Toilet seats and toilet risers
Toilet seats and toilet risers can make it easier for people who have difficulty sitting down, standing up, or using a standard toilet safely. A higher seat height can reduce the need to bend knees and hips deeply, while armrests and stable fasteners can provide extra support. The best solution depends on the user's mobility, balance, body measurements, and the bathroom's design.
Toilet seats and toilet risers for different needs
A toilet riser is mounted on or over the existing toilet and raises the seat by a specific number of centimeters. It can be suitable when the toilet is too low but the user can still get to the bathroom and use the toilet in the usual way.
A freestanding commode can be placed closer to the bed or in another suitable space. It can be an alternative when the path to the bathroom is long or when permanent installation is not suitable. Some models can also be placed over an existing toilet and used as a riser.
Important measurements and functions before choosing
Before choosing a model, you need to check both the user's needs and the toilet's measurements. Compare seat height, seat width, overall width, distance between armrests, and maximum user weight. Toilet seats and toilet risers must be stable and provide sufficient space for safe transfers.
Also check how the model is mounted. Some products have fixed fittings, while others have adjustable side clamps or legs. A solution that is often removed may need to be easy to assemble, but it should still be able to be locked securely before each use.
Higher seat height can facilitate standing up
A higher seat can make it easier to stand up because the user does not need to bend their knees and hips as much. Risers are available in various heights, for example, 5, 7.5, 10, or 15 centimeters. The correct height should provide a stable sitting position where the feet can be placed firmly on the floor.
A too low riser may not provide sufficient help, while a too high model can make it difficult to get foot support. Therefore, assess both the existing toilet height and the user's leg length.
Toilet risers with lid
A toilet riser with a lid can provide a more traditional appearance and allow the seat to be closed when not in use. Models are available in various heights and with different attachments. Check that the lid can be opened without hitting the wall, cistern, or other parts of the bathroom.
The seat and fasteners must be securely attached. The product must not be able to slide, twist, or lift when the user sits down or stands up.
Models with armrests
Armrests can provide support when sitting down and standing up. They can be fixed, fold-up, or removable depending on the model. Fold-up armrests can facilitate sideways transfer, while fixed armrests can provide a clear support point.
Measure the distance between the armrests and the total width of the product. A toilet riser with armrests often requires more space on both sides of the toilet.
Portable commode for flexible placement
A portable commode with a container can be placed near the bed or wherever it is needed. It can be useful when the user has difficulty getting to or walking all the way to the bathroom.
The container should be removable, emptied, and cleaned hygienically. Check that it is reinserted correctly and that the commode is level before use.
Permanent installation or tool-free installation
Some toilet risers are mounted with fixed fittings, while others can be attached without tools. Tool-free installation can be practical when the aid needs to be moved, but the fasteners must still be tightened and checked carefully.
A model with permanent installation may be more suitable when the aid is to be used permanently. Always follow the product's instructions for use and check that the model fits the toilet's shape.
Check maximum user weight and space
Maximum user weight should always be checked before purchase. The load includes not only body weight but also the force that can occur when the user sits down or pushes themselves up with the armrests.
Also measure the free space around the toilet. Outward-facing legs, armrests, and other parts can make the product wider than the seat itself.
How to measure before ordering
Measure the toilet's length and width, the distance between any mounting holes, and the existing seat height. Then measure the free space on both sides of the toilet and in front of it. If the model has armrests or legs, the total width of the product should be compared with the bathroom's dimensions.
Note how many centimeters of height increase are needed and then compare the measurements with the product information. Toilet seats and toilet risers should be chosen based on actual measurements and functions, not solely on the product image.
Safe use and regular inspection
Before use, check that fasteners, legs, lid, and armrests are secure. The product should not be used if any part is loose, cracked, or damaged. After cleaning, all parts should be dried and reassembled correctly.
Toilet seats and toilet risers should be cleaned according to the manufacturer's instructions. Avoid cleaning agents that can damage plastic, rubber, or surface treatment. If the model has a removable container, it should be emptied and cleaned regularly.
When several models seem suitable, you should compare seat height, mounting method, armrests, overall width, and maximum user weight. Toilet seats and toilet risers need to suit both the user's needs and the bathroom's actual conditions.
See our range of toilet seats and toilet risers to compare different heights, measurements, armrests, and mounting methods before ordering. At 1177, you can find more information about aid in the home, including risers that make the toilet seat higher and other aids for toilets and showers. There is also information on how aids can be selected based on individual needs.
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