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If you've ever walked into your bathroom, ready to use the toilet, only to find that the seat is broken, you’ll understand the frustration and inconvenience of dealing with a broken toilet seat.
Most broken toilet seats start as wobbly seats and can be a real nuisance. Not only are these seats uncomfortable to sit on, but they can also be embarrassing when guests come over. 
But fear not, as fixing a wobbly toilet seat is quite a simple task that you can do on your own with just a few basic tools and a little bit of know-how.
Here, The Bathroom Showroom offers a quick guide to walk you through the steps of fixing your toilet seat with ease.

Why Is My Toilet Seat Broken?

Though there are many structural toilet problems most of us tend to ignore, understanding why a toilet seat breaks can help you prevent it from happening again in the future. There are several reasons why your toilet seat might be broken. Here are some common reasons why toilet seats break and how you can prevent this issue from occurring.
  1. Normal Wear and Tear: Over time, the constant use of a toilet seat can cause it to wear down and eventually break. If you've had the same toilet seat for many years, it may simply be worn out and in need of replacement.
  2. Incorrect Installation: If a toilet seat is not installed correctly, it can easily become loose and break. Make sure that your toilet seat is securely attached to the toilet bowl to prevent it from shifting or moving around.
  3. Weight Limit Exceeded: Toilet seats are designed to support a certain amount of weight. If too much weight is placed on the seat, it can cause it to crack or break.
  4. Impact Damage: Accidentally dropping a heavy object on the toilet seat or slamming the lid down too forcefully can cause it to break. Be careful when using the toilet and avoid putting unnecessary stress on the seat.

How to Fix a Broken Toilet Seat

Step 1: Identify the Issue
The first step in fixing your toilet seat is to identify the root cause of the problem. Is the seat loose because the bolts are worn out or because the hinges are broken? Carefully open and close the toilet seat a few times to better determine where the issue lies.
Step 2: Gather Your Tools
Once you've identified the problem, gather the necessary tools to fix it. You'll likely need a screwdriver, pliers, and replacement bolts or hinges, depending on what needs to be fixed.
Step 3: Tighten the Bolts
If the issue is loose bolts, simply use a screwdriver to tighten them. You may find these screws sitting under a plastic cover that snaps flat to keep them covered. If so, gently use the screwdriver here to pry these covers open without breaking them. Make sure not to over-tighten the toilet seat bolts, as this can cause damage to the seat or the toilet itself. 
(If you notice the bolts are broken or won’t let you tighten them, you may need to purchase replacement bolts here to fix the issue)
Step 4: Replace the Hinges
If you’ve spotted that it's the hinges of the toilet seat that are the problem, either broken or rusty, use a pair of pliers to carefully remove the old ones and replace them with new ones. Make sure to secure them tightly to ensure a stable seat.

How to Prevent Your Toilet Seat from Breaking

There are a few steps that you can take to keep your toilet seat in working order and keep your toilet in good condition, including:
  • Regular Inspection: Check your toilet seat periodically for any signs of wear or damage. If you notice any cracks or loose hinges, it may be time to replace the seat.
  • Proper Maintenance: Clean your toilet seat regularly to prevent dirt and grime from building up and causing damage. Use gentle cleaners and avoid abrasive materials that can scratch the seat.
  • Gentle Use: Be cautious when using the toilet seat and avoid putting too much weight on it. Slowly lower the lid instead of slamming it down, and avoid dropping heavy objects on the seat.
  • Quality Replacement: If your toilet seat keeps breaking, it may be time to replace it. Invest in a high-quality seat that's durable and designed to withstand daily use. Choose a toilet seat that fits securely on your toilet bowl to prevent movement and potential breakage. The Bathroom Showroom offers a superb selection of toilets and seats to suit all bathrooms that are all fantastically priced to keep you on budget. 

Keep Your Toilet in Good Working Order

Understandably, a broken toilet seat can be a frustrating problem to deal with. Yet, by understanding the common causes of breakage and taking preventive measures, you can work to avoid this issue in the future. 
Regular maintenance, gentle use, and investing in a quality replacement seat are key steps to ensuring the longevity of your toilet seat. Remember to inspect your seat regularly and address any issues promptly to keep your bathroom in good working order.
For more help and advice in and around the bathroom, take a look at both our Blog and Rest & Relaxation section.
If you’re looking to replace your toilet, book an appointment with The Bathroom Showroom. Experts in all things bathrooms, we can help turn your dream bathroom into a reality.