Raised Toilet Seats: Who Needs One and How to Choose the Right Height

A standard toilet seat height in Canadian homes is typically 35-38 cm (14-15 inches) from the floor. For many older adults and people recovering from lower-limb surgery, this height requires a degree of hip and knee flexion during lowering and rising that causes pain, difficulty, or fall risk. A raised toilet seat is a simple, effective solution that reduces this challenge significantly.

Who Benefits from a Raised Toilet Seat?

• People recovering from hip replacement surgery: Hip precautions following total hip replacement often prohibit bending the hip beyond 90 degrees. A standard toilet may place the hip below this threshold; a raised seat reduces the flexion required.
• Knee replacement recovery: A raised seat reduces the knee flexion needed to lower into and rise from the toilet — easing load on the surgical site.
• Arthritis sufferers: Hip and knee arthritis makes the sit-to-stand transition painful at standard toilet height; a raised seat reduces the angle traversed.
• Tall individuals: Taller users often find standard toilet height uncomfortable; a raised seat brings the seat to a more ergonomic height relative to their leg length.
• Anyone with reduced lower-limb strength: A higher seat reduces the strength required to lower and rise.

Types of Raised Toilet Seats

Basic elevated seats (no armrests)

Attach directly onto the existing toilet seat, raising height by 5-15 cm. Simple and affordable. Best suited for users who have sufficient upper body strength to rise from the elevated position without arm support.

Elevated seats with armrests

Integrated armrests on either side of the seat allow the user to push up using their arms — reducing the work required from the legs. The most commonly recommended option for post-surgical and arthritic users.

Standalone elevated toilet frames

A freestanding frame that fits over the toilet and provides adjustable armrests and an elevated seat surface. Height is adjustable over a wider range than clip-on seats.

Browse raised toilet seats at Factory Direct Medical.

How Much Height Do You Need?

The goal is for the user to sit with the hip at or slightly above 90 degrees — often recommended as the knee being level with or slightly below the hip. Measure from the floor to the back of the user's knee while seated in a firm chair. If this is significantly above standard toilet height, use the difference to determine how much elevation is appropriate.

Most raised toilet seats add 5 cm (2 inches), 10 cm (4 inches), or 15 cm (6 inches) of height. Post-surgical patients with strict hip precautions should confirm the required height with their surgeon or occupational therapist.

Frequently Asked Questions