Toilet Seat Size report
Installing a toilet seat is an easy DIY project. Whether you are looking to replace the old one or change the new style, you only need a few essential tools, and you will be done in a few minutes. Take the old one off and use the fittings for the new toilet seat to fit it in place. The only trouble you might run into during this process is that the old bolts won't come off, but this can be fixed with a bit of effort.
When shopping for a toilet seat, the most important factor is the correct size. The toilet seat is usually matched with the toilet, most toilets are standard size, and the general toilet seat is suitable. Nowadays, toilet seats come in standard sizes, but measuring the toilet seat before buying a replacement is wise.
Whether you need to swap out an old, broken seat or give your bathroom a fresh look with a new one, choosing the right size is critical. You may get confused with various seat shapes and sizes, especially if shopping for a new toilet seat. A toilet sear sizing guide is below to explain these shapes and sizes clearly.
Toilet Seat Size Guide
Toilet seats come in various shapes and sizes to suit different user needs and styles. The first thing you need to know is the answer to this question: are toilet seats universal sizes? Common seat shapes include rounded and elongated toilet seats, with U-shaped, D-shaped, and square-shaped seats. The sizes differ in height, width, and other dimensional sizes.
There are two standard sizes of toilet seats in the United States. They are elongated and round. Elongated toilet seats are 18.5 inches long, and round toilet seats are 16.5 inches long.
Width
The bowl size refers to the diameter/ width of the toilet seat. Standard toilets will have an approximate bowl width of 20 inches(51 cm) and a height of 14 to 16 inches, but the sizes also depend on the toilet brand. The width of the bowl will be less for elongated-style toilets and wider for square and rounded toilet seats.
Length
The length depends on the shape of the bowl, either square, oval, rectangle, or round. The length could be anywhere between 15 and 17 inches, while elongated toilets have a length of 18 to 19 inches. Length from the front edge of the toilet to the back is over 30 inches.
Toilet Seat Sizes by shapes
Round Toilet Seat
They are cylindrical and have a bowl length of 16.5". It doesn't have sharp edges, pointed corners, but equal dimensions all round. This size is an excellent choice for small and compact washrooms in commercial spaces like offices.
Elongated Toilet Seat
The elongated toilet seats are becoming more and more popular over the years as people are looking for more comfortable choices for their bathrooms. This shape will have a longer, more pointed front. The elongated toilet seats measure about 18.5" long and about 14" wide. You can always find them in hotels, houses, and apartments.
U-Shaped Toilet Seat
This seat shape is quite popular in public washrooms. They are generally more hygienic compared to other shapes. Especially for men, they do not get in contact with the seat. And the open gap makes it easier for women to wipe without touching the seat.
Square/Rectangular Toilet Seat
The square or rectangular-shaped toilet has parallel sides with equal widths and lengths of approximately 17 inches. They are angular, stylish. Some people find the square seats more comfortable than traditional round shapes.
D-Shaped Toilet Seat
The D-shaped toilet seat is pretty chill. This shape is ideal for people looking for something unique and forward style.
| Shape | Width/Diameter | Length |
|---|---|---|
| Round Toilet Seat | 16.5" | - |
| Elongated Toilet Seat | 14" | 18.5" |
| Square/Rectangular Toilet Seat | 17" | 15"-17" |
Measure the Toilet Seat size
To find out what kind of toilet seat you need, measure from the end of the bowl to the middle of the seat post holes. Buy a standard round seat if the length is around 16.5" (41 cm). If it is around 18.5" (46 cm) long, go with an elongated toilet seat. Things get a little more complicated if your toilet is old or investing in a specialty seat. However, regardless of your situation, you should have no trouble measuring the seat and choosing the best replacement.
- Find the bolts where the toilet seat attaches to the bowl and measure their distance.
- Measure the width of the bowl at its widest point. Be sure to place your measuring tape on the outside of the brim for an accurate dimension.
- Measure the length of the bowl from between the seat bolts to the outside edge of the front of the bowl.
After getting your measurements, you are ready to hit the hardware store. Once there, you will realize you have many toilet seat materials and styles to choose from. Choosing the best material based on your personal preferences and budget is critical.
