Toilet seats are designed to be durable and hygienic, but this means they are often hard and uncomfortable. Spending too much time on an uncomfortable toilet seat can lead to issues such as numbness in your legs or pain in your tailbone.
Cushioned toilet seats are designed to reduce your discomfort, so you won’t have to worry about suffering through your time spent on the toilet. With many different seats to choose from, you might be unsure which one is right for you.
To help you find the right product for your bathroom, we have reviewed seven of the best cushioned toilet seats that are currently available. We chose these seats for their durability, sturdiness, and, most importantly, how comfortable they are to sit on.
- Cushioned for comfort
- Side handles for support
- Safe BPA-free materials
- Strong wooden frame
- Easily removed for cleaning
- Designed to stay up when raised
- Environmentally-friendly materials
- Doesn't get very cold
- Three color options
- High-density foam padding
- Durable wooden frame
- Stylish metallic hinges
- Unique designs
- Fittings included
- Lid is also padded
- Two thickness options
- Hypoallergenic gel cushion
- Can be installed in less than a minute
- Simple adhesive installation
- Machine-washable
- Six color options
Review Methodology: At Sensible Digs, we pride ourselves on our meticulous research and hands-on experience to provide you with reliable evaluations and data-driven scores on the best cushioned toilet seats. We assess each product carefully, comparing them based on key decision-making factors such as comfort, durability, ease of cleaning, and design. Our professionals test and compare each product in real-life settings, tracking their performance to give you an accurate ranking. We review and measure design choices, examining how they affect user experience. Our findings aim to provide you with robust evidence to make the best choice.
The Best Cushioned Toilet Seats of 2024
Padded toilet seats are available in numerous designs, but you won’t have quite as many options as a standard seat. After looking at their size, shape, material, and how comfortable they are, we have reviewed seven of the best cushioned toilet seats you can buy today.
Potty Training Seat for Toddler Kids
Best Cushioned Toilet Seat for Kids
This padded toilet seat is designed specifically for children, so it is a great choice if they are taking their first steps into more independence. It emphasizes comfort, safety, and convenience, with all the features necessary for successful potty training.
There are four slip-resistant strips under the seat, which prevent the seat from sliding as children get on and off. An adjustable arm ensures the smaller seat stays attached to your toilet bowl.
This model should fit any standard toilet, whether it is rounded or elongated. It is designed for children ranging from 1 to 7 years old, so it is a long-term solution. The sleek appearance means it won’t look out of place in a modern bathroom, despite being designed for children.
What We Like
Comfort for Children
This seat is designed with your child’s comfort in mind. It is one of the few seats of its type we have seen that features cushioning.
It also has a low back that wraps around for a snug fit and to prevent children from falling off. These features are an important part of encouraging your child to use the toilet, at first with supervision and later independently.
Side Handles
To help children get on and off the seat without assistance, it features two side handles. They should be able to use it with confidence, which is a major part of building their independence as they grow.
Easy to Clean
When teaching children to use the toilet, accidents are bound to occur at some point. Although this model features cushions, they can be removed easily to wash both the pad and the seat. Made of waterproof material — polypropylene — a quick swipe should be enough to remove most spills.
Safe Materials
The materials chosen are child-friendly. This seat doesn’t contain any BPA compounds, which is important as some studies have found them to be a hormone disruptor (1).
What We Don't Like
Large Hole
Some reviewers found the toilet hole too large for children younger than three years old. You should take care when your children use it for the first time.
Product Specs
| Type | Rounded and elongated |
| Warranty | Lifetime warranty |
| Color(s) | White, blue, and pink |
| Material | Polypropylene, BPA-free |
| Dimensions | 13.1 x 13.1 x 4.9 inches |
Our Ratings
User Experience
Mayfair Soft Toilet Seat with Wood Core
Most Popular Cushioned Toilet Seat
This Mayfair soft seat has a wooden frame, yet reviewers still praise the level of comfort it provides. It has extra padding and high-quality construction. The padding doesn’t flatten over time, and users seem happy with its durability.
Mayfair seats are manufactured by a reputable brand, a subsidiary of Bemis. It has a smooth vinyl surface that is easy to wipe clean and disinfect, and the seat can be easily unclipped and removed for more thorough cleaning.
This popular model is available in a rounded or oval shape. Measure your toilet bowl carefully to ensure the seat will fit properly.
What We Like
Easy to Clean
It can be challenging to clean a toilet seat thoroughly, especially in the crevices around its hinges. This seat can be easily unclipped to provide easier access. You won’t need any tools to do this.
The seat’s padding has a smooth vinyl cover, allowing for easy disinfection. It is best to simply use warm water and gentle soap to wipe the surface, so you should avoid harsh chemical cleaners.
Classic Colors
Whether you want a subtle classic color or one that will make your toilet into a bold statement piece, one of the seven options should be suitable for you:
- Beige
- White
- Biscuit
- Black
- Light blue
- Pink
- Green
Seat Stays Up
The seat’s hinges are designed to ensure it will stay up when raised. This will help you avoid any accidents during use or when cleaning the toilet. It is important to install the seat carefully so you can enjoy the benefits of its safety features.
What We Don't Like
Weak Seams
Due to the manufacturing process, there are seams around the outer edge of the cushioned seat and another in the opening. Some users found that they came apart more quickly than expected, ruining the seat.
Product Specs
| Type | Rounded and elongated |
| Warranty | 1 year |
| Color(s) | White, bone, biscuit/linen, black, sky blue |
| Material | Cushioned vinyl with a wood core |
| Dimensions | 17.13 x 15 x 3.44 inches |
Our Ratings
Personal Perspective
Mayfair 13EC 034 Soft Toilet Seat
Best Colorful Cushioned Seat
This Mayfair padded seat will fit rounded toilet bowls but it isn’t suitable for elongated units. It is available in three colors to help you match it to the rest of your bathroom. These color options are sky blue, bone, and black, so you should be able to find a suitable look.
The seat’s locking system makes it easy to install without needing tools. It also means you can quickly and easily remove the seat to clean it thoroughly.
Manufactured by a subsidiary of Bemis, this seat is made in the United States. Your purchase is protected by a 12-month warranty.
What We Like
Cute Colors
The seat has a simple, minimalist look but you can choose from three colors to make sure it complements your bathroom. These colors are sky blue, bone, or white, so you should be able to match the rest of your room or create a contrast.
Good Insulation
Reviewers praise this seat’s insulation. Its surface doesn’t get as cold as standard plastic toilet seats, which can be unpleasant to sit on during winter. If your bathroom often feels cold, this Mayfair seat is a good option.
Can be Installed in Minutes
Mayfair’s hinge system sets its seats apart from other brands. Its products feature a locking system that allows for quick, tool-free installation, which can be done in minutes.
You simply twist the hinges to install the seat, then turn them back to lock it in place. This also means you can easily remove the seat to clean it thoroughly, without needing any tools.
What We Don't Like
Irreplaceable Hinges
The user-friendly hinges are one of this product’s standout features, but they can’t be replaced if they break. Within the 12-month warranty, Mayfair should replace defective hinges, but after this period you will need to buy a completely new seat.
Clean Carefully
As the seat is very easy to remove, you shouldn’t have any issues cleaning areas that would otherwise be hard to reach. However, you will need to be careful when cleaning the seat as its material can be damaged by chemical cleaners. Try to always use natural cleaners rather than harsh chemicals.
Product Specs
| Type | Rounded |
| Warranty | 1 year |
| Color(s) | Sky blue, bone, black |
| Material | Plastic |
| Dimensions | 17.16 x 14.98 x 3.44 inches |
Our Ratings
Community Feedback
Mayfair Soft Toilet Seat with Chrome Hinges
Best Cushioned Seats with Metal Hinges
If you want a Mayfair cushioned toilet seat but also want standard hinges, this model is an excellent option. The durable hinges include all the necessary hardware for installation, with two bolts and two screwing counterparts.
The seat has a high-quality vinyl outer layer that makes it hygienic and easy to clean. It is wrapped around a wooden frame, which means this toilet seat is both comfortable and durable.
Compared to many padded toilet seats, which are designed for comfort rather than aesthetics, this seat delivers in both aspects. Its bumpers are white to match the seat, and it has stylish silver hinges that will look appropriate in traditional or modern bathrooms.
What We Like
Quality Padding
How seats are cushioned varies from product to product, and this is one of the better ones we have seen. It will compress when you sit on it for extra comfort but returns to its original shape when you get off it. The foam layer of the seat and cover is about 0.75-inches thick.
The foam is high-density to improve its durability. It is covered with antibacterial vinyl to prevent mold and mildew from appearing. Reviewers praise the comfort and quality of this seat.
Durable Frame
The seat is supported by a wooden core designed for elongated toilets. It is made to last and prevent chipping. If you do encounter any issues with the seat or its mounting, Mayfair covers this product with a 1-year warranty.
Chic Style
Cushioned seats and covers usually aren’t among the most stylish-looking models. However, this model has metallic hinges that add some character to its otherwise plain white design. The combination of silver fixtures and classic white materials make this seat versatile enough for the majority of traditional and modern bathrooms.
What We Don't Like
Loose Hinges
The hinges and fixtures can be difficult to adjust to achieve a tight fit. Some reviewers complain of loose bolts when fitting their seats.
Product Specs
| Type | Elongated |
| Warranty | 1 year |
| Color(s) | White |
| Material | Vinyl, wooden frame, chrome-plated hinges |
| Dimensions | 18.9 x 3.4 x 14.1 inches |
Our Ratings
First-Hand Impression
Ginsey Standard Soft Toilet Seat
Best Cushioned Seat for Nature Lovers
This Ginsey seat is available in various designs that are suitable for modern, traditional, or natural-looking bathrooms. It is designed for standard rounded toilet bowls, so it won’t fit elongated units.
Unlike some of the higher-end padded seats we have reviewed, this model has a plastic core and plastic hinges. While this does mean it isn’t quite as durable as some leading models, it also means it is far more affordable, making it a great option if you have a limited budget or need multiple seats.
The plastic material also means the seat is very easy to clean. A simple mix of mild soap and water should be sufficient to remove the vast majority of marks on its surface.
What We Like
Unique Designs
This seat is available with a variety of different decorative designs. These include standard colors and seats with images such as wolves or wheel patterns. You should be able to find a version of this seat that complements the overall look of your bathroom.
Easy Installation
This product contains all the parts required for quick installation such as nuts and bolts. Although the instructions could be more detailed, users are generally happy with how quickly they could install the seat.
Double Padding
This unit’s cushioning isn’t only on the seat itself, as the cover is also padded. This means you will be able to sit comfortably while getting dressed after a bath or shower.
What We Don't Like
Limited Durability
Reviewers criticize the seat’s durability, with some saying their seat lasted less than a year. However, many praise how affordable the seat is, with quality that compares to more expensive alternatives.
Product Specs
| Type | Rounded |
| Warranty | Not indicated |
| Color(s) | 12 various colors and patterns |
| Material | Polypropylene |
| Dimensions | 16.5 x 14.5 x 2.75 inches |
Our Ratings
User Experience
Universal Ultragel Gel Seat Cushion for Elderly
Most Durable Toilet Seat Cover
If you want to add some cushioning to your toilet seat without replacing it, this seat cover provides an excellent compromise. It is designed to fit onto a rounded or oval toilet seat.
The seat cover has gel padding, so it is very comfortable. You can choose from two gel thicknesses to tailor your seat cover to your needs.
In addition to providing comfort and quality, this product is easy to install and clean. Most standard cleaning solutions can be used on this cover without damaging its material.
What We Like
Extreme Comfort
You can choose from a standard 0.4-inch thickness or a 0.70-inch heavy-duty cushion. Both versions are designed to be very soft to sit on.
As a sign of how comfortable it is, one reviewer stated that the gel is dense enough to prevent a knuckle from touching the hard seat through the material. Some reviewers were able to sit on the seat for 40 minutes without any discomfort.
High-Quality
This hypoallergenic gel cushion doesn’t contain silicone, latex, plasticizer, phthalates, or any other hazardous materials. It is fully compliant with FDA and USP standards (2). If the outer layer is damaged, you won’t need to worry about any harmful material leaking out.
The cushion is waterproof for easy cleaning. It also dries quickly, which helps prevent mold growth.
Easy to Set Up
This toilet cushion includes straps and adhesive rounded tapes to secure it in place. You should be able to install it in less than a minute and it is easy to remove when it needs cleaning.
The pad is designed to stay in place, even if someone sits on it forcefully. You won’t have to worry about it falling off when raising or lowering the seat.
What We Don't Like
Adhesive Replacement
The adhesive can eventually wear down and will need to be replaced. Within the one-year warranty, the manufacturer seems willing to send replacement adhesive at no extra cost, according to customer reviews.
Product Specs
| Type | Rounded and elongated |
| Warranty | 1 year |
| Color(s) | Navy blue |
| Material | Gel |
| Dimensions | 16 x 14 inches or 19 x 15 inches |
Our Ratings
Personal Perspective
saounisi Soft Toilet Seat
Best Versatile Toilet Seat
Whatever kind of toilet seat you have, these saounisi adhesive cushions should fit it. These soft pads are suitable for round, elongated, O-shaped, V-shaped, and U-shaped toilet seats.
The two seat cover pads can be applied easily to any clean, dry surface. At least once a week, you should remove the pads and clean them. Thankfully, they are machine washable and will retain their stickiness even after multiple washes.
If you want to cushion your toilet seat but can’t find a model to fit your toilet, this saounisi product is the ideal solution.
What We Like
Comfy
These two cushioned pads can help prevent numb legs and sore buttocks. They are soft enough to make your toilet far more comfortable and won’t get as cold as the standard plastic that is often used in modern toilet seats.
Good Design
Instead of using traditional adhesive, saounisi toilet seat covers use electrostatic adsorption. This keeps it sticky for longer, without leaving adhesive traces on your toilet seat. It also means the covers are easy to remove and clean between uses.
Six Color Options
These toilet seat covers are available in six different colors so you can match the pads to your current toilet seat. It is worth buying more than one set so you can always use a pair while cleaning the other set.
What We Don't Like
Doesn’t Cover the Entire Seat
The biggest drawback of these covers is that they will begin to lose their adhesiveness after a few washes. They also won’t cover the entire seat, as they leave a gap between them. They are a great short-term solution if you are trying to alleviate pain from an injury, but might not be the best choice in the long run.
Product Specs
| Type | 95% of toilet seats |
| Warranty | Not specified, contact customer service for details |
| Color(s) | Pink, beige, blue, light tan, cream, polka dot |
| Material | Velvet |
| Dimensions | 15.4 x 5.6 x 0.78 inches |
Our Ratings
Community Feedback
| Product | Best | Type | Warranty | Color(s) | Material | Dimensions |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Potty Training Seat | Kids | Rounded & elongated | Lifetime | White, blue and pink | Polypropylene, BPA-free | 13.1 x 13.1 x 4.9″ |
| Mayfair Wooden Toilet Seat | Popular Choice | Rounded & elongated | 1 year | 5 colors | Cushioned vinyl with a wood core | 17.13 x 15 x 3.44″ |
| Mayfair Toilet Seat | Colorful | Rounded | 1 year | 3 colors | Plastic | 17.16 x 14.98 x 3.44″ |
| Mayfair Chrome Toilet Seat | Metal Hinges | Elongated | 1 year | White | Vinyl, wooden frame, chrome-plated hinges | 18.9 x 3.4 x 14.1″ |
| Ginsey Standard Toilet Seat | Nature Lovers | Rounded | N/A | 12 colors and patterns | Polypropylene | 16.5 x 14.5 x 2.75″ |
| Universal Ultragel Gel Seat | Durable | Rounded & elongated | 1 year | Navy blue | Gel | 16 x 14″ or 19 x 15″ |
| saounisi Soft Toilet Seat | Versatile | Rounded & elongated | N/A | 6 colors | Velvet | 15.4 x 5.6 x 0.78″ |
Benefits of a Cushioned Toilet Seat
There are benefits to a hard toilet seat, such as strength and durability, but they can also be very uncomfortable. A cushioned toilet seat can reduce the pressure on your legs and spine, which could otherwise cause pain or numbness (3).
This extra cushioning often makes it easier to get on and off the toilet, which is helpful for users with limited mobility. The padding in these seats is usually achieved using foam or gel. As a result, the surface is less cold than plastic, making it nicer to sit on during winter.
Features to Consider
When shopping for a high-quality cushioned toilet seat for your bathroom, keep the following in mind:
Toilet Bowl Size
The average toilet seat is sized to fit an elongated bowl of 18.5 inches or a rounded bowl of 16.5 inches (4). Before buying a toilet seat, ensure its measurements will match your toilet bowl.
Choosing the wrong seat size or shape will result in a worse finish and might make it impossible to fit your seat at all. To make installation as easy as possible and enjoy the benefits of your padded seat, make sure you choose an appropriate model for your toilet.
Durable Material
Whether the seat is padded with gel or foam, it will usually be mounted on a wooden or plastic frame. Like any other toilet seat, this structure needs to be sturdy and durable to prevent cracks or breaks.
Regarding padding, high-density foam is preferable as it provides better weight support. Low-quality cushioning can quickly become flattened, making you feel the hard underlayer and defeating the point of buying a padded seat in the first place.
Some models are made using antimicrobial materials to keep mold and bacteria at bay.
Sturdy Hinges
Whether you live alone or as part of a large household, a toilet seat will need to be raised and lowered frequently. High-quality hinges will be able to cope with these repeated movements and securely hold the seat in place when you sit on it.
Hinges made of rust-resistant material such as brass, stainless steel, or chrome usually last longer. This is because they won’t be affected by the humidity that is often present in bathrooms, which can weaken low-quality hinges (5).
Soft Close
Cushioned seats sometimes also have a soft close feature. This slows the seat as it closes, preventing it from slamming and protecting your toilet bowl from damage. A soft-close toilet seat should last longer, as it won’t have to deal with as much impact during use.
Design and Style
The toilet is one of the main features of your bathroom, so it should complement the rest of the room on a visual level. Cushioned toilet seats are available in various designs, so you should be able to find a seat that is a traditional white, bold black, or brightly colored or patterned.
FAQs
How Long Do Soft Toilet Seats Last?
The hinges of a cushioned toilet seat will usually last between 40,000 and 55,000 openings and closings, but this can vary depending on the quality of the material and construction.
Softer padding materials are generally less durable than harder ones, while poorly constructed seats could have weak joints or hinges that shorten their lifespans. Environmental factors such as humidity and room temperature can also affect the lifespan of a padded toilet seat.
Are Toilet Seat Cushions Sanitary?
There has been a lot of debate regarding whether or not toilet seat cushions are sanitary.
Some experts believe that they become unsanitary as tiny cracks form on the surface, allowing moisture and bacteria inside. Others state that cleaning the cushion thoroughly will ensure it remains hygienic and functional.
If you are very concerned about germs and bacteria, a toilet seat cushion might not be right for you. However, if you maintain it properly and clean it regularly, you shouldn’t encounter any issues with a high-quality product.
Do Soft Toilet Seats Help Hemorrhoids?
Cushioned toilet seats help reduce pressure on the pelvic floor and encourage healthy circulation in this area. This can decrease inflammation of the blood vessels in your rear end, reducing the discomfort of hemorrhoids.
However, some argue that it is not the pressure of sitting on a standard seat that causes hemorrhoids, but differences in stool consistency or poor hygiene.
Your risk of developing hemorrhoids largely depends on other factors. Although soft toilet seats won’t help you prevent hemorrhoids, they can provide some much-needed relief for people who are already suffering from this condition.
How Do You Clean a Soft Vinyl Toilet Seat?
When cleaning soft vinyl toilet seats, avoid using any harsh or abrasive cleaning products, as these can damage the seat’s surface and lead to cracks or discoloration.
It is best to stick with mild soap and water. You can simply dampen a sponge or cloth with this solution and gently wipe the seat’s surface. You should also clean the surrounding areas, such as the top of the toilet bowl and the inside of the lid.
Some manufacturers will provide specific cleaning methods to keep your seat in pristine condition for as long as possible. For example, you might use lemon juice or white vinegar as part of your cleaning routine, as these natural ingredients can remove stains from soft vinyl without damaging it.
