11 different types of toilet seats and when to use them

Choosing the right toilet seat is something you won’t have to do too often but is important to get right when you do. There are many types of toilet seats, in a variety of shapes, sizes, and materials, suitable for different types of toilets and individuals too. What you’ll quickly come to appreciate is that the right toilet seat can increase comfort considerably and it’s worth investing the time to make the right choice with the first attempt.

Toilet seats are available in several different shapes. They are made to fit onto a toilet of a similar shape, so be sure to check the shape and size of your toilet before purchasing. Here are some of the most common toilet seat shapes available in New Zealand.

1. Round

The most common type of toilet seat is the round seat. While they don’t form a precise circle, these seats are almost as long as they are wide. A round toilet seat is a perfect fit for a standard toilet bowl.

Round toilet seats are made out of plastic or natural wood and are available in a wide variety of colours. While they can be easy to find and inexpensive, these types of toilet seats are uncomfortable for some people.

2. Elongated

An elongated toilet seat takes on an oval shape. They are seats designed specifically for elongated toilets. They are more comfortable than round seats due to their greater surface area.

Elongated seats are well-suited for the look of a contemporary bathroom. They are not as readily available as some other types and usually come at a higher price.

3. U-Shaped

U-shaped or open front seats, made out of plastic or metal, are most often found in public restrooms.

The reason for these open-front seats is to eliminate or reduce the spread of germs in a public setting. Because of this, you’ll seldom see these featured in the home.

The material of your toilet seat is chosen based on functional and aesthetic reasons. Here is a breakdown of some of the more popular toilet seat materials available in New Zealand.

4. Plastic

Plastic toilet seats are most often made from a hard plastic material called polypropylene. This material is inexpensive, durable, and easy to clean.

The plastic in some of these toilet seats can break down over time, with the use of harsh cleaning products. They are, however, easy to replace when the time comes.

5. Wood

Wooden toilet seats are a classic choice for a traditional bathroom style. They come in a variety of finishes, from light to dark solid wood, and add beauty and style to your bathroom. Many people choose a grain that complements other fittings in the bathroom.

Wood toilet seats add a warm look to your bathroom and are also warmer to sit on during the colder months. One downside is that because wood is a porous material, they are not as easy to keep clean compared to a plastic or metal seat.

6. Porcelain

Porcelain, a ceramic product, is a popular material for toilet seats. Made in the same material as the toilet base, these seats are sturdy and long-lasting.

Due to the non-porous enamel, porcelain toilet seats prevent the spread of most bacteria and are easy to clean and sanitise. They are more expensive than wood or plastic seats, but they add a nice aesthetic look to your bathroom.

7. Stainless steel

Most often found in airports, restaurants, or industrial-styled living spaces, stainless steel toilet seats are known for their durability. Stainless steel seats are also easier to clean and sterilise.

Stainless steel toilet seats are a practical and sometimes even stylish choice for a bathroom. They can, however, be a bit cold to sit on in a cold bathroom or during the winter months.

Once in a while, people need a special seat or want to add a specific feature to their bathroom toilet suite. These are some of the speciality toilet seat options available for purchase.

8. Padded

Comfort is the main appeal when it comes to these padded toilet seats. These toilet seats are filled with foam padding and covered with vinyl. Padded toilet seats increase the comfort level of sitting on the toilet, and some models include heating, perfect for cold winter nights.

The seats can be wiped down for cleaning, but because of seams in their construction, there are a lot more edges where bacteria can hide. Additionally, because padded toilet seats are not made out of durable materials, they may need more frequent replacement than other types.

9. Raised

A raised toilet seat raises the seat height to a comfortable level, making it easier for people with mobility issues to use. One type of raised toilet seat incorporates support handles and a clamp-on mechanism making it easy to add and remove as needed. Other models feature a “riser”, a padded toilet attachment that adds up to five inches of height.

Raised toilet seats may not fit all types of toilets so it’s crucial to check for compatibility beforehand.

10. Bidet

A bidet toilet seat serves as an alternative to toilet paper, as a way to clean yourself after using the bathroom. The seat is attached to your toilet’s water supply line and electricity from an outlet. When seated, you have the choice to press a remote-control button and a stream of water is sprayed to clean you.

Bidet seats are more expensive than other types of toilet seats and installation may require the assistance of a plumber. The demand for these seats is not as great, but bidets are slowly increasing in popularity across New Zealand.

11. Soft close

Soft close toilet seats feature tension hinges that slow down the fall of the seat and lid. They are a great option for sleepers who don't like awakening to the sound of a toilet seat crashing down. The soft close seats are great for children, making it easy for them to lift the seat without losing their grip on it. It also can prevent little fingers from getting stuck underneath the seat.

The mechanical parts of these soft-close seats are sometimes difficult to clean and wear out or break over time.

Related article: How to choose a toilet - a complete guide

Now that you have an idea of the range of toilet seats available and how they are used, you can make the choice that best suits your bathroom needs and style. Different types of toilets need different types of seats and with a range of shapes, materials, and special features available you will easily find one that is perfect for you.