How to Remove and Install a Toilet

Replacing a toilet can stop leaks, fix rocking, and refresh your bathroom. The process is straightforward: shut off water, remove the toilet, replace the seal, reinstall, then test.

Tools and Materials

Tools

• Adjustable wrench or socket set
• Bucket, sponge, towels, gloves
• Putty knife or plastic scraper

Materials

• New wax ring or wax free seal (never reuse the old one)
• New closet bolts, washers, and nuts
• Flexible supply line (replace if old or stiff)
• Plastic shims (only if the toilet rocks)
• Caulk (optional)

Before You Start

• Clear the area and protect the floor with towels or cardboard.
• Locate the shutoff valve behind the toilet.
• Toilets are heavy, get help if needed.

Step 1: Shut Off Water and Drain the Toilet

• Turn the shutoff valve clockwise until it stops.
• Flush to empty the tank.
• Sponge out remaining water from the tank and bowl into a bucket.

Step 2: Disconnect the Supply Line

• Place a towel under the connection.
• Loosen the nut under the tank with a wrench.

Step 3: Remove the Toilet

• Pop off the bolt caps at the base.
• Remove the nuts from the closet bolts.
• Rock the toilet gently to break the old wax seal.
• Lift straight up and set the toilet on cardboard or a towel.

While the toilet is off

Stuff a rag into the open drain to block odors and stop screws from falling in. Keep it visible so you remember to remove it before reinstalling.

Step 4: Remove Old Wax and Check the Flange

• Scrape old wax off the flange and the toilet outlet, then wipe clean.
• Inspect the flange. It should be solid and firmly attached. If it is cracked, loose, or badly rusted, repair it before installing the toilet.

Step 5: Install New Closet Bolts

Slide new bolts into the flange slots and position them evenly left and right. Use the small plastic washers (if included) to keep bolts upright.

Step 6: Place the New Wax Ring or Seal

Pick a seal that matches your flange height:

• Standard wax ring: best for most installs
• Extra thick wax ring: helpful if the flange sits slightly below the floor
• Wax free seal: cleaner and easier to reset

Follow the package directions. If you set the toilet down and then lift it back up, replace the wax ring with a new one.

Step 7: Set the Toilet and Tighten Evenly

• Remove the rag from the drain opening.
• Lower the toilet straight down over the bolts.
• Press down evenly to compress the seal.
• Add washers and nuts, then tighten a little on each side, alternating left and right.

Stabilize if it rocks

If the toilet rocks, insert plastic shims until stable, then trim shim ends. Do not keep tightening bolts to stop rocking.

Step 8: Reconnect Water and Leak Test

• Reconnect the supply line to the tank and shutoff valve.
• Turn the shutoff valve on slowly and let the tank fill.
• Flush 2 to 3 times.
• Check for leaks:
  • At supply line connections
  • Around the tank gasket and bolts (two piece toilets)
  • Around the base on the floor

If you see water at the base, shut off water and reset the toilet with a new seal.

Step 9: Finish Up

• Trim bolt length if needed, then snap on caps.
• Optional: Caulk the front and sides, leaving a small gap at the back to spot future leaks.

Pro Tips for a Cleaner Installation

• If bolt nuts are stuck, use penetrating oil and wait a few minutes before loosening.
• Replace a crusty supply line now. It is cheap insurance against future leaks.
• After tightening, try to rock the toilet gently. No movement should be felt.
• If the floor is uneven, shims are the correct fix, not extra bolt force.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Reusing an old wax ring
• Forgetting to remove water before lifting
• Overtightening bolts instead of using shims
• Installing on a damaged flange
• Skipping a leak test

FAQ

Can I reinstall the same toilet?
Yes, if it is not cracked and the flange is solid. Always use a new seal.

How do I know I chose the right wax ring?
If the flange is near floor level, a standard ring is usually correct. If the flange sits a bit below the floor, an extra thick ring or a flange extender may be needed.

When should I call a plumber?
Call if the flange is broken, the floor feels soft, or leaks return after a reset.

Final Takeaway

To remove and install a toilet, shut off water, drain it, lift the toilet, clean the flange, and install a brand new seal. Set the toilet straight down, tighten evenly, stabilize with shims, then leak test. Done right, it stays solid and leak free for years.