Few things are as annoying as a toilet seat that has broken off its hinges. It ruins the whole experience when you try to spend quality time on the throne. If your seat is compromised, it’s time to find a replacement and get your toilet working like new. If you need to learn how to replace a toilet seat, follow these instructions. We’ll start by removing the toilet seat, then cover how to install a new one. But first:
Why Replacing Your Toilet Seat Matters
A clean, secure toilet seat isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s also essential for hygiene and comfort. Over time, seats can loosen, discolor, or develop hairline cracks that harbor bacteria. Upgrading your toilet seat is an affordable way to improve your bathroom without replacing the entire fixture.
If you’re noticing movement when sitting down or see visible wear on the hinges or surface, it’s time for a new seat. It’s one of those small updates that make a big difference.
What You’ll Need
- Adjustable wrench or pliers
- Flathead screwdriver
- New toilet seat (make sure it matches your bowl shape)
- Cleaning supplies (optional but recommended)
You can find high-quality toilet seats in various styles at PlumbersStock.
Step-by-Step: How to Replace Your Toilet Seat
1. Determine Your Bowl Shape
Toilets come in two main shapes: round and elongated. Round bowls are more compact (about 16.5″ long), while elongated bowls are oval-shaped and usually measure around 18.5″.
Check the manufacturer specs on your existing toilet or measure from the center of the bolt holes to the front edge of the bowl.
Browse our selection of toilet seats by shape and style here.
2. Remove the Old Seat
Most modern toilet seats are attached with two bolts located behind plastic caps at the back of the seat.
- Pop open the bolt covers using a flathead screwdriver.
- Hold the nut underneath with pliers while unscrewing from above.
- Remove both bolts and lift off the old seat.
- Clean around bolt holes before installing new hardware.
If bolts are rusted or stuck:
- Spray with penetrating oil like WD-40
- Use locking pliers for extra grip
- If needed, carefully cut through plastic nuts with a hacksaw blade
3. Install Your New Toilet Seat
- Align the new seat over the bolt holes.
- Insert bolts through mounting holes.
- Attach nuts underneath and tighten by hand first.
- Use an adjustable wrench to snug them up—don’t overtighten!
- Sit down gently to check for wobble—if it moves, tighten again slightly until secure.
According to Kohler’s installation guide: “Do not overtighten mounting hardware as this may damage ceramic surfaces.”
Choosing The Right Replacement Toilet Seat
When shopping for a new toilet seat at PlumbersStock, consider:
- Shape: Match round vs elongated
- Material: Plastic is lightweight; wood offers warmth; soft-close models reduce slamming
- Features: Heated seats, built-in bidets (browse bidet seats here), quick-release hinges for cleaning ease
- Color: White is standard, but colored options help match existing decor
Need help identifying compatible parts? Check out our full line of toilet bowls, tanks, and accessories.
FAQ: Changing Toilet Seats
Do all toilet seats fit all toilets?
No—seats must match your bowl shape (round vs elongated). Measure before buying!
How often should I replace my toilet seat?
Every 5–7 years on average, or sooner if there’s visible damage or odor buildup that won’t go away even after cleaning.
Can I install a bidet attachment instead?
You bet! Many homeowners upgrade their bathrooms by switching to the bidet-style toilet seat, which offers enhanced hygiene features without replacing their entire toilet.
What if my old bolts won’t come off?
Use penetrating oil, such as WD-40, and let it sit for several minutes before attempting to remove the nut with locking pliers. Alternatively, carefully cut off the plastic nut if necessary.
Can You Fix It Without Replacing It?
It’s possible that the seat isn’t broken. You may need to tighten the bolts or replace the wing nuts that secure them in place. It’s an easy job, but if you haven’t done it before, how would you know how to tighten a toilet seat? Fortunately, that article will provide you with the necessary information.
Resources: Learn More About Toilet Maintenance
- Video: Bemis Replacement
- Learn to Replace a Toilet Fill Valve
- How to Change a Toilet Flapper
- Replacing a Toilet Flange
- Replace a Toilet Handle
- Change out the Toilet Supply Line
By following these steps, you can confidently replace your old or broken toilet seat in no time—and enjoy improved comfort every day afterward!
For more bathroom upgrades, browse our full collection of toilets and accessories at PlumbersStock.
Get a Quiet Close Seat
We highly recommend that you go with a slow-close toilet seat. If you have sleeping babies in your home, then this is a must. You don’t have to bend over to place the lid down softly. You can flick your wrist, and the seat will quietly return to its place. If you’ve shopped around for these, you know they can be a bit expensive. We have unbeatable deals on these two ProStock options:
- Round seat w/ Quiet-Close (TSPR100-SC)
- Elongated seat w/ Quiet-Close (TSPE100-SC) this one is a cheaper option than the featured Gerber seat here.
At PlumbersStock, industry professionals can contact us for special deals when they buy in bulk. And homeowners with big projects who buy in bulk can also contact us.
About the Author
Cliff is a proud Dad and already a Grandpa, if you can believe it! He likes to lift weights, play basketball, hunt, and do just about anything outside. He has been in the construction and plumbing business off and on since 1989 and has tons of experience in many areas of home improvement.
