What Is a Raised Toilet Seat? Types, Features & Installation Tips

What Is a Raised Toilet Seat? Types, Features & Installation Tips

Raised toilet seats, also known as toilet seat risers, are toileting aids designed to elevate the height of standard toilet bowls. The raised seat level reduces the amount of effort required to sit and stand. Whether you're recovering from surgery, managing reduced mobility, need more stability, or supporting an older loved one, high toilet seats make it safer to transfer on and off the toilet and minimise the risk of falling.

Key Features

  • Increases toilet seat height for easier sit-to-stand movement
  • Universal fit: Compatible with most standard toilet bowls
  • Quick & easy installation: Available in clamp-on and freestanding styles
  • Removable for flexibility and easy cleaning
  • Some options have angled arms to assist with transfers
  • Portable: Lightweight and suitable for travelling

 

 

Key Benefits of Elevated Toilets

Easier on the knees and joints: The added height of a raised toilet seat reduces how far someone needs to bend, which takes pressure off the knees and hips, making it more comfortable for those with joint pain.
Safer for transfers: A higher seat height makes it easier to shift from a standing to a seated position (and back again), especially when paired with grab bars or armrests for added stability.
Ideal for post-surgery recovery: After hip, knee, or back surgery, minimising movement is key. Raised seats help users maintain safe body positioning and reduce strain during recovery.
Reduces risk of falls: By decreasing the effort and balance needed to sit or stand, raised toilet seats can help prevent slips and falls, particularly important for older adults or anyone with balance concerns.
More independence: With less physical effort needed, individuals are more likely to manage toilet use on their own, supporting dignity and reducing reliance on carers.

 

Types of Elevated Toilet Seats


Fixed height vs adjustable height
Fixed-height toilet seats offer a consistent elevation, while adjustable height options allow you to customise the seat level to suit your height and physical needs, ensuring better comfort and ease of use.

 

With or without arms
Raised toilet seats with arms provide added support and stability, making it easier to sit down and stand up. Models without arms are more compact and better suited for users with good upper body strength or limited space.

Clamp-on vs freestanding commodes
Clamp-on raised seats attach directly to the existing toilet, offering a space-saving solution. Freestanding commodes include their own frame and can be positioned over the toilet or used bedside, ideal for users with more complex mobility needs.


Hard plastic vs Padded out 
Hard plastic seats are durable, easy to clean, and provide firm support. Padded seats add a layer of cushioning, making them more comfortable for users who may experience pain or pressure sensitivity during toileting.

Installation Guide for the Nova Seat

1. Remove the Existing Toilet Seat
Start by removing your current toilet seat. These are usually attached with two bolts under the rear rim of the toilet.

2. Position the Raised Toilet Seat
Place the raised toilet seat over the toilet bowl. Insert the mounting bolts through the holes where the old seat was attached.

3. Adjust the Mounting Bolts
If needed, slide the bolts along the rear mounting bar to align them with your toilet’s bolt holes. Make sure the seat is centred over the bowl.

4. Secure the Seat
Tighten the plastic mounting nuts underneath the seat until it’s firmly clamped to the toilet. Check that the seat does not wobble before use.

5. Adjust the Seat Height (If Applicable)
The Nova model allows height adjustments of 50 mm, 100 mm, or 150 mm.
Flip up the toilet seat to access the front and rear bars.
Use the built-in adjustment knobs to change the bar positions.
Always ensure the front and rear heights match—unless a forward tilt is needed to assist standing.

6. Attach the Armrests (Optional)
If using armrests:
Press the brass locking button underneath the armrest.
Slide the armrest into the side frame until it clicks securely in place.
Armrests can be used on one or both sides.

7. Final Checks
Ensure everything is firmly attached.
Flip the seat up and down to test movement.
Confirm all adjustment knobs and bolts are secure.

Installation Guide for the Savanah® Raised Toilet Seat

1. Lift the existing toilet seat
Place the Savanah® Raised Toilet Seat directly onto the toilet bowl.
2. Attach brackets
Flip the raised seat upside down. Insert each L-shaped bracket into the side slots. Gently push and turn the knob clockwise until it starts to tighten.
3. Adjust bracket width
Turn the knobs to widen the brackets so they fit over the toilet bowl.
4. Position the seat
Flip the seat upright. Place it on the toilet bowl with the cut-out at the front and brackets at the back. Make sure the front lip rests against the outside of the toilet bowl.
5. Secure the seat
Tighten both brackets so they hold firmly against the toilet.
6. Check fit
This seat may not fit all toilet types. Ensure it is properly aligned and secure.
7. Ongoing maintenance
Regularly check that the brackets remain tight. 

Lid Assembly:

  • To remove the lid: Press the hinges at the back and lift upward.
  • To replace the lid: Align the hinges with the rear inserts and press down until secure.
  • Optional: If not using the lid, cover the hinges with caps


Not sure which toilet aid is best for your situation? Our knowledgeable team is here to help. We specialise in aged care and mobility equipment and can offer tailored advice based on your individual needs.
Reach out to us today for friendly, expert guidance. Contact Us
All our products are available to purchase online or through NDIS funding, making it easy to find the right solution for your needs.
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