Take off the old toilet seat, fit the correct replacement, and secure it firmly without over-tightening.
TS-01Check the fitting before you buyMeasure the distance between the two fixing holes at the back of the pan. Check whether your seat is round or D-shaped (elongated), and whether the hinges tighten from above or below the pan. Buy a replacement that matches both the shape and the hole spacing, as these vary between manufacturers.
TS-02Remove the old seatLift the seat and find the two hinge fixings at the back of the pan. Many are plastic wing nuts you can loosen by hand; older ones may need a screwdriver or small spanner. Undo both fixings fully, then lift the seat and hinge assembly away.
TS-03Clean the fixing areaWipe around the two holes on top of the pan to remove any grime, limescale or old washer residue. Dry the area fully so the new fixings seat properly. Check the porcelain around the holes isn't cracked or chipped before fitting the new seat.
TS-04Fit the new hinge boltsFeed the two hinge bolts down through the holes in the pan, following the instructions that came with your seat. Some seats use a quick-release clip system instead of bolts. Fit the washers and wing nuts underneath and tighten by hand first, keeping the seat level.
TS-05Secure and align the seatWith the seat sitting square and central on the pan, tighten the nuts firmly with a screwdriver or spanner, alternating sides so it doesn't skew. Don't overtighten plastic fixings, as they crack easily. Lift and lower the seat a few times to check it sits flat and doesn't rock.
TS-06Test and tidy upSit-test the seat gently to make sure it's secure and doesn't shift sideways. Wipe down the seat and pan, and dispose of the old seat with your household waste unless your local recycling centre asks for separate collection of metal-hinged items. Put your tools away.
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