Choosing the right toilet for your home involves considering several important factors to ensure it not only meets your functional needs but also complements your bathroom's overall design. From style and shape to features and efficiency, selecting the perfect toilet requires careful thought. Here are the key factors to keep in mind when making your decision.
Style
Toilets come in three main styles: modern, traditional, and transitional, each offering unique design elements and features.
Modern toilets feature sleek designs and advanced technology like dual flush systems and integrated bidets, perfect for efficient, contemporary bathrooms.
Traditional style toilets, on the other hand, feature classic, timeless designs with more ornate details and a two-piece construction, perfect for homeowners who appreciate a vintage or classic aesthetic.
Transitional style toilets blend elements of both modern and traditional designs, offering a balanced look that fits seamlessly into various bathroom decors.
Homeowners might choose a modern toilet for its cutting-edge features and streamlined appearance, a traditional toilet for its classic charm and familiarity, or a transitional toilet for its versatility and timeless appeal. Each style caters to different preferences and bathroom themes, allowing homeowners to select the best option for their specific needs and tastes.
Modern
Modern toilets are known for their sleek, minimalist designs and advanced features. They often have a one-piece construction, making them easier to clean by eliminating dirt-trapping crevices. Common features include dual-flush systems for water efficiency, integrated bidets for better hygiene, and touchless flushing for convenience. Many also offer heated seats, night lights, and self-cleaning functions. Benefits include water savings, easy maintenance, and luxurious comfort. However, they tend to be more expensive than traditional models and may need professional installation. Overall, modern toilets are a great choice for those seeking functionality and contemporary design.
Traditional
Traditional style toilets feature classic, timeless designs with ornate details and a two-piece construction. They typically have a separate tank and bowl, with features like a higher tank, round or elongated bowls, and sometimes decorative elements like fluted edges or pedestal bases. These toilets are ideal for vintage-themed bathrooms, are generally more affordable than modern models, and have widely available replacement parts. However, they may lack advanced features like dual flush systems, integrated bidets, or touchless flushing. The two-piece design can also be harder to clean due to the gap between the tank and bowl. Overall, they’re a great choice for those who value a classic look and simple functionality.
Transitional
Transitional style toilets combine traditional and contemporary design elements, creating a balanced look that suits various bathroom styles. They feature cleaner lines and simpler details than traditional models but aren’t as minimalist as modern options. Common features include classic shapes with modern finishes, like a high-profile tank paired with a sleek, elongated bowl. Their versatility makes them ideal for many bathroom styles, offering a timeless appeal. However, they may lack advanced features of modern toilets or the ornate details of traditional models. Overall, they’re a great choice for blending classic and modern elements in your bathroom.
Height Level
Toilets come in two main height levels: chair/comfort height and standard height.
Chair or comfort height toilets are 16-1/2 inches or more from the floor to the top of the seat, which is similar to the height of a standard chair. This height makes it easier for individuals to sit down and stand up, making it an ideal choice for older adults, people with mobility issues, or those who prefer a higher seating position for comfort.
Standard height toilets, on the other hand, are usually around 15 inches from the floor to the top of the seat, which is the traditional height for most toilets. This height can be more suitable for children and shorter individuals, as it allows their feet to rest comfortably on the floor.
Homeowners might choose a chair height toilet for its accessibility and ease of use, while a standard height toilet might be preferred for its traditional feel and suitability for all family members. Each height level offers different benefits, allowing homeowners to select the best option based on their specific needs and preferences.
Chair/Comfort Height
Chair or comfort height toilets are designed to provide a seating height similar to that of a standard chair, meaning the distance from the floor to the top of the seat is 16-1/2 inches or more. This increased height makes it easier for individuals to sit down and stand up, which is particularly beneficial for older adults, people with mobility issues, or those who prefer a higher seating position for comfort. These toilets are ADA compliant, making them ideal for the homes of those with mobility restrictions or difficulties.
The pros of chair/comfort height toilets include improved accessibility, reduced strain on the knees and back, and enhanced comfort for taller individuals. However, they may not be as suitable for children or shorter individuals, who might find it difficult to rest their feet comfortably on the floor. Overall, chair/comfort height toilets are an excellent choice for those seeking a more accessible and comfortable bathroom experience.
Standard Height
Standard height toilets are designed with a seating height of approximately 15 inches from the floor to the top of the seat, which is the traditional height for most toilets. This height allows for a more natural sitting position for many users, making it easier for children and shorter individuals to use comfortably.
The pros of standard height toilets include their suitability for a wide range of users, their traditional feel, and their compatibility with most bathroom designs. However, they may not be as comfortable for taller individuals or those with mobility issues, as the lower height can make it more challenging to sit down and stand up. Overall, standard height toilets are a great choice for households with children or for those who prefer a more conventional toilet height.
Shape
Toilets come in two main shapes: round and elongated. Round toilets have a bowl that is more circular in shape, making them a good choice for smaller bathrooms where space is limited. They are typically more compact and can fit into tighter spaces, which is ideal for powder rooms or guest bathrooms.
Elongated toilets, on the other hand, have an oval-shaped bowl that provides a larger seating area, offering greater comfort for most users. This shape is often preferred for master bathrooms or larger spaces where comfort is a priority.
Homeowners might choose a round toilet for its space-saving design and suitability for smaller bathrooms, while an elongated toilet might be selected for its enhanced comfort and modern appearance. Each shape offers different benefits, allowing homeowners to choose the best option based on their bathroom size and personal preferences.
Round
Round shape toilets are characterized by their circular bowl design, which makes them more compact and space-efficient compared to elongated models. This shape is particularly beneficial for smaller bathrooms, such as powder rooms or guest bathrooms, where maximizing space is crucial. Features that qualify a toilet as round shape include a shorter bowl length, typically around 16.5 inches from the wall to the front of the bowl, making it easier to fit into tight spaces.
The pros of round shape toilets include their space-saving design, affordability, and ease of installation. However, they may not provide the same level of comfort as elongated toilets, especially for larger individuals, due to the smaller seating area. Overall, round shape toilets are an excellent choice for homeowners looking to optimize space in smaller bathrooms while maintaining functionality and affordability.
Elongated
Elongated shape toilets are distinguished by their oval-shaped bowls, which provide a larger seating area compared to round shape toilets. This design typically extends about 2 inches longer than round bowls, offering enhanced comfort for most users. Features that qualify a toilet as elongated shape include a bowl length of approximately 18.5 inches from the wall to the front of the bowl, making them ideal for larger bathrooms where space is not a constraint.
The pros of elongated shape toilets include their superior comfort, modern appearance, and often better performance in terms of flushing power due to the larger trapway. However, they may not be as suitable for smaller bathrooms, as their extended length can take up more space. Additionally, elongated toilets can be slightly more expensive than round models. Overall, elongated shape toilets are an excellent choice for homeowners prioritizing comfort and style in their bathroom design.
Flush Style
Toilets come with various flush types, including gravity, tornado, and power flush systems, each offering distinct advantages.
Gravity flush toilets use the natural force of gravity to create a siphon effect, pulling waste down into the drain. This traditional system is reliable, quiet, and requires minimal maintenance, making it a popular choice for many homeowners.
Tornado flush is featured in Toto toilets and uses a powerful, swirling action to thoroughly clean the bowl with each flush. This type of flush is highly efficient and effective at removing waste, making it ideal for those who prioritize cleanliness and performance.
Power flush toilets, also known as pressure-assisted toilets, use compressed air to forcefully push water into the bowl, providing a very strong and efficient flush. These toilets are excellent for high-traffic areas or households where clogging is a concern. Homeowners might choose a gravity flush toilet for its simplicity and quiet operation, a tornado flush toilet for its superior cleaning capabilities, or a power flush toilet for its robust performance and clog resistance. Each flush type offers unique benefits, allowing homeowners to select the best option based on their specific needs and preferences.
Gravity Flush
Gravity flush toilets use the natural force of gravity to move water and waste from the bowl into the drainage system. This type of toilet features a flush valve or flapper that opens when the flush handle is activated, allowing water to flow from the tank into the bowl, creating a siphon effect that efficiently clears waste. The simplicity of the gravity flush system, with fewer moving parts, makes it easy to maintain and repair.
Pros of gravity flush toilets include their reliability, quiet operation, and cost-effectiveness. However, they may sometimes underperform in terms of flushing power compared to pressure-assisted systems, and they can be prone to sweating in humid conditions. Overall, gravity flush toilets are a popular choice for their straightforward design and dependable performance, making them suitable for most households.
Tornado Flush
Tornado flush toilets are distinguished by their powerful, swirling flush mechanism, which uses one or more high-pressure nozzles to create a centrifugal, cyclonic rinsing action inside the bowl. This design ensures that water reaches every part of the bowl, providing a thorough and efficient clean with each flush. Features that qualify a toilet as tornado flush type include the absence of a traditional rim, which reduces areas where dirt and bacteria can accumulate, and the use of strategically placed nozzles to direct water flow.
The pros of tornado flush toilets include their superior cleaning performance, reduced likelihood of clogs, and quieter operation compared to some other high-efficiency systems. However, they can be more expensive than traditional gravity flush toilets and may require more complex installation. Overall, tornado flush toilets are an excellent choice for homeowners seeking a powerful, efficient, and hygienic flushing system.
Power Flush
Power flush toilets, also known as pressure-assisted toilets, are designed to provide a highly efficient and powerful flush by using pressurized air to increase the water flow into the bowl. These toilets feature a pressure vessel inside the tank that compresses air as water fills the tank. When the toilet is flushed, the pressurized air forces water into the bowl with significant force, ensuring a thorough and effective flush.
The pros of power flush toilets include their superior flushing power, which reduces the likelihood of clogs and the need for multiple flushes, making them ideal for high-traffic areas or households with older plumbing systems. Additionally, they are more water-efficient compared to traditional gravity flush toilets. However, power flush toilets can be noisier during operation and are generally more expensive to purchase and install. Overall, power flush toilets are an excellent choice for homeowners seeking a robust and efficient flushing system.
Flush Rates
Toilets can have different flush rates, such as WaterSense and dual flush, each offering unique benefits.
WaterSense toilets are certified by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to use no more than 1.28 gallons per flush (GPF), which is 20% less water than the federal standard of 1.6 GPF. These toilets are designed to save water without sacrificing performance, making them an excellent choice for environmentally conscious homeowners looking to reduce water usage and lower utility bills.
Dual flush toilets, on the other hand, offer two flush options: a lower volume flush (typically around 0.8-1.0 GPF) for liquid waste and a higher volume flush (around 1.28-1.6 GPF) for solid waste. This flexibility allows homeowners to use only the amount of water needed for each flush, further enhancing water efficiency.
Homeowners might choose a WaterSense toilet for its straightforward water-saving benefits and certification, while a dual flush toilet could be preferred for its customizable flush options and potential for even greater water savings. Each flush rate offers distinct advantages, allowing homeowners to select the best option based on their specific needs and environmental goals.
WaterSense
WaterSense flush rate toilets are designed to meet the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) criteria for water efficiency and performance. To qualify for the WaterSense label, a toilet must use no more than 1.28 gallons per flush (GPF), which is 20% less water than the federal standard of 1.6 GPF. These toilets undergo rigorous testing by independent laboratories to ensure they provide effective flushing performance while conserving water.
The pros of WaterSense flush rate toilets include significant water savings, which can reduce utility bills and help conserve water resources. Additionally, many WaterSense toilets incorporate advanced flushing technologies that enhance performance and reduce the likelihood of clogs. WaterSense certified toilets are ideal in states with stricter regulations on water usage and consumption.
However, some users may find that these toilets require more frequent cleaning due to the lower water volume per flush. Overall, WaterSense flush rate toilets are an excellent choice for environmentally conscious homeowners looking to save water without compromising on performance.
Dual Flush
Dual flush rate toilets are designed to offer two flushing options, allowing users to choose between a lower volume flush for liquid waste and a higher volume flush for solid waste. To qualify as a dual flush toilet, the unit must have a dual valve system that provides these two distinct flush options, typically activated by a button or lever. The lower volume flush usually uses around 0.8 to 1.0 gallons per flush (GPF), while the higher volume flush uses about 1.28 to 1.6 GPF.
The pros of dual flush toilets include significant water savings, as they allow users to use only the necessary amount of water for each flush, reducing overall water consumption and lowering utility bills. Additionally, they are environmentally friendly, helping to conserve water resources.
However, dual flush toilets can be more expensive to purchase and install compared to single flush models, and some users may find the dual mechanism slightly more complex to operate. Overall, dual flush toilets are an excellent choice for homeowners looking to enhance water efficiency and reduce their environmental footprint.
Skirt Design vs. Non-Skirted Design
Toilets come in two main designs: skirted and non-skirted. Skirted toilets feature a smooth, continuous base that conceals the trapway, giving them a sleek and modern appearance. This design not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also makes cleaning easier, as there are fewer crevices where dust and grime can accumulate.
Non-skirted toilets, on the other hand, have an exposed trapway with visible curves and bends, which is the traditional design most people are familiar with.
Homeowners might choose a skirted toilet for its contemporary look and ease of maintenance, especially if they prefer a minimalist style or have a modern bathroom decor. Conversely, a non-skirted toilet might be selected for its classic appearance, ease of installation, and often lower cost. Each design offers unique benefits, allowing homeowners to choose the best option based on their aesthetic preferences and practical needs.
Skirted Design
Skirted toilets are characterized by their smooth, continuous base that conceals the trapway, providing a sleek and modern appearance. This design feature eliminates the exposed curves and bends of the trapway found in traditional toilets, resulting in a seamless look.
The primary advantages of skirted toilets include easier cleaning, as the smooth surface reduces areas where dust and grime can accumulate, and a minimalist aesthetic that fits well with contemporary bathroom styles.
However, skirted toilets can be bulkier, which may not be ideal for smaller bathrooms, and they are often more expensive than non-skirted models. Additionally, the enclosed design can make repairs more challenging, as access to internal components is more restricted. Overall, skirted toilets are an excellent choice for homeowners seeking a modern, easy-to-maintain toilet with a clean and streamlined appearance.
Non-Skirted Design
Non-skirted toilets are characterized by their exposed trapway, which reveals the contours and bends of the plumbing that connects the bowl to the floor. This traditional design is familiar to many homeowners and often features visible bolts and piping.
The primary advantages of non-skirted toilets include their affordability and ease of installation, as the exposed components are straightforward to access and repair. Additionally, non-skirted toilets tend to be more compact, making them a suitable choice for smaller bathrooms.
However, the exposed trapway can make cleaning more challenging, as dirt and grime can accumulate in the crevices. Despite this, non-skirted toilets remain a popular choice for their classic appearance and budget-friendly nature, making them an excellent option for homeowners seeking a traditional look and straightforward functionality.
Finishes
The finishes available to you depends on whether the toilet is standard enameled porcelain, or if the toilet features a premium finish such as Toto's CeFiONtect. Most times you are able to match your toilet to the rest of the fixtures in the bathroom. Standard finishes include cotton white, sedona beige, bone, black, and matte black.
Recommended Toilets
Toto Neorest LS One Piece Elongated Universal Height Toilet Dual Flush
Toto is renowned worldwide for its innovative and high-quality bathroom fixtures, and the Neorest LS continues that legacy of excellence. This model boasts a sleek, low-profile design complemented by decorative metallic trim, making it a perfect, stylish addition to any modern bathroom. It is not just about aesthetics—this toilet offers exceptional functionality. The ultra high-efficiency dual flush system features a 0.8 GPF option for liquid waste and 1.0 GPF option for solid waste. This allows for water-saving performance without compromising on power, while the advanced TORNADO FLUSH system ensures thorough and efficient cleaning of the bowl with every use.
The Neorest LS also comes packed with smart bidet features for enhanced comfort and convenience. These include an auto open/close lid for effortless use, a heated seat for added comfort during colder months, and a warm air dryer for a touch-free drying experience. Additionally, the CEFIONTECT ceramic glaze is designed to keep the bowl cleaner for longer by preventing waste and debris from sticking, reducing the need for frequent scrubbing. Combining cutting-edge technology with elegant design, the Neorest LS offers a luxurious and hygienic bathroom experience.
StudioLux SLi1000 1-Piece Tankless Toilet
StudioLux offers a strong contender in the premium toilet market with its SLi1000 model. This tankless toilet boasts sharp geometric curves and a sleek, modern style that can instantly elevate the look of any bathroom. Its innovative design includes a dual flush system (1.28/1.0 GPF), allowing users to choose between a lighter or heavier flush to save water without sacrificing performance. The SLi1000 is also coated with an easy-clean, anti-bacterial glaze, making maintenance simple while promoting better hygiene. The silent seat ensures quiet operation, reducing noise in shared spaces.
The tankless design not only saves space but provides a minimalist, contemporary feel, making it ideal for smaller bathrooms or those aiming for a clean, clutter-free aesthetic. The auto flush feature adds an extra layer of convenience, eliminating the need for manual flushing, while the ADA-compliant height makes it a practical and accessible choice for individuals with mobility challenges. With its combination of style, efficiency, and thoughtful features, the SLi1000 is a compelling option for homeowners seeking both functionality and elegance in their bathroom fixtures.
Toto Aquia IV Cube Two Piece Elongated with SS124 SoftClose Seat
The Toto Aquia IV Cube is a perfect blend of efficiency, innovation, and sleek design. Featuring the advanced DYNAMAX TORNADO FLUSH system, it delivers a powerful yet quiet flush while conserving water with dual flush options (0.9 and 1.28 GPF), making it both eco-friendly and effective. Its CEFIONTECT glaze creates an ultra-smooth surface that prevents debris, mold, and bacteria from sticking, keeping the bowl cleaner for longer and reducing cleaning efforts. Designed with modern convenience in mind, this toilet is also Washlet+ ready, allowing seamless integration with Toto's bidet seats for enhanced hygiene, personalized comfort, and a luxurious bathroom experience. Its compact, contemporary design makes it a stylish and practical choice for any home.
Toto Promenade II One Piece Elongated Universal Height Toilet with SS224 SoftClose Seat
The Promenade II by Toto is perfect for those who value a seamless blend of traditional style and modern innovation in their bathroom design. This elegantly crafted one-piece toilet not only enhances the aesthetic of any space but also delivers superior functionality. It features Toto's advanced TORNADO FLUSH system, which utilizes dual nozzles to create a powerful centrifugal rinsing action, ensuring a cleaner, more efficient flush every time. Additionally, the CEFIONTECT glaze works to maintain a spotless bowl by preventing waste and debris from sticking to the ceramic surface, making cleaning easier and more hygienic. Designed with user comfort in mind, the Promenade II boasts a universal height suitable for a wide range of users, and it comes with a SoftClose seat to prevent slamming and add a touch of convenience. This toilet is not just a fixture but an upgrade to your everyday comfort and cleanliness.
Toto Eco Guinevere One Piece Elongated Universal Height Toilet with S7 Bidet Seat
The Eco Guinevere model from Toto is a perfect blend of luxury, functionality, and efficiency. It showcases the powerful TORNADO FLUSH system, which ensures thorough and effective cleaning with every flush, while the CEFIONTECT glaze provides a smooth surface that prevents debris and mold from adhering, keeping the bowl spotless for longer. This state-of-the-art toilet is paired with the contemporary Washlet+ S7 bidet seat, designed to elevate personal hygiene with advanced features like a heated seat for comfort, warm water cleansing for a spa-like experience, and a warm air dryer for added convenience. Its elegant and timeless design, coupled with its universal height, ensures that it not only complements any bathroom aesthetic but also provides maximum comfort for users of all ages. The Eco Guinevere model is a standout choice for those seeking sophistication and innovation in their bathroom experience.
Toto Drake Two Piece Elongated Transitional Auto Tornado Flush Toilet with SS124 SoftClose Seat
The Toto Drake is a highly popular choice among homeowners, known for its reliable performance, durability, and sleek, modern design. This two-piece toilet is equipped with Toto's advanced TORNADO FLUSH system, which uses a powerful, dual-nozzle flushing mechanism to ensure efficient and thorough cleaning with every flush, reducing water waste while maintaining high performance. Its CEFIONTECT glaze creates an ultra-smooth surface that prevents waste and bacteria buildup, making it easier to maintain a cleaner bowl over time. Additionally, the Toto Drake is Washlet+ ready, meaning it is designed for seamless integration with Toto's bidet seats, offering enhanced comfort, hygiene, and a more luxurious bathroom experience. This combination of functionality, cleanliness, and adaptability makes the Toto Drake an excellent choice for any modern bathroom.
Caroma Somerton Smart 270 Easy Height Elongated Complete Toilet
Caroma is renowned for its dedication to water conservation and cutting-edge design, making it a trusted name in bathroom innovation. The Somerton Smart 270 is a standout example, featuring a highly efficient dual flush system (1.28/0.8 GPF) that significantly reduces water usage, saving both resources and money over time. Its easy height design not only enhances comfort but also ensures accessibility for a variety of users, including the elderly and those with mobility challenges. The fully glazed trapway enhances hygiene by preventing buildup, while the unique Smart Connect installation system streamlines the setup process for hassle-free installation. With its blend of efficiency, reliability, and sleek modern aesthetics, this model is a perfect choice for anyone seeking functionality without sacrificing style in their bathroom.
Conclusion
Choosing the right toilet involves balancing style, functionality, and efficiency to meet your specific needs. Beyond just being a basic necessity, the right toilet can enhance the comfort and aesthetic of your bathroom while also saving water and improving performance. These recommended models offer a range of features, from water-saving dual flush options to sleek, modern designs, ensuring there’s something to suit various preferences and bathroom styles. Whether you’re looking for a compact option for a small space or a high-tech upgrade with advanced features, these choices have you covered.
