How to Install a New Toilet Seat

On the top of your Honey-Do List is the chore 'replace toilet seat' (or water closet seat for those from over the pond.)  Before heading to the hardware store, consumers need to be certain of their toilet type.  For this repair the two types of toilet seats consumers will have to choose from are for elongated or round front toilets.


It is not necessary (or sanitary) to haul your old toilet seat in the store.  Taking the measurements from the front of the seat to the back of the seat and the distance between the bolts will be sufficient.

Be sure to purchase a seat with plastic bolts.  Metal bolts tend to rust and brass bolts tend to turn green, staining the porcelain.

Things You'll Need:
Flathead Screwdriver
Adjustable Wrench
Lubricating Spray (WD-40)
New Toilet Seat
Instructions:

Step 1 - Begin to remove the old toilet seat by using your flat head screwdriver to lift the plastic caps off the back side of your existing toilet seat.

Step 2 - Hold the nut in place with the adjustable wrench and back the bolt out using your screwdriver.  Repeat on other side.

Step 3 - Throw away the old toilet seat and clean the back toilet area thoroughly.

NOTE: You can get in the holes by using a screwdriver, cleaning spray and a paper towel to thoroughly clean inside of the bolt holes.

Step 4 - Place the new toilet seat on top of the toilet and line up the mounts with the holes.

Step 5 - Put a bolt through the mount and thread the nut on the bottom of the bolt.  At this time just finger tighten both sides.

Step 6 - Once you have tightened both sides finger tight, make sure the seat is even and gently tighten each bolt/nut with your adjustable wrench.  Be easy so you do not crack the porcelain toilet bowl.

Step 7 - Snap the plastic covers in place and job is complete.

Tips & Warnings

Purchase toilet seats with plastic bolts instead of metal.  Plastic bolts don't rust and stain your toilet.
If the existing toilet bolts are metal, or if you are having trouble removing them, apply a little bit of lubricating spray, like WD40 to loosen the stuck combo.
Over tightening any bolt assembly on your toilet may cause the porcelain to chip or crack.
Have a tough case?  Need a bidet seat or handicap seat installed?  Call us today and we will schedule one of our plumbing experts to professional install your plumbing or gas fixtures and accessories.  You can also schedule online!