How to Replace a Toilet Seat Quickly and Efficiently

You would assume that learning how to replace a toilet seat is something you wouldn't necessarily have to take on. People believe that it is a job only meant for a handyman. So, if you are about to call one right now, hang up the phone!

Installing a new toilet seat or replacing one is actually an extremely simple task. In fact, fixing a toilet seat can qualify for a quick DIY project too. All you need are some basic tools, and you are good to go.

In this article, we will provide you with step-by-step instructions on how you can easily replace your toilet seat and save those extra bucks that you would have spent hiring a handyman.

The Materials You Will Need

• Tools

The tools you need to fix the toilet seat are a wrench and a screwdriver. You may need new nuts and bolts, but most companies ship a new toilet seat along with the necessary bolts and nuts. It is also wise to have a spray oil, such as a bottle of WD-40, handy with you just in case.

• Toilet Seat

Other than the tools, the only other material you need to install a toilet seat is the toilet seat itself. Toilet seats are extremely easy to find. You can find one either in a building supply store or at a hardware store. Alternatively, you can go online and check out multiple sites that list this product.

You will find a plethora of options when it comes to toilet seats from multiple brands. Some of the top brands will include American Standard, Kohler, Bemis, and the likes. You don't need to buy the exact same brand as your toilet bowl.

All toilet seats will come in two types, either elongated or a standard (round) type. However, we recommend that you take a tape and exactly measure your old toilet seat just to be extra sure. Find a replacement that has the exact same size. Furthermore, also make sure that you are buying a seat color that will match your toilet bowl.

Toilet seats will cost you anywhere between $10 to $100. Ideally, a $35 to $45 toilet seat is good enough and will last you for a long time. What you should preferably look out for is a seat that features a slow and quiet close as they won't slam down to the seat when you shut it.

How to Replace a Toilet Seat

Now that you know the things you need before you start fixing your new toilet seat, we can move on to removing the old seat and then replacing it with the new one. We will provide you with step-by-step instructions to make it as easy and hassle-free as possible.

Removing the Old Toilet Seat

1. Begin by popping off the bolt caps. You may find these small plastic caps attached to the hinges on the toilet bowl. Gently insert your screwdriver by sliding it under the edge and then try to pry the caps off.

There is also a possibility that there may be no caps at all, and you may just have the bolts attached to the hinges. If that’s the case, then move over to the second step.

2. Now, you can grab your wrench and see underneath the toilet bowl's edge. There will be bolts that will be going down through the toilet bowl. These bolts are held in place by the nuts.

There are two of them, one on the left and one on the right side of the bowl. Attach your wrench to the nut one by one and turn it counterclockwise to loosen it.

3. Once loosened, remove the old toilet seat's bolts. You may have to use a screwdriver to remove them easily. If so, turn each of the bolts counterclockwise until they come out completely.

If not, just continue turning both the nuts counterclockwise up until they completely come off. In case there are washers present between the bowl and nuts, you will need to take those off too.

4. If you haven't changed your toilet seat in years, there is a possibility that the bolts may either be rusted or stuck in its place due to grime. If taking them out is a struggle, try spraying a generous amount of WD-40 on them. Let it sit for a while for it to work and then try removing them again.

At this point, you will be able to pull out your old toilet seat successfully. You can dispose that along with the old bolts and nuts that came with it.

Fixing the New Toilet Seat

1. Remove the new seat from its packaging, and set it in place on the toilet bowl. Most new seats will have the hinges pre-attached. Place this exactly where your old toilet seat's hinges were located.

The packaging will also most likely contain the nuts, bolts, and the plastic caps needed for installation. Set all of these aside.

2. After placing the hinges in place, take one of the bolts in your hand. There will be holes on the hinges to insert the bolts. Since you have placed the new seat exactly where the old one was, these holes will also be positioned exactly on top of the holes in your toilet bowl. Through the hole, drop the bolts with the head on top.
3. Now, take one of the nuts. You will find that the bolts will be sticking downward through your toilet bowl. Place the nut onto the bolt and start turning it clockwise. Do this and make it as possibly tight as you can.

If you want, you can take your wrench and tighten this nut to the fullest. Do the same thing on the other side as well.

4. If your new toilet seat came with plastic caps, you could snap these in place by just pushing them down on the head of each bolt once you are done.

This is typically the way most new toilet seats get fixed. If you find some difference in your new seat, it is best to follow the installation instructions that came along with it.

Conclusion

We are sure that you know now how to replace a toilet seat, thanks to our quick step-by-step DIY guide. As you can see, the whole process is quite simple, and you definitely do not need a handyman to do the job for you. Just remember to tighten all the nuts and bolts with the wrench so that it stays in place for a long time and does not wobble when you sit on it.