Are Heated Toilet Seats Really Worth The Money?
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When thinking about a heated toilet seat, most may envision no downsides. A cold day or night is always welcome by a warming mechanism, similar to heated floors or a nice, hot shower. The cost of heated seats varies — you can get a less expensive one for around $50 or get a nicer, more trendy version for $500 or more. Of course, non-heated toilet seats will cost you as little as $10, so the heated version is definitely an upgrade. Depending on your taste, having a warm toilet seat can be worth the money. Plus, they are easy to install on your own and use very little energy.
Still, others may feel differently. While there are technically no downsides to using a heated toilet seat, besides the additional cost, the idea of sitting on a warm seat may feel icky to some. Whether you are buying a new toilet or just looking to upgrade, here's how to decide if your home needs a heated toilet seat.
Pros and cons of heated toilet seats
There is more to heated toilet seats than simply providing a warm feeling on a cold winter day. In fact, having a heated seat can help loosen tense muscles for those who may have trouble relaxing on the toilet. Similarly, if you suffer from arthritis or have muscle pain in your backside, the heated seat can help relieve some of that discomfort. In addition to the personal benefits, heated toilet seats are also super easy to install by yourself, eliminating the need for professional help. And to much surprise, heated toilet seats actually use very little energy and are a green option for those looking to make their home more environmentally friendly.
On the other hand, heated toilet seats can pose somewhat of a danger. According to The Standard, some models tested in the U.K. showed that sitting on them too long or adjusting the temperature setting to be too high can cause injuries or burns. Users can avoid this by choosing a high-quality, approved heated seat.
How to determine which heated seat to buy
If you are ready to say goodbye to that ice-cold toilet seat, there are a few things to consider before purchasing a heated seat. Of course, the first thing to figure out is your budget. As mentioned, the range in price for a heated toilet seat can vary a ton — in fact, if you get super fancy, you could find a few models for over $1,000! Luckily, there are a plethora of great options for the budget-conscious. You'll also want to pay attention to the heat settings, the plug mechanism — some heated seats require a plug within a few inches of the toilet — and the additional features.
If you want to go all-out with your heated seat, you can find one that not only keeps you warm but also lights up at night. The TUSHY Ace has both of those things, plus a remote control and a soft close lid. Although on the higher end at $599, the added features make it worth it. For a more budget-friendly option, consider the Toastie Tush, which you can find on Amazon for just over $50.