Last Updated on January 10, 2023 by acechapman
To meet different user preferences and tastes, toilet seats are available in many sizes and shapes. These seats can be placed in a variety of interiors, including luxurious or compact spaces.
Common seat shapes include elongated and rounded toilet seats. There are also U-shaped, D-shaped, and square-shaped options. Sizes vary in height, width, as well as other dimensions. You can also customize the seats to meet more specific needs, such as those of the disabled.
These seat sizes and shapes can be confusing, especially when you are looking for a new toilet chair. It is possible to not be sure which seat is best for whom and what it does. Here’s a detailed look at these sizes and shapes, along with their intended purpose and uses.
Different Shapes Of Toilet Seats
Round
Round toilet seats look like a circle, as their name suggests. They are cylindrical with a 16.5-inch bowl. It does not have pointed corners or sharp edges. Instead, it has equal dimensions.
These are a great choice for compact washrooms, such as those found in offices and commercial spaces.
Round toilet seats are the most common and traditional shape of toilet seats. They are designed to fit toilets with a round bowl and have a circular shape that conforms to the shape of the bowl. Round seats are usually the most inexpensive option and have universal compatibility, making them an easy replacement for any round-shaped bowl toilet. One of the main advantages of round toilet seats over others is their space-saving design, which makes them ideal for small bathrooms and toilets with limited space. They are also relatively easy to install, often come with all the necessary hardware, and are generally easy to clean.
Additionally, round toilet seats also come in a variety of different materials such as plastic, wood, or even molded wood. They also come in many different colors and patterns to match the decor of your bathroom.
However, it should be noted that round toilet seats are not the best option for people who are taller or heavier as they tend to be smaller and less comfortable than elongated toilet seats.
Elongated
Elongated toilet seats are a more modern and ergonomic shape of the toilet seat that is designed to fit toilets with an elongated bowl. They are longer and more oval-shaped than round toilet seats and conform more closely to the shape of the bowl.
The elongated shape allows for a larger seating area, which can be more comfortable for taller or heavier individuals. They also have a more modern and sleek appearance, which can be an aesthetic upgrade to your bathroom.
Elongated toilet seats also come in a variety of different materials such as plastic, wood, or even molded wood. They come in many different colors and patterns as well to match the decor of your bathroom. Some elongated toilet seats even have added features such as heated seats, automatic opening/closing lids, and built-in bidets.
It’s worth noting that while elongated toilet seats can be more comfortable than round seats, they do take up more space than round seats. So if your bathroom or toilet has limited space, the round seat may be a better choice. Also, elongated toilet seats are specifically designed for toilets with an elongated bowl and may not fit on toilets with a round bowl. It is important to check compatibility before making a purchase.
Open Or U-Shaped
Open or U-shaped toilet seats are a variation of the traditional round or elongated toilet seats that have an open or U-shaped cutout. They are designed for people who have difficulty using a traditional toilet seat due to medical conditions such as hemorrhoids, surgery recovery, or other physical limitations.
The open or U-shaped cutout allows for easier and more comfortable bowel movements, as it eliminates the need to strain while using the toilet. This type of seat provides a better hygienic solution as well, making it easier to clean the area and reduce the risk of infection.
Open or U-shaped toilet seats are also known as “comfort height” or “raised” toilet seats as they are higher off the ground which can be helpful for people with limited mobility. These seats can also come with armrests for extra support and stability.
These toilet seats are typically not as aesthetically pleasing as traditional round or elongated seats and might not fit with all bathroom decor. Also, like elongated seats, open or U-shaped toilet seats are designed for specific toilets and may not fit on all toilet models. It is important to check compatibility before making a purchase.
Square Or Rectangular
Square or rectangular toilet seats are a relatively modern and unique shape of the toilet seat that deviates from the traditional round or elongated shape. They have a square or rectangular shape that conforms to the shape of the bowl and is different from the curved shape of traditional toilet seats.
They can be a stylish and contemporary alternative to traditional round or elongated seats and can add an interesting and striking visual element to your bathroom decor.
Like other toilet seats, Square or rectangular toilet seats come in different materials like plastic, wood, or even molded wood. They also come in a variety of colors and patterns as well to match the decor of your bathroom.
These toilet seats are less common than round or elongated toilet seats, and as such might be harder to find in some areas. Also, like other toilet seats, compatibility with a specific toilet bowl is crucial, so make sure to check your toilet bowl shape before buying.
Additionally, it may be more difficult to install than other shapes of toilet seats, as the square or rectangular shape may not fit perfectly onto round or elongated bowls and require some adjustments or modifications.
D-Shaped
The D-Shape, which is very similar in shape to the previous shape, is another cool toilet seat design.
D-shaped toilet seats are a variation of the traditional round toilet seats that have a distinct “D” shape, with the back of the seat being wider than the front. They are designed to fit toilets with a D-shaped bowl.
These toilet seats are designed to fit toilets with a specific D-shaped bowl, which can make them a perfect fit. This can be especially helpful if you have a toilet with a non-standard shape or if you are replacing a seat on an older toilet.
D-shaped toilet seats are also known as “comfort height” or “raised” toilet seats as they are higher off the ground which can be helpful for people with limited mobility. These seats can also come with armrests for extra support and stability.
Like other toilet seats, D-shaped toilet seats come in different materials like plastic, wood, or even molded wood. They also come in a variety of colors and patterns as well to match the decor of your bathroom.
These toilet seats are less common than round or elongated toilet seats, and as such might be harder to find in some areas. Also, they are designed specifically for toilets with a D-shaped bowl, so it is important to check the compatibility before making a purchase to ensure a good fit.
Sizes Of Toilet Seats
There are four parts to the toilet bowl size.
- Width/Diameter
- Length
- Height/ depth
- Rough-in
Width
The toilet seat’s diameter or width is the size of the large bowl. It is approximately 20. The length measures from the left edge to the right edge of the bowl.
A one-piece toilet is considered when determining the tank width. This could mean that the tank width could reach up to 30 inches.
Two-piece toilets should have a bowl width of 20 inches, depending on the brand. Standard toilets have a bowl width of approximately 20 inches (51 cm), and a height between 14-16 inches. More information is provided below.
For elongated toilets, the bowl width will be smaller and for square or rounded toilets, it will be wider.
Length
The shape of the bowl (square, oval, rectangle, or round) determines the length. While elongated toilets can be as long as 18 to 19 inches, the length could vary between 15 and 17. The length from the front of the toilet to its back is more than 30 inches.
Height
There are many heights for the toilet bowl.
These are the most popular types.
- Comfort toilets
- Standard toilets
Comfort Height Toilets
These toilets can also be referred to as ADA-compliant toilets or chair-height toilets. These toilets measure between 17 and 19 inches from the ground to the toilet seat. They are just two to three inches higher than the standard height toilet seats.
Because of their versatility, they have been a popular choice.
Comfort-height toilet seats can be used by tall people, the elderly, the disabled, and the injured.
These toilets are ADA-compliant and can be installed in any commercial or residual space. They also cost less than standard-height toilets. This is the right seat for you if you are in this category.
Standard Height Toilets
For years, the standard-height toilet seat has been a popular wash set. They are a great choice for children because of their height. Adults also have the benefit of raised feet which mimic the benefits of a Squatty Potty and reduce constipation. They are the most common type of toilet seat and measure 14-16 inches above the ground.
This is a great option if you have kids at home. They can be expensive and uncomfortable, so you might have to get up to clean yourself. It’s not enough.
Rough-In
The rough-in measurements of a toilet are the distance from the toilet’s back to the drainpipe (at its base). It measures approximately 12 inches (30.5cm) for a standard toilet.
Depending on the toilet brand and type, the distance can vary from 10 to 14 inches.
Factors that Influence the Sizes and Shapes of Toilet Seats
Scope
Depending on the purpose of the toilet, the unit may be longer, shorter, wider, rough-in smaller, or wider.
ADA toilets are 2 inches taller than standard toilets to accommodate seniors, handicapped individuals, and those who are taller than others.
For larger women, rounded toilets are better for smaller spaces.
Demand
Toto, American Standard, WoodBridge, Kohler, and others use standard sizes for toilets. They are in high demand and wouldn’t be able to make toilets that aren’t standard.
But, as demand rises, more manufacturers will make longer toilets.
Design
As you can see, D-shaped and square-shaped toilet seats were introduced to create luxurious and fashionable toilet designs. This made it possible to make the toilets look the way they do.
Similar principles apply to other designs, such as wall-hung or off-the-wall toilets. These could be made differently than other shapes and sizes. You can reduce the height and width of your toilets by making them shorter, wider, or rougher.
Performance
Toilets with powerful flush systems and less water consumption are a popular choice for many manufacturers.
They had to consider different sizes and shapes that could affect the flow of water into and out of the toilet bowl.
Round toilets are thought to have more efficient flush systems, but elongated toilets use less water. Different designs can be used to optimize a toilet’s performance.
Wrapping Up
When choosing the right toilet, you need to consider all four sizes and shapes of toilet seats. Each of these seats is designed for a specific user.
You will feel more comfortable if you choose an elongated toilet. It has a larger surface area and supports the seat better. Because they are compact and compact, rounded or square-shaped toilet seat designs work well in small bathrooms. They are also 2 inches shorter than the traditional elongated toilet. Children will find the standard-height toilet to be the best. The ADA universal toilet seat is best for seniors. It can be used by anyone who is tall, old, or injured.
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