Most people tend to overlook the importance of toilet seats and instead focus solely on the entire toilet system. However, let’s not forget that the toilet seat is the part that supports your entire body weight while you’re seated. In fact, for many users, it’s a place of brief relaxation—whether scrolling through social media or listening to music. This small seat offers a moment of solitude and peace. So, why settle for discomfort? Choosing the right toilet seat can make a surprising difference in your bathroom experience.
There are two main types of toilet seats: elongated and round-shaped. The shape of the toilet bowl determines the shape of the seat that fits. Generally, elongated toilet seats are considered more comfortable due to their ergonomic design that better supports the natural curve of the human body. They are commonly found in modern bathrooms and commercial settings. On the other hand, round toilet seats are more compact and are often used in smaller bathrooms or in older homes.
But here comes the main question: Are elongated and round toilet seats interchangeable?
Can you install a round seat on an elongated bowl or vice versa?
In this article, we’ll uncover the facts about toilet seat compatibility, help you recognize your toilet type, and guide you through measuring for a proper fit. So, stay tuned to get all the details you need before making your next toilet seat purchase.
How to Identify the Type of Toilet Seat You Have
Before replacing or upgrading your toilet seat, it’s essential to identify the type you currently have. Installing the wrong shape can lead to discomfort, instability, and even minor safety concerns. Here’s how to determine whether your toilet requires a round or elongated seat:
🔧 Step-by-Step Measurement Guide:
- Get a measuring tape.
- Measure from the center of the two bolt holes at the back of the toilet bowl to the front edge (outer rim) of the bowl.
- If the measurement is around 16.5 inches, you have a round toilet bowl.
- If it measures about 18.5 inches, you’re looking at an elongated bowl.
- Measure the width of the bowl at its widest point to ensure a proper fit.
- Check the spacing between the bolt holes, which is typically about 5.5 inches center-to-center in most standard toilets.
This measuring process applies to standard, custom, and non-standard toilets as well. Always double-check the manufacturer’s specifications if you’re unsure.
🛑 Pro Tip: Using the wrong toilet seat type won’t just look odd—it can cause wobbling, discomfort, and may even damage the seat over time.
How to Recognize an Elongated Toilet Seat
An elongated toilet seat is generally about 18.5 inches in length. To identify it accurately, measure the distance from the center of the two seat mounting bolt holes to the very front edge of the toilet bowl.
A simple way to spot it visually is by observing the bowl shape—elongated toilet seats appear slightly extended or oval-shaped at the front. However, visual inspection can be misleading, so it’s best to confirm with a measuring tape.
Place the tape at the center point between the two bolt holes at the back of the toilet and stretch it forward to the outer front edge (rim) of the bowl. If the measurement is close to 18.5 inches, it’s definitely an elongated toilet seat.
Elongated bowls are popular for providing additional comfort, especially for adults, and are commonly found in modern bathrooms.
How to Identify a Round Toilet Seat
A round toilet seat, on the other hand, is usually about 16.5 inches in length. This type of seat is more compact and is often found in smaller bathrooms or older homes.
To determine if you have a round toilet seat, follow the same measuring process:
Start from the center of the bolt holes and measure to the front rim of the bowl. If the measurement is approximately 16.5 inches, then it’s a round toilet seat.
Round seats have a classic, circular shape and are typically compatible with most standard round toilet bowls from major brands. They’re space-saving and often preferred in tight spaces.
A Quick Overview: Round vs. Elongated Toilet Seat Dimensions
Before deciding whether elongated and round toilet seats are interchangeable, it’s essential to understand their dimensions and key differences. Let’s break it down simply:
Elongated Toilet Seat Dimensions
An elongated toilet seat typically measures around 18.5 inches in length and approximately 14 inches in width. These seats are longer and offer extra space compared to round toilet seats, making them more comfortable for adults.
Elongated toilets are commonly used in commercial spaces like airports, hotels, and public restrooms because of their comfort and modern design. A standard elongated toilet bowl usually measures between 18 to 19 inches from the mounting holes to the front rim. If you’re using an elongated bidet seat, the total length may extend up to 20 inches.
While elongated bidet seats share the same rear-end mounting area as round ones, the overall size is different. This means they are not directly interchangeable unless the toilet bowl supports both shapes.
