13 types of toilet seats: shapes, styles, materials and more

No toilet is complete without a toilet seat. While toilet suites come with their own, in some situations, they might not be the best, most suitable option for the homeowner. Finding a replacement seat can be a little intimidating with the wide range of options, but by understanding the types of toilet seats available, you’re best placed to make the right choice when the time comes.

A wooden toilet seat offers a classic look that is a great choice for more traditional bathrooms. A beautiful stained wood finish adds great warmth to your overall bathroom style. Wood seats are also slightly warmer in terms of feel compared to other options.

Plastic seats are a cost-effective option, readily available and easy to install if you’re after a quick replacement. They're easy to clean, and most come with a quick-release mechanism, allowing you to remove the entire seat for fast and thorough cleaning. They are generally available with a top or bottom fixing.

Stainless steel toilet seats are often found in public places such as airports or bars, chosen because of their durability. They can also make a stylish addition to the home, particularly one that uses metal throughout its bathroom design. One downside of a stainless steel seat is that it can often be cold to sit on, which can be a dealbreaker for some.

Related article: The cost to install a new toilet in 2024 —a complete guide

If you're looking for a more quirky type of toilet seat, then a polyresin seat is a good option to consider. These seats can be completely transparent and some even contain decorative features within them. There are many novelty options of this type with some featuring beach or aquarium scenes. If that sounds a bit too adventurous, you can also get solid-colour polyresin seats, which also have the potential to be fun in their own way.

Standard close toilet seats have simple hinges that allow you to open and close the toilet seat unimpeded. One downside of these types of seats is that if you drop the seat, there is nothing to slow its fall. With heavier types of seats, such as solid wood, there is a risk that you could damage the toilet bowl. Many standard closed toilet seats will include rubber stoppers to minimise the risk of damage and noise.

A soft-closing toilet seat includes tensioned hinges that slow the fall of the seat. This means that you don't have to worry about a loud noise when it comes crashing down. These seats are a great option for bathrooms that are close to bedrooms. It means you don't have to worry about waking people up when you close the seat in the middle of the night.

Related article: What are the latest trends for bathrooms in 2024?

Round toilet seats are what most consider the traditional shape. While not completely circular, these seats are not significantly longer than they are wide. Typically, seats of this type will be around 16 inches long and around 14 inches wide. For a standard toilet, a round toilet seat should be a perfect fit (always be sure to check measurements before purchasing).

Oval toilet seats offer a modern look but require more space than round models. Oval seats are often around 18 or 19 inches in length. If you're looking for a seat for a smaller bathroom, this may not be the ideal option. However, an oval seat can suit a more contemporary bathroom style if you have the space.

Related article: What is a rimless toilet? The pros and cons

You can't find a square peg in a round hole. You also can't fit a square seat on a round toilet bowl. If you have a modern square toilet design, however, then a square toilet seat is the perfect accompaniment. As with round seats, square seats are not strictly square; they are still a little longer than wide ones.

The D-shaped toilet seat is a cross between the round and square toilet seat. D-shaped seats have a straight edge at the back but are rounded at the front, forming the shape of a letter D. You get the sleek straight lines of a square model combined with the comfort and practicality of a round seat. For this reason, it's an appealing choice for many.

Related article: 15 small bathroom ideas on a budget

Open toilet seats, also known as U-shaped toilet seats, are similar to an oval but with a section cut at the front, creating a shape similar to a horseshoe. The primary purpose of these seats is for hygiene, and in some countries, it is even required by law in public facilities which is why they are often seen in shared bathrooms. However, an open toilet seat can be a stylish point of difference for the home, too, when put in the capable hands of an interior designer.

Related article: 11 of the best toilets in Australia to consider for your bathroom in 2024

Bidet toilet seats are designed to provide a more hygienic and luxurious bathroom experience by incorporating bidet functionality directly into the seat. These seats typically include adjustable water pressure, heated seats, and air drying. High-tech models may also offer remote controls and self-cleaning nozzles. While they can be more expensive, they can be a great investment for comfort and cleanliness, especially in households where personal hygiene is a top priority.

Cushioned toilet seats offer added comfort compared to traditional hard surfaces. These seats are padded with foam or other soft materials and covered with vinyl or similar fabrics. They are ideal for individuals with mobility issues or who prefer a softer seating experience. However, they are less durable than other types and may wear out or become harder to clean over time.

Choosing the right toilet seat will depend on your toilet type and personal situation. Hopefully, by better understanding what’s available and the differences between them, you can make the right choice for your needs.

This article was updated on 3rd December 2024

Browse more high-quality toilet seats on ArchiPro