Toilet seats need to be durable, hygienic, and, depending on your priorities, visually appealing. Although the majority of modern seats tick these boxes, they aren’t always made with heavier users in mind.
Most toilet seats are unable to hold weights exceeding 300 to 400 pounds (1), which can make them dangerous for many people. Thankfully, some toilet seats are designed for people who weigh more than this, so you will be able to use the toilet with confidence that your seat will be able to support you.
To help you find the right seat for your bathroom, we have reviewed six of the best toilet seats for heavy people. We chose these seats based on their stability, strength, and visual design.
- Ergonomic design
- Holds up to 1,200lb
- High-quality ABS plastic
- Hygienic ABS plastic
- Holds up to 1,200lb
- Universal fittings
- Elongated design
- A breeze to install
- STA-TITE fastening system
- Soft-close lid
- 100% polypropylene plastic
- Widely compatible
- Ergonomic shape
- High-grade polypropylene
- Slow-close lid
- Polypropylene shell
- Simple four-step installation
- Available in four colors
Product Reviews
You will have a lot of options to choose from when looking for a seat, which is why we have reviewed six of the best toilet seats for heavy people. These seats are high-quality, ergonomic, and made to last, so you can be confident that they will be safe to use.
Big John 1-W Oversized Toilet Seat
Best Quality Seat
The Big John 1-W toilet seat is renowned for being high-quality, which is no surprise for one of the leading names in heavy-duty seats. It combines an ergonomic design with excellent durability, so you will be able to count on the comfort it provides for many years.
This large-framed toilet seat has a weight limit of 1,200 pounds, more than enough to comfortably hold even the heaviest users. It is also two inches higher than the average seat, making it easier to stand up after use.
The material used is high-quality injection molded ABS plastic. Its bumpers are resistant to chemicals, so you will be able to clean them thoroughly without worrying about causing damage.
What We Like
Ergonomic Design
The Big John 1-W’s ergonomic 19-inch-wide design makes it far more comfortable than most toilet seats. It has a contoured surface that prevents discomfort while sitting on it. The wide surface is more than 4 inches wider than the average toilet seat.
Raised Design
The 1-W is two inches higher than a standard toilet seat. This places less of a strain on your muscles when sitting down or standing up, making it more user-friendly.
Strength and Durability
This seat is very strong and durable. It can hold as much as 1,200 pounds thanks to its high-quality construction, making it one of the strongest seats we have seen.
High-Grade Materials
Big John has used plastic injection molding to create this high-grade ABS plastic seat. This technique allows for greater concentration and complex design (2). It also enhances seat strength and durability.
The chemically-resistant synthetic rubber bumpers dramatically reduce the possibility of the seat moving or sliding during use.
What We Don't Like
Installation
This seat can be quite difficult to install, so you might need to ask for professional help or turn to a friend with some DIY experience.
Product Specs
Size | 19 inches wide |
Material | ABS plastic, synthetic rubber |
Color/finish | White |
Warranty | 12 months |
Tools for installation | Wrench or pliers |
Our Ratings
Big John 3-W Oversized Open Front Toilet Seat
Most User-Friendly Seat
Unlike Big John’s 1-W Oversized toilet seat, the 3-W model has an open front that makes it more hygienic and comfortable for many users. Regardless of its different design, the 3-W has the same strength, stability, and durability you expect from one of the leading names in heavy-duty toilet seats.
Surveys have found that open-front toilet seats can be more comfortable, particularly for women. The seat can hold 1,200 pounds, so it will be more than strong enough to hold even the heaviest users.
This seat has universal fittings, so it should be suitable for almost any standard modern toilet. These fittings are made of stainless steel, which means they should stay in top condition for several years. This quality is reflected by Big John’s lifetime warranty.
What We Like
Intuitive Design
This model’s contoured open-front design provides a more hygienic bathroom experience. Many women find that an open-front toilet seat is more intuitively designed for their comfort.
Another convenient aspect of the 3-W toilet seat is its universal fit. It will fit the vast majority of standard toilets, so you shouldn’t need to replace the rest of your toilet to accommodate it.
Excellent Construction
This seat has stainless steel fittings, resulting in a secure and long-lasting product. When combined with its high-grade ABS plastic and stabilizing rubber bumpers, you should feel very secure while sitting on your toilet.
The 3-W can hold about 1,200 pounds of weight, which means it will comfortably cope with even the largest users. Overall, this is a tough, durable model that you will be able to depend on.
What We Don't Like
Not for Everyone
The open-front design doesn’t work for every reviewer. Consider whether or not this seat’s shape appeals to you before you buy it.
Product Specs
Size | 19 inches wide |
Material | ABS plastic |
Colour/ finish | White |
Warranty | Lifetime warranty |
Tools for installation | Wrench or pliers |
Our Ratings
Bemis 7800TDG 000 Plastic Toilet Seat Elongated
Most Sustainable Design
Bemis has a mission statement to offer “quality innovative products for everyday life” and that is reflected in this elongated toilet seat. The brand’s products are made in the United States with the environment considered throughout the manufacturing process.
This seat uses the company’s hollow core plastic design. The white plastic is also commercial grade, making it sturdy, easy to clean, and very resistant to stains.
This product contains three matching Bemis toilet seats, so it is an excellent option if you want to upgrade your seats in a multi-bathroom home or commercial property.
What We Like
Elongated Design
Whether you want it for commercial or residential use, the Bemis 7800TDG 000 has a sleek design that will look at home in the majority of bathrooms. It provides extra space and comfort, particularly for larger adults.
Modern System
Bemis has fitted this seat with the STA-TITE fastening system, which makes installation very straightforward. The seat is compatible with leading toilet brands such as Kohler and American Standard.
A Breeze to Install
A plus point with this item is that the installation is amazingly straightforward. This makes it an excellent option if you are living independently.
What We Don't Like
Unsuitable for Children
This toilet seat’s elongated design means it is more comfortable for large adults but it is unsuitable for children as a consequence. If you have young children or are planning to start a family, you should look elsewhere.
Product Specs
Size | Elongated design — 18.5 inches length |
Material | Injection mold solid plastic, stainless steel, earth-friendly materials |
Color/finish | White |
Warranty | One-year warranty |
Tools for installation | Wrench or pliers |
Our Ratings
Bath Royale Premium Round Toilet Seat
Best Quality Product
This premium round toilet seat was created by Bath Royale, a small, family-owned company based in the United States. Reviewers praise the company’s customer service, so you will be able to get help and advice.
The seat features a soft-close lid, so you won’t damage it if you accidentally drop the lid. This can also be helpful if you struggle to bend down to close the lid, as you won’t need to move it all the way yourself.
Polypropylene plastic reduces the seat’s maintenance requirements as it is resistant to stains and won’t absorb dirt. You will be able to use the majority of cleaning products on it, so it is easy to clean it when required.
What We Like
User-Friendly
A soft-close lid and secure fastening feature will prevent the noise and potential damage caused by accidentally slamming the toilet’s lid. It also means you won’t need to bend down as far if you want to close the lid, as it will protect itself.
Construction
This seat’s 100% polypropylene plastic makes cleaning quicker and easier. It is non-staining, non-absorbant, and chemical-resistant, so the surface should wipe clean easily. The material also acts as a thermal insulator, so it will be far more comfortable when cold, compared to lower-quality plastics.
Versatile
The fittings are widely compatible with top toilet brands such as American Standard, Kohler, and Toto. You won’t need to buy a new toilet to accompany this seat. It is available in elongated and round shapes, so you should be able to find an ideal model for your toilet.
Sleek Design
This toilet seat has a sleek modern design with high-quality mounting hardware. These are available in polished chrome or even color-matched.
Customer Support
Even the best products can be let down by bad customer service. Thankfully, Bath Royale has an excellent reputation for providing customer support.
What We Don't Like
Unsuitable for Bidets
This toilet seat is incompatible with a bidet. Some owners also report that abrasive items can damage the seat’s high-gloss finish, so be careful when choosing a cleaning product and tool.
Size
Some customers say this seat will stick out from the side of the toilet if you don’t choose the specific size and shape for your unit. Measure your toilet carefully to ensure this doesn’t happen.
Product Specs
Size | 16.5 x 14 x 2 inches |
Material | Polypropylene |
Color/ finish | White, linen, almond colors. High-gloss finish |
Warranty | Two-year warranty |
Tools for installation | Wrench or pliers |
Our Ratings
Elongated Slow Close Seat and Cover
Easiest Installation
This is an excellent toilet seat at an affordable price. It has been designed with comfort in mind, with an elongated shape that makes it ideal for larger adults.
As well as being comfortable, it is also sturdy with high-quality polypropylene material. At a net weight of just over 4 pounds, it is one of the heavier plastic seats we have seen.
It has a soft-close lid that prevents slamming, so you won’t need to worry about damaging it or accidentally making noise in the middle of the night. The material is also anti-bacterial and easy to clean, making it a hygienic option.
What We Like
Ergonomic Shape
This seat’s elongated concave shape is designed to fit your hips more comfortably, making it a great option for heavier people.
High-Quality Construction
The plastic in this seat is high-grade polypropylene, a durable and non-toxic material (3). It is reusable and also acts as a thermal insulator.
Slow-Close
This seat’s lid has a built-in slow-close feature. It ensures the lid closes slowly and gently instead of slamming shut, preventing noise and protecting the seat and toilet from damage.
What We Don't Like
Possible Discomfort
Despite being designed to provide extra comfort, some users find that the seat’s concave shape results in greater discomfort than a standard flat seat.
