A Caregiver’s Guide to the Best Raised Toilet Seats
Reduce strain and increase safety with the right toilet seat riser. We review the top models for stability, comfort, and ease of installation.
For those with arthritis, limited mobility, or recovering from hip or knee surgery, the simple act of sitting down on and standing up from a low toilet can be painful and challenging. A raised toilet seat, also known as a toilet riser, is a simple but transformative solution. By adding 3 to 5 inches of height, it significantly reduces the distance one has to bend, making the process safer, less painful, and promoting greater independence in the bathroom.
Find Your Ideal Riser Height
Use this simple calculator to find the best fit. All measurements should be in inches.
Our Top-Rated Raised Toilet Seats
Vive Locking Raised Toilet Seat (5-Inch)
The Vive raised seat is our top choice for a standard riser due to its exceptional stability. Unlike basic models that just sit on the bowl, this one features a secure locking mechanism that clamps onto the toilet, preventing any wiggling. It’s a fantastic blend of safety and simplicity.
- Adds a significant 5 inches of height.
- Tool-free installation with an internal locking clamp for stability.
- Fits both standard and elongated toilet bowls.
- Lightweight, durable, and supports up to 300 lbs.
Essential Medical Supply Padded Seat Riser
If comfort is the absolute top priority, especially for users prone to pressure sores, this padded option is ideal. While most risers are hard plastic, this one features a thick, warm, and comfortable padded seat, making it much more pleasant for extended use.
- Adds 4 inches of height with a soft, padded seat.
- Hook and loop straps provide a secure attachment.
- Reduces pressure and offers superior comfort.
- Durable, easy-to-clean vinyl surface.
Editor’s Choice & Best with Arms: Carex Raised Toilet Seat
+For the best all-around combination of safety, support, and stability, the Carex Raised Toilet Seat with Arms is our top recommendation. The integrated arms provide a crucial leverage point that makes sitting and standing significantly easier and safer. This eliminates the need for a separate toilet safety frame, saving space and creating an all-in-one solution.
- Adds 5 inches of height for ease of use.
- Sturdy, padded handles provide stable support.
- Locking mechanism ensures a tight fit on the toilet.
Feature Comparison
| Feature | Vive Locking Riser | Carex with Arms | Essential Padded Riser |
|---|---|---|---|
| Height Added | 5 Inches | 5 Inches | 4 Inches |
| Includes Arms | No | Yes (Padded) | No |
| Seat Material | Hard Plastic | Hard Plastic | Padded Vinyl |
| Installation | Tool-Free Lock | Tool-Free Lock | Straps |
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I choose the right height?
The ideal height allows the user’s feet to be flat on the floor with their knees bent at a roughly 90-degree angle. Our interactive calculator at the top of this guide is the best way to find your perfect height! Just enter the user’s comfortable seat height and your current toilet height.
Will it fit my elongated toilet bowl?
Most modern raised seats, including the Vive and Carex models reviewed here, are designed to be compatible with both standard round and elongated toilet bowls. However, it is always best to double-check the product description and specifications before purchasing to ensure a perfect fit.
How are these cleaned?
Most raised toilet seats are made of durable, non-porous plastic and can be cleaned with standard bathroom disinfectant sprays or wipes, just like a regular toilet seat. Models that can be easily removed without tools make thorough cleaning much simpler.