In cheap toilets, the screws are made of plastic. Most toilets, however, use steel screws, and more expensive models may even use brass or stainless steel. [2] X Research source Be especially careful with plastic screws! To protect yourself from germs, put on protective gloves before you touch the toilet seat. [3] X Expert Source Dave JonesMaster Plumber, Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup Expert Interview. 13 December 2021.
Decide which screwdriver is the best fit. Make sure that the screwdriver head is big enough to fit into the notches of the bolt head. If the screwdriver is too small, then the bolt will not turn. The friction from the slipping screwdriver will quickly wear down the bolt and make it unusable. You’ll have to reach underneath the toilet bowl to grip the nut that holds the screw in place. [6] X Expert Source Dave JonesMaster Plumber, Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup Expert Interview. 13 December 2021.
To loosen the nut, spray it with WD 40 and wait 5 minutes.
Don’t overtighten the bolts, or you could break or crack the porcelain. [7] X Expert Source Dave JonesMaster Plumber, Roto-Rooter Plumbing & Water Cleanup Expert Interview. 13 December 2021.
Try to find a seat made by the same company that manufactured your toilet to fit it perfectly. Off-brand seats may well do the trick, but they may not fit quite as precisely. Keep in mind that plastic toilet seats are easier to sanitize than wooden seats, and they hold their color for longer.
Save the bolts and nuts from the old seat in case you need to replace a bolt on your new seat.
