How to Install a Raised Toilet Seat (Step-by-Step)

Raising your toilet seat height can make a huge difference in comfort and mobility. Whether you’re recovering from surgery, assisting a loved one, or just future-proofing your bathroom—installing a riser is a smart move.

The best part? You can do it yourself in under 15 minutes.
Let’s break it down.

🧰 What You’ll Need

• Your raised toilet seat (obviously)
• A screwdriver (flathead or Phillips)
• Optional: wrench or pliers
• Alcohol wipes or bathroom cleaner
• (Optional) the original toilet seat if keeping it installed

🚽 Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Clean the Toilet Rim

Use alcohol wipes or a mild cleaner to clean the toilet bowl’s rim.
This prevents slipping and ensures better grip.

2. Remove the Original Seat (if needed)

Some risers go under the seat, some go in place of the seat.

• To remove: Pop open the seat bolt covers
• Unscrew both mounting bolts
• Lift off the seat and lid

🧠 Tip: Save the original hardware in a ziplock bag.

3. Position the Riser

Center the riser on the toilet bowl, aligning the holes or clamps:

• Bolt-on risers: Holes should line up with the toilet bolt holes
• Clamp-on risers: Side arms should rest against the outer rim

4. Secure the Riser

Depending on the type:

🔩 Bolt-On

• Drop bolts through riser → bowl → use washers + nuts below
• Tighten evenly on both sides
• Don’t overtighten! Stripped plastic = future wobble

🔧 Clamp-On

• Twist the knobs to tighten the clamps against the bowl
• Make sure they feel firm—not crushing

5. Reattach the Original Seat (Optional)

Some risers allow you to place the seat on top of the riser.
If yours does:

• Line it up over the riser
• Thread bolts through both
• Tighten gently

6. Test the Fit

• Sit down carefully
• Wiggle slightly
• Listen for squeaks or sliding

If it shifts? Re-tighten or add bumpers.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overtightening bolts – can crack plastic or porcelain
• Forgetting to clean the rim – causes slipping
• Not aligning clamps evenly – leads to wobble
• Skipping the test sit – dangerous surprise later!

🔗 Related:

• How to Fix a Wobbly or Loose Toilet Seat Riser
• Installing a Bidet Under a Raised Seat (Can It Be Done?)