Best Raised Toilet Seats

Updated May 2022
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We cannot be embarrassed or afraid to talk about bathroom needs for aging adults. A very important and commonly needed item is the raised toilet seat. We are all familiar with seeing it in the hospital or at our grandparents growing up. Now, we need to be comfortable to discuss it with our aging parents.

A raised toilet seat, as it sounds, is nothing more than a convenient and comfortable way to be seated on the toilet for those with limited mobility. The mobility challenges that often come with age likely lead to needing a raised toilet seat.

As we have described in previous posts (how to design a safe bathroom and the cost of doing so) there are important and reasonably priced ways to make your bathroom safe. To help you through this process we have researched the Best Raised Toilet Seats for seniors and describe them below, along with tips and background information.

What is a Raised Toilet Seat?

A raised toilet seat is an assistive technology for those with limited mobility designed to help them use the toilet while seated. The raised seat reduces the distance the older adult needs to lower themselves to the seat and stand back-up again. The difference of a few inches can make the world of difference when sitting down and standing up.

Who Needs a Raised Toilet Seat?

Anyone that has difficulty bending down, has stiff joints, weak hips, recovering from (hip, knee or back) surgery, as well as finding the transition from sitting to standing difficult could use a raised toilet set. In addition, anyone that has difficulty lowering themselves down to 15-inches (standard height of a toilet) could benefit from using a raised toilet seat (which raises the seat between 17-21 inches).

What is the Size and Shape of a Raised Toilet Seat?

When adding a raised seat to your toilet, it will increase the total height between 2-to-6 inches. The seat itself will either be with a round or elongated front. The options of raised seats accommodate both types. You need to pay attention to extra wide risers and consider the total height in your purchase.

To determine the right height, consider that your knees and hips should be at the same height when sitting on the toilet. If the seat is too low or high it can be uncomfortable and more difficult to get up-and-down. To assist with making the best purchase possible, do some initial measurements to find the right height for you:

  1. Measure from the floor to the back of the thigh (behind the knee) (e.g., 20 inches)
  2. Measure the current height of the seat (e.g., 15 inches)
  3. The raise needed for your toilet seat equals the measurement in step two subtracted from the measurement in step one! (e.g., 5 inches)

Will Insurance Pay for My Raised Toilet Seat?

You should always check with your insurance company when making a purchase like this. In general, most insurance companies (including Medicare) do not cover a raised toilet seat directly but they will cover a commode chair. A commode chair, as defined by most medical services, is a chair that helps individuals with limited mobility get to and from the toilet or bathroom safely and serves as a mobile toilet when unable to reach or it is inaccessible.

Medicare Part B will cover the commode as durable medical equipment (DME) when ordered by a doctor for use in your home if you can’t use a regular toilet. If you choose to position the commode chair over the toilet then Medicare will not cover it.

Common Attachments for Raised Toilet Seats

When purchasing a raised toilet seat, you will want to explore and consider all of the available attachments and additional features. Some of the most common attachments include:

  • A toilet lid to go over the raised seat instead of leaving it open.
  • Splash guards help to prevent any unwanted splashing or leakage when using the toilet.
  • Built-in arms are pre-designed seats with arms already attached (instead of buying them separately).
  • Removable padded handles for the support arms.
  • Support arms are add-ons (removable) to the seat to help with lowering and raising yourself from the toilet seat.

How to Install Your Raised Toilet Seat

Each toilet seat riser will have different instructions for installation. You will likely have to remove the toilet lid to install the seat and it may then go on top or in storage. You should have a screwdriver handy to remove the lid.

Most importantly, you want to ensure there is a secure fit on the existing toilet seat or toilet bowl.

For many seats, there are just a few steps for installation but with additional features comes additional steps. Don’t worry! There are plenty of easy-to-follow instructional videos online should you need them.

Safety Features to Consider

Safety should always be your top priority when caring for your aging loved one. To make sure the raised toilet seat is safe, consider the following key attributes:

Slip-resistant pads will secure the raised toilet seat and, in many cases, allow for an easy installation. If you need additional support when getting up and down then support arms and clamping them down will be essential. A slip-in bracket attaches to the toilet in seconds without knobs, clamps, screws, or other complicated devices, gives an older adult with leg or knee challenges easier access.

Top 10 Raised Toilet Seats

Review each of the top 10 listed below to find the best option for you for the price, height, weight limit, support arms, and other important features to keep your aging parent safe when going to the bathroom. The top companies listed below include Carex, Drive Medical, Essential Medical Supply, PCP, AquaSense, and Vaunn Medical.

Each of the raised toilet seats listed below has a unique difference that may just bring the comfort and support you need.

Carex Toilet Seat Riser

The Carex Toilet Seat Riser adds up to 5.5 inches of height to a toilet seat to help those with bending or sitting difficulties and has anti-slip rubber pads for additional stability.

What We Like:

  • Adds Up to 5.5" of Height - This toilet seat riser sits on top of the toilet base.
  • Easy to Install - No special tools or assembly are required to install.
  • Comfortable Contoured Seat - The seat has a wider design for added comfort and usability for a wide range of users.
  • Slip-Resistant Rubber Pads - These pads provide greater stability and decreased risk of falling.
  • 300 Pound Weight Capacity

What Could Make This Product Even Better:

  • Some customers report that the seat moves when getting on and off, making it feel unstable.
  • Some customers report opening is small, making it difficult to perform personal hygiene tasks.
Best Raised Toilet Seats - Carex Toilet Seat Riser

Drive Medical 2-in-1 Locking Raised Toilet Seat 

The Drive Medical 2-in-2 Locking Raised Toilet Seat adds 5" to the height of toilet seats and is designed for people who have difficulty sitting down or getting up from the toilet.

What We Like:

  • Adds 5" of Height - This toilet seat riser fits on top of your toilet bowl.
  • Easy to Install - No tools are required to attach this seat to your existing toilet.
  • Sturdy Arms - This raised toilet seat comes with tool-free removable padded handles for added safety and comfort.
  • Locking Device - Locking device with larger, heavy-duty "worm screw" and locking plate for a safe and secure fit.
  • Lightweight and Portable - Engineered with lightweight plastic, this toilet seat is portable.
  • 300 Pound Weight Capacity

What Could Make This Product Even Better:

  • A wider design. The narrowness could be difficult for post hip surgery users.
  • Can be difficult to clean, given all the nooks and crannies. Advise putting in a basin and using a shower attachment to clean it.
Best Raised Toilet Seats - Drive Medical RTL12027RA

Guardian Signature Locking Raised Toilet  Seat with Arms

Guardian Signature Locking Raised Toilet Seat with Arms adds an additional 5" of height for those who have trouble bending to sit or standing from a seated position.

What We Like:

  • Adds 5" of Height - This raised toilet seat fits right on top of your toilet bowl.
  • Sturdy Padded Arms - Padded arms make it easier to push off the toilet from a seated position.
  • Locking Device - Built-in locking mechanism for added safety.
  • 350 Pound Weight Capacity

What Could Make This Product Even Better:

  • Higher weight capacity. A few customers report that the seat doesn’t seem to hold as much weight as stated. One person sent the seat back due to this.
Best Raised Toilet Seats - Medline Guardian Signature Elevated Toilet Seat With Arms

Carex Raised Toilet Seat for Elongated Toilets

The Carex 3.5 Inch Raised Toilet Seat for Elongated Toilets helps those with bending or sitting difficulties by adding 3.5 inches to the height of the toilet seat. This raised toilet seat with your existing toilet seat and lid for added comfort and is designed to look a little less clinical. Fits most elongated toilets.

What We Like:

  • Adds Up to 3.5" of Height - This toilet seat riser sits between your existing toilet seat and the base of your toilet.
  • Easy to Install - No special tools or assembly are required to install.
  • Lightweight and Durable - Engineered with a lightweight yet heavy-duty molded plastic making it comfortable and easy to clean.
  • 300 Pound Weight Capacity

What Could Make This Product Even Better:

  • Doesn’t sit as high as other seats, be sure to check height requirements for the person using the seat before purchase
Best Raised Toilet Seats - Carex 3.5 Elongated

Extra Wide Tall-Ette Elevated Toilet Seat with Frame

The Extra Wide Tall-Ette Elevated Toilet Seat adds an additional 4" of height for those who need extra assistance sitting down or rising from a seated position due to extremity weakness or poor balance.

What We Like:

  • Adds 4" of Height - This toilet elevated toilet seat has aluminum legs that are height-adjustable.
  • Extra Wide - Width is 22-1/2" allowing it to accommodate a wider range of body types.
  • Sturdy Handles - Soft foam armrests are designed for comfort and safety.
  • Slip-In Lok-In-El bracket - Engineered for safety and security.
  • 350 Pound Weight Capacity

What Could Make This Product Even Better:

  • Taller height. Users wished the height over the toilet seat was specified in the description.
  • Easier to clean as it can be a bit difficult given all the parts
Best Raised Toilet Seats - Maddak Tall-Ette Toilet Seat with Frame

AquaSense Portable Raised Toilet Seat

The AquaSense Portable Raised Toilet Seat is an economical way to make it easier for you or your loved one to get on and off the toilet and adds an additional 4 inches of height.

What We Like:

  • Adds 4" of Height - Elevates existing seat height by 4 inches.
  • Easy to Clean - Features a seamless, polyethylene construction that is easy to clean.
  • Lightweight - The lightweight design and construction make for easy portability.
  • 400 Pound Weight Capacity

What Could Make This Product Even Better:

  • A more secure fit to prevent the seat from tipping or sliding.
Best Raised Toilet Seats - AquaSense

Nova Raised Toilet Seat with Arms

The Nova Raised Toilet Seat with Arms is made with the highest quality standards to help those that have trouble when sitting and rising.

What We Like:

  • Adds 5" of Height - Adds an additional 5 inches of height to your existing toilet.
  • Easy to Clean - Bowl molded design makes it easy to clean and maintain.
  • Padded Arms - Arms add extra safety and support when sitting and rising.
  • Locking Mechanism - Rear anchoring system provides maximum stability.
  • 300 Pound Weight Capacity

What Could Make This Product Even Better:

  • Smaller gap between the toilet and riser to prevent messy clean-up.
  • A design that reduces the risk of the seat moving.
Best Raised Toilet Seats - Nova Raised Toilet Seat with Arms

Carex Hinged Toilet Seat Riser For Elongated Toilets

The Carex Hinged Toilet Seat Riser for Elongated Toilets installs quickly and safely between your toilet bowl and its existing seat. It adds an additional 3.5 inches of height to make it easier to sit and stand. (Also available for standard toilets.)

What We Like:

  • Adds 3.5" of Height - This toilet seat fits securely to your toilet bowl and can make life easier for those who have difficulty bending or sitting.
  • Hinged Design - The hinged design makes this toilet seat riser easy to clean by allowing you to lift it to reach hard-to-clean areas.
  • Easy Installation - Installation takes only a few minutes.
  • Heavy-Duty and Durable - Made from heavy-duty molded plastic this toilet seat is sturdy and dependable.
  • 300 Pound Weight Capacity

What Could Make This Product Even Better:

  • Clearer product specifications to ensure the seat fits all elongated toilet bowls.
Best Raised Toilet Seats - Carex Hinged Toilet Seat

Carex E-Z Lock Raised Toilet Seat

The E-Z Lock Raised Toilet Seat by adding 3.5 inches to the height of the toilet to help those who need help bending or sitting. The easy-to-use locking mechanism secures the riser to the toilet bowl. Built-in hand grips for added security when using. Fits most standard round toilets.

What We Like:

  • Adds 5" of Height - This toilet seat fits securely to your toilet bowl and can be easily attached and removed making it transportable to other bathrooms.
  • Built-In Hand Grips - This toilet seat has comfortable built-in hand grips for additional safety when used.
  • Secure Locking Mechanism - The secure locking mechanism locks this raised toilet seat so that it tightly grips onto any toilet for added safety.
  • Durable and Lightweight - Engineered with a lightweight yet heavy-duty molded plastic making it comfortable and easy to clean.
  • 300 Pound Weight Capacity

What Could Make This Product Even Better:

  • Less movement. The locking mechanism in front provides some level of stability, however, the seat can still move a bit.
Best Raised Toilet Seats - Carex EZ Lock

Brand Comparison

Model

Height

Weight Limit

Support Arms

Price*

Key Features

5-inches

300 lbs

$18.50

Toilet riser has anti-slip pads on the bottom and simply fits on top of the ceramic bowl.

5-inches

300 lbs

$56.00

Easily add or remove supportive metal arms based on personal preference and need.

5-inches

350 lbs

$48.00

Locking raised toilet seat that's easy to clean.

3.5-inches

300 lbs

$40.00

The toilet seats hardware kit allows easy installation and removal on almost every toilet in seconds.

4-inches

350 lbs

$110.00

Ideal for people who need extra assistance because of significant lower extremity weakness or poor balance. Legs are height-adjustable.

4-inches

400 lbs

$20.00

Economical way to make it easier to sit and stand while using the toilet.

5-inches

300 lbs

$48.00

Locking mechanism that anchors the seat firmly in place. Padded arms for safety and support.

3.5-inches

300 lbs

$40.00

Ideal for easy cleaning. Installs quickly and safely between your toilet bowl and existing seat.

5-inches

300 lbs

$50.00

A toilet seat riser that locks securely to round and elongated toilet seats. Includes built-in handgrips.

*Cost accurate at the time of publishing

Other Considerations

As you consider the best raised toilet seat for your aging loved one, think about who they are and what needs they have including:

  • How many bathrooms are in the house that need a raised seat?
  • How portable does the raised seat need to be?
  • At what height does the seat riser need to be?
  • What is the weight capacity?
  • Do you need support bars?
  • Do you have a round or elongated seat?
  • Is the seat permanent or temporary (i.e. post-surgery)?
  • What other physical or mental challenges do you need to consider?
  • Are their grab bars near the toilet already?
  • Is there space around the toilet?

Summary

A raised toilet seat could bring a tremendous amount of comfort and privacy back to your aging parent. Consider how quickly you could have one installed!

Don’t wait, discuss this with your physician today.

Expert Contributor

Brooke Lounsbury Registered Nurse

Brooke Lounsbury, RN

Brooke worked as a home health and hospice nurse for many years. During her time working with patients and families, she saw the pressures and strain of what caregivers went through while caring for loved ones. Lack of resources to help caregivers prompted her to start a support group for caregivers in her area. Since then Brooke has turned to writing courses for nurses and content writing.

In her spare time, she enjoys time with family, her dog, and travel.