Toilets may not top the list of priorities when it comes to bathroom remodels, but their frequent use makes quality important. The International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI) reports that the average person spends about three years using a toilet, so investing in a good one is worthwhile. This article covers top-rated toilets, highlighting key features, pros, cons, customer reviews, and prices.
Key Takeaways
- We recommend the HOROW T0338WG One Piece Toilet as the best overall model due to its anti-clog trapway, dual-flushing option, and competitive price.
- New toilets cost $200–$500, with high-end models costing thousands of dollars for features like bidets and automatic cleaning.
- When comparing toilet brands and models, focus on how different manufacturers handle flush performance and compare the build quality differences. Higher quality models use better glazing that resists stains and easier-to-clean surfaces.
Top 5 Toilets
- HOROW T0338WG One Piece Toilet: Best Overall
- HOROW HWMT-8733 Small Compact One Piece Toilet: Best Value
- WOODBRIDGE Dual-Flush: Best Flushing
- DeerValley DV-1F026 Elongated One Piece Toilet: Best One-Piece Toilet
- Swiss Madison SM-1T254 St. Tropez One Piece Toilet: Best Looking Toilet
Compare Top Toilets
Before learning more about each of the best toilets in detail, compare key features, such as the seat height and shape, at a glance in the table below.
| Product | Image | Seat Height | Shape | Warranty | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
HOROW T0338WG One Piece ToiletCheck Price | | 17.3 inches | Oval | 1-year limited | $299 |
HOROW HWMT-8733 Small Compact One Piece ToiletCheck Price | | 28.4 inches | Round | 2-year limited | $224 |
WOODBRIDGE Dual-FlushCheck Price | | 28 inches | Elongated | 1-year limited | $328 |
DeerValley DV-1F026 Elongated One Piece ToiletCheck Price |  | 27 inches | Elongated | 1-year limited | $249 |
Swiss Madison SM-1T254 St. Tropez One Piece ToiletCheck Price |  | 31 inches | Elongated | 1-year limited | $255 |
Our Reviews of the Best Toilets
Read our reviews of the top toilets so you can compare each one’s pros, cons, and key features. You can find and buy all of these on Amazon, so you can get your bathroom up and running quickly.
Best Overall
HOROW T0338WG One Piece Toilet
Good for: Homeowners seeking a straightforward, high-quality toilet with powerful flushing.
The HOROW T0338WG is a one-piece elongated toilet that features dual-flush technology, utilizing 0.8 or 1.28 gallons per flush (GPF) for enhanced water efficiency. It has a strong 1,000-gram Maximum Performance (MaP) score, meeting WaterSense standards for dependable waste removal. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)-compliant design features a comfortable height of 17.3 inches from the floor to the seat and measures 26.6 inches deep by 15 inches wide, making it suitable for most standard bathrooms while providing easier sitting and standing. The toilet features a skirted trapway for easier cleaning, a soft-close seat to prevent slamming, and includes a decorative gold flush button, as well as a one-year limited warranty.
Pros and Cons of HOROW T0338WG One Piece Toilet
- Offers strong flush power with a 1,000-gram performance score that exceeds most standard toilets
- Reduces cleaning with a skirted trapway and soft-close seat
- Saves up to 16,500 gallons in water annually
- Is a lesser-known brand with a lesser-known durability record, such as Kohler or American Standard
- Customer reviews mention a challenging installation process
Key Features
- Seat Height: 17.3 inches
- Shape: Oval
- Warranty: One-year limited warranty
What People Are Saying About The HOROW T0338WG One Piece Toilet
Customer reviews praise the HOROW T0338WG One Piece Toilet for its comfort height, powerful flushing, and water-saving dual-flush. This model is also appreciated for its environmental and cost benefits. Customers like its easy-to-clean, stylish matte black design. However, some Amazon reviewers mention that you shouldn’t sit on the thin plastic lid. Installation varies, with some customers finding it straightforward and others struggling with the unit in tight spaces. Toilet installation is often recommended for those with handyman skills rather than beginners.
Best Value
HOROW HWMT-8733 Small Compact One Piece Toilet
Good for: Homeowners with limited space who still want a high-quality toilet.
This dual-flush toilet measures 25 inches in depth and 13.4 inches in width, making it ideal for small bathrooms. It features a standard round bowl and a 16.5-inch seat height for added comfort. Its siphon system offers two water-saving flush options: 1.6 gallons for full flushes and 1.1 gallons for light flushes, leading to effective waste removal and fewer clogs. This toilet has side access holes for easier installation, a glazed bowl that resists stains, and includes all hardware, a soft-close seat, and installation parts.
Pros and Cons of HOROW HWMT-8733 Small Compact One Piece Toilet
- Has a fully glazed bowl that’s easy to clean
- Features a compact design for small spaces
- Offers a child-friendly seat height
- People with mobility issues may find the seat too short
- Some reviews mention issues with seat hinges within months of purchase
Key Features
- Seat Height: 28.4 inches
- Shape: Round
- Warranty: Two-year limited warranty
What People Are Saying About The HOROW HWMT-8733 Small Compact One Piece Toilet
Customers on Amazon praise the HOROW HWMT-8733 Small Compact Toilet for its space-saving design, comfortable seating, and strong dual-flush. They note its quiet operation, easy installation, and effective waste removal, comparing it to larger toilets. However, many report seat hinges breaking or loosening within months.
Best Flushing
WOODBRIDGE Dual-Flush
Good for: Homeowners who want top-of-the-line toilet flushing without paying a high price tag.
This ADA-compliant one-piece toilet features a chair height of 17–19 inches for easier sitting and standing. It features a powerful siphon flush with a 1,000-gram performance rating for reliable waste removal and clog prevention. The concealed trapway design eliminates hard-to-clean corners. Plus, its WaterSense certification ensures water efficiency. The package includes a soft-close seat, hardware, wax ring, and tools, ready for most standard 12-inch rough-in bathrooms.
Pros and Cons of WOODBRIDGE Dual-Flush
- Boasts a best-in-class MaP score for flushing performance
- Features a water-saving dual-flush valve
- Has a powerful flush system that doesn’t leak
- The brand lacks a winning customer service reputation
- Not recommended for a one-person installation due to its heavy weight
Key Features
- Seat Height: 28 inches
- Shape: Elongated
- Warranty: One-year warranty
What People Are Saying About The WOODBRIDGE Dual-Flush
The WOODBRIDGE dual-flush toilet is praised by Amazon customers for its sleek look, easy-to-clean design, and strong flushing performance. Users report high satisfaction and rarely need a plunger. However, installation is difficult due to weight and limited access to mounting bolts. While users like its function and appearance, limited bolt access can cause maintenance issues, as seat bolts that loosen can become hard to tighten without removing the toilet.
Best One-Piece Toilet
DeerValley DV-1F026 Elongated One Piece Toilet
Good for: Homeowners looking for a one-piece toilet that’s easy to clean.
The DeerValley DV-1F026 Toilet offers dual-flush options of 0.8 and 1.28 gallons, saving up to 16,500 gallons of water per year compared to 3.5-gallon models. It measures 28.75 inches deep and 14 inches wide, with a height of 16 and 7/8 inches from floor to seat. The self-cleaning glazed surface eases maintenance, side access holes simplify installation (professional advice recommended), and the toilet includes a 12-month warranty with lifetime support. This unit is suitable for homeowners with standard bathrooms who value water efficiency and a modern design.
Pros and Cons of DeerValley DV-1F026 Elongated One Piece Toilet
- Features a self-cleaning glaze
- Offers a child-friendly seat height
- Comes with pre-installed soft-closing seat
- Seat height may not work as well for people with mobility issues
- May not feel as comfortable as some competing models
Key Features
- Seat Height: 27 inches
- Shape: Elongated
- Warranty: One-year limited warranty
What People Are Saying About The DeerValley DV-1F026 Elongated One Piece Toilet
This DeerValley one-piece toilet is praised in customer reviews on Amazon for its sleek design, easy cleaning, effective dual-flush, and simple installation. Users value its quality, affordability, soft-close seat, and water efficiency, often comparing it to high-end brands. However, some customers report quality control issues, including slow drainage and flooding from faulty internal parts, indicating possible manufacturing inconsistencies worth considering.
Best Looking Toilet
Swiss Madison SM-1T254 St. Tropez One Piece Toilet
Good for: Homeowners remodeling their bathroom who want flexibility when selecting a toilet’s finish.
