Toilet seats are an essential part of any bathroom. They provide comfort, hygiene, and style to your toilet. However, not all toilet seats are the same. Some toilet seats have a special feature called soft close, which prevents them from slamming down and making a loud noise. In this article, we will explain what soft close toilet seats are, how they work, and their benefits.
What are soft close toilet seats?
Soft close toilet seats are toilet seats that have a mechanism that slows down the closing speed of the seat and the lid. This means that when you lower the seat or the lid, they will gently and quietly close without banging on the toilet bowl. Soft close toilet seats are also known as slow close, quiet-close, or silent close toilet seats.
How do soft close toilet seats work?
Soft close toilet seats are designed to close slowly and quietly, preventing the loud slamming noise that traditional toilet seats can make. Here’s a detailed explanation of how they work:
Mechanism and Components
- Hinges with Dampers:
- The key component of a soft close toilet seat is its hinges, which are equipped with dampers. These dampers are usually made of hydraulic or pneumatic materials that control the speed at which the seat and lid close.
- Hydraulic or Pneumatic Dampers:
- These dampers work by creating resistance as the seat and lid are lowered. When you start to close the seat, the dampers engage and slow down the movement, ensuring a gentle and quiet descent.
- Springs and Tension Mechanism:
- Some soft close seats also incorporate springs and tension mechanisms within the hinges. These components help to balance the weight of the seat and lid, allowing them to close smoothly without requiring much force.
Working Process of soft close toilet seats
- Initiating the Close:
- When you push the toilet seat or lid down, the dampers in the hinges are activated. This initial push is usually enough to start the closing process.
- Controlled Descent:
- As the seat and lid begin to lower, the dampers create resistance. This resistance slows down the movement, preventing the seat from slamming shut. The hydraulic or pneumatic fluid inside the dampers absorbs the kinetic energy, converting it into a controlled motion.
- Final Closure:
- The seat and lid continue to descend slowly until they reach the closed position. The entire process is smooth and quiet, reducing noise and preventing damage to the toilet bowl and seat.
Benefits of soft close toilet seats
- Noise Reduction:
- One of the primary benefits of soft close toilet seats is the significant noise reduction. This is especially useful in households with multiple members or in settings where noise can be disruptive.
- Safety:
- Soft close seats are safer, particularly for children. The slow closing mechanism prevents the seat from slamming down on fingers, reducing the risk of injury.
- Durability:
- The controlled closing mechanism reduces wear and tear on the toilet seat and bowl, extending their lifespan.
- Hygiene:
- Since the seat closes slowly and gently, there is less need to touch it, which can help maintain better hygiene in the bathroom.
Maintenance
- Regular Cleaning:
- Keep the hinges and dampers clean to ensure smooth operation. Avoid using harsh chemicals that could damage the components.
- Hinge Adjustment:
- Some soft close seats allow you to adjust the tension of the hinges to control the speed of the descent. Check the manufacturer’s instructions for details on how to make these adjustments.
- Replacement:
- Over time, the dampers may wear out and need replacement. If the seat no longer closes slowly, it might be time to replace the hinges or the entire seat.
Soft close toilet seats are a great addition to any bathroom, offering convenience, safety, and durability.
What are the benefits of soft close toilet seats?
Soft close toilet seats have several benefits, such as:
- They reduce the noise and vibration caused by the seat or the lid hitting the toilet bowl, which can be annoying and disturbing, especially at night or in small spaces.
- They prevent the seat or the lid from cracking or breaking due to the impact, which can damage the toilet and require costly repairs or replacements.
- They prevent the seat or the lid from pinching your fingers or hurting your children or pets, which can cause pain or injury.
- They enhance the appearance and functionality of your toilet, as they are available in different shapes, sizes, colors, and materials to suit your preferences and needs.
How do I choose a soft close toilet seat?
When choosing a soft close toilet seat, you should consider the following factors:
- The size and shape of your toilet bowl are important, as you need to find a seat that fits well and matches the design of your toilet. You can measure the length, width, and distance between the hinges of your toilet bowl and compare them with the dimensions of the seat you want to buy.
- The seat and hinge system’s material and quality are important, as you need to find a seat that is durable, easy to clean, and resistant to stains, scratches, and bacteria. You can choose from different materials, such as plastic, wood, resin, or metal, and different finishes, such as glossy, matte, or textured.
- The price and warranty of the seat are important, as you need to find a seat that suits your budget and offers good value for money. You can compare the prices and features of different brands and models of soft-close toilet seats and check the warranty terms and conditions.
Conclusion
Soft close toilet seats are a great option for anyone who wants to improve their bathroom experience. They offer comfort, hygiene, and style, as well as noise reduction, damage prevention, and safety. They are easy to install, use, and maintain, and they come in a variety of options to suit your taste and needs. If you are looking for a new toilet seat, you should consider a soft close one. You can browse and buy soft close toilet seats online or in stores, or you can ask a professional plumber for advice and assistance.
