Soft Closing Seat Vs Regular Toilet Seat (Comparison) 2024

Do you find it annoying when your toilet seat slams shut and disrupts the peace of your household? Or have you ever accidentally pinched your fingers while trying to close the seat delicately?

Well, there’s a solution: the soft closing toilet seat. But is it worth the extra investment compared to a regular toilet seat?

I will explore the pros and cons of both soft closing and regular toilet seats, so you can decide which one is right for you and your bathroom. So, let’s jump in and learn more.

Soft Closing Seat vs. Regular Toilet Seat- The Comparison

Although the purpose of both toilet seats is the same, there are prime differences between the soft closing and the regular toilet seat.

• The Design

Their design is the most apparent difference between soft closing and regular toilet seats. Soft closing seats feature a hinge that slowly lowers the seat and lid, whereas regular seats fall shut.

Soft closing seats are manufactured with plastic or wood, while regular seats are made of a wider range of materials, including ceramic, metal, and plastic.

• Noise Level

Regular toilet seats can make a loud noise when dropped, which can be a nuisance if you’re trying to use the bathroom at night without waking others.

On the contrary, soft closing toilet seats close quietly reduces noise pollution and ensures a peaceful bathroom experience.

• Safety Features

One of the most significant benefits of soft closing toilet seats is their safety features. Because they close slowly and quietly, children and pets are less likely to get their fingers or paws caught in the seat.

Additionally, soft closing seats are less likely to slam shut, reducing the risk of damage to the toilet bowl and seat.

• Durability

Regular toilet seats are typically more durable than soft closing seats because they are made from stronger materials such as ceramic or metal. However, soft closing seats are designed to withstand frequent use, and the slow-closing hinge is less likely to break than the regular seat’s hinge.

• Hygiene

Soft closing toilet seats are generally more hygienic than regular seats because they are easier to clean. The slow-closing hinge reduces the chance of bacteria and germs getting trapped in hard-to-reach areas, and the absence of a slam prevents the seat from collecting dust and debris.

• Cost

Regular toilet seats are less expensive than soft closing seats, making them popular for budget-conscious consumers. However, the benefits of a soft closing seat, including safety features and reduced noise pollution, can be worth the extra investment.

How does a regular toilet seat differ from a soft-closing toilet seat?

The main difference between a regular toilet seat and a soft-closing one is the hinge mechanism that controls the closing of the seat and lid. A soft-closing seat has a hydraulic damper or a hinge mechanism that closes it slowly, making it quieter and more comfortable.

Investing in a soft-closing toilet seat is worth considering if you want a more comfortable and quieter bathroom experience.

Comparison table

Feature	Soft Closing Toilet Seat	Regular Toilet Seat
Design	Features a hinge that slowly lowers the seat and lid. Made of plastic or wood.	Falls shut. Can be made of ceramic, metal, or plastic.
Noise Level	Closes quietly, reducing noise pollution.	Can make a loud noise when dropped.
Safety	Less risk of fingers and paws getting caught. Less likely to slam shut, reducing risk of damage.	Higher risk of fingers and paws getting caught. More likely to slam shut, increasing risk of damage.
Durability	Designed to withstand frequent use. Slow-closing hinge is less likely to break.	Typically more durable than soft closing seats. Made from stronger materials such as ceramic or metal.
Hygiene	Easier to clean. Slow-closing hinge reduces chance of bacteria and germs getting trapped. Absence of slam prevents seat from collecting dust and debris.	Harder to clean. Slamming can cause bacteria and germs to get trapped in hard-to-reach areas.
Cost	More expensive than regular seats.	Less expensive than soft closing seats.

Are soft-closing toilet seats more durable than regular toilet seats?

The durability of soft-closing and regular toilet seats depends on the material used for manufacturing. Both types of toilet seats are made from similar materials, such as plastic, wood, or ceramic. However, soft-closing toilet seats tend to have a longer lifespan due to their unique design and mechanisms.

The slow and gentle closing of the seat and lid in a soft-closing toilet seat minimizes the impact on the seat and the hinges, reducing wear and tear. Also, the shock-absorbing mechanism in soft-closing toilet seats helps prevent the seat from cracking or breaking.

On the other hand, regular toilet seats can wear out more quickly due to the constant slamming, which can cause cracks, chips, or even breakage. However, some high-quality regular toilet seats made from durable materials can last years if maintained properly.

Pros and Cons of Soft closing and Regular toilet seats

Soft closing Toilet seats

• Soft closing toilet seats prevent the loud slamming noise, which is especially useful at night or early in the morning.
• These seats have a slow-closing mechanism that helps prevent damage to the seat and the toilet bowl.
• Soft closing seats prevent fingers from getting trapped between the seat and the bowl, which is especially important in households with children.

Cons

• Soft closing toilet seats are more expensive than regular toilet seats.
• Soft closing seats require a more complicated installation process, which may need the help of a professional.
• Soft closing seats may have fewer designs or colors than regular toilet seats.

Regular Toilet Seats

Pros

• Regular toilet seats are generally more affordable than soft closing toilet seats.
• These seats can be easily installed without the need for professional help.
• There are a wide variety of designs, colors, and materials available for regular toilet seats.

Cons

• Regular toilet seats may produce a loud slamming noise, which can be inconvenient for others in the household.
• These seats may be prone to damage due to repeated slamming.
• Regular toilet seats may pose a risk of finger-trapping accidents, especially in households with children.

Are soft-closing toilet seats suitable for commercial use?

Soft-closing toilet seats can be suitable for commercial use, but it depends on the specific circumstances and requirements of the facility.

In high-traffic commercial settings such as public restrooms, soft-closing toilet seats may not be the most practical option due to their higher cost, increased maintenance requirements, and potential for vandalism or misuse.

Also, installing and maintaining soft-closing toilet seats may require more specialized knowledge and equipment than regular toilet seats.

However, soft-closing toilet seats are good in specific commercial settings such as upscale restaurants or hotels for their added comfort and noise reduction benefits.

Related Seat Topic:- Why Toilet Seat Keep Loosing

Final words

The soft-closing toilet seat is undoubtedly the better choice for many reasons. It provides a quieter and safer bathroom experience, eliminates the annoyance of slamming seats, and prevents damage to the seat and the toilet bowl. Soft-closing toilet seats are also made from high-quality materials, ensuring durability and longevity. While regular toilet seats may be less expensive, the benefits of a soft-closing seat make it a worthwhile investment in the long run.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• Is a soft closing toilet seat more expensive than a regular one?

Soft closing toilet seats can vary in price, but they are generally more expensive than regular toilet seats due to the added hinge mechanism and other features.

• Can I use a regular toilet seat for an oval toilet?

Regular toilet seats are designed to fit round toilet bowls, typically smaller than oval toilet bowls.

• Which is difficult to maintain, a soft closing toilet seat or a regular toilet seat?

Soft closing toilet seats may require slightly more maintenance than regular toilet seats due to their hinge mechanism.

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