Round Toilet Seat Dimensions
A round toilet seat generally measures around 16.5 inches in length and about 15 inches in width. These seats are more compact and better suited for smaller bathrooms where space is limited. The distance from the wall to the front of a round toilet is usually less than 28 inches, making them ideal for tight spaces.
Round toilet bowls have a circular shape, which makes them visually different from elongated ones. They are a better option for kids or smaller adults, and are usually less expensive than elongated seats, which can be a deciding factor for many homeowners.
So, to answer the main question—are elongated and round toilet seats interchangeable?
Not exactly. Since the length and fit differ significantly, you must match the seat shape to your toilet bowl. Using the wrong size will result in an improper fit and an uncomfortable experience.
Material and Design Impact on Toilet Seats
Regardless of shape, the material and build quality of a toilet seat are crucial for comfort and longevity. Trusted brands like TOTO and American Standard are known for producing high-quality toilet seats using durable materials.
Toilet seats are primarily made from plastic, wood, or vitreous china:
- Plastic Seats: Lightweight, waterproof, scratch-resistant, and easy to clean. Ideal for humid bathrooms.
- Wooden Seats: Offer a warmer feel, perfect for colder climates, and add aesthetic value to the bathroom.
- Vitreous China: Commonly used in toilets (not seats), known for its durability and moisture resistance.
When choosing between elongated and round toilet seats, also consider the material that suits your needs and climate. A wooden seat might feel better in winter, while a plastic one is more practical in high-moisture environments.
Can I Place a Round Toilet Seat on an Elongated Toilet Bowl?
After all these discussions, we can now turn the spotlight on whether the Round Toilet Seat can be put on the Elongated Toilet Bowl. Let me remind you of a thing, and that is the dimensions of the seats. Suppose you see that the difference between the seats is not more than 2 to 2.5 inches. So it is possible to interchange them.
You can undoubtedly install a round toilet seat on an elongated toilet bowl; that will not look too bad. The fastening dimensions have already proven that the seats are interchangeable. Some things will look awkward, but it is not true at all. Yes, it is a fact that it will not entirely cover an elongated toilet bowl, but it’s okay. You can use a seat comforter with the Round Toilet Seat to remove discomfort.
Is it possible to Put an Elongated Toilet Seat on a Round Bowl?
We Have seen that it is entirely possible to put a Round Toilet Seat on the Elongated Toilet Bowl. So why is installing an Elongated Toilet Seat on a Round Bowl impossible? It’s just the opposite.
The most crucial thing is the rough-in measurement of the toilets. Let me remind you whether it is a round Toilet or an Elongated Toilet. The rough-in calculation will be the same for both types. Most of the toilet has a 12-inch rough-in measurement. So, according to that, there is nothing to be shy of putting an Elongated Toilet Seat on a Round Bowl. It’s no bad thing as soon as it has the same rough-in measurement.
Even when it has a larger rough-in, replacement, and interchange are possible. But one thing to be noted is that more space is required for the interchange operation. But if you wish for extra comfort, Then the process is not for you. You can combine all the advantages of both types of toilets. You will have the advantage of less urine dripping on the bowl. At the same time, you can have the simplicity of the Round Bowl. So it is so innovative, and there is a scope for improving sanitary conditions. Kohler K-4636-0 Cachet Elongated Toilet Seat is a good option for this interchange operation.
Ultimate verdict
This article has confronted the answer to the interchange operation more straightforwardly. We have provided a guide on taking the proper steps how to handle the interchange function. You may be unable to replace the round toilet seat or vice versa, but you can try this operation when you have no other option. This process has an extra layer of comfort and plumbing improvement. A round toilet bidet seat is almost synonymous with an elongated toilet seat. But it can be taken as a temporary solution. Later you can buy a new seat that will be compatible with the seat type.
It is possible to interchange the elongated and round seats. This is possible because of the rough-in measurement because they have the exact measurement. Though we are still determining the looks and aesthetics of the toilet, it might affect the beauty of the bathroom. Though you can, of course, do this in case of sheer urgency.”
Hi, this is Robert Crossan, the owner of this website, has 17 years of experience in the installation, maintenance, and repair of toilets and plumbing systems. After completing the Level 2 Basic Plumbing course in 2005, I started working in both domestic and commercial buildings as a professional plumber. So I can figure out the core difference between different toilet models and brands. It also helped me monitor their work performance and setbacks.