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How to change a toilet seat

A toilet with a new seat and wall-mounted toilet paper holder.

Overview

Learning how to change a toilet seat is a quick and easy way to freshen up your bathroom. Whether you're upgrading to a soft-close model or simply replacing a worn-out seat, this guide will take you through the process step by step.

Safety tip: Always wear the appropriate safety equipment (safety glasses, gloves, ear muffs and a mask, for example) and always follow the instructions for the product or equipment. 

Steps

1Choose the right toilet seat

Before you start, take a moment to check the fittings on your new toilet seat. Toilet seats generally come in three shapes: O-shape, D-shape or Link suite seats. Some toilet seats come with extra features like soft-close toilet seat hinges, which prevent slamming, or quick-release functions for easier cleaning. Choose the design that best suits your needs and bathroom style. 
A bathroom with a toilet and a packaged Mondella wooden seat

2Measure the mounting points

Use a tape measure to check the length from the centre of the mounting holes to the front edge of the toilet bowl. While most seats fit standard sizes, double-checking your measurements will help ensure a perfect fit. This is usually around 155mm but can vary depending on the toilet model. 
Measure the length from mounting holes to the toilet bowl's front edge

3Remove the old toilet seat

Before installing a toilet seat, you'll need to remove the old one. Start by reaching underneath the toilet bowl to locate the two bolts securing the seat in place. Use a multi-grip plier or a shifter to loosen them, then unscrew the bolts by hand and lift off the old seat. Once removed, take the opportunity to give the area around the toilet rim a thorough clean.
Use pliers to remove the old toilet seat

4Install the new seat

Now it’s time to install the new toilet seat. Start by lining up the seat’s hinges with the mounting holes on the toilet bowl. Insert the provided bolts and washers through the holes, then tighten them securely. Be careful not to overtighten, as this could crack the ceramic.

Once the seat is secured, check that it is level and that it opens and closes smoothly. If it feels slightly off-centre, loosen the bolts slightly, adjust the seat into position, and re-tighten.

Install the new seat by tightening the bolt

5Now that you’ve changed a toilet seat…

Health & Safety

Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.

When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.