Nobody likes getting their butt pinched by a broken toilet seat! Read on to learn how to install a new one and return to sit back without fear!
Steps
Part 1 of 2: Choosing the Seat
Step 1. Take your measurements
Check the width and length of the old toilet seat or ceramic cup; do not neglect the distance between the mounting holes, to make sure the spare part fits.
The dimensions and the offset between the mounting nuts are generally standard for modern models, as is the width of the seat (with small variations). The most important thing to consider is the shape of the toilet seat, which can be "oval" or "round". The round models have an anterior-posterior length equal to 40 cm, while for the oval ones it is equal to 45 cm
Step 2. Choose a tablet that suits your needs
Once you have noted the dimensions, you have to choose the model; you can be amazed by the number of options available and, since the measurements of these elements are mostly standard, they should all be possible, as long as the ceramic cup is also standard.
- Toilet seats are available in many materials; the most common are upholstered vinyl, plastic, polypropylene, solid wood and laminate.
- Evaluate the average life of the seat. Most manufacturers report on the packaging an estimate of the duration of the product; if not, there are some factors you need to consider. Plastic and polypropylene are the strongest and last the longest, while padded vinyl is the most delicate and susceptible to tearing.
- Choose a color that matches the room. White and ivory are the easiest to find, because they are the most common shades, but you can order the replacement with different colors, from black to green; you can also find models decorated or with drawings, such as shells.
- Consider a soft close toilet seat. These models are designed to prevent the lid from falling violently on the tablet and represent a safer and "silent" solution.
- Currently, it is also possible to find "luxury" spare parts; they are equipped with various functions, such as the heated seat, the flow of hot water for washing and hot air for drying, as well as air fresheners. However, remember that these devices must be plugged into an electrical outlet in order to function.
Part 2 of 2: Install the Toilet Seat
Step 1. Remove the old one
Pry to detach the plastic covers that hide the fixing holes and then unscrew the bolts that hold the toilet seat in place; once unhooked, simply lift the toilet seat to remove it.
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Use a flat head screwdriver to remove the plastic caps.
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Unscrew the plastic or metal bolts holding the old toilet seat attached to the ceramic bowl. There may be nuts (metal or plastic) on the other side; in that case, you have to hold them steady with your hands or a pair of pliers to unscrew the bolts.
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Once this is done, you can lift and throw away the old toilet seat.
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Step 2. Clean the area that is hidden under the bolts
Since this part is rarely cleaned, take the opportunity to wash it.
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You can use a normal toilet or bathroom cleaner; if you notice traces of mold or rust, opt for a specific product against this type of dirt.
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Dry the surface after washing, otherwise moisture will build up under the bolts and cause mold to form.
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Step 3. Put the new tablet in its place
Place it on top of the cup and secure it with the supplied nuts; put the plastic caps back to finish the job.
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If there are adhesive "feet" on the tablet, remove the protective film covering them before installing the toilet seat; these elements fix the structure to the ceramic with greater safety.
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Screw the new bolts into the fixing holes in the tablet and ceramic.
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Connect the new nuts on the other end.
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The plastic plugs should simply snap into place over the bolt heads.
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