How to Install a Toilet Seat Riser

When you're trying to create a safe bathroom environment for an elderly person or someone disabled, one product that cannot be overlooked is a toilet seat riser. One problem that many disabled or elderly people face is the ability to use a normal toilet. Most toilets tend to sit at a height where one needs to have full bend of the knees and hips in order to sit down. A toilet seat riser lifts the height of the normal toilet seat up several inches (the actual height varies per product), making it easier for someone with joint problems to sit. A toilet seat riser not only allows a person to ease themselves down on a higher seat, but also gives someone a sense of independence, and with a product that is easy to clean. There are some toilet seat risers that lift the entire toilet. These require more work and more money. The most common toilet seat riser can be bought at most medical supply stores and larger department stores. The following article will explain how to install the most common toilet seat riser on the market.

Step 1 - Remove the Toilet Seat

A toilet seat riser requires a level and tight fit in order to install properly to retain its safety and hygienic properties. The original toilet seat is attached by a series of screws. Locate the toilet seat hinges behind the current toilet seat. The screws of the hinges are often covered by a cap. Use the screwdriver to pry the caps off the toilet seat hinges. You can now use the screwdriver to remove the screws in the hinges. Some plumbers will use silicone to seal the hinges to the toilet seat. If this is the case, you can use the utility knife to cut the silicone by inserting it between the hinge and the toilet bowl. Simply follow the dimension of the hinge. Once the screws are out and the silicone cut you can lift the toilet seat right off the toilet base.

Step 2 - Attach the Toilet Seat Riser

The great thing about a toilet seat riser is how easy they are to install and that they fit on every toilet. The majority of toilet seat risers on the market connect to the toilet base by three or more plastic clips. The toilet seat riser will have notches on the front and sides. You will install the clips under the lip of the toilet bowl. Place the toilet seat riser on top of the toilet bowl and line the clips up with the notches. Push the seat down until it locks. Some toilet seat risers have dials that you can turn to create a stronger seal.

Step 3 - Attach the Lid

Use the screwdriver to remove the hinges from the old toilet seat and lid. You will only need to use the lid. Lift up the hinges on the toilet seat riser and screw the toilet seat lid in place.