean, and flexible. Thermoplastic is heavyweight, durable, and easy to clean. Wood has aesthetic value but is heavier than plastic options. You may also want to consider features such as soft-close hinges or a shell-shaped lid for a retro look.
