Most over toilet aids come in a standard size that suits the majority of Australian bathrooms and users. But "standard" has its limits, both in how wide the seat is and how far the frame legs span across your toilet. If either measurement is off, the frame will feel uncomfortable or, worse, unstable. Here's how to work out whether you need an extra wide model and how to measure before you buy.
- What "extra wide" actually means
- Two reasons someone needs an extra wide over toilet aid
- How to measure before you buy
- Wide models available in Australia
What "extra wide" actually means
On an over toilet aid, "extra wide" can mean two different things. Knowing which one applies to your situation makes all the difference when choosing the right frame.
Seat width
Seat width is the measurement of the actual seat surface. Standard over toilet aid seats are typically around 40 to 45 cm wide. Extra wide models offer 50 to 55 cm. A wider seat is more comfortable and takes pressure off the hips during transfers. If a standard seat feels too narrow when you sit down, this is the dimension to focus on.
Leg gap width
Leg gap width is the internal distance between the frame legs, meaning how far apart the legs sit when the frame straddles your toilet. Most standard frames have a leg gap of around 40 to 45 cm, which fits most Australian toilets. That said, elongated toilet pans, some older-style bowls, and certain European-style toilets can be wider. If a standard frame's legs won't span your toilet bowl, you need a model with a wider leg gap, regardless of your body size.
Two reasons someone needs an extra wide over toilet aid
It really comes down to two things: body size and toilet bowl width. You might need a wider model for one reason, or for both.
- Body size: If your hip width when seated is greater than about 45 cm, a standard seat can feel cramped and affect your stability during transfers. An extra wide seat gives you the full surface area you need to sit securely and comfortably.
- Toilet bowl width: If your toilet bowl is wider than the standard leg gap, the frame will press against the outside of the bowl, rock during use, and won't be safe. A wider leg gap frame solves this, regardless of your body size.
How to measure before you buy
Two quick measurements are all you need to know whether a standard frame fits or whether a wide model is the right call.
Measuring your hip width
Sit on a firm, flat surface. Measure the widest point of your hips from side to side. Add about 5 cm on each side for comfortable clearance. If that total is greater than the seat width of the frame you're considering, go wider.
Measuring your toilet bowl
Measure the outer width of your toilet bowl at its widest point, usually near the front. That's the measurement the frame's internal leg gap needs to exceed. Most standard Australian toilets measure 35 to 40 cm at the bowl, which sits comfortably within the 40 to 45 cm leg gap of a standard frame. If your toilet measures more than 43 cm, look for a wide-leg frame to be safe.
Wide models available in Australia
A number of brands make wide and extra wide over toilet aids for the Australian market. When you're comparing models, always check the product specs for seat width, leg gap, height adjustment range, and weight capacity. Not every model described as "wide" uses the same dimensions.
One thing worth checking: some wide frames use a wider base but keep the same armrest span as the standard model. If the armrests sit further apart than your shoulder width, they may feel less supportive when pushing up. If the armrest-to-armrest measurement is listed in the specs, check it. If it's not listed, get in touch before you order and we'll confirm it for you.
Browse our full range of over toilet aids. Specs including seat width, leg gap, height range, and weight rating are listed on every product page. Not sure which width fits your toilet? Get in touch and we'll help you confirm before you order.