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Toilet Seat Replacement Guide

easyHome Repair30 min

This guide provides a straightforward process for homeowners to replace a worn or damaged toilet seat. You will learn how to properly measure for a new model and use basic tools to remove old hardware for a secure installation.

Safety Warnings

  • Wear nitrile or rubber gloves to protect against germs and bacteria.

Tools Needed

Phillips #2 — screwdriver
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adjustable 8-inch — wrench
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socket wrench — deep well socket
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Materials

Replacement toilet seat — matching shape (round, elongated, or compact elongated)(1)
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Penetrating oil — spray(1 can)
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Steps

1
Measure the existing toilet seat to ensure the correct replacement model. Measure the distance between the two bolts at the rear (standard is 5½ inches), the width at the widest point, and the length from the center point of the bolts to the outermost lip.
2
Prepare the area by cleaning the existing seat and the rim around it while wearing nitrile gloves to protect yourself from bacteria.
3
Expose the mounting bolts by popping open the plastic flaps covering them; a screwdriver may be used if they are tight.
4
Check the hinges for corrosion. If the nuts are corroded, spray them with penetrating oil and wait 10 minutes before attempting to loosen them.
5
Remove the old seat by holding the bolt in place with an adjustable wrench while loosening the nut below it using a socket wrench with a deep well socket.
6
Slide the bolts from the new toilet seat through the appropriate holes in the toilet bowl.
7
Tighten the nut situated beneath the mounting deck using an adjustable wrench. Note that some newer seats can be tightened by hand using a large screwdriver.
8
Test the seat to ensure it is secure and does not shift from left to right when sitting.

Pro Tips

  • Consider features like quiet-closing hinges, molded bumpers, or stainless steel hinge posts for increased durability.
  • If bolts are so heavily corroded that oil fails, you can use a drill to bore a hole into the bolt starting with a 1/16-inch bit to snap it off, but use caution to avoid cracking the porcelain bowl.

When to Call a Professional

If the toilet bowl is cracked or the mounting hole spacing is non-standard, consult a licensed plumber.

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