For most people, using the toilet is a routine task that requires little thought. But how you sit on the toilet actually has a direct impact on your health, especially your digestive system. Modern toilets, though convenient, may not support the body's natural posture for effective elimination. That’s where toilet stools come in.

Toilet stools are simple tools designed to elevate your feet while you're seated, mimicking the natural squatting position. This position helps straighten the rectum, relax the puborectalis muscle, and allow for smoother, strain-free bowel movements. It's a small change that can make a big difference in your everyday comfort.

Why Posture Matters in the Bathroom

When you're sitting on a standard toilet with your feet flat on the floor, your rectum forms a kink. This muscle tension can make elimination more difficult, leading to straining—a major cause of hemorrhoids, constipation, and even pelvic floor issues. Using a toilet stool shifts the angle of your hips and aligns your colon in a way that supports easier, more complete elimination.

Squatty Potty Australia has popularized this natural approach with a range of toilet stools, available in different materials and styles to suit individual needs and bathroom spaces.

Choosing the Right Toilet Stool

Toilet stools come in various shapes, sizes, and materials. Your choice depends on your bathroom setup, who’s using the stool, and what feels most comfortable.

1. Plastic Toilet Stools

These are lightweight, easy to clean, and generally more affordable. Plastic toilet stools are great for families with children or anyone who wants a simple, low-maintenance option. They’re also ideal for shared spaces or travel, as they’re easy to move and store.

2. Wooden Toilet Stool

If you're looking for something with a more natural or classic feel, a wooden toilet stool is a good choice. It’s often sturdier, adds a touch of style to your bathroom, and blends well with home decor. Wooden options are especially popular in homes where aesthetics matter just as much as function.

Added Comfort and Cleanliness: Don’t Forget Unicorn Gold

Alongside your toilet stool, consider adding Unicorn Gold, a before-you-go toilet spray that helps trap odors beneath the surface of the toilet water. While not essential for posture, it does improve the bathroom experience for households and guests alike. Just a spray or two before use helps keep the air fresh.

How to Use a Toilet Stool Correctly

Using a toilet stool is straightforward.

  • Place the stool in front of the toilet.

  • While seated, rest your feet on the stool.

  • Lean forward slightly with your elbows on your knees.

  • Relax and let your body do the work—straining should be minimal or nonexistent.

Many users report immediate differences in how easily and completely they’re able to empty their bowels.

Benefits of Toilet Stools

The benefits of using a toilet stool go beyond convenience. They include:

  • Improved bowel movement efficiency

  • Reduced straining and pressure

  • Relief from constipation and bloating

  • Reduced risk of hemorrhoids and related issues

  • Better pelvic floor health

It’s not just about going more easily—it’s about going better.

Daily Use and Maintenance

Plastic toilet stools are easy to wipe clean with soap and water, making them a great choice for households with kids or multiple users. Wooden options should be wiped with a damp cloth and kept dry to preserve the material.

Most users keep the stool tucked under the toilet when not in use, which keeps it out of the way but within easy reach. It’s a simple addition to your bathroom that quietly improves your health every day.

Final Thoughts

Toilet stools are a small change that lead to lasting benefits. Whether you choose a plastic toilet stool for its practicality or a wooden toilet stool for its design, the result is the same: better posture, better health, and a better bathroom experience. Pair it with freshening sprays like Unicorn Gold, and you’ve got a more comfortable, complete routine.

FAQ: Toilet Stools

Q: Do toilet stools really make a difference?
Yes. Studies and personal testimonials show that using a toilet stool improves the angle of your rectum, allowing for smoother, more complete bowel movements and reducing strain.

Q: Are plastic toilet stools strong enough for adults?
Absolutely. Most plastic stools, including those from Squatty Potty Australia, are designed to support adult weight comfortably and safely.

Q: What’s the difference between a plastic and wooden toilet stool?
Plastic stools are lightweight and easy to clean, while wooden stools offer a more stylish, durable option. Functionally, both serve the same purpose—it comes down to preference.

Q: Can kids use toilet stools?
Yes. In fact, children often benefit from learning good bathroom posture early. Smaller sizes are also available to help them use the toilet more confidently.

Q: What is Unicorn Gold, and do I need it?
Unicorn Gold is a toilet spray used before you go to help trap odors under the water. It’s not required, but it makes shared bathrooms a lot more pleasant.