Product Specs
Size | Length 18.5 x Width 14″ x Mounting hole distance 5.5″ |
Material | Polypropylene |
Color/ finish | White, high-gloss finish |
Warranty | Not specified |
Tools for installation | Wrench |
Our Ratings
Centoco 900-001 Elongated Wooden Toilet Seat
Best Wooden Toilet Seat
Although ABS plastic is the most popular material for strong toilet seats, it isn’t the only one. The Centoco 900-001 is made of thick molded polypropylene over a wooden core. The wood won’t crack, chip, dent, flatten, flake, fade or peel so you can be confident that this seat is very durable.
The polypropylene shell is a high-gloss scratch-resistant material. It won’t stain or discolor and its smooth finish makes it very easy to clean.
This Centoco toilet seat’s material makes it a hygienic option. It is non-porous so it won’t harbor bacteria or absorb chemicals in cleaning products.
What We Like
High-Quality Design
In addition to the polypropylene shell and wooden core, this product has a high-quality design. It has an ergonomic shape that is ideal for elongated toilet seats, but there is also a round version. The hinges will absorb impacts to protect them from cracks or breaks.
There are also permanent bumpers that will stay sanitary if cleaned, without needing to remove them.
Easy to Install
The Centoco toilet seat has a simple installation process with four steps that should only require a couple of minutes to complete. The majority of people will be able to do it themselves without professional assistance.
Color Options
This toilet seat is available in four colors: white, crane white, biscuit, and bone. This will help you coordinate it with the rest of your bathroom. You can buy a seat individually or in a pack of six, ideal if you are renovating a commercial property.
What We Don't Like
Hinges May Come Loose
Although the seat itself is very durable, some customers have found the hinges to be unreliable. It is important to note that the weight limit of this seat is 300 pounds, much lower than some of our other recommendations.
Product Specs
Size | 18.5 inches |
Material | Polypropylene shell over wood core |
Color/ finish | White, crane white, biscuit, or bone |
Warranty | One year |
Tools for installation | Screwdriver |
Our Ratings
Product | Best | Size | Material | Color/finish | Warranty | Installation Tools |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Big John 1-W Toilet Seat | Quality Seat | 19″ (W) | ABS plastic, synthetic rubber | White | 12 mos | Wrench / pliers |
Big John 3-W Open Front Seat | User-Friendly | 19″ (W) | ABS plastic | White | Lifetime | Wrench / pliers |
Bemis 7800TDG 000 Toilet Seat | Sustainable Design | 18.5″ (L) | Solid plastic, stainless steel | White | 1-year | Wrench / pliers |
Bath Royale Round Toilet Seat | Quality | 16.5″ x 14″ x 2″ | Polypropylene | 3 colors. High-gloss finish | 2-year | Wrench / pliers |
Elongated Toilet Seat | Easiest Installation | 18.5 (L) x 14 (W) | Polypropylene | White, high-gloss finish | Not specified | Wrench |
Centoco 900-001 | Wooden | 18.5″ | Polypropylene shell over wood core | 4 colors. High-gloss finish. | 1-year | Screw driver |
Things to Consider
When choosing a toilet seat, the material, size, and shape will usually be your main priorities. However, if you need a stronger seat, you will need to pay extra attention to its durability. Keep the following factors in mind while shopping:
Design
Ensure that the seat is designed to be comfortable to sit on. Consider choosing a raised toilet seat design, as you won’t need to move as far to sit down or stand up.
Studies shared by the U.S. National Library of Medicine found that a raised toilet seat reduces muscle activity (4), making them more user-friendly than standard toilet seats.
Stability
It is important to choose a stable seat, both to make it more secure and to reduce the strain placed on its hinges, which can break if the seat moves too much. The seat’s bumpers are the part between the toilet seat and bowl, protecting both parts and providing stability.
If you need your seat to hold more weight, it is better to have as many rubber bumpers as possible. Higher quality material will reduce unwanted movement and unsteadiness.
Construction
Cheap toilet seats are usually made of low-quality plastic. However, an effective seat for a heavier person should be made of high-grade ABS plastic. This will strengthen the seat and reduce the chance of it cracking or breaking during use (5).
You should also try to choose a seat with stainless steel hinges and heavy-duty bolts. These will allow you to use your seat with confidence that its essential parts will hold the unit together.
Installation
You need to ensure that your toilet seat will fit your toilet bowl. Many seats will fit both round and elongated toilets. Most toilet seat fittings are now standardized but it is important to check, especially if you have an older toilet model in your home.
Tips for Installing a Toilet Seat
- Compatibility: Ensure that your toilet seat will be compatible with the existing toilet. This means both being the right size and having fixtures appropriate for your toilet.
- Customer Service: Read customer reviews to get a sense of the company’s customer support in case anything goes wrong.
- Weight limit: Check that the toilet seat is guaranteed to support your weight, especially if you weigh more than 300lb.
- Installation: Make sure you have the tools required to install the product quickly and easily.
- Hiring: Consider whether or not you will be able to install the toilet seat yourself or will need to hire a professional. Most seats are simple to install but some heavy-duty models are more complicated.
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