Finding the most suitable material for a new toilet seat might be challenging. You need something that will last a long time, can be easily cleaned, and matches your bathroom décor.
In your local hardware market, you will find toilet seats made out of plastic, wood, vinyl Duroplast, porcelain, and steel. Each material has its strengths, looks, and performs differently than the others. Since there is a wide variety of materials to pick from, you must be well-versed in making the best selection possible.
In this article, we will be talking about the different types of toilet seat materials. We will discuss in detail what each material type offers. Then, you can decide to choose one that suits your need.
Plastic (Polypropylene) Toilet Seats
The most common toilet seats, you normally see in bathrooms, are made out of plastic. Most of them are made up of polypropylene, a thermoplastic material. And these seats are formed by an injection molding process.
Plastic seats are lightweight, cheaper, and come in various colors, shapes, and sizes. However, a drawback of using polypropylene seats is that they often turn yellow, which doesn’t give your toilet a hygienic look.
Pros:
- Seats are inexpensive and easily available at any hardware store.
- Available in a variety of colors that can complement any kind of décor.
- Are easy to remove and clean.
Cons:
- Not a very strong plastic.
- Plastic seats known famous for turning yellow over time.
- Turn too cold in cold weather.
Duroplast Toilet Seats
Duroplast toilet seats are highly recommended if you are in the market for a long-lasting, sturdy product. Duroplast is a synthetic polymeric blend. It is a dependable choice for those whose top maintenance concern is keeping the bathroom spotless.
Due to its resistance to common household cleaners, many homeowners have opted for Duroplast toilet seats.
Unfortunately, Duroplast is not a material that is regarded to be environmentally friendly. Its disposal harms the environment. However, it won’t need to be changed too often because it has one of the longest lifespans of the materials discussed in this guide.
Pros
- Stronger than ordinary plastic.
- They offer the longest lifespan.
- Easy to maintain and clean.
- Don’t change turn yellow over time.
- Resistance to Home Cleaners
Cons
- Not Environmentally friendly.
Wood Toilet Seats
Toilet seats made out of wood are also available but they are not much common these days. Most people prefer them for their classy appearance. They have an aesthetic appeal and are available in numerous hues so you are not bound to just one color.
Furthermore, these seats are warmer and softer than other material seats. Moreover, if you’re concerned about the environment, you can rest certain that a wooden toilet seat is a sustainable choice.
However, the wooden seats are prone to the growth of mold and germs in damp conditions. In addition, they can easily cause injuries due to the presence of splinters, making them a poor choice if your youngsters want to fiddle with the seat. Additionally, if you have dogs at home, they may nibble on the wood.
The toilet seats made completely out of wood may not stay long if they are constantly exposed to water. In addition, they can’t be cleaned with bleach as other toilet seats can, so they will never look as shiny and clean as others.
Pros:
- Stronger than plastic seats.
- Classy Appearance.
- Seats are warmer and more comfortable to seat.
Cons:
- Mold and Germs can grow in damp conditions.
- Risk of any injury due to wooden splinters.
- Not a good choice for children.
- Cannot be cleaned with bleach or chemical cleaners
Porcelain Toilet Seats
Another option to consider while buying toilet seats is porcelain seats. Since they share the same construction as the rest of the toilet, you may use the same cleaners without worrying about ruining its surface finish.
One benefit they have over plastic and other materials is that they last longer and are easier to keep clean. As a result of their superior durability, they can take a beating without breaking.
If you want a warm seat when you sit down, porcelain toilet seats are a great alternative to metal or stainless steel. You may utilize them in the cold without having to resort to those cumbersome and awkward covers
Pros:
- Strong and durable
- Easier to clean.
- Any sort of cleaner can be used.
- Warm Seats in winter
Cons
- Heavy to lift and adjust.
- Being brittle they can develop cracks if not used carefully.
Stainless Steel Toilet Seats
Despite not being widely used, stainless steel toilet seats are often regarded as the best option due to their multiple advantages.
Firstly, they are available in many different variations, so you can select one that works with the design of your bathroom. Plus, they won’t rust or corrode in damp environments and are lighter than standard porcelain ones.
Stainless steel toilet seats are hypoallergenic and so an excellent option for those with chemical sensitivities. They are less prone to harbor germs and are simple to disinfect. No cleaning is needed; just wipe with a towel. In this way, you won’t have to worry about damaging them through scratches.
If you compare them to other seating options, you will likely find that they are far colder and less comfy. Slipperiness makes them hazardous for anyone with mobility or balance impairments.
Pros
- Available in multiple designs.
- Doesn’t rust in damp conditions.
- Hypoallergenic
- Less prone to harbor germs.
- Easily Disinfected.
Cons
- Cold and less comfortable.
- Being slippery not ideal for people with mobility issues
Vinyl Toilet Seats
Lastly, we have the modern luxurious toilet seats known as cushioned vinyl seats. You may have also heard of them with the name soft toilet seats.
Since these toilet seats are softer than average, they cause less strain on the body and reduce the likelihood of discomfort during use. Because of this, they are ideal for the elderly or other persons who require assistance when using the toilet. They also make it simpler and more comfortable for toddlers to sit on the toilet.
The seats are meant to endure longer than those with fabric or foam coverings since cushioned vinyl is a resilient material. Further, vinyl doesn’t call for any extra maintenance because it cleans up with simple soap and water.
It’s also not a problem if someone spills water or urine on these seats, as they are watertight. In addition, you may choose from several different color options to find the perfect complement to your existing furnishings.
But padded vinyl or soft toilet seats are rather costly compared to standard plastic seats. They are easily damaged by regular use and may break under the pressure of your pet’s claws.
Pros
- Luxurious feel to the bathroom
- Comfortable for people with mobility issues.
- Good for those who are ill, such as those with cancer, those who are recuperating from surgery, or people with joint pain (arthritis).
- Hemorrhoid sufferers may find relief by sitting on a Soft Seat.
Cons
- Expensive than other material types.
- Don’t long last very long compared to other materials.
Which should you choose?
The seat you need for your toilet depends on what you plan to use it for. For most homeowners, a strong Duroplast toilet seat is recommended since it lasts longer and is inexpensive. However, if you want a stylish-looking toilet, you can go with shiny wooden toilet seats. For people with mobility issues or joint issues, vinyl-cushioned toilet seats are the best. For industrial toilets, you may go with steel.
However, since you have got to know the materials in which toilet seats are available and what are the possible strengths and shortcomings of each material. We hope that you can choose the one that meets your needs.
Amos Christen graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Interior Design from Drexel University — Philadelphia, PA. Since 2003, Amos has worked with top interior design professionals in this area, including architects and interior/graphic/lighting designers. As a skilled interior designer, Amos Christen is highly versed in fine arts and crafts and uses that to supplement his main area of expertise. He often publishes articles related to home décor on several websites, including Sprucetoilets.com, Sprucebathroom.com, and Mybesuitedhome.com. He also contributes to leading interior design magazines.