Best Raised Toilet Seat for Seniors
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Difficulty using the toilet is an all too common problem for users who have undergone recent surgery such as a hip or knee replacement, or for anyone with impaired mobility or those that may suffer with balance issues.
A toilet that is positioned too low to the ground can mean that the user may struggle to sit or stand while going to the bathroom which can prove both uncomfortable and dangerous. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention around 235,000 individuals every year over the age of 15 visit hospital with bathroom related injuries. 14% of these bathroom injuries are caused while going to the toilet and the age group that is most affected are seniors.
A raised toilet seat or also known as a toilet riser is a simple but effective bathroom aid that can help someone who may struggle to sit or stand-up from a traditional toilet seat. It helps to elevate the height of a toilet allowing someone to sit down more easily and stand up afterwards without struggling. They can allow someone to use the toilet more comfortably and it can help them to retain their independence and dignity and importantly it can reduce the risk of falls and injuries.
In this article we will help you understand what you need to consider before purchasing a raised toilet seat and what the best ones are currently on the market.
Raised Toilet Seat Comparison Chart
Yunga Tart Raised Toilet Seat | Carex Hinged Raised Toilet Seat | PCP Raised Toilet Seat With Safety Frame | PCP Padded Raised Toilet Seat | Vive Toilet Raised Seat with Handles (3.5”) | Vaunn Medical Raised Toilet Seat with Handles (4”) | Vive Raised Toilet Seat with Handles (5”) | |
  |   |   |   |   |   |   | |
Suitable for Bowl Shape | Round or Elongated | Elongated | Round or Elongated | Round or Elongated | Separate Round and Elongated Models | Round or Elongated | Round or Elongated |
Elevation Increase | 4" | 3.5" | Adjustable in 1" intervals | 2" | 3.5" | 4" | 5" |
Weight Capacity | 275 lbs | 300 lbs | 275 lbs | Suitable for most weights | 300 lbs | 250 lbs | 250 lbs |
Does existing toilet seat need to be removed? | No | Yes | No | No | Yes | No | No |
Does it have arms? | No | No | Has height-adjustable frame | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Are arms removal? | Yes | Yes | Yes | ||||
How does it attach? | Sits directly on toilet rim with the seat lid and cover raised | Bolts to the toilet | Sits directly over toilet with seat lid and cover raised | Attached to the existing toilet seat using Velcro fastening straps | Installs under the toilet seat | Sits directly on toilet rim with the seat lid and cover raised and attaches with knob | Sits directly on toilet rim with the seat lid and cover raised and attaches with knob |
Tool free installation? | Yes | Screwdriver required | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Price |
What is a Raised Toilet Seat/Toilet Riser?
A raised toilet seat or toilet riser fits on top of a toilet bowl and helps to elevate the height of a traditional toilet. It allows a user to sit down more easily and stand up afterwards without struggling. It can help to promote a more comfortable posture and reduce excessive straining.
Users who may benefit from using a raised toilet seat include:
- Individuals who have recently undergone surgery such as a hip or knee replacement
- Users with impaired mobility such as arthritis sufferers, stroke sufferers or users with reduced lower body strength
- Users with balance issues who are unsteady on their feet
- Wheelchair users who may find a conventional toilet seat too low when transitioning from their wheelchair to a toilet
Raised toilet seats come in a range of different heights, ranging from 2 to 6 inches. They come in two different shapes, round and elongated to fit the corresponding toilet bowl shape. Some models are even suitable for either type of toilet bowl.
There are a wide variety of toilet seats on the market including ones with arms or frames for extra support and safety, padded ones for improved comfort and bariatric ones for heavier users.
Do I Need a Raised Toilet Seat?
Determining whether you may require a raised toilet seat or not is relatively straighforward. Sit down on your toilet and observe whether your knees and hips are level.
If your knees and hips are not at the same height, it may mean that your toilet is too low for you and may therefore benefit from using a raised toilet seat.
Types of Raised Toilet Seats
There are a wide variety of raised toilet seats to suit all types of needs. The most common ones include:
Raised Seat with Arms or Frame
Some models come fitted with either arms or a frame. These are usually recommended for anyone that suffers with balance issues or may have reduced lower body strength and may need additional support when getting on and off the toilet. Not only do they provide additional support so that users can sit and stand unassisted but they can also help to prevent slips and falls.