The Swiss Madison SM-1T254 St. Tropez toilet measures 27 inches deep and 15.12 inches wide, with a 16 inch comfort height. It has a dual-flush system using 1.1 or 1.6 gallons, and a vortex mechanism for efficient waste removal. The soft-close seat with quick-release allows easy cleaning. Its seamless porcelain design offers a modern look with easy maintenance.
Pros and Cons of Swiss Madison SM-1T254 St. Tropez One Piece Toilet
- Features a comfort-height design
- Includes high-efficiency flush valve
- Has a gentle, soft-closing seat
- Lacks highly detailed instructions
- Not recommended for one-person installation
Key Features
- Seat Height: 31 inches
- Shape: Elongated
- Warranty: One-year warranty
What People Are Saying About The Swiss Madison SM-1T254 St. Tropez One Piece Toilet
This Swiss Madison toilet is praised by Amazon users for its sleek look, easy cleaning, quiet dual-flush, and water-saving features. However, installation is tricky and requires two people due to hard-to-reach bolts. Quality issues include scratches, rust, cheap plastic parts, and poor customer service. Some users like its appearance and function, but others report clogs, weak flushing, and leaks, suggesting inconsistent manufacturing.
Toilet Buying Guide
When selecting the best toilet for your home, whether you’re remodeling your bathroom or adding a new one altogether, consider the following factors before making a decision.
Toilet Space Requirements
Modifying your layout or bathroom floor plan to accommodate a new toilet may require professional assistance, but the investment can lead to a more functional and comfortable bathroom. Account for all dimensions and clearances before you start the installation process.
When selecting a toilet, consider how it will fit into your bathroom space. Proper placement affects comfort and accessibility. Measuring your space and noting existing plumbing fixtures can help you choose a toilet that fits.
Space Saving Toilets
Wall-mount toilets offer a space-saving option that makes cleaning floors much easier. They’re installed with a sturdy frame hidden in the wall, and the tank is concealed behind the wall as well. While wall-mounted toilets provide a sleeker look, they typically come at a higher price point and require more extensive installation work.
Despite the higher initial cost and installation complexity, choosing a wall-mount toilet is a good choice if you have little space in your bathroom.
Toilet Design
Knowing the fundamental aspects of toilet design can help you make an informed decision when purchasing a new toilet for your home. Here are some important things to decide on when selecting the best toilet for your bathroom.
One-Piece vs. Two-Piece Toilet
One-piece toilets have a sleeker profile that’s ideal for smaller bathrooms, and this design eliminates the risk of tank gasket leaks.Two-piece toilets, with separate tanks and bowls, are easier to install but can develop leaks at the tank gasket over time.
One-Piece Toilets
One-piece toilets have a sleek, modern look and are easier to clean. This model features vacuum-assist technology, combining the flushing power of pressure-assist toilets with the quieter operation of a gravity-fed system. The integrated design reduces seams and crevices that can hold dirt and bacteria.
Two-Piece Toilets
Two-piece toilets remain a popular choice for their ease of installation and maintenance. This model’s elongated bowl lacks a siphon jet, which directs all water through the rim for cleaning. Separating the tank and bowl makes these units more accessible for repairs and replacements.
Round vs. Elongated Toilet Bowl
Round toilet bowls project 25–28 inches, saving floor space in more compact bathrooms. Elongated bowls, projecting up to 31 inches, offer more comfort for many users but require more room. Toilet design decisions can make all the difference when every inch of space matters.
Siphonic vs. Washdown Toilet
Siphonic toilets feature a larger water spot but have long, narrow trapways that can clog. Washdown toilets have shorter, wider trapways, so they rarely clog and back up but may require more frequent cleaning because of their smaller water spots. The choice between these two types of toilets can depend on maintenance and comfort preferences in your bathroom.
Gravity-Fed vs. Pressure-Assist Toilet
Most toilets rely on gravity for flushing, but pressure-assist models can help mitigate clogs.
Pressure-assisted toilets provide powerful flushes without using electricity, though they tend to make more noise than gravity-fed toilets. Weighing the noise level against flushing power can help you determine the best choice for your home.
High Toilet vs. Low Toilet
Standard toilet height is 16 inches, but the ADA recommends 17–19 inches for easier use by older and less mobile individuals. However, if you have young children, a lower toilet may feel easier for them to use. Think about you and your home’s needs when choosing seat height. It can impact accessibility and comfort for yourself and others in your home.
High Tank Toilets
High tank toilets use gravity to increase flushing power. The elevated tank position creates more force during the flush, making these models more functional. These toilets are reminiscent of Victorian-era designs and can create a unique focal point in a bathroom.
Standout Features To Look For
Dual flush systems offer water-saving benefits by providing two options: a lower-volume flush for liquid waste and a full-volume flush for solid waste. This feature can reduce water consumption in your home, resulting in savings on water bills and environmental benefits.
A fully glazed trapway minimizes the chances of clogs by providing a smoother surface for waste to pass through. This feature also makes cleaning easier, keeping the toilet in good working condition with minimal maintenance.
Some toilets have glazes infused with antimicrobial ions, typically silver, which actively kill 99% of germs on contact. This self-cleaning property helps maintain hygiene between regular cleanings, providing extra protection against bacteria to keep your bathroom clean.
Toilet Cleaning Tips
Once you have a new toilet, take the following steps to keep it in pristine condition. Here’s a list of some easy cleaning tips:
- Use toilet bowl cleaner: There are many toilet bowl cleaners on the market. You can go for a wand, liquid, or tablet. Toilet wands use single-use heads that come presoaked in a cleaning solution. Liquid toilet bowl cleaners come in a squirt or spray bottle. Toilet tablets sit in the bowl and flush down the pipe.
- Use specialty cleaners: Most toilet bowl cleaners treat limescale buildup. However, if you notice hard water or rust stains along your toilet bowl, you may want to invest in a specialty bathroom cleaner.
- Don’t neglect crevices: While the bowl is the most important part to clean because it sees the most germs, don’t forget the other surfaces. Wiping the tank and post with a paper towel soaked in a cleaning solution typically gets the job done.
- Treat stains overnight: If you have tough stains, try soaking them overnight in a cleaning solution or white vinegar, then wipe them away in the morning.
- Clean frequently: Clean your toilet bowl at least once a week. This keeps it looking and smelling fresh by eliminating germs.
Toilet Technology and Upgrades
High-end toilets provide advanced features that can make your bathroom more comfortable and sanitary. While investing in these features can add to the cost of a bathroom remodel or new toilet purchase, they can also enhance comfort, cleaning, and overall performance.
Bidet Toilet Seats
Bidet-style seats and integrated washlet systems provide an alternative to traditional toilet paper. These toilets offer customizable water sprays, air drying, and even deodorizing features for convenience and cleanliness.
Whirlpool Toilet Flush
Some modern toilets eliminate rim jets, which can end up being difficult to clean and prone to clogs. Instead, new toilets use innovative flushing systems that create a powerful whirlpool effect, scouring the bowl and improving hygiene. This design innovation makes maintenance and cleaning much easier.
Canister Flush Valve
Canister-style flush valves offer improved flushing performance by lifting the seal straight up. This design allows water to exit the tank with maximum force, resulting in a more efficient and powerful flush. The absence of traditional flapper valves reduces the number of parts that can wear out or cause issues over time.
Self-Clean Toilet
Self-cleaning toilets simplify maintenance by automating the cleaning process. With the push of a button, these systems dispense a cleaning solution and scrub the bowl, reducing the need for manual cleaning. This can save you time and effort while keeping your toilet clean and sanitary.
Toilet Upgrades
If you’re not ready to replace your entire toilet, you can still enjoy some of the latest technologies by upgrading parts of your existing toilet.
- Dual flush valve installation: Upgrade your toilet’s flushing mechanism with a canister-style dual flush system. This can improve performance and water efficiency, even on older toilet models. It’s a budget-friendly way to bring modern technology to your existing toilet without a full replacement.
- Hands-free toilet flush: Install a touchless flush kit to improve hygiene by eliminating the need to touch the flush lever. These motion-activated systems are easy to install and can reduce the spread of germs in your bathroom.
- Heated toilet seats: A heated toilet seat can provide a luxurious addition to your bathroom for ultimate comfort. Look for models with adjustable temperature settings and additional features like night lights for more convenience. A heated seat can make your bathroom much more comfortable during the colder winter months.
- Toilet leak detection: Add a leak detection and automatic shut-off system to prevent water damage from overflowing toilets. These can save you from costly repairs and provide peace of mind.
- Toilet seat lights: Install a motion-activated LED night light to improve visibility and safety at night. These battery-powered lights often offer multiple color options to suit your preferences. The soft glow can make nighttime trips to the bathroom safer and more convenient.
- Vented toilet seats: Vented toilet seats with a built-in air filtration system can eliminate odors at the source. These seats use fans and activated charcoal filters to keep your bathroom fresh. This upgrade can improve your bathroom’s hygiene.
Pro Tips
- “If you want a bathroom in the basement, get a macerator toilet, like the ones made by Saniflo. After each flush, an electric-powered grinder processes and pumps waste up and out to the drain. Here’s the best part: there’s no digging. The unit sits right on the slab, either under the toilet or behind it.” —Richard Trethewey, This Old House Plumbing Expert
Toilets With Efficient Flushing
Toilet efficiency has come a long way since the mid-1990s, when the 1.6-GPF mandate replaced the previous standard of 3.5–5 GPF. Today, high-efficiency toilets (HET) and ultra-high-efficiency toilets (UHET) use even less water, at 1.28 and 0.8 GPF. These water-saving models have improved flushing efficacy, and independent tests show some UHETs can flush up to 1.75 pounds of solids with every flush.
Water conservation is key in modern toilet designs. The evolution from high-volume flushes to today’s models has reduced household water consumption and lowered water bills. When shopping, look for models with the Environmental Protection Agency’s WaterSense certification, which use 20% less water than the current 1.6-gallon mandate.
FAQs About Toilets
What is the difference between a one-piece and a two-piece toilet?
A one-piece toilet has the tank and bowl molded together as a single unit, creating a sleek, seamless look that’s easier to clean but typically more expensive. A two-piece toilet has separate tank and bowl components bolted together during installation, making it less expensive and easier to transport. However, a two-piece toilet has more crevices where dirt can accumulate.
What does “comfort height” mean for toilets?
Comfort height toilets have a seat height of 17–19 inches from the floor to the seat, compared to standard toilets at around 15 inches. This extra height makes it easier for adults, the elderly, and people with mobility issues to sit down and stand up, which is why comfort-height toilets are ADA-compliant.
How much water should a toilet use per flush?
Modern efficient toilets use 1.28 GPF or less and carry the WaterSense certification. Dual-flush toilets offer two options, typically 0.8 GPF for liquid waste and 1.28 GPF for solid waste, providing even greater water savings compared to older toilets that used 3.5–5 GPF.
How do I know if a toilet is easy to clean?
Choose toilets with skirted trapways that conceal the rough plumbing underneath, fully glazed surfaces that resist stains, and minimal crevices where dirt can accumulate. One-piece toilets generally have fewer seams and joints compared to two-piece models, making maintenance easier.
Our Methodology
To provide our readers with the best toilet recommendations possible, we rely on several key sources of information to help guide our selection process.
- Initial research: Our research process began by generating a list of toilets with a significant number of verified buyer reviews and an average customer review rating of 4–5 stars on Amazon. We examined both positive and negative reviews, focusing on information from both satisfied and critical buyers to understand real-world performance across various bathroom sizes, installation challenges, and usage patterns.
- Expert insights: Through years of experience, we’ve learned that listening to what others have to say is key to building accurate, well-rounded articles. To complement our in-house expertise, our team reviewed and analyzed reviews and videos from trusted publications and independent testers, consulted with subject matter experts in plumbing and bathroom fixtures, and drew insights from reader contributions about their toilet experiences.
- Final product selection: We then began fine-tuning our list by replacing older models with the latest versions and eliminating any discontinued toilet models. From there, we pared the list down by comparing each model’s feature set—including flush performance, water efficiency, comfort height, and ease of installation—and selecting the best-in-class options for a variety of buyers, budgets, and bathroom installation scenarios.
Why You Can Trust Us
This Old House has empowered homeowners and do-it-yourself (DIY) enthusiasts for more than four decades with top-notch home improvement advice in the form of television programs, print media, and digital content.
Our team focuses on creating in-depth product and service review content. To date, we’ve published over 1,600 reviews on products for the home, from doorbell cameras and dining room decor to circular saws and snow blowers.
Once we conclude the research and testing phases, we craft a comