When it comes to creating the perfect bathroom, choosing the right toilet seat may seem like a small, inconsequential detail. However, it is one that can dramatically affect your bathroom’s comfort and style. For most homeowners in Australia, this decision often boils down to a choice between wood and plastic toilet seats.
Each option comes with unique benefits and drawbacks, so knowing these differences will go a long way to making an informed decision. Let’s explore some of the key factors to consider in the wood vs plastic toilet seat debate including durability, comfort, maintenance, and more. By the end, you’ll have a clearer idea of which toilet seat material is the better option for your home so you can make a truly satisfying choice.
Table of Contents
Material Composition
Understanding exactly what you’re sitting on when you go to the loo can help you make an informed decision.
Wooden toilet seats are typically made from moulded or solid wood such as oak, maple or bamboo. They provide a warm and natural feel, and usually come with a protective finish to resist moisture and wear. Plastic toilet seats, on the other hand, are usually manufactured using high-quality polypropylene or thermoplastic. They’re known for being lightweight and durable, and can resist scratches, stains, and fading over time.
For homeowners, the material composition of your toilet seat is a worthy point of consideration. Not only does it affect the seat’s appearance but it also affects its performance in a humid bathroom environment.
Durability and Longevity
When it comes to durability and longevity, both wood and plastic toilet seats offer distinct benefits.
Wood toilet seats are remarkably durable. They can withstand significant wear and tear and will often last many years with the right care. However, in high-humidity environments, they can be susceptible to cracking. Plastic toilet seats, meanwhile, are moisture-resistant and equally as robust, making them perfect for humid conditions. They are less likely to crack or peel and therefore should last longer.
Comfort and Aesthetics
If you’re sitting down, and possibly for a while, it makes sense that you want to be comfortable. So when choosing a toilet seat, comfort and aesthetics play a significant role in your decision.
People who prefer a warm and comfortable seating experience will often favour wooden toilet seats for their solid feel and natural appearance. They can add a touch of elegance and classic style to your bathroom.
Of course, many people prefer not to park themselves on a warm toilet seat. In which case, plastic toilet seats tend to be cooler to the touch. They also come in a variety of designs and colours that enable greater flexibility in matching your bathroom decor.
For anyone looking to strike the perfect balance of comfort with style, understanding these differences can guide you towards the perfect choice for your home.
Maintenance and Cleaning
The level of cleaning and maintenance that you’ll need to provide for your wooden or plastic toilet seat is another important point of consideration.
If you’re thinking of going down the wood toilet seat path, know that they typically require a bit more care. Regular cleaning with mild soap and water will help to prevent damage to their protective finish. Steer clear of using harsh chemicals as well if you want to uphold the appearance and preserve the lifespan of your wooden toilet seat.
By contrast, plastic toilet seats are typically easier to clean. They’re capable of holding their own against a multitude of natural and chemical-based cleaning products and are much less susceptible to staining. All in all, they’re a relatively low-maintenance option for your home.
Hygiene and Safety
Of course, hygiene and safety are essential factors to keep in mind when deciding between a wooden or plastic toilet seat.
Despite their stylish appeal, wooden toilet seats can sometimes absorb moisture if their protective finish wears down. This can lead to the growth of bacteria. Regular sealing can go a long way to alleviate this issue and make sure your seat remains clean and hygienic.
Plastic toilet seats are naturally non-porous. It makes them notably resistant to bacteria and easy to sanitise with common household cleaners. They also typically feature smooth surfaces that reduce the risk of scratches, where germs can hide.
If a clean and hygienic bathroom is a priority for you, as it should be, plastic toilet seats offer an edge in safety and ease of cleaning.
Ease of Installation
Ease of installation is another important consideration when deciding between a wooden or plastic toilet seat.
Both wood and plastic seats are generally straightforward to install, but the general lightness of plastic seats gives them a slight advantage in simplicity. They also usually come with standardised fittings that make the installation process quick and hassle-free.
Though wood seats are by no means overly complicated, they can be a bit heavier and might require more careful handling. All in all, toilet seat installation or replacement is something that you can do yourself. However, if you’re not confident in your DIY prowess, a plumber like After Hours Plumbing can sort it out for you.
Making the Final Choice
So the time has come to make a choice. Whether you get wood or prefer plastic, the right toilet seat depends on your priorities and bathroom environment.
For homeowners seeking a classic look and place value on aesthetic appeal, a wood toilet seat offers warmth and elegance. However, they require more maintenance and may not fare well in humid conditions. Then you have plastic seats that are durable, hygienic, and easy to clean. They’re a solid and practical choice for busy households.
Both options have their merits, and your choice should reflect your aesthetic preferences, comfort needs, and commitment to sustainability. By considering these factors, homeowners can confidently select the toilet seat that best suits their home and lifestyle.