Raised toilet seats that come fitted with a frame, usually fit around the toilet. The frame is height adjustable to suit the user’s particular needs.
For ones fitted with arms, these usually attach to the side of the seat. The armrests usually feature ergonomically designed handles that are easy to grip and on some models the armrests are detachable.
Padded Raised Toilet Seat
A good alternative for users who are susceptible to pressure sores or for anyone that may find a standard plastic toilet seat a little too hard, is a padded toilet seat. They help to relieve the pressure while the user remains seated.
Padded seats are usually constructed from durable but comfortable padded foam and they are covered by easy to clean vinyl.
Bariatric Raised Toilet Seats
Standard raised toilet seats have an average weight capacity of 250 lbs. For larger individuals, bariatric models are available which are sturdier and can bear more weight.
Raised Contoured Seat
For increased comfort some toilet seats have a contoured surface which helps to relieve pressure when the user is seated. To help with rear personal hygiene, some models may also have a cut-out section in the front or back for easy wiping.
Slopped seats are also available, these are recommended for users who have reduced lower strength or may suffer with painful hips. These type of seats slope downwards slightly from back to front and they help to reduce the strain on the user’s legs, knees and hips when sitting down or getting up.
What Height Toilet Seat Should I Get?
Choosing the correct fit toilet seat for a user is vital. Choosing one that is either too high or too low can mean that they will need to adopt an unnatural posture which may prove uncomfortable as well as dangerous.
To determine the correct height for the toilet seat that the user requires, simply follow these steps:
- Get the user to stand up and measure from the ground to the back of their knee.
- Now, measure from the ground to the height of the existing toilet seat.
- Finally, subtract both measurements. The difference is the correct height for the toilet seat that the user will require.
Factors to Consider When Buying a Raised Toilet Seat
Before purchasing a raised toilet seat, consider these important factors:
Do You Require a Permanent or Portable Toilet Seat?
If you suffer from a temporary condition or you share a bathroom with someone else who may not require the use of a raised toilet seat, you may want to opt for a portable seat. These ones can easily be removed or installed when needed.
Choose one that clamps onto the toilet bowl or one that fits using hook and loop straps and that requires no additional tools to install instead of one that replaces the existing toilet seat as these will require less work to install and remove.
If on the other hand you’re suffering from long-term disability, you’ll probably want to opt for a permanent solution. While permanent seats will often require more work to install and they may require having to remove the existing toilet seat off, they will offer better stability and improved safety and the locking mechanism is less likely to come undone.
What is the Shape of Your Toilet Bowl?
Is your toilet bowl round or is it elongated? Depending on the shape, some seats are especially designed for particular toilets. For example, some seats are only suitable for round or elongated shaped bowls while others are compatible for either type.
If the raised seat does not fit correctly on your toilet, it can mean it will be unstable and it can prove dangerous so always check that the seat is compatible for your toilet shape.
Do You Have Sufficient Space to Install One?
Are you installing a raised toilet seat in a confined area, are there walls close by to the toilet?
Depending on the raised toilet seat that you choose, you will need to check that it will fit so it’s important to measure the available space. For example, if you’re looking to install one with a frame or one that it fitted with arms, check that you have sufficient space either side of the toilet and there are no obstructions on the floor such as pipes.
What Seat Material Do You Require?
If you find sitting on a plastic seat uncomfortable or you may suffer from pressure sores, you will probably want to choose a padded seat that is made from foam which is comfortable to sit on.
If the on the other hand, you don’t mind sitting on a harder seat, you can opt for one made from plastic which are usually more durable. Some seats also come with a contoured surface for increased comfort.
What Weight Capacity is Required?
Heavier users will want to opt for a bariatric model, these have a higher weight capacity and will be safer for larger individuals. For users under 250 lbs, a standard raised toilet seat should be sufficient.
What Seat Height Do You Require?
It is crucial to determine the correct height seat that you will require. Follow the steps covered in our “How to Find the Perfect Fit Raised Toilet Seat?” section to find out the height that you will require.
Top Raised Toilet Seat Reviews
1. Yunga Tart Raised Toilet Seat
Yunga Tart Raised Toilet Seat
An economical seat that is both durable and lightweight and is perfect for anyone who is recovering from recent surgery and requires a raised toilet seat for temporary use.
If you’re looking for an economical raised toilet seat maybe for temporarily use while you recover from recent surgery then the model from Yunga Tart is definitely one to consider. The seat is suitable for both round and elongated toilets and provides a 4″ elevation.
Installing the seat is a breeze and requires no additional tools, simply raise your toilet seat and cover and place it over the toilet rim. The seat is fitted with four non-slid pads at the base which helps keep it stable and stops it from moving.
The seat is contoured for increased comfort and it has a front and back recess for easy wiping. It only weighs 2.9 lbs so it’s ideal if you want to use it elsewhere. Despite it being lightweight it has a weight capacity of 275 pounds which should be suitable for most users.
Key Specs:
- Suitable for round or elongated toilets
- 4″ elevation
- Weight capacity of 275 lbs
- Sits directly on toilet rim with the seat lid and cover raised
- Tool-free installation
- Seat constructed from molded plastic
2. Carex Hinged Raised Toilet Seat
Carex Hinged Raised Toilet Seat
If you’re conscious of using a raised toilet seat then this is the one to get. Due to its hinged design, your existing toilet seat and lid will sit over the riser so it won’t look out of place in your bathroom.
The raised toilet seat from Carex has a hinged seat design which is perfect for easy cleaning. It is suitable for elongated toilets and has a 3.5″ elevation and weight capacity of 300 lbs. With this model of raised riser, your existing toilet seat and lid sits over it which means it won’t look out of place in a bathroom.
In order to install the seat, you will need to remove your existing toilet seat although it’s a relatively straightforward process. Simply remove your current seat and lid with a screwdriver and place the Carex seat riser over the rim of the toilet. Next, place your existing toilet seat and lid over the riser and insert the washer and bolt through the holes. Finally, add the plastic washer and wing nut under the toilet bowl and tighten in order to secure.
Key Specs:
- Suitable for elongated toilets
- 3.5″ elevation
- Weight capacity of 300 lbs
- Existing toilet seat and lid needs to be removed for installation
- Requires screwdriver for installation
- Seat constructed from molded plastic
3. PCP Raised Toilet Seat with Safety Frame
PCP Raised Toilet Seat with Safety Frame
The toilet seat and frame is suitable for users who require extra support when getting on and off the toilet. As it’s comes pre-assembled installing it is a breeze and it is suitable for narrow bathroom configurations.
The PCP toilet seat and safety frame is a two-in-one device. It is perfect for anyone who requires extra leverage when sitting or standing from a toilet or for anyone who is unsteady and requires support when going to the bathroom.
The raised toilet seat comes pre-assembled so installing it is a breeze. Simply sit the toilet riser over the toilet bowl and that is all that is required. The frame is constructed from lightweight but sturdy aluminium which means it is portable and it is perfect if you want to move it between bathrooms and it can be removed easily when not in use.
The seat is height adjustable and can be adjusted easily in 1″ intervals to accommodate different needs and it also features a handy splash guard. The width between the frame handles is 17″ which means it fits perfectly in tight spaces and it is suitable for all types of toilet bowl shapes and sizes.
While the raiser seat should be suitable for most users, it might be a bit narrow for a larger person especially as the frame handles are not adjustable.
Key Specs:
- Suitable for round or elongated toilets
- Toilet seat comes integrated with a aluminium height-adjustable frame
- Seat height can be adjusted in 1″ intervals
- Weight capacity of 275 lbs
- Tool-free installation
4. PCP Padded Raised Toilet Seat
PCP Padded Raised Toilet Seat
The seat is perfect for anyone who suffers with pressure sores, the seat is extremely comfortable to use and it’s easy to fit and due to its lightweight nature it’s very portable.
The foam padded toilet seat from PCP is suitable for users who may find a plastic seat too uncomfortable or for anyone that suffers with painful pressure sores. The lightweight seat attaches to an existing toilet seat (suitable for elongated and round shape toilets) using its easy to use Velcro fastening straps, installing one can be done in less than 30 seconds.
The padded seat features a vinyl cover which is easy to keep clean. It has a front cut-out section which allows for easier wiping. Being extremely lightweight and portable and due to its simple fastening mechanism, the seat is perfect for anyone that wants to use it while they are out and about or while they are traveling.
Key Specs:
- Suitable for round or elongated toilets
- 2″ elevation
- Tool-free installation
- Attached to seat with Velcro fastening straps
- Seat constructed from foam padding with vinyl cover
5. Vive Toilet Raised Seat with Handles (3.5”)
Vive Toilet Raised Seat with Handles
With its 300 weight capacity and soft non-slip grip handles this is an ideal seat riser for bariatric users.
