Many people take important parts of their daily routine for granted. This includes tasks such as using the toilet, which can be very challenging for someone with mobility issues.
In many cases, the major obstacle that prevents people from using the toilet is the movement required to sit down and stand up. Thankfully, this can be helped by fitting a raised toilet seat, which reduces the range of motion that is required.
To help you choose from the many seats that are now available, we have reviewed seven of the best elevated toilet seats that you can buy today. We selected these seats based on their height, stability, comfort, and important accessories such as handrails.
- Fits elongated and rounded toilets
- Lightweight composite material
- Adjustable arm rests
- Durable composite material
- Easy dial tightening
- Comfortable handles
- Adds 3.5 inches
- Wide opening
- Secures at the rear
- Doesn't require fixing in place
- Holds up to 400 pounds
- 4-inch height
- Placed between toilet and seat
- Wide opening
- Padded handrails
- Dial for tightening
- Lightweight and compact
- Easy-clean surface
- Secure between seat and toilet
- Comfortable 3.75-inch height
- Easy to wipe clean
Review Methodology: At Sensible Digs, we are committed to providing you with thorough and unbiased reviews of the best elevated toilet seats. Our professional team conducts hands-on tests, comparing each product’s performance against industry standards and benchmarks. The evaluation process involves meticulous analysis and assessment, focusing on key decision-making factors such as comfort, durability, ease of installation, and user experience. We also examine the design choices of each product and their impact on users. Our in-depth research and first-hand experience ensure that our reviews and recommendations are based on facts and data, enabling you to make an informed decision.
The Best Elevated Toilet Seats of 2024
An elevated seat can transform your experience using the toilet, but there are many to choose from and it is important to find the right one. After a lot of research, we have reviewed seven of the best elevated toilet seats you can buy today, chosen for their comfort, stability, material, and any extra accessories they have.
RMS Raised Toilet Seat With Adjustable Arms
Best Elevated Toilet Seat With Handrails
This RMS seat is one of the most popular elevated models that are currently available. It raises the top of your seat significantly and has handrails for greater accessibility.
The handrails are padded and can be adjusted to make them wider or narrower. The soft non-slip padding provides a secure, comfortable grip.
Installing this seat doesn’t require any tools — simply place it on the bowl’s rim and secure it using the adjustable knob and rear wings. A weight capacity of 300 pounds and adjustable handles mean this seat will accommodate various body types.
What We Like
Fits Most Toilets
This elevated seat is compatible with most toilet bowls without requiring a complicated installation. It is suitable for both elongated and round toilets.
Lightweight and Durable
At just 7.5 pounds, this seat is lightweight enough to take wherever you need it, even on vacation. It has a weight limit of 300 pounds and is made of durable composite material, so you will be able to depend on it for many years.
Adjustable Arm Rests
The adjustable armrests make this seat more comfortable to use, and easier to get on and off. They are padded with soft foam so you can rest your arms on them comfortably. The handles can be adjusted between 18.5 and 21.5 inches to ensure you can use them comfortably.
What We Don't Like
Not Suitable for Short People
Five inches of extra height can be too much for shorter users, who can struggle to get on and off without a step. It is important to be able to place your feet on the floor while on the toilet, so this might not be the best option. Some reviewers recommend being at least 5’8″ to buy this seat.
Could Be More Secure
Despite apparently being a universal model, this seat fits some toilets better than others. Some users found that their seat was quite wobbly if they didn’t apply equal pressure to both handles when getting on and off the toilet.
Small Hole
Some customers found that the hole in the toilet seat was too small for them to use properly.
Product Specs
| Height Added | 5 inches |
| Dimensions | 18 by 17 by 9.4 inches |
| Weight Capacity | 300 pounds |
| Material | Composite |
| Included Handrails | Yes |
Our Ratings
User Experience
Vive Elevated Toilet Seat with Padded Handles
Best 5-Inch Elevated Toilet Seat
This Vive toilet seat is an excellent option if you struggle to get on or off your current seat. It adds 5 inches to any standard or elongated toilet. It is easy to install and features padded removable handles.
This seat is an excellent option for anyone recovering from an injury or surgery or who simply requires some extra assistance. The seat is protected by a limited lifetime warranty, a sign of the manufacturer’s confidence in its quality.
What We Like
Durable
Made of durable composite material, this seat can hold up to 250 pounds. It is heavy-duty and designed to be used for many years. The material has a smooth, non-porous surface that makes it easy to clean with a simple wipe-down.
Easy Installation
This seat is easily installed onto a standard or elongated toilet bowl. It will raise the top of the toilet by 5 inches, which can be very helpful for anyone who struggles with lower seats due to issues such as knee pain.
Comfortable Handles
Comfortable padded handles provide a secure grip when you need to sit down or stand up. It is also quick and easy to remove the handles if required. This seat is easy to transport thanks to its removable handles and lightweight body.
What We Don't Like
Requires a Specific Sized Rim
Although this seat will fit rounded and elongated toilet bowls, it won’t fit every rim type. It requires a 1.5-inch rim to lock securely into place. Some customers found that it was difficult or impossible to lock the seat into place on their existing toilets.
Product Specs
| Height Added | 5 inches |
| Dimensions | 20.5 by 18.2 by 7.9 inches |
| Weight Capacity | 250 pounds |
| Material | Composite |
| Included Handrails | Yes |
Our Ratings
Personal Perspective
Carex Toilet Seat Riser
Best Toilet Seat Riser
If you only want to add a few inches to the height of your toilet, this Carex toilet seat riser is an excellent option. It will raise your toilet by 3.5 inches, which can make it far more accessible for people who struggle with the 5 inches of many elevated seats.
This product is designed for elongated toilet bowls, so it is not suitable for rounded toilets. However, it is easy to install onto an elongated toilet and tightens securely at the back using the included hardware.
Unlike many elevated toilet seats, this one has a wide hole that ensures it is comfortable and resembles a standard seat. It also has a weight limit of 300 pounds, making it one of the stronger raised seats we have seen.
What We Like
Raises by a Few Inches
Adding 4 or 5 inches to your toilet might be too much, especially if you aren’t very tall. Thankfully, this seat adds a more comfortable 3.5 inches. It is easily installed onto any elongated toilet bowl.
Comfortable
Unlike many elevated toilet seats, this model has a wide hole that makes it more comfortable and easier to use, regardless of your size. It can hold weights of up to 300 pounds, so it is also relatively strong.
Secure
Many other elevated seats can only be secured from the front, but this Carex model secures at the back. You will need to use the included hardware to ensure it is properly installed.
What We Don't Like
Only for Elongated Toilets
This seat is only suitable for elongated toilets and won’t fit on standard bowls. This means it is less versatile than universal models, so it is important to measure your toilet before buying it.
Product Specs
| Height Added | 3.5 inches |
| Dimensions | 19.2 by 14 by 3.5 inches |
| Weight Capacity | 300 pounds |
| Material | Molded plastic |
| Included Handrails | No |
Our Ratings
Community Feedback
AquaSense Portable Raised Toilet Seat
Best Elevated Toilet Seat for Heavy People
This AquaSense elevated toilet seat provides unmatched portability. It is compact, lightweight, has a simple design, and doesn’t require a complicated installation.
The comfortable seat will add 4 inches to any standard bowl. It doesn’t require any tools or intricate setting up, as you simply place it on top of the toilet.
This seat can hold weights of up to 400 pounds, making it one of the strongest elevated toilet seats we have seen. AquaSense has also covered it with a limited lifetime warranty against any manufacturing defects, so this is a product you can rely on.
What We Like
Portable
Unlike other elevated toilet seats, this one doesn’t need to be attached or installed. You simply place it on top of the toilet and it is ready for use. The polyethylene material is lightweight yet durable and will sit securely on your toilet.
Strong
This seat is very strong and can hold weights of up to 400 pounds. This means you can count on it when you are feeling vulnerable, such as after surgery. It is also excellent for anyone with a condition or injury that prevents them from sitting on a low toilet.
Excellent Height
This seat makes your toilet an extra 4 inches higher. It should be easier to sit down and stand up as there will be less pressure on your knees and back.
No Handrails
Handrails can be very helpful, but they might be unnecessary and get in the way if you don’t need the support they provide. This seat has no rails, so it is as light and portable as possible.
What We Don't Like
Only for Standard Bowls
This AquaSense seat will fit many toilets but it is only suitable for standard bowls. You should look elsewhere if you have an elongated bowl.
Product Specs
| Height Added | 4 inches |
| Dimensions | 15 by 15 by 4 inches |
| Weight Capacity | 400 pounds |
| Material | Polyethylene |
| Included Handrails | No |
Our Ratings
First-Hand Impression
Essential Medical Supply Elevated Toilet Seat with Arms
Best 3.5-Inch Elevated Toilet Seat
This Essential Medical Supply seat is designed to be as accessible as possible for people with limited mobility. It is easily installed between the toilet bowl and your current toilet seat.
In addition to raising the seat by 3.5 inches, this unit adds two sturdy, padded handles that can be removed when not required. It can hold up to 300 pounds of weight.
This product includes all the necessary hardware such as screws and bolts. It will only fit elongated bowls and not rounded toilets, although a rounded option is also available.
What We Like
Secure
This toilet seat is designed to be securely attached between your toilet and its current seat. This makes it very stable as it integrates with your current setup instead of sitting on top of it.
Adds 3.5 Inches
By adding 3.5 inches, this product raises your toilet seat without making it too high, as can be the case with 4 or 5-inch elevated seats.
Comfortable
Some elevated toilet seats are uncomfortable due to them saving small holes. As this piece is installed under your current seat, the opening will stay the same size.
Padded Handrails
The handrails are padded with soft foam that provides a secure yet comfortable grip. If you only need the handles temporarily or prefer to go without them, they are easy to remove. Some customers only use one handle for a little extra support.
What We Don't Like
Poor Hardware
Some customers found that the included hardware such as the long bolt was not helpful during the installation process. You might need to drill a hole as most toilets can’t accommodate the bolt that is included in this set.
Product Specs
| Height Added | 3.5 inches |
| Dimensions | 19 by 17 by 4 inches |
| Weight Capacity | 300 pounds |
| Material | Molded plastic |
| Included Handrails | Yes |
Our Ratings
User Experience
Medline Locking Elevated Toilet Seat without Arms
Best Portable Elevated Toilet Seat
If you want to add significant height to your toilet, we recommend this elevated seat from Medline. It is easy to install and will add an impressive 5 inches to your toilet.
This seat is compact and lightweight, meaning it can be taken wherever you need it. It will fit most toilets, both standard and elongated, between 11 and 14 inches long.
Installation is very easy and won’t require any tools. You simply push it onto your toilet bowl and tighten the dial at the front to secure it. This also makes it very easy to remove the seat for cleaning.
What We Like
Simple Installation
This seat is very easy to install and remove. You simply push it down firmly, then tighten the front dial. You won’t require any tools. As it is so easy to install and remove, you will be able to clean the seat and your toilet thoroughly with minimal effort.
Portable
As this seat is lightweight and compact, it can be taken wherever it is needed. If you are going on vacation or staying with family, you won’t have to worry about a lack of accessible toilets thanks to this seat.
Easy to Clean
Hygiene is always very important and especially so for toilets. This seat’s nonporous plastic means it is easy to wipe clean and dry without the need for harsh chemicals. This will help you keep it as clean as possible.
What We Don't Like
Small Hole
The opening in this seat is quite small. This can make it slightly uncomfortable depending on the user’s size.
Product Specs
| Height Added | 5 inches |
| Dimensions | 16 by 16.5 by 5 inches |
| Weight Capacity | 350 pounds |
| Material | Plastic |
| Included Handrails | No |
Our Ratings
Personal Perspective
Nova Toilet Seat Riser
Best Budget Elevated Toilet Seat
If you want to raise your toilet seat without replacing it, this Nova toilet seat riser could be an ideal solution. It is designed to be easily installed between the toilet bowl and your current seat.
By retaining your toilet seat, you won’t have to worry about an uncomfortable seat or a small opening. However, you will benefit from an extra 3.75 inches of height, which can make your toilet far more accessible.
Everything you need is included with the riser and installation is very straightforward. There is no need for tools as the seat can be hand-tightened. This model is only for standard rounded toilets.
What We Like
Secure
This riser is designed to be installed quickly and easily under your current seat. There are large screws and washers to hold it securely in place. As it sits under your existing seat, it shouldn’t slide or wobble.
Comfortable
You won’t need to get used to sitting on a new seat or worry about a small opening. This riser simply adds 3.75 inches to the height of your current toilet. If you are happy with your seat other than its height, this product will allow you to keep it.
