Why are public toilet seats different?

The U-shaped seat in public restrooms is a requirement of IAPMO’s Uniform Plumbing Code. The design “eliminates an area that could be contaminated with urine” and also “eliminates the user’s genital contact with the seat.” There is a sensible exception to the Uniform Plumbing Code requirement.

Are all toilet seats the same shape?

Do all toilet seats fit the same? No, not all toilet seats fit the same because toilets come in a variety of different shapes, so you’ll need to check yours before buying.

Why are public restroom toilet seats split?

The code is followed by most public authorities, so many public toilets feature open front toilet seats (also called “split seats”). The purpose for this seat design is to prevent genitals contacting the seat. It also omits an area of the seat that could be contaminated with urine and avoids contact for easier wiping.

What are the different shapes of toilet seats?

Toilet seats don’t come in sizes, but they do come in two different shapes: round toilet seats and elongated toilet seats, each of which correspond to two different toilet bowl shapes. Round toilet seats are still the standard in most homes, and they’re the toilet seats you typically see most often.

How do I know what toilet seat fits?

Measure the width of the bowl at its widest point. Measure the length of the bowl from between the seat bolts to the outer edge of the front of the bowl. Round bowls should have a length of about 16 1/2 inches and elongated bowls should be 18 to 18 1/2 inches.

What is the purpose of U shaped toilet seats?

For the ladies Moreover, the public toilet seat was designed with women in mind. Lynne Simick, the senior director of code development at IAPMO told Slate that the U-shaped seat “allows women to wipe the perineal area after using the toilet without contacting the seat.”

Does toilet seat have to match toilet?

As a general rule, match elongated seats to elongated toilets and round-front seats to round-front toilets. However, before you make your final choice, you will want to be certain that your toilet seat is compatible with your toilet in terms of size, style and color.

Do toilet seats have different sizes?

As we said, toilet seats come in two sizes: round and elongated. Every toilet seat is one of these two, indicated on its packaging. Based on your measurement, order the appropriate seat – round or elongated – for your bowl. Our seats are designed to fit most manufacturers’ round or elongated bowls.

Do you know the difference between public toilets and home toilets?

YOU may have noticed there’s a distinct difference between public toilets and the one in your own home. It’s all to do with the seat with toilets in public bathrooms having a gap at the front so it is shaped like the letter u. But the seat in your bathroom at home will have a seat which goes all the way around.

Why are public toilet seats U-shaped?

This simple feature makes it much more affordable for businesses to purchase multiple toilet seats for their establishment at a fraction of the cost. Another reason why public toilet seats are u-shaped is that they are legally required by code.

Why does a toilet seat have a gap around it?

Most private bathrooms, by contrast, have oval or round toilet seats that wrap all the way around the toilet. Why the gap? The two-prong, open-front seat is required by the plumbing codes adopted by most public authorities in the U.S.

What are the different types of toilet seats in a bathroom?

Almost all public restrooms have what are called open front toilet seats, which are shaped like the letter u and have an opening at the front. Most private bathrooms, by contrast, have oval or round toilet seats that wrap all the way around the toilet.