There are many reasons why a comfortable toilet seat is important for seniors and the elderly.
Aging plays all kinds of tricks on the body. For some people, it may take longer to get the job done. For others, difficulty getting up and down results in more time sitting on the toilet.
Often aging leads to weight loss and frailty, which, quite frankly, means you have less natural padding on your bottom.
So, yes, soft padded seats are extremely helpful bathroom aids for aging adults.
If it’s time for a softer, more comfortable toilet seat, here are my recommendations and a quick rundown of my favorites:
- Best Standard Toilet Seat – Mayfair Removable Soft Toilet Seat – (Read Review)
- Best for Pressure Relief – Mayfair TruComfort Toilet Seat – (Read Review)
- Best Raised – Platinum Health Deluxe – (Read Review)
- Best Commode – Medline Heavy Duty Padded Drop-Arm Commode – (Read Review)
- Best for Temporary Use – DMI Toilet Seat Cushion – (Read Review)
How To Choose A Soft Toilet Seat For Elderly People
If you have decided to buy a soft, padded toilet seat for an elderly person, there are a few tips to consider that can assist you in choosing one that is going to keep your older loved one comfortable and safe.
1. Comfort
This is the main reason you want a softer toilet seat, right? No one enjoys plopping down on a hard toilet seat. So, choose one with nice thick padding with high-density foam materials and cleanable covering of some sort.
2. Stability
When using any toilet seat with an older adult, it is essential to check that it doesn’t move or shift while they are sitting on it.
To gauge the stability, look at the hinges and how securely they attach. You want a system that bolts down tightly.
Read customer reviews from actual users and look for comments about wobbliness or shifting.
3. Installation
Part of stability is how the cushion is installed. Most just involve loosening the current toilet seat and attaching the new cushion with the new hinges. Often you only need a wrench and screwdriver. If you don’t feel comfortable with this step, plumbers will often do this type of work.
4. Toilet Bowl Shape and Fit
Ensure your new toilet seat will fit on your existing toilet bowl. Toilets are basically two shapes: round or elongated. You have an elongated toilet bowl if it is more oval-shaped and is longer front to back than side to side. The two styles aren’t generally interchangeable.
5. Cleanability
No one wants to spend extra time cleaning a toilet. Look for one that is easy to wipe down. Some of my recommendations offer quick removal so that you clean around the back of the bowl easily too. Solid foam materials are better than vinyl because vinyl tends to crack over time.
When choosing a soft toilet seat for the elderly, keep in mind things like design and aesthetics too.
What Are The Best Padded Toilet Seats For The Elderly?
1. Mayfair Removable Standard Soft Toilet Seat (115EC)
The Mayfair 115EC standard soft toilet seat is made by Bemis, a company that specializes in toilet seats and accessories.
I chose this seat because it has a nice thickness to it that makes it comfortable to sit on. Plus, the seat lid is also soft. This is a nice addition because many older adults will sit on the toilet lid if they need to rest.
Cleaning around a toilet seat is a pain in the butt (sorry about that) for people of all ages. This seat, though, releases from its hinges with the flip of 2 tabs. So, you can clean the seat as well as easily access the back of the toilet bowl for a good, thorough cleaning.
However, this hardware (the manufacturer calls it Sta-Tite) is very stable when locked in place, so you don’t have to worry about the seat shifting or rocking under use.
Installation just requires removing the old seat and replacing it with this one through the use of two bolts. The Mayfair soft toilet seat is available for both elongated and round toilet bowls.
It is the best toilet seat for general use.
Pros:
- Affordable
- Fits securely to most round and elongated toilets
- Feels very comfortable
- Eco-friendly product
Cons:
- Seat may move if installation instructions aren’t precisely followed
- Some complaints about long-term durability
2. Mayfair TruComfort Elongated Toilet Seat (1870FZ)
Many older adults develop pressure points on their butt bones, especially if they have lost weight or become more frail. This is why protecting their bottom while sitting on a toilet is so important.
The TruComfort Seat from Mayfair is cushioned by two flexible inserts on a high-quality white toilet seat that helps relieve pressure right where you are putting the most weight onto it. So, it is one of the most comfortable seat options, especially if you spend more time on the toilet than you care to admit.
This elongated toilet seat will support your bottom better than standard seats, too, because the seat itself is a bit wider.
Installation is easy and just requires a wrench to install the hinges. Another helpful feature is that the seat removes quickly for thorough cleaning while remaining stable and secure when reattached properly.
This seat is a great choice for elderly people who are feeling pressure when sitting on a toilet but don’t necessarily need one that raises the toilet seat height.
Pros:
- Conforms to and comforts the user’s backside
- Excellent at relieving pressure points on boney prominences
- Hardware offers quick seat removal while also being stable
- Soft close seat hinges, which eliminates slamming
Cons:
- Does not raise the toilet seat height if that is needed
- The lid is not soft
3. ZeeDix Toilet Seat Cover Pads
It sounds strange until you have lived it, but many seniors are sensitive to temperature extremes. And plopping down on a cold toilet seat is often a shock to the system.
So, if you need a more comfortable toilet seat, a warm toilet seat cover is appreciated. These soft, acrylic cover pads may be a great alternative. They add softness, comfort, and warmth to your current toilet seat.
Installation takes less than a minute, and they fit on both an elongated or round toilet seat. You feed the pad up through your existing seat from underneath and wrap the fabric around the seat. There are flexible rings that hold everything in place.
Of course, there are some hygienic issues to consider here. While they are washable, the instructions do recommend hand washing. So, consider that if frequent soiling of the pads is possible.
But, they come five to a pack and cost less than $4 each, so if you had to throw one away every now and then, it’s not a huge loss.
Pros:
- The high-stretch fabric suits most elongated and round toilet seats
- Comfortable, breathable, warm, and soft
- Acrylic fibers are durable and skin-friendly
- Easy to install
Cons:
- Hand washing recommended
- Not recommended for trouble with bowel control
4. Ginsey Embroidered and Colored Soft Toilet Seat
Ginsey Soft Toilet Seats
People with vision problems and dementia may have trouble distinguishing two surfaces from each other if they are the same color. Studies have shown that adding color contrasted surfaces helps improve bathroom safety for these folks.
So, logic follows that a colorful toilet seat may help people with these disabilities find the toilet seat more easily. This can reduce “hard landings”
if they misjudge the distance and help them target themselves better when sitting.
Both the seat and the lid of this one are soft for comfort, but the padding is a bit thinner than some of the others I have reviewed.
This soft round toilet seat comes in 12 different colors and patterns available to choose from, so you can choose one that fits your decor while also offering a nice contrast.
Installation is the same as most of the others and just involves a wrench and screwdriver.
Pros:
- Lots of color choices
- Fits oval and round bowls
- Seat and lid are padded for comfort
- Easy to wipe clean
Cons:
- Some users have mentioned that the cushion depresses with frequent use
5. Kindax Gel Portable Toilet Seat Cushion
Many older adults don’t like the look of thick toilet seats, and some are very resistant to change.
For these folks, I like these gel toilet seat cushion strips from Kindax. They are self-adhesive and can be added to an existing toilet seat to add comfort and pressure relief. And, because they are flexible, they fit nearly any style and size of the toilet seat.
The gel is a medical-grade gel that is hypoallergenic and won’t deform even when heavily used. No silicone or latex is used.
The cushions attach directly to the existing seat surface but can also be peeled off for cleaning. Once cleaned, simply press them back down onto the seat.
Because they are reusable, they are portable too for people who need a soft, comfortable toilet seat they can take with them.
Pros:
- Self-adhesive strips are very easy to install
- Gel adds comfort and relieves pressure
- Easy to clean
- Reusable for portability
Cons:
- Only 1/2 thick, so might not be thick enough for soe users
The Best Alternatives For Seniors Who Also Need A Taller Toilet Seat
Sometimes, a standard padded seat is not enough for more frail elderly people. Some also have trouble getting up and down from a toilet, so there is benefit in raising the seat height for them as well.
Here are some toilet seats that also raise the seat height providing better leverage for sitting or standing when using the toilet.
There isn’t a standard height for toilet seats since each individual is unique. To get to the correct height:
- Ask the person to sit in a chair.
- Measure the length between the underside of their knee and the floor.
- Measure the distance from the top of the toilet rim to the floor.
- Subtract this measurement from your first measurement, and this will be the height the padded toilet seat should be.
1. Vive Toilet Seat Cushion
The Vive Cushioned Toilet Seat Cushion is made from a rebound-tested, comfortable foam for long-term use and is available in 2″ or 4″ sizes. So, it can be used to boost the toilet seat height in addition to adding extra thick comfort.
The flat back design of this portable raised toilet seat rests flush against a toilet tank, and it works well with most elongated and standard toilets. These seat cushions also include a zippered cover that is easy to keep clean with a disinfectant solution or wipes.
The cushion base also includes four strong suction cups that make it a breeze to secure and install on your current toilet seat. Ensure that the suction cups have engaged and that the seat is securely installed before use. Recheck it each time it is removed for cleaning too.
The Vive Toilet Seat is a great choice for someone looking for increased comfort in an elevated toilet seat.
Pros:
- Cushioning support
- Comfortable bathroom seating
- Fits most toilet seats
- Easy to remove and cleaning
Cons:
- Care should be taken to check the suction cup attachment is working properly
2. Platinum Health Deluxe, Padded Soft Top & Elevated Toilet Seat
The Platinum Health Deluxe raised locking toilet seat with a padded soft top is one of the best products to ensure your loved one is comfortable when they go to the toilet. Especially if they need a raised toilet seat too.
The soft top elevated raised toilet seat is padded with a commercial-grade foam that remains comfortable even for extended sitting. This is a much better alternative to seats that have extra hard plastic that is cold or slippery.
This product also includes an exclusive Hi-View blue color, making it easier to distinguish the toilet seat from the rest of its surroundings. This coloring can help prevent falls, trips, and slips by providing contrast, as I discussed earlier.
The padded surface is textured to reduce sliding and slipping once seated. There are notches carved out of the front and the back to provide easier access for wiping.
These raised soft-top toilet seats are also available in 3 heights (2, 4, or 6 inches) so that you can choose a model that matches your needs. It is also a locking toilet seat so that you can be sure it stays securely attached to your toilet bowl.
Pros:
- Exclusive Hi-View Blue high-contrast color to promote safety
- Fits most elongated and regular toilets
- Comes with a discreet, solid, and safe mounting system
- Soft close lid hinges prevent it falling down
Cons:
- Not suitable for large people
3. DMI Extra Thick Toilet Seat Cushion With Padding
Sometimes, even a raised toilet seat is needed only temporarily. For example, after rectal or hip surgery or while another injury is healing.
This soft toilet seat riser makes a commode seat or toilet seat much more comfortable for people suffering from the discomfort or pain of hemorrhoids or those recovering from surgery or injury.
This cushion toilet seat fits most commode seats and standard-size toilets and are easily wiped clean. It attaches with hook and loop straps that wrap around the toilet seat. Be sure to fasten them tightly to reduce movement while using them.
This soft raised toilet seat is lightweight and portable. But the foam displaces quite a bit when it is sat on, so I think it is the best soft toilet seat for temporary use or for someone who needs a portable option to take on a trip.
Pros:
- Lightweight and very easy to carry
- High-quality foam relieves pain and offers advanced comfort
- The cushion fits many of the standard-sized toilets
- Sturdy and secure
Cons:
- The hook-and-loop straps do not attach well to wider toile seats
- Best for short-term use
4. Medline Drop-Arm Commode With Padded Toilet Seat
The Guardian Padded Drop-Arm Commode from Medline offers a complete solution for someone who needs a toilet seat riser with a padded seat. It can even be used in other areas of the home besides the bathroom.
This product is actually a bedside commode but you can use it as an elevated toilet seat too by placing it over the top of the existing toilet (after removing the back and the commode bucket). Then, adjust the legs to the proper height and set the entire unit over your existing toilet.
If you like this multi-purpose approach, see my list of the best bedside commodes for the elderly here.
With an easy button push, the arms drop down, making it much easier to get onto and off a toilet. This product also includes a resilient foam-padded back and seat, which provides increased comfort.
While the seat itself adds about 2 inches in height, the entire unit is height adjustable. So, you can set it at the best height for the person who uses it.
It also includes non-slip foam hand grips with heavy-duty construction, and luxury features have made this product the ideal option for long-term use.
Pros:
- With a simple push of a button, the arms on the commode swing down
- The resilient, thick foam-padded back and seat provide the ultimate comfort
- The design offers an easier way for caregivers to achieve lateral transfers or for individuals that use wheelchairs
- The foam hand grips are non-slip, even if they get wet
Cons:
- This product may be too high for a person with short legs
- The bucket fits well to the seat rails but is a bit too small for the opening of the seat
5. Platinum Health The Ultimate Raised Toilet Seat
The Platinum Health Ultimate Raised Toilet is an extra versatile product that can be used as a bedside commode, a raised toilet seat, or even as a handy shower chair. The setup is easy and fast and requires no cumbersome or time-consuming attachments to a toilet.
The seat is soft and comes in the high visibility blue color that Platinum Health is known for. It is also contoured to fit the natural curves of your bottom.
This is also a heavier-duty product and can support up to 350 pounds.
Like other bedside (aka 3 in 1) commodes I have discussed, you can place this at the bedside or over your existing toilet as a seat riser. And, because it is height adjustable and has armrests, many users may find this option easier to use.
Pros:
- Soft, warm padded seat will make toileting a lot more comfortable
- Adjustable height
- Padded armrests
- Fits both elongated and regular toilets
Cons:
- The splash guard sides are slanted steeply towards the opening
- The straight bar that goes along the front can make it hard for a person to clean themselves
RELATED: Best Raised Toilet Seats for Seniors & Elderly
How Does a Cushioned Toilet Seat Help Older Adults in the Bathroom?
Seniors are more prone to falls, particularly in areas like a bathroom. So consider these padded toilet seat advantages:
- They make sitting on the toilet for extended periods of time more comfortable.
- They pad and comfort boney bottoms of frail older adults.
- They are warmer because they don’t absorb cold from the toilet bowl.
- They add a small bit of height to the toilet seat.
Padded toilet seats can make using the bathroom much more manageable, more comfortable, and safer.
Are There Any Drawbacks Of Using A Softer Toilet Seat?
Of course, there are padded toilet seat disadvantages to consider as well.
Soft toilet seats require more frequent replacement, which can increase these products’ costs over time. Most take a foam toilet seat and cover it with a waterproof cover which can rip and tear over time.
When using a softer toilet seat over a long period, these seats are prone to cracks, resulting in very unsanitary conditions.
Urine or any other bodily fluids can seep into the padding, which means these seats must be replaced from time to time.
Are Padded Toilet Seats Warm?
Yes, padded toilet seats are warm and provide comfort to the elderly and those with reduced mobility.
They are designed to be warmer than standard hard porcelain toilet seats and provide superior comfort and a softer seating area.
Padded toilet seats also come in many different styles and sizes, making them an ideal choice for any bathroom.
How To Install A Padded Toilet Seat On An Existing Toilet
A padded toilet seat will fit over most toilets just like standard toilet seats do. So, installing them won’t require any additional steps or techniques. Most padded toilet seat products are easy to install and come with instructions.
Conclusion: Finding the Best Soft Toilet Seat
The person doesn’t need to experience an uncomfortable time when using the bathroom just because they are getting older.
Soft padded toilet seats can be used alone or with raised toilet seats as one of the best ways to make your toilet seat more comfortable and improve your safety in the bathroom.
Before choosing a model, it is always advisable to read reviews to ensure the product is comfortable, durable, and easy to keep clean.
