Various Toilet Seat Measurements and Sizes

If you’re struggling to measure the toilet seat of your home, you’re not alone. Several homeowners find themselves in a similar plight and that is exactly why we are here to help. In the following few sections, we will give you a detailed insight into the various toilet seat measurements and sizes. Additionally, we will also share a step-by-step guideline to measure a toilet seat appropriately. So, if toilet seat sizing concerns have been on your list for quite some time, this is the article you need to read.

ROUND VS ELONGATED

When we talk about toilet seat measurements, one of the biggest concerns is round vs elongated. The idea is simple, and it boils down to whether you should get a round toilet seat or an elongated one. This is perhaps one of the biggest reasons why the customer service outlets are bombarded with calls about one thing- whether their toilet should have one or two bowls and therefore whether it should be round or slightly on the elongated side. As you would probably guess round toilet seats won’t comfortably accommodate elongated toilet bowls and vice versa.

So, how do you figure out whether your toilet seat is round or elongated? Well, it’s pretty simple. Just use a tape measure to accurately ascertain the distance between the middle of the mounting points which are usually available at the rear end of the toilet seat. Typically, the distance measures five and a half inches, and the central point measures around two of three fourth inches. Make sure to place the hook of the tape you’re using at the central point for a quick measurement of the external edge of the rim of your toilet bowl which is usually in the front.

The majority of round toilet bowls have an average measurement of 16 and a half inches. Alternatively, their elongated counterparts measure around 18 and a half inches. Measure carefully and finally decides on whether you need a round or elongated seat based on your measurements. If you choose the toilet seat from a reputed dealer you can be assured that it will accommodate the different toilet bowl shapes of leading manufacturers.

To be on the safer side, we recommend you take the measurement twice. This will give you an accurate idea about the number and you will be confident about the fact that you are indeed purchasing the right toilet seat.

WHAT ARE THE STANDARD DIMENSIONS OF A TOILET SEAT?

Now that you are familiar with the round vs elongated toilet seat debate, you are probably wondering what the standard dimensions of a toilet seat are. Yes. Even toilet seats come with a set of standards as well as a non-standard set of dimensions. Having said that, every toilet seat does have some basic measurements that you should know about. Almost all modern toilets feature these measurements, and you will seldom find a toilet that doesn’t work with them. In case you find a toilet that doesn’t work with the measurement it is probably because it is an old model that was developed much before the dimensions of toilet seats were given a set standard.

A standard toilet features two bolts that are designed to keep the seat bolted to the bowl. Regardless of the overall shape and dimensions of your toilet, these holes tend to have an overall distance of no more than five and a half inches. If you are unsure whether your toilet fits the parameter of a standard parameter, you can always double-check with a measuring tape as we instructed before. But even when you do that, rarely, the toilet won’t have the same width. The same applies to toilet bowls. Even though no official standard is set, you will find the majority of models with a size around 20 inches. This is especially the width of the bowl.

The variance of the toilet bowl is typically less than one inch or even half inch. But if you are still unsure about the width, you can always measure the toilet bowl again. This will also help identify if your toilet seat model is unique or outdated. If it is outdated, you can always get it replaced with a new one with standard dimensions. Most of these seats are available at an affordable price and depending on what you want, you will certainly get your preferred toilet seat in standard dimensions.

TOILET SEATS- NON-STANDARD

As with standard toilet seats, you will also find a bunch of toilet seats that are non-standard, meaning their sizes don’t adhere to the standard sizes of toilets. This can be extremely limiting when it comes to choosing toilet seats. Things are even more complex when your toilet is extremely old or an antique item. In both scenarios finding accurate dimensions is extremely cumbersome.

To avoid inconsistencies, it is probably best to accurately measure every dimension of the toilet. This way, you have a clear idea about the kind of seating you need. If you are confident about the model of your toilet, you can also check out if the brand sells toilets for that specific size. Also, if you are only familiar with the brand, check out their website and see if they offer toilet seats that do not have standard dimensions.

In case you are not aware of the brand or if the brand is no longer available, you would need to look up a quality non-standard seat online. You will find several seats that are designed to meet your specifications. If not, you can always customize one from your local plumbing outlet.

BOTTOM LINE

Now that you have a clear idea of the various toilet seat measurements and sizes, we are certain you will take an informed decision when choosing a toilet seat. Because we also shared some guidelines for measuring your toilet seat from scratch, we are certain you will have an easy time from around here. Just keep our guidelines in mind while measuring your toilet seat and then decide whether you need a round or elongated toilet bowl. Because we shared a detailed set of instructions you will certainly experience no difficulties in navigating from this point.