Introduction
Replacing a toilet seat is an easy DIY project that can quickly update the look of your bathroom. With just a few tools and a little bit of time, you can install a new toilet seat yourself. This guide will walk you through the entire toilet seat replacement process step-by-step. We’ll cover how to remove the old seat, what type of new seat to buy, and how to install the new toilet seat correctly. By following these instructions, you’ll be able to replace a toilet seat like a pro. So let’s get started!
What You’ll Need
Before starting the project, make sure you have the necessary supplies:
- New toilet seat
- Adjustable wrench
- Phillips head screwdriver
- Cleaning supplies
- Protective gloves
You’ll want to buy a new toilet seat prior to beginning the installation. Take measurements of your existing seat so you can find a replacement that will fit properly. Most seats come in a standard oval or round shape. Also, consider the material (plastic, wood, metal) and hardware finish to match your bathroom decor.
Removing the Old Toilet Seat
Start by gathering your tools and supplies. Turn off the water supply valve behind the toilet tank and flush to empty the tank completely. This will prevent water from spilling out when you remove the old seat.
Put on protective gloves and use the adjustable wrench to loosen the nuts on either side of the seat. There are usually plastic caps covering the nuts that you’ll need to pry off with a small screwdriver first.
Use an adjustable wrench to loosen the nuts holding the toilet seat in place.
Once the nuts are detached, lift the old seat and hardware directly up and off the toilet bowl. Place the old seat aside and remove any remaining nuts or bolts from the toilet bowl slots.
Now is also a good time to clean the toilet thoroughly. Use a toilet brush and cleaning solution to scrub the bowl, below the rim, and the outer surfaces. This will ensure a clean foundation for your new seat.
Choosing a New Toilet Seat
With the old seat removed, now is the perfect time to make sure your new seat will fit properly. First, measure from one inner edge of the toilet bowl slot to the other. Round and elongated bowl openings require differently sized seats.
Standard toilet seat dimensions include:
- Round toilet seat: Approximately 16.5 inches (42 cm)
- Elongated toilet seat: Approximately 18.5 inches (47 cm)
Also check that the new seat bolts will align with the existing toilet bowl holes. Most models are designed as universal fittings, but it’s wise to confirm.
When selecting a material, plastic and wood seats are the most common. Plastic is affordable and easy to clean. Wood offers elegance but requires more maintenance. For heavy usage bathrooms, plastic is the more durable option. You can also choose special features like slow-close hinges, soft closing lids, quick-release for easy cleaning, and antimicrobial protection.
Once you’ve found the ideal replacement, it’s time to install it.
Installing the New Toilet Seat
Installing a new toilet seat uses the same hardware and process as removal, in reverse. Follow these instructions to ensure your new seat is fitted properly.
Step 1: Set Up New Hardware
The new seat will come with nuts, bolts, and plastic bolt caps. Insert the bolts through the toilet seat holes from below, add a nut and finger tighten a few turns.
Install new bolts and nuts through bottom of toilet seat holes.
Step 2: Align Seat on Toilet Bowl
Carefully set the toilet seat with new hardware onto the bowl, aligning the holes. Press down firmly to create a tight fit. The seat should not wobble or move side to side.
Step 3: Tighten Nuts
Use your adjustable wrench to tighten the nuts through the toilet bowl slots to secure the seat in place. Alternate tightening each nut evenly so the seat remains level. Do not overtighten.
Step 4: Add Bolt Caps
Once the nuts are tight enough that the seat does not shift, add the plastic bolt caps over the nuts to conceal the hardware. Push the caps down firmly until they snap into place.
New toilet seat is tightened down with nuts and bolt caps added.
Turn the water supply back on and perform a flush test to make sure everything is working properly. Give the seat a quick cleaning with a multi-surface spray or gentle disinfectant to complete the job. Enjoy your fresh, new toilet seat!
How to Replace a Toilet Seat
Replacing a toilet seat is a straightforward project that anyone can tackle in about 30 minutes with just a few tools. Follow these key steps:
Things You’ll Need
- New toilet seat
- Adjustable wrench
- Phillips screwdriver
- Gloves
Removing the Old Seat
- Turn off toilet water supply
- Remove plastic bolt caps with screwdriver
- Loosen nuts on either side with wrench
- Lift old seat and bolts off toilet
- Clean toilet bowl thoroughly
Installing New Seat
- Insert new bolts through seat and add nuts
- Align seat holes over toilet bowl slots
- Tighten nuts with wrench until secure
- Add plastic bolt caps over nuts
- Turn on water supply and test flush
And that’s all there is to it! The right tools, measurements, and hardware make toilet seat replacement an easy DIY job.
Frequently Asked Questions About Replacing a Toilet Seat
What type of new toilet seat should I buy?
Choose an elongated or round seat based on your toilet bowl shape. Measure the distance between the two slots to get the right size. Consider material like plastic, wood, or metal based on durability and bathroom aesthetics.
How do I match the new seat finish to my existing hardware?
Most toilet seats come in standard chrome, bronze, brass, or white finishes to match common hardware. Look at other fixtures in your bathroom to determine the finish you need.
What toilet seat features should I look for?
Consider soft close hinges for a quiet lid, quick-release buttons for easy removal cleaning, antimicrobial protection, and padded seats for comfort. Evaluate which features will be useful or worth any added cost.
How do I remove a rusted or stuck toilet seat?
Penetrating oil can help loosen rusted bolts. If the nuts won’t budge, a small hacksaw blade can safely cut through the bolts to remove the seat. File down any rough edges before installing the new seat.
How do I know if my new seat fits properly?
Check that the pre-drilled seat holes line up with the slots in your toilet bowl. The seat should sit level without any side-to-side wobble. Tighten down the nuts evenly until secure.
Can I upgrade my toilet seat without replacing the toilet?
Yes, you can install a new toilet seat on your existing toilet to change the style or upgrade features. Just ensure you purchase the correct shape and size for your toilet model.
How often should I replace my toilet seat?
On average, toilet seats should be replaced every 5-10 years with regular use. Look for cracking, loosening bolts, or unsanitary conditions like mold to determine if a replacement is needed sooner.
Should I hire a plumber to install a new toilet seat?
While you can call a plumber, toilet seat replacement is an easy DIY job. With just a wrench, screwdriver, gloves, and new seat, most homeowners can handle this project in less than 30 minutes.
Conclusion
Installing a fresh new toilet seat is one of the quickest and most affordable ways to update a bathroom. By following the proper toilet seat replacement steps, the job can be completed in minimal time with no special skills required. Carefully removing the old seat, measuring for a proper fitting new seat, and securely attaching the new hardware is all it takes. Choose from standard round or elongated seats, in materials like plastic or wood, and with features like soft-close hinges or quick-release buttons to customize your toilet. Quality seats properly installed should last 5-10 years with proper care and cleaning. With just a little DIY effort, you can easily and inexpensively give your bathroom a fresh facelift.