What You Need to Know to Choose a Toilet Seat Do you need to replace your toilet seat? There are a number of factors to consider, such as the mounting option, shape, style, and material. Whether you ultimately choose oval or round, plastic or cushioned, it should be compatible with your toilet and go well with your bathroom decor. Here are things to think about: Choosing the right shape Toilet seats come in two shapes: round and elongated, corresponding to two of the most common toilet bowl shapes in the US. Round seats are the standard in most American homes; perhaps yours is one if your home is a few years old and you haven’t renovated your bathroom in a long time. Newer homes sometimes use elongated toilet seats, which have become trendy. A simple visual inspection will tell you what shape yours is. Picking the right mount type Do you want a standard bolt-and-nut mount or do you prefer an integral bolt and nut? This is something you need to decide before you start shopping. Integral bolt-and-nut mounts look good, but beware—they can be difficult to remove. You have to drill out the nut to remove the seat later on, when you’re ready to replace it again. If you want something that’s easier to install and swap out, choose a conventional bolt-and-nut mount. Selecting a material There’s a lot of variety available these days, and the perfect choice really depends on your budget and preferences. There are three general types: wood, plastic, or cushioned seats. Standard toilet seats are typically made of plastic and come in a wide range of colors (not just white). Plastic toilet seats are affordable and durable, designed for high impact. However, they can feel very cold against the skin during the winter time (and even in the summer if your central air conditioning is running). They are also more prone to splitting and showing marks from cleaning. If you want something warmer, try natural wood. The downside is that it can be damaged or stained by some toilet bowl cleaners. Do you prefer to sit on something softer? Then cushioned is the way to go. And if warmth is a huge concern, perhaps you can splurge on a heated seat. Consider any special concerns It’s a good idea to choose a soft toilet seat if it will be used by people who are recovering from childbirth or surgery. The downside is that a softer seat can make it more difficult to transfer to and from a shower bench or a wheelchair. If this is a concern, a firmer seat might be a better option. Buying the right size Though toilet seats come in many styles from traditional to modern, they are generally one-size-fits-all, at least in the US. It’s hard to go wrong. Repairing instead of replacing Maybe you don’t really need to change your old toilet seat. Perhaps you can still repair it. It’s easier than ever to order toilet seat fittings and toilet repair parts online from a reliable retailer of plumbing parts. They offer a wide range of essential plumbing replacement and repair parts to keep your bathroom fully functional. Whether you need a toilet wax ring or a toilet flush, you’ll find it there.