Having a cold toilet seat can be very unpleasant, especially during the winter months. A chilly toilet seat first thing in the morning can really wake you up quickly! While a heated toilet seat may seem like the ultimate luxury, there are some simple and affordable ways to keep your existing toilet seat warmer.
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Why Keep The Toilet Seat Warm?
A warm toilet seat provides comfort and prevents that sudden feeling of cold when sitting down. It’s more comfortable and inviting than a freezing cold seat. Some key benefits include:
- Comfort – It’s just more pleasant to sit on a warm seat versus an icy cold one.
- Hygiene – A warmer seat helps prevent condensation from forming, which reduces the chance of bacteria growth.
- Relaxation – Sitting on a heated seat helps you relax and unwind versus tensing up from the cold.
- Convenience – No need to worry about a cold shock first thing in the morning or middle of the night.
While a warm seat is nice any time of year, it’s especially welcome during winter when bathroom temperatures can get quite chilly. Just a few degrees of extra warmth make all the difference!
Ways To Warm Your Toilet Seat
If you don’t have a built-in heated toilet seat, here are some simple ways to make your existing seat warmer:
Use an Insulated Toilet Seat Cover
An insulated toilet seat cover is an easy and inexpensive way to add warmth to your seat. The extra layer helps retain heat and prevent the cold from your toilet bowl transferring directly to the seat. Look for covers made of insulated vinyl or foam – they add warmth while still being comfortable and easy to clean. Just slip one over your existing seat and enjoy the warmer temperature.
Try a Disposable Toilet Seat Cover
While not as warm as an insulated cover, a simple disposable paper toilet seat cover can provide a bit of insulation and warmth. The paper creates a barrier between your skin and the cold seat surface. To maximize warmth, use 2-3 covers layered on top of each other. This option is great for public bathrooms or short-term use.
Use a Toilet Seat Warmer
For extra warmth, you can purchase an electric or battery-operated toilet seat warmer. These gadgets fit underneath the toilet seat and use a heating element to gently warm the surface. Models vary, but many offer adjustable heat settings and auto-off timers for safety and energy efficiency. This option adds consistent warmth with just the press of a button.
Make a DIY Toilet Seat Warmer
If you want to get creative, you can make your own toilet seat warmer! All you need is a hand warmer packet and a piece of fabric. Simply wrap the hand warmer in fabric and secure it underneath your toilet seat with a rubber band or tape. The warmer provides gentle heat against your skin. Replace the hand warmer as needed for ongoing warmth.
Use a Towel or Cloth
For quick warmth, simply laying a hand towel or small cloth over the toilet seat helps block the cold surface. Choose a dark color cloth as it will absorb heat more efficiently. For best results, run the towel under hot water first to further warm it before placing on the seat.
Install a Bidet Attachment
A bidet toilet seat attachment can provide warmth in addition to enhanced hygiene and comfort. The water used for cleaning on most models can be heated for a warm sensation. The entire seat surface stays warmer due to the constant warm water flow. Installing a bidet attachment is an easy DIY project requiring just basic tools.
Use a Toilet Seat Heating Pad
Similar to seats warmers, heated pads can provide targeted warmth to your toilet seat. These electric pads attach securely under the seat and use radiant heating elements to gently warm the surface. Models are very thin and unnoticeable under the seat. Look for waterproof, flexible pads with auto shut-off timers.
Tips For Keeping Your Toilet Seat Warm
Here are some handy tips to maximize warmth and get the most from your toilet seat heating solutions:
- Place a small towel or rug in front of the toilet to keep feet warm when standing.
- Install an insulating toilet tank cover to minimize cold surface areas.
- Seal drafts around the base of the toilet and bathroom vents.
- Keep a robe or blanket handy to wrap up in after using the toilet.
- Run a space heater or fan near the toilet to warm the surrounding air.
- Close the bathroom door to retain heat and prevent drafts.
- Choose a darker color toilet seat that absorbs heat better.
- Replace old seats with a new thick, insulated plastic or wood seat.
Heated Toilet Seat Options
For the ultimate toilet seat warmth, consider upgrading to an integrated electric heated seat. These high-end units provide consistent, soothing warmth every time you use the bathroom. Here are some top models to consider:
| Toilet Seat | Key Features |
|---|---|
| Toto Washlet | Heated seat, warm water cleansing, adjustable temp settings, energy save mode |
| Bio Bidet Bliss | Silicone heated seat, wireless remote, hybrid heating tech, low power mode |
| Brondell Swash | Ceramic heater, customizable temps, unlimited warm water |
| Kohler Novita | LED nightlight, motion-activated open/close lid |
| SmartBidet SB-1000 | Programmable user settings, adjustable dryer temp, energy save mode |
With seat temperatures reaching up to 100 F, heated toilet seats can keep you comfortable year-round. Units range widely in terms of features and price, with basic models under $100 and luxury options costing $1000+. Carefully select one that fits your bathroom, needs and budget.
Safety Considerations
When using any type of toilet seat heating method, be sure to keep these safety guidelines in mind:
- Don’t place hand/chemical warmers directly on the seat, always wrap in a cloth.
- Select devices with auto shut-off features in case of overheating.
- Unplug electric warmers when not in use to prevent fire hazards.
- Don’t use seat warmers with soft, flammable toilet seat covers.
- Install devices properly to avoid contact with water/moisture.
- Turn warmers off when not needed to save energy and prevent overheating.
- Don’t exceed the maximum usage times for disposable warmers.
- Always follow manufacturers usage and safety instructions.
Conclusion
Sitting on a cold toilet seat first thing in the morning is never fun. But with some simple and affordable products like insulated covers, seat warmers and bidet attachments, you can easily warm up your toilet seat. For ultimate luxury, upgrade to a temperature-controlled heated seat. Just be sure to keep safety in mind when using any heating devices. With a warmer, more comfortable toilet seat, your bathroom experience will be much more pleasant this winter!