The seat riser with integrated handles from Vive elevates your toilet by 3.5″. It available in two models, one for elongated bowl-shaped toilets and the other for round bowl-shaped toilets.
The grip handles are padded with soft non-slip foam which will help anyone that requires additional support when using the toilet. The handles can easily be removed if required. Larger individuals do not need to worry as the width between the handles are a substantial 22″ which means users won’t be restricted when using the seat. It is extremely durable and it has a hefty weight capacity of 300 lbs.
You will need to remove your existing toilet seat to fit the riser, installing it though is relatively straightforward (as demonstrated in the following video) and it comes with all the screws and washers that you will need.
As you’re installing it under your existing toilet seat, the riser it less likely to move about especially as it features slip resistant strips which helps to keep it in place so it should prove more stable and it is less likely to move about.
Key Specs:
- Round or elongated models available
- 3.5″ elevation
- Weight capacity of 300 lbs
- Has foam padded removal handles
- Tool-free installation
- Installs under existing toilet seat
6. Vaunn Medical Raised Toilet Seat with Handles (4”)
Vaunn Medical Raised Toilet Seat with Handles (4”)
A seat riser perfect for anyone that requires some extra support and that is easy to install and who is looking for a comfortable seat.
If you’re looking for an easy to install raised toilet seat that is comfortable to use and that has handles then the one from Vaunn Medical is definitely recommended.
The seat provides a 4″ elevation boost to a standard toilet. The high-quality seat features a contoured design with a wider sized seat which not only means it is extremely comfortable to use but it is also extremely stable.
It requires no tools to install, the locking mechanism on the seat means you can easily secure it to any toilet bowl shape and size and the anti-slip features will keep it in place securely. The seat has a front recess to allow for easy access and the seat has anti-bacterial properties which is handy.
The riser only weighs 5 lbs so it’s light enough to easily remove and it’s ideal if you want to take it with when you go traveling or when you’re out and about.
The padded handles are easy to grip and provide extra safety to users who may be unsteady on their feet or require extra support. The width between the arms is 19″ which is not too restrictive and therefore should be suitable for most users. The handles can be removed easily with just a simple button click if they’re not needed.
Key Specs:
- Suitable for round or elongated toilets
- 4″ elevation
- Weight capacity of 250 lbs
- Has foam padded removal handles
- Tool-free installation
7. Vive Raised Toilet Seat with Handles (5”)
Vive Raised Toilet Seat with Handles (5 “)
A well-constructed seat, that is easy to install and will provide a generous 5″ elevation and comes with a lifetime guarantee.
If you’re looking for toilet seat that will provides a generous height boost to your toilet then we would recommend that you check out the quality riser from Vive.
The Vive seat which is suitable for both round and elongated toilets will provide a 5″ elevation. It’s ideal for anyone that needs that extra elevation when sitting and standing while going to the toilet.
There is no need to remove your existing toilet seat to install the riser. To install it simply raise your existing seat and lid and place it over the bowl and then secure it using the adjustable knob and the locking plate will help keep it in place.
The toilet seat is contoured for increased comfort and it features padded non-slip grip handles which can be removed if needed. The seat is extremely well constructed and it supports weights up to 250 lbs. For peace of mind, Vive offers a lifetime guarantee which is what we like to see on products that we review.
Key Specs:
- Suitable for round or elongated toilets
- 5″ elevation
- Weight capacity of 250 lbs
- Has foam padded removal handles
- Tool-free installation
- Molded plastic seat
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are few common questions regarding raised toilet seats which we will help answer:
How to fit a raised toilet seat?
Depending on the raised toilet seat that you select, it may just require a tool-free installation, such as ones fitted with a clamping mechanism or ones that are fitted with hook and loop straps.
For more permanent toilet seats, these will often require extra work to install and you may require additional tools such as a screwdriver as you may need to take your existing seat off in order to fit it.
Here is an example of how to install a toilet seat that requires no additional assembly:
For raised permanent toilet seats, here is an example how to install one:
It is recommended that you always follow the seat’s installation manual as the assembly instructions with often differ between models.
How to clean a raised toilet seat?
In order to clean a raised toilet seat, use either warm water, sanitizing wipes or a non-abrasive detergent with a damp cloth and wipe dry afterwards.
