Size & other properties
What size is the stuul® toilet stool?
When assembled, the stuul is 21 cm (8,27 in) high. In this state, its surface is horizontal.
The two individual stools are 19 cm (7,48 in) high at the heel and 17 cm (6,69 in) high at the toe and are therefore tilted slightly forward by 5 degrees, which is more comfortable but also allows the height to be slightly optimized by moving the feet forwards and backwards.
The individual stools are also each 22.4 cm (8,2 in) wide and 26 cm (10,24 in) long.
How much weight can the single stuuls bear?
The two single stools are designed to support the weight of one leg each.
For an average adult, one leg accounts for 18.7%, or just under a fifth of the body weight. For a man weighing 100 kg (220 lb), this is just under 20 kg (44 lb), but the load limit is significantly higher. Even people who are severely overweight or obese can place their legs on the single stools without any problems.
It is important to emphasize once again at this point that you should not stand on the single stools. They are ONLY intended for the footrest to enable a seated squatting position on the toilet.
Will the stuul® be non-slip on tiles?
The stuul® toilet stool itself is made of polypropylene particle foam (EPP), which on the one hand has an uneven (or rough) surface and on the other hand has limited elasticity - in other words, it has little tendency to slip on its own, especially as it is additionally loaded by the weight of the feet during use.
The decisive factor is the underlying tile material. Slipping cannot be completely ruled out with extremely smooth tiles.
Why is the step surface of the single stuul® tilted forward by 5 degrees?
By tilting the footrest of the stuul® stool forward by 5°, the user of the stuul toilet stool can vary the height or angle of the squatting position to a certain extent by moving the foot slightly forwards and backwards.
It is also more comfortable because the tendons are less tense.
Is "Charcoal" black or dark gray?
The "Charcoal" variant is black and the "Basalt" variant is silver-grey.
However, both shades have a little more "depth". That's why we didn't just call the black version "Black", but "Charcoal". We think this actually describes the shade a little better.
Basalt is also not "just" silver-grey, but is more reminiscent of a metallic volcanic rock (basalt).
Is there a second size or will there be one soon?
The stuul is currently only available in one size.
The angle of the step surface and the ability to position the individual stools flexibly in front of the toilet means that the right position can actually be found for every body size and toilet height.
We think that we can cover most "use cases" with this, but are also considering offering other sizes at a later stage, e.g. especially for children.
Use & handling
How exactly do I have to position the stuuls in front of the toilet?
Sit on your toilet as usual and hold the stuul® toilet stool by the arrow-shaped grip hole when it is collapsed.
Separate the two individual stuuls and place them in front of your toilet. The arrow-shaped grip holes will intuitively show you the correct alignment of the single stuuls in front of the toilet.
You can decide for yourself how you want to position the two stuuls - narrower or wider, further away or closer to the toilet. Whatever feels most comfortable for you.
The only important thing is that the stuuls are positioned in the direction of the arrow so that the heel rests higher on the stool than the toes. If you have done it correctly, you can read the logo on both stuuls from above.
How important is the combination of a) the seat height of the toilet, b) my own body size, and c) the height of the toilet stool?
The combination above is very important for a comfortable and natural squatting position on the toilet.
The standard seat height of toilets in Germany is 40 to 42 centimetres. This height is suitable for most people between 1.60 and 1.85 meters tall. Under these conditions, the height of the stuul toilet stool is ideal for adopting a natural squatting position.
A different toilet height may be more comfortable for shorter or taller people. If no structural modification to the toilet is desired, shorter people should therefore in any case purchase a toilet stool. However, people taller than 1.85 m also benefit from using a toilet stool. Thanks to the flexible positioning of the stuul's individual stools, even tall people can find the ideal position for them.
For people with physical limitations such as senior citizens or the disabled, higher toilets with a seat height of 46 to 50 centimetres can be useful. The trend is even moving in this direction. This height makes it easier to stand up and sit down and can prevent leg and hip pain. In these cases, however, the use of a toilet stool is strongly recommended, as the unnatural sitting position on these elevated toilets makes defecation considerably more difficult, sometimes with serious health consequences for the rectum.
