How to fix loose Mondella toilet seat?

Question

We have a Mondella toilet, and the seat has repeatedly loosened since it was installed 3 years ago. We've tightened it numerous times, but one of the screws always comes loose, and the seat slides around, which is annoying.

Now it can no longer be tightened. It feels like the thread has been lost on the part that it screws into, so the screw just goes around and around. What can be done to fix it? We can't find the receipt. The seat was also not made well at the factory, and had a ridge around the edge that we power sanded down to make the seat usable originally, so it hasn't been a great purchase.

I think it's this one:

Mondella Signature White Rimless Back to Wall Toilet Suite

https://www.bunnings.com.au/applinks_p4823018?source=product_share&utm_source=bunnings&utm_medium=retail-app&utm_campaign=product_share&utm_content=pdp_deeplink

EricL · Answer

Hello @bluejay88

The only way to find out is to remove the loose toilet seat pin fixing. By removing the screw, you should be able to remove the seat pin. Once the pin is off, you'll be able to see if the rubber washer is present, missing or deteriorated. The plastic blind fixing insert which is where the screw was anchored to can be pulled out with long nose pliers. You should then be able to inspect the bottom of the plastic insert if it is deformed, ruined or if the nut has come loose in the plastic housing.

Are there generic plastic housing or toilet seat fixing kits? Yes, but these are generic fixings and are not a one size fits all. An example is the

https://www.bunnings.com.au/kinetic-toilet-seat-fixing-kit_p4920460

. This kit fits most of the Mondella, Estilo and Kinetic seats. But I suggest comparing it to your old set to make sure that it is at the right height and size. In regard to warranties, working parts like hinges, valves, and the soft-close mechanism are generally limited to a 1-year replacement warranty.

I've placed some sample images below to give you an idea of how they are installed.

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric

bluejay88 · Answer

Thanks very much Eric.

How can I tell whether the issue is the washer, locking screw or plastic housing? Are there any images or instructions available that show how the components are installed, so I can see how things should be?

is it possible to buy a new plastic housing or locking screw if that's what's needed, rather than a new seat? And if we could find the seat, would it still be covered under warranty (if the problem was the plastic housing)?

EricL · Answer

Hello @bluejay88

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community. It's wonderful to have you join us, and thanks for sharing your question about your toilet seat.

You mentioned a black or rubber washer that's missing, it is possible that this could be the reason that one side keeps coming loose. Generally speaking, the rubber washer prevents water from entering the base of the seat holder and also prevents it from moving. If the washer was not installed in the beginning, then it will not anchor properly to the pan.

If the screw for the post no longer anchors properly, it's possible that the locking screw has fallen off or the plastic housing holding it has failed. In this instance, I suggest replacing the seat with a new set.

In order to get a similar seat or a seat that comes close in size to the one you currently have, I suggest bringing your old seat with you so that you can compare it to the seats available at the store.

I suggest looking at the following:

*

https://www.bunnings.com.au/mondella-white-signature-ultra-slim-toilet-seat_p4870434

*

https://www.bunnings.com.au/mondella-white-rococo-back-to-wall-toilet-seat_p5140305

*

https://www.bunnings.com.au/mondella-concerto-soft-close-toilet-seat_p4870432

The seat position for the recommended seats is adjustable, but I can't guarantee a perfect fit. It may be slightly wider or longer, so it's best to compare to get the closest one in size.

My best advice is to wipe the pan surface with

https://www.bunnings.com.au/diggers-125ml-isopropyl-alcohol-125ml_p1564443

and a paper towel to remove any oil or grease that may have settled on the surface of the pan. Please wait until it is totally dry before installing the new seat pin assembly.

I also suggest checking the stores Toilet Seat Installation Service. Especially if your looking for a professional to install your toilet seat.

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric