The toilet seat in your bathroom is an essential part of your bathroom fixtures. Over time, it can become worn out, discolored, or broken, and it’s important to replace it to keep your bathroom looking clean and hygienic. Replacing a toilet seat is a simple task that can be done by anyone with the right tools and a little bit of know-how. In this guide, we’ll take you through the steps to replace your bathroom toilet seat.
Step 1: Measure Your Toilet Seat
Before purchasing a new toilet seat, you’ll need to measure your existing one. Measure the length and width of the seat to ensure you purchase a seat that fits properly. Most toilet seats are either round or elongated. Elongated seats are longer and narrower than round seats, so it’s important to get the right size to ensure a comfortable fit.
Step 2: Choose Your New Toilet Seat
Once you’ve measured your existing toilet seat, you can start looking for a replacement. There are many different styles of toilet seats available, including plastic, wood, padded, and heated seats. Consider your budget and your personal preferences when selecting a new toilet seat. Make sure the seat you choose is the correct size and will fit your toilet bowl securely.
Step 3: Gather Your Tools
To replace your toilet seat, you’ll need a few tools. You’ll need a screwdriver, pliers, and possibly a wrench or adjustable wrench. If the bolts are rusted or difficult to remove, you may also need some penetrating oil or rust dissolver. Make sure you have all the necessary tools before starting the replacement process.
Step 4: Remove the Old Toilet Seat
To remove the old toilet seat, start by lifting the cover caps on the back of the seat to access the bolts. These caps may be located at the front of the seat, depending on the design. Use a screwdriver to unscrew the bolts while holding the nut on the underside of the toilet bowl with pliers or an adjustable wrench. If the bolts are rusted, you may need to use some penetrating oil or rust dissolver to loosen them. Once the bolts are removed, lift the old toilet seat off the toilet bowl.
Step 5: Clean the Toilet Bowl
Before installing the new toilet seat, take the time to clean the toilet bowl thoroughly. Use a toilet bowl cleaner and scrub the bowl with a toilet brush to remove any stains or residue. Wipe the bowl dry with a clean cloth.
Step 6: Install the New Toilet Seat
To install the new toilet seat, position it over the toilet bowl and align the bolt holes with the holes in the toilet bowl. Place the bolts through the holes and secure them with the nuts on the underside of the toilet bowl. Use pliers or an adjustable wrench to tighten the nuts, but be careful not to over-tighten them, as this can crack the porcelain. Once the bolts are secure, snap the cover caps back into place.
Step 7: Test the New Toilet Seat
Once the new toilet seat is installed, test it to ensure it’s secure and functioning properly. Sit on the seat and wiggle it to check for any movement. If the seat is loose, tighten the bolts a little more. Make sure the seat is level and comfortable to sit on.
Step 8: Dispose of the Old Toilet Seat
Dispose of the old toilet seat responsibly. If the seat is still in good condition, consider donating it to a local charity or thrift store. Otherwise, wrap it in a plastic bag and dispose of it in the trash.