High Toilet Seat / Toilet Booster Seat

Difference Between Toilet Seat Risers and Raised Toilet Seats

Toilet seat risers and raised toilet seats are both high commode toilet seats, and therefore do both elevate the toilet seat, but not in the same exact way. A raised toilet seat is placed on top of the toilet, and used instead of the original toilet seat. In contrast, a toilet seat riser is installed on top of the rim of the toilet; between the toilet itself and its seat. 

Raised toilet seats are usually easier to install than toilet seat risers, but often, a toilet seat riser will blend in more seamlessly with your bathroom decor, and therefore won’t detract much from the aesthetic appeal of the room. 

Toilet Seat Riser & Raised Toilet Seat Types

Elongated Raised Toilet Seat vs. Round/Standard: The first thing to consider when purchasing a handicap toilet seat is whether you need an elongated seat, which is specially designed for elongated toilet seats, or a toilet riser marked as “standard,” which indicates compatibility with the more round-shaped toilet seats. Be sure to keep this in mind, as many toilet booster seats are labeled, “fits most standard toilets,” which refers to standard-shaped (or round) toilets seats, as opposed to regular toilet seats, as many people mistakenly assume. Older bathrooms usually feature standard, round toilet seats, while more updated ones generally have an elongated toilet. 

Raised Toilet Seat with Arms: To further ease the transition between sitting and standing, some elevated toilet seats are equipped with handles. A raised toilet seat with arms can also provide stability and reduce the risk of falls for unsteady individuals or anyone with limited mobility. When choosing an elevated toilet seat with handles, you may want to consider options such as padded arms for comfort or removable arms for easier patient transfers. Do keep in mind, though, that a rising toilet seat with arms will probably take up more space in your bathroom, and will use up more packing space if you plan on traveling with it. 

Padded Raised Toilet Seat: The comfortable raised toilet seat options available on AvaCare Medical are designed with foam padding that reduces pressure points and promotes better user comfort. Their vinyl upholstery makes them easy to clean, so this option is not only comfortable; it’s super convenient as well!

Locking Raised Toilet Seat: To ensure a tight fit and seating stability for the user, look for a toilet riser equipped with a locking mechanism used to keep it securely in place.

Raised Toilet Seat with Lid: A toilet seat with a lid replaces the original toilet seat, unlike most medical toilet seats, which come without a lid and attach underneath the current lid.

Raised Toilet Seat with Hinges: Some toilet seat risers are hinged to offer easy lifting and lowering, as well as the ability to move out of the way when others who do not need the added height use the bathroom.

Portable Raised Toilet Seat: For individuals who travel often, consider a portable raised toilet seat to ensure ideal seating even on the go.

Toilet Seat Riser Sizing

For those who need a high toilet seat, carefully check the height of the medical toilet seat you are buying to ensure that it offers the correct height adjustment for the toilet. In addition, it is important to consider the weight capacity of the item you want to purchase, with options between 250 to 600 lbs weight capacity available. You may also compare the measurements of the width and depth of the product against the measurements of your toilet to ensure an ideal fit. Lastly, when purchasing a raised toilet seat with handles, be sure to check distance between to ensure sufficient seating space for the user.

When choosing a toilet seat raiser height, you can choose a height addition of anywhere between 2” to 6”. A large percentage of toilet booster seats available on the market offer either 4” or 5”, but other options are available, as well. Alternatively, you may choose to purchase an adjustable raised toilet seat so you can attain the specific height addition you require. For example, the Universal Raised Toilet Seat by Medline is adjustable between 4.75” to 6.75”, allowing you to find the height addition that works best for your needs.

Raised Toilet Seats and Risers FAQs

Q: How high should a raised toilet seat be?

A: Raised toilet seats are usually available in heights ranging between 2 and 6 inches. Which toilet seat someone will need will vary according to his height, and the height of his toilet. There is no universal, one-fits-all size for a toilet assist seat; it really depends on the individual person. 

Q: What are raised toilet seats used for?

A: Raised toilet seats are used to make it easier for the user to get on and off the toilet seat. They add height to the existing toilet seat, thereby reducing bending distance between the person and the seat.

Q: What is the best toilet seat riser?

A: Drive Medical, Carex, and Medline Guardian Toilet Seats are considered to be the best raised toilet seats available. 

Q: Where can I find the best toilet seat risers and raised toilet seats?

A: AvaCare Medical provides countless customers with top-quality commode extension seats. Whether you need an extra high toilet seat or one that is just 2 inches tall, you can find the best safety toilet seats today on AvaCare Medical!

At AvaCare Medical, one of the largest online medical supplies store for seniors in the US, we’re here to make things easier for you. That’s why we have excellent customer service and free shipping on all orders over $50. If you need help placing your toilet seat riser order, give us a call – we’ll be glad to help!