Easy to Clean
Thanks to its hard plastic material, this riser is very easy to clean with a quick wipe down. This will help you keep it hygienic with minimal effort
What We Don't Like
Not for All Toilets
Unfortunately, this seat isn’t suitable for all toilets. It is only for standard bowls — there is an alternate model for elongated bowls. Some customers found that it wouldn’t attach properly to their toilets.
Product Specs
| Height Added | 3.75 inches |
| Dimensions | 17 by 13.5 by 3.5 inches |
| Weight Capacity | 300 pounds |
| Material | Molded plastic |
| Included Handrails | No |
Our Ratings
Community Feedback
| Product | Best | Height Added | Dimensions | Weight Capacity | Material | Included Handrails |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| RMS Raised Toilet Seat | Handrails | 5″ | 18 x 17 x 9.4″ | 300 lbs | Composite | Yes |
| Vive Elevated Toilet Seat | 5-Inch Seat | 5″ | 20.5 x 18.2 x 7.9″ | 250 lbs | Composite | Yes |
| Carex Toilet Seat Riser | Seat Riser | 3.5″ | 19.2 x 14 x 3.5″ | 300 lbs | Molded plastic | No |
| AquaSense Portable Raised Toilet Seat | Heavy People | 4″ | 15 x 15 x 4″ | 400 lbs | Polyethylene | No |
| Essential Medical Supply Toilet Seat | 3.5-Inch Seat | 3.5″ | 19 x 17 x 4″ | 300 lbs | Molded plastic | Yes |
| Medline Locking Elevated Toilet Seat | Portable | 5″ | 16 x 16.5 x 5″ | 350 lbs | Plastic | No |
| Nova Toilet Seat Riser | Budget Seat | 3.75″ | 17 x 13.5 x 3.5″ | 300 lbs | Molded plastic | No |
What Is an Elevated Toilet Seat?
An elevated toilet seat is a toilet seat that is designed to be higher than standard. This might be a seat designed to be installed on top of your current one, or simply a seat that is thicker than usual. Elevated toilet seats generally range between 3 and 5 inches and are usually made of molded plastic or composite.
Raising the level of a toilet seat can be very helpful for people who struggle to sit on a standard seat, particularly the movement involved with sitting down and standing up. As the seat is higher, the range of motion required is smaller.
People who can benefit from an elevated toilet seat include the elderly and anyone recovering from an injury or surgery. Women who have recently given birth might also find it easier to sit down or get up with a raised seat during their recovery.
How to Choose an Elevated Toilet Seat
You will have many elevated toilet seats to choose from, so it is important to know what to look for. Here are some of the most important things to consider when choosing which seat to buy:
Height
Perhaps the most important aspect of a raised toilet seat is its height. These seats are usually between 3 and 5 inches thick. However, it is important to consider how tall you are and how high your toilet is.
Adding 5 inches to an already tall commode can be counterproductive and make it difficult to get onto the toilet. This largely depends on the height of the person or people who will use it, as you want to make it easier to use the toilet rather than harder.
On the other hand, if you don’t add enough height, it won’t serve its purpose. If your seat is too low, it can place more pressure on your back and knees when you sit down and stand up.
Handrails
Some elevated toilet seats feature handrails for even greater accessibility. Handrails can provide some much-needed support to individuals who would otherwise struggle to get on and off the toilet without assistance. It is essential that the handrails are made using a strong material, such as aluminum.
Handrails can also be padded to provide extra grip and make them more comfortable to hold. Some handrails are removable, which is useful if you only need them due to a short-term issue such as recovering from surgery. Some users prefer to use one handle instead of both for various reasons, including limited space in their bathroom.
Fit
Toilet seats usually come in standard sizes, but they aren’t one-size-fits-all. This is why it is important to measure your toilet’s dimensions to ensure it will match your toilet. Toilets are generally either rounded or have an elongated oval shape.
A rounded toilet seat won’t fit properly on an elongated bowl and vice versa. If you find a seat that is stated to be suitable for both types, check its length and whether or not it can be adjusted.
Stability
Stability is essential with any toilet seat and this is also true if the seat is elevated. A seat that wobbles or slides when you get on or off can be hazardous for its user.
Some elevated seats have a dial on the front that can be turned to tighten the seat. Others will have hardware at the rear that you will need to attach. However, most modern seats can be installed easily and don’t require any tools.
A key part of stability is choosing the right size seat for your toilet. Measure your toilet before buying a seat to ensure it can be installed safely. Some seats will need to be attached under the bowl’s rim, while others need a flat rim.
Comfort
Toilet seats vary significantly in how much comfort they provide. Some seats are made of very hard material or have a small hole, which can make them uncomfortable to sit on.
One option is to purchase a seat riser. These are designed to be installed under your current seat. They simply add a few extra inches to the height of your seat without having to buy a replacement.
FAQs
How High Should a Raised Toilet Seat Be?
How high your raised toilet seat should be will depend on your height and how high your toilet bowl is. If you are taller than about 5’8″, you could raise your seat by 4 or 5 inches to minimize the range of motion required to sit down and stand up. On the other hand, if you are shorter, you should look for a height of about 3.5 inches, as you don’t want your seat to be too high to sit on comfortably.
Does Medicare Pay for a Raised Toilet Seat?
Medicare doesn’t pay for elevated toilet seats, despite the benefits they can have for people suffering from injuries or mobility issues. This is because an elevated toilet seat isn’t considered a necessity, but more of a personal convenience. However, some medical centers will provide you with a seat if required.
How Do You Clean an Elevated Toilet Seat?
Elevated toilet seats are generally quite easy to clean. Most seats are made of nonporous plastic, with a smooth surface that makes them easy to wipe clean. A reliable formula to clean and sanitize a seat is by mixing one part bleach with 10 parts water, then simply wiping the seat and rinsing it.
As these seats are designed with limited mobility in mind, they can usually be easily detached from the toilet without tools. This will allow you to clean the toilet thoroughly without needing to crouch or kneel.
When Should You Use a Raised Toilet Seat?
Raised toilet seats are designed to help people with difficulty sitting down and standing up from conventional toilets. This can be a problem for those with limited mobility or older people with diminishing strength or balance.
Using a raised toilet seat can make it easier to use the bathroom and prevent falls and other injuries related to getting up and down. Different types of raised toilet seats are available, including those that clamp onto your existing toilet seat and models that fit over the entire bowl.
How Much Weight Can a Raised Toilet Seat Hold?
Regarding weight capacity, most seats can hold between 200 and 300 pounds without problems. Some bariatric models can support up to 500 pounds in weight.
This is due to the sturdy construction of these seats, designed to support even heavy individuals without buckling under the weight.
Additionally, many raised toilet seats come with built-in handles that help you get up and down safely, making them an ideal choice for those with reduced mobility.
How Do I Keep My Raised Toilet Seat from Sliding?
When using a raised toilet seat, one of the main challenges you may face is the tendency of your seat to slide around. This is frustrating and makes it difficult to position yourself properly on the seat.
Fortunately, there are a few different strategies that you can use to help keep your seat securely in place. One option is stabilizers or grippers that clamp onto your toilet or the sides of your raised seat, effectively anchoring it.
You can also try adding additional weight to your toilet seat by filling it with water or sandbags, which will help to increase its overall stability. Additionally, some people have successfully added non-slip rubber inserts to the bottom of their raised seats.
Do You Need a Raised Toilet Seat After Knee Replacement?
While it may seem like a minor concern compared to your mobility and other aspects of recovery, many people wonder whether or not they will need an elevated toilet seat after their procedure.
Generally speaking, the answer depends on various factors, including your specific needs, body type, and surgical technique.
usually, a raised toilet seat may be necessary to ensure you can use the bathroom without experiencing pain or discomfort. At the same time, in other situations, it may simply be an option that allows you greater freedom of movement.
What Is the Best Raised Toilet Seat for Hip Replacement?
The Essential Medical Supply Elevated Toilet Seat is your best option when you’ve suffered a hip replacement surgery and have limited mobility.
It provides a rise of 3.5 inches, and you don’t have to give up the comfort of your toilet seat when you use this product because it installs beneath your existing seat. It is possible to attach it securely under your seat.
The heavy-duty arms will assist you in pushing off the toilet from a seated position, lowering yourself down easily, and providing you with something to lean on when you are seated.
If there are any remaining stains, you don’t need to worry about them because the plastic molded rail can be cleaned with any regular home cleaner.
