For most people, going to the bathroom is a routine part of daily life. Yet how we sit during this process can have a surprising impact on comfort and overall bowel health. Toilet stools, designed to adjust your posture while on the toilet, offer a simple way to support a more natural and effective elimination position.
At Squatty Potty Australia, we’ve seen how small changes in bathroom habits—like incorporating a well-made toilet stool—can lead to meaningful improvements in digestive health. Whether you choose a sleek timber stool or a lightweight plastic toilet stool, these tools are designed with one simple goal: to help your body do what it’s naturally built to do.
Why Posture Matters in the Bathroom
Most modern toilets are built for comfort, but not necessarily for optimal function. When sitting at a 90-degree angle—like you would on a standard toilet—your rectum remains slightly kinked, which can make bowel movements more difficult. This posture may contribute to straining, incomplete elimination, and other common bathroom issues.
Toilet stools work by elevating your feet while you're seated, simulating a squatting position. This changes the angle of your hips and straightens out the lower part of your colon, making elimination smoother and reducing the need to push.
This more natural posture can help with:
Constipation
Bloating
Hemorrhoids
Pelvic floor strain
General bathroom discomfort
Types of Toilet Stools
Toilet stools come in a variety of styles and materials, but all serve the same purpose—helping you squat while using the toilet. Choosing the right one depends on your space, style, and how you intend to use it.
1. Timber Stool
A timber stool adds warmth and a natural look to your bathroom. Made from durable wood, these stools are sturdy, easy to clean, and often favored for their more polished appearance. Timber options are ideal if you want a long-lasting solution that also fits seamlessly into your home decor.
2. Plastic Toilet Stools
Plastic toilet stools are lightweight, affordable, and easy to move around. They’re a great option for families with kids or those who need something simple and practical. Many plastic stools are also stackable or slide easily under the toilet when not in use.
Both types help you achieve the same posture—it just comes down to what fits your lifestyle.
Real Benefits You Can Feel
Using a toilet stool may feel a bit different at first, but most people notice a change in how easily and comfortably they’re able to go to the bathroom within just a few days.
Here’s what people often report:
Less straining: The squat position reduces pressure on your pelvic floor.
Faster, more complete elimination: Straightening the colon helps your body release waste more efficiently.
Reduced pressure: Helpful for hemorrhoid prevention or post-surgery recovery.
Better long-term gut habits: Encourages relaxed, regular bowel movements.
These small shifts can lead to better digestion and less discomfort—without the need for medications or invasive treatments.
Tips for Using a Toilet Stool
Place the stool in front of your toilet and rest your feet on it while seated.
Aim for your knees to be slightly above your hips.
Breathe deeply and try not to strain; let your body do the work.
Over time, your body will adjust to the new position, and it’ll start to feel more natural.
Final Thoughts
Modern life has moved us away from many of the natural movements our bodies were designed for. Toilet stools are a small, practical way to reintroduce better posture into your bathroom routine. Whether you opt for a solid timber stool for its elegance or a lightweight plastic toilet stool for its simplicity, the benefits are the same—better elimination, less strain, and more comfort every day.
At Squatty Potty Australia, we believe in making daily health routines a little easier and a lot more natural. A toilet stool might be a small change, but it could make a big difference.
FAQs
Q: Is a toilet stool suitable for everyone?
A: Most people benefit from using a toilet stool, including adults, seniors, and children. If you have medical concerns, it’s a good idea to check with your doctor first.
Q: What’s the difference between timber and plastic toilet stools?
A: Timber stools are sturdy and stylish, often preferred for their natural look. Plastic toilet stools are lightweight, easy to clean, and ideal for travel or shared bathrooms.
Q: Can a toilet stool help with constipation?
A: Yes. By positioning your body in a more natural squat, toilet stools can promote smoother, easier bowel movements and reduce constipation.
Q: Is it hard to get used to using a toilet stool?
A: Not at all. Most users adjust within a few days. The change in posture becomes second nature quickly.