Isn't it enough to simply bend forward with your upper body to achieve the 35° angle between your upper body and legs?
No, that's not enough! Because this puts the rectum in a horizontal position, which in turn makes bowel movements more difficult. You have to push and squeeze to push the stool backwards.
Only with the help of a toilet stool can you achieve the optimum angle of 35° and vertical alignment of the bowel. This allows gravity to take effect and everything " rushes" downwards.
Technically speaking, a pile of books or an upturned laundry basket will also serve this purpose, but to make it a daily routine, we recommend purchasing a toilet stool specially designed for this purpose. It reminds you to adopt the natural squatting position every time you go to the toilet.
How do I clean the stuul®?
stuul® can be easily cleaned with soap and water or a commercially available disinfectant.
stuul® is made of a high-density particle foam. This high-tech material forms a closed surface and is resistant to most chemicals.
It is therefore best to simply rinse with soap and water, e.g. with a shower jet, or wipe with a damp, lint-free cloth.
Can the stuul® also be used as a footrest?
The stuul® toilet stool is not suitable for use as a footrest. We strongly advise against using the stuul® for any purpose other than its intended use.
This is firstly because the tread surface is inclined by 5° and therefore does not provide a good grip and secondly because the geometry of a single stool with its three legs is too "wobbly" to ensure a secure footing.
Even when folded, you should not stand on it as it does not provide a stable base for standing.
Health Benefits & pregnancy
Are there any scientific studies that confirm the positive health effects of using toilet stools during bowel movements?
Yes, there is a growing body of scientific evidence that suggests that using toilet stools during bowel movements can have several positive health effects.
These effects include:
- Reduced straining: Squatting, which is the natural position for eliminating, allows the rectum to straighten and open more fully, making it easier to pass stool. This can reduce straining, which can lead to hemorrhoids, pelvic floor prolapse, and other problems.
- Improved bowel emptying: Squatting also increases intra-abdominal pressure, which can help to push stool out of the colon more effectively. This can lead to more complete bowel emptying, which can help to prevent constipation and other digestive problems.
- Reduced risk of constipation: Squatting can help to stimulate the bowel muscles, which can help to improve bowel motility and reduce the risk of constipation.
- Improved gut health: Squatting can help to improve blood flow to the pelvic area, which can help to improve gut health.
Here are some specific studies that have found positive health effects of using toilet stools:
- A 2016 study published in the journal "Digestive Diseases and Sciences" found that using a toilet stool increased the angle of anorectal angulation, which made it easier to pass stool. The study also found that using a toilet stool reduced the amount of time that participants spent straining during bowel movements.
- A 2017 study published in the journal "Gut" found that using a toilet stool increased the completeness of bowel emptying. The study also found that using a toilet stool reduced the risk of constipation.
- A 2018 study published in the journal "Complementary Therapies in Medicine" found that using a toilet stool improved gut health by increasing blood flow to the pelvic area. The study also found that using a toilet stool reduced the risk of hemorrhoids.
Overall, the scientific evidence suggests that using toilet stools during bowel movements can have several positive health effects. If you are experiencing constipation, hemorrhoids, or other digestive problems, you should always visit a medical specialist but may also want to consider using a toilet stool to see if it can help to improve your symptoms.
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Studies on the health benefits of squatting when having a bowel movement, including the use of toilet stools:
- Sikirov, D. - Comparison of Straining During Defecation in Three Positions. Results and Implications for Human Health, Digestive Diseases and Sciences, Juli 2003
- Sohrabi et al.: Squatting and risk of colorectal cancer:a case-control study (Middle East Journal of Digestive Diseases, 2012)
- Sakakibara, Ryuji et. al - Influence of Body Position on Defecation in Humans
- Bhattacharya Sudip et al. - Health promotion and prevention of bowel disorders through toilet designs: A myth or reality? Journal of Education and Health Promotion, Februar 2019
- Trieu et al.: Using a footstool does not aid simulated defecation in undifferentiated constipation: A randomized trial (Gastroenterology, 2022)
- Dr. B.A. Sikirov - Etiology and pathogenesis of diverticulosis coli: a new approach, Medical Hypotheses, 26. Mai 1988
- Bockus, H.L. - Gastroenterology, (Philadelphia: W.B. Saunders Co., 1944), Vol. 2, Page 469
- Ghoshal UC et al. - Indian consensus on chronic constipation in adults: A joint position statement of the Indian Motility and Functional Diseases Association and the Indian Society of Gastroenterology. Indian Journal of Gastroenterology: Official Journal of the Indian Society of Gastroenterology, 2018
- Saeed Rad- Impact of Ethnic Habits on Defecographic Measurements. Arch Iranian Med, 2002
- Chuah KH, Mahadeva S. - Cultural Factors Influencing Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders in the East. Journal of Neurogastroenterology and Motility, Oktober 2018
- Dimmer, Christine, Brian Martin et al. - Squatting for the Prevention of Hemorrhoids, Department of Science and Technology Studies, University of Wollongong, NSW 2522, Australia, Townsend Letter for Doctors & Patients, Nr. 159, October 1996
- Dr. B.A. Sikirov - Management of Hemorrhoids: A New Approach, Israel Journal of Medical Sciences“, 1987
- Sakakibara, Ryuji et. al - Influence of Body Position on Defecation in Humans“ LUTS 2010, 2:16-21
- Modi, Rohan M. et al. - Implementation of a Defecation Posture Modification Device. Impact on Bowel Movement Patterns in Healthy Subjects. Journal of Clinical Gastroenterology, March 2019
Why do proctologists and pelvic floor trainers recommend that their patients and clients use a toilet stool?
These health specialists recommend use a toilet stool to their patients and clients for a number of reasons:
- Reduces straining: Straining during bowel movements can lead to a number of problems, including hemorrhoids, pelvic floor prolapse, and anal fissures. Using a toilet stool can help to reduce straining by putting the body in a more natural position for elimination.
- Improves bowel emptying: When using a toilet stool, the rectum straightens and opens more fully, making it easier to pass stool. This can lead to more complete bowel emptying, which can help to prevent constipation and other digestive problems.
- Reduces the risk of constipation: Squatting, which is the natural position for eliminating, can help to stimulate the bowel muscles, which can help to improve bowel motility and reduce the risk of constipation.
- Improves gut health: Squatting can help to improve blood flow to the pelvic area, which can help to improve gut health. This can help to prevent a number of digestive problems, including hemorrhoids, constipation, and irritable bowel syndrome.
- Reduces pain: Hemorrhoids and other anorectal conditions can be very painful. Using a toilet stool can help to reduce pain by putting the body in a more natural position for elimination.
Overall, using a toilet stool can have a number of positive health benefits for people with a variety of anorectal conditions. Proctologists recommend that their patients use a toilet stool to help improve their symptoms and overall health.
Here are some additional reasons why these health specialists recommend using a toilet stool:
- It is a simple and affordable way to improve bowel health.
- It can be used by people of all ages and abilities.
- There are no negative side effects associated with using a toilet stool.
If you are experiencing any of the above problems, you should talk to your proctologist and definitely consider buying a toilet stool for yourself as a quick fix.
Why do midwifes recommend that their clients/women to use a toilet stool during and after their pregnancy?
Many women are afraid of daily bowel movements during and after pregnancy. One of the first recommendations from midwives when you have problems with bowel movements: Get yourself a toilet stool.
A toilet stool is an indispensable aid for pregnant women and women who have recently given birth. It facilitates digestion and helps to prevent constipation. It also relieves pressure on the back and pelvic floor muscles, which is particularly important during pregnancy and after childbirth.
The natural squatting posture thanks to a toilet stool:
- Relieves the weakened pelvic floor
- Prevents haemorrhoids
- Helps with constipation
- Makes bowel movements easier
- Takes away the fear of your first bowel movement
- Painful perineal incisions and tears are spared when using the toilet
The stuul® is particularly recommended because its flexibility allows it to be used with a growing belly.
Material & its properties
What material is the stuul® made of?
stuul® toilet stool - which is 100% made in Germany - is made entirely from the mono-material EPP. The abbreviation EPP stands for Expanded Polypropylene.
What special properties does the material have?
EPP is a thermoplastic hight-tech foam that combines high structural strength with low weight. It consists of over 90% air and is therefore light as a feather to handle and automatically maintains a pleasantly warm room temperature at all times.
This hightech material a virtually unbreakable and dimensionally stable material that offers high stability and durability with low resource consumption. It is also odourless, insoluble in water, skin-friendly and easy to clean and sterilize.
The special feature: EPP is 100 percent recyclable. This means that it can be fully returned to raw material production for reuse. The proportion of recycled material is already up to 25 percent. Our stuul® Ocean toilet seat also consists of a high percentage of recycled waste from the maritime industry, such as discarded fishing nets and boxes.
We are currently working with other distributors and manufacturers of EPP products on a suitable overarching take-back solution to close the loop.
Are there other products for consumers made from this material?
EPP is also used in other very successful lifestyle products such as the fascia roll from Blackroll or the Stapelstein children's toy, where skin compatibility is particularly important.
Shipping & returns
How long is the delivery time?
Unless otherwise stated in the respective offer, the goods will be delivered within Germany within 2-4 days.
For deliveries outside Germany to EU countries and Switzerland, an additional maximum delivery time of 10 to 12 days applies.
For deliveries outside Europe, a delivery time of up to three weeks must be expected.
Please note that there is no delivery on Sundays and public holidays.
Which parcel service do you use?
The goods are shipped via DHL GoGreen. This means that every parcel and package that we send with DHL is automatically shipped CO2-neutral. The emissions generated during shipping are offset by certified climate projects.
How is it that the packaging is kept so simple and minimalist?
Our holistic approach on minimizing our ecological footprint also includes the topic of packaging.
Here we act according to the guideline: „As much as necessary, as little as possible.“ Therefore, we completely avoid the use of plastic packaging and send the stuul only in a single cardboard box.
This box is also made of grass paper, which has many ecological advantages. Grass is a fast-growing raw material that conserves forests and can be produced with significantly less water consumption than conventional paper production. It consists of 40% grass content, with the remaining portion made from waste paper fiber. It is also 100% recyclable and compostable
What happens in the event of a withdrawal or return?
Of course, we will gladly refund the full purchase price if you are not satisfied.
However, we do not offer free returns. For economic and ecological reasons, we cannot
and do not want to keep up with the standards of large e-commerce retailers.
Please return the stuul - if possible in the original packaging - to our returns warehouse using your preferred shipping service provider (e.g. DHL, Hermes, GLS):
WSVK Oederan GmbH | stuul retoure
Gewerbestr. 1
09569 Oederan
GERMANY
We will process your return immediately after receiving and inspecting the returned goods.
Do I have to pay customs duties for delivery to Switzerland?
Normally there are no import fees (for handling and VAT). If unexpected fees are incurred (eg because the order is >65 CHF), we refund the customer the costs incurred!
Deliveries to Switzerland are sent by DHL go green premium from our production plant duty unpaid (unfortunately no other option available)! For deliveries that are below the limit of 65 CHF (incl. shipping), there are no additional fees and no taxes for our customers.
For deliveries which exceed the limit of 65 CHF (incl. shipping), taxes and fees are incurred, which are to be paid by the customer and will be claimed directly by DHL.
Stuul will refund the customer the costs incurred, please just send a message to info@stuul.com!
Any other questions?
Yes? Then please let us know! It is important for us to understand our customers' questions and answer them thoroughly. This is the only way we can constantly improve. Please simply send us an e-mail to info@stuul.com and we will get back to you personally as soon as possible.