How to remove a toilet

Before starting the removal of the toilet, turn-off the water supply and flush the toilet to empty the bowl. You may have to sponge some remaining water out of the bowl. Disconnect the water-supply pipe from the shut-off valve, and then drain the water into a bucket. Next, undo the coupling nut on the supply tube at the bottom of the cistern.

If the toilet has been here for a long time you may find that the bolts which fasten it to the floor have become eroded to the state where you cannot unscrew. In this case, take a hacksaw and saw them off.

Underneath the cistern there should be two bolts or screws fastening it to the pan. Unfasten these and remove the cistern. The pan will be sealed to the floor, but with a little force it should come unstuck easily. To stop any unpleasant smells rising up from the sewer pipe, stuff an old cloth in there.

Lastly, check the floor flange to see if it’s damaged at all. if so, replace it.