It might seem like a silly question, but it’s one that I get asked a lot. Are elongated toilet seats universal? So that’s why I decided to write a whole article on it, to guide my readers through everything about the elongated toilet seats (Yes, I know it’s a great idea).
Have you ever used an elongated toilet seat and found that it’s not quite the right fit? You’re not alone! While elongated toilet seats are becoming more popular, they’re only sometimes compatible with every bathroom.
In this blog post, we’ll explore everything about elongated toilet seats and provide tips on how to make them work in your bathroom.
Are Elongated Toilet Seats Universal?
I am pretty sure that many people might not give much thought to their toilet seat, but let me tell you that it plays a vital role in your daily life. Toilet seats come in various shapes and sizes, but the most common type is the elongated seat.
These seats are slightly longer than traditional round seats and offer several benefits. For one, they provide more comfort for users. They also tend to be more hygienic, as there is less chance for waste to build up in the crevices around the seat.
Things do not end here; elongated seats are often seen as more aesthetically pleasing than their round counterparts. As a result, I must say that they are the most popular type of toilet seat on the market.
However, it’s important to note that elongated seats are not universal. There are different ranges of toilet seat fittings. The two major types of fittings are – bottom fixing and top fixing.
Bottom fixings attach from below the hole for convenience, while tucked-away toilets often require a top fitting that needs access from above. So no matter what your bathroom setup is like, you’ll be able to find just the right seat!
Standard and Non-Standard Sizes of Toilet Seats
Okay, so the next thing is knowing about standard and non-standard sizes of toilet seats. Yes! It’s vital to get the right seat size for your bathroom. So in this section, I will cover standard and non-standard sizes of toilet seats so that you can make an informed purchase.
Standard Sizes of Toilet Seats
A standard-size toilet is usually between 15 and 17 inches from the floor. However, the most common size is 16 1/2 inches from the floor. This is known as a “round bowl” or “elongated bowl,” depending on its shape.
When shopping for a toilet seat, you should measure the distance from the floor to ensure that you select one with the right size opening. Standard sizes are typically easy to find at any home improvement store or online retailer, so they are often more cost-effective than non-standard sizes.
Non-Standard Sizes of Toilet Seats
Non-standard sizes may have different measurements, such as 18 or 19 inches from the floor rather than 16 1/2 inches. This can make finding a replacement toilet seat more difficult because these measurements are less widely available than standard sizes.
It may also be more expensive to shop for a non-standard size because they are less common and may require special ordering.
When looking for a non-standard-sized toilet seat, measure your distance from the floor carefully before making a purchase decision. It would be best if you also considered purchasing an adjustable toilet seat that can accommodate lengths between 14 1/2 – 17 1/2 inches from the floor, offering greater flexibility when fitting your particular space requirements.
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The Three Important Dimensions
When it comes to toilet seats, there are three critical dimensions that you need to be aware of. Knowing these dimensions is essential when shopping for a toilet seat, as they will determine whether or not the seat fits your needs and the size of your toilet. In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at the three critical dimensions of toilet seats.
Seat Post Hole: The first dimension to consider when shopping for a toilet seat is the size of the hole in your existing seat post. This hole must match the size of your existing toilet seat posts to fit correctly.
To measure this, use a tape measure or ruler and measure from one side of the post hole to the other. The standard measurement for most post holes is 5” x 5”; however, some may vary depending on what type of toilet seat you have.
Length: The second dimension you need to know is your new toilet seat length. The standard length for most toilet seats is 17-19 inches; however, some may vary depending on the model you have purchased.
To accurately measure this dimension, use a tape measure or ruler and measure from one end of your current seat to the other to get an accurate measurement before purchasing a new one.
Width: Finally, when shopping for a new toilet seat, you will need to consider the width. You must ensure that your chosen model will fit snugly into place without any gaps between it and your existing bowl rim.
The standard width for most models is 14-15 inches; however, some may vary depending on what type you have purchased. To accurately measure this dimension, use a tape measure or ruler and measure from one side of your current bowl rim to the other so that you can purchase one that fits perfectly into place without any problems.
How to Measure a Toilet Seat
If you want to buy a new toilet seat but don’t know how to measure the current installed one? Don’t worry; I am here to guide you – measuring your toilet seat is a simple process and can be done in five easy steps.
Knowing the exact measurements of your current toilet seat will save you time when shopping for a replacement, as it will help you narrow down which types of seats will fit on your toilet.
Step 1: Gather Your Materials
Before measuring, ensure you have all the tools you need. You’ll need a measuring tape, a flashlight (if necessary), and some marker (such as chalk or masking tape).
Step 2: Measure the Width
Start by grabbing your measuring tape and measuring the width of your seat from left to right. This measurement should span from one side of the mounting holes to the other side. If your toilet has a round bowl, measure from one edge of the bowl opening to the other edge. Ensure you record this number somewhere, so you don’t forget it.
Step 3: Measure the Length
The next step is to measure your seat from front to back. This should be measured from where the lid meets at its highest point in the middle down until it meets up with the base at its lowest point. Remember to write this number down too.
Step 4: Inspect for Additional Markings or Measurements
Another critical step is inspecting underneath your seat for additional markings or measurements that might be helpful when purchasing a replacement seat. While not all manufacturers provide additional information, many do – so it pays off to take an extra minute or two to check underneath before moving on to Step 5.
Step 5: Double Check Your Measurements
Once all of your measurements are taken and recorded, double-check each just in case of an error with either the measurement or recording process! That way, when you shop for a replacement, you can rest assured that you get exactly what fits best on your toilet model/brand!
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What Are The Dimensions Of An Elongated Toilet Seat?
Now you may be thinking about the exact dimension of an elongated toilet seat, right? Well, here it is. Elongated toilet seats are typically around 18 inches long and 14 inches wide. They’re designed to fit on most standard toilets, and they offer a few advantages over round seats.
First, elongated seats provide more coverage, so they’re a good choice for people who want to avoid accidental spills. Second, they tend to be more comfortable, as the extra length provides more support for your back and legs.
Finally, elongated seats give the toilet a more streamlined look, which can be an essential consideration for people who are renovating their bathrooms. If you’re considering an elongated seat for your bathroom, measure your toilet to ensure it will fit.
How To Know What Type of Toilet Seat To Get
Now that you know the toilet seat sizes, how do you know which type of toilet seat you need? Unfortunately, there are many different types of toilet seats on the market, and it can be tricky to know which is suitable for your bathroom.
Well, worry not! If you need help figuring out where to start, I am here to tell you a few things to keep in mind to get the correct toilet seat.
- First, think about the style of your bathroom. A wooden toilet seat might be a good option if you have more traditional decor. You could choose a plastic or metal seat for a more contemporary look.
- Second, consider the size of your toilet. Some seats are designed for standard-sized toilets, while others are made for larger or smaller toilets. Measure your toilet before shopping to ensure you get the right size.
- Finally, think about how you want the seat to function. Some seats include heated seats, bidets, and massage functions. Decide which features are most important and look for a seat with them.
With so many different types of toilet seats on the market, choosing the right one doesn’t have to be difficult for you, right? Just keep these things in mind, and you’ll be able to find a seat that’s perfect for your bathroom.
What Sizes Do Elongated Toilet Seats Come In?
Elongated toilet seats also come in different sizes and styles to accommodate any decor or preference. The standard size for an elongated seat is 18 inches from front to back and 14 inches wide at its widest point. However, longer and broader options, which measure up to 20 inches long and 16 inches wide if you need a larger size for your bathroom setup, are available.
It’s also important to note that many elongated toilet seats come with adjustable hinges so that you can customize the length of your seat if needed. This makes it easy to install even if you need a perfect match for your existing bowl size.
Installation Tips
When installing an elongated toilet seat, it’s essential to follow all instructions carefully. Most come with detailed installation instructions that should be followed step by step. Generally, it’s best practice to use two wrenches when attaching the bolts.
So that they don’t become loose over time due to vibration or other wear and tear, additionally, make sure any necessary hardware is included before attempting installation – most brands include mounting brackets and bolts in the packaging.
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Bottom Line
In the end, I only want to say that Elongated toilet seats are not universal, but they are becoming more popular in the United States. So if you’re looking for a new toilet seat, measure your bowl before purchasing. Thanks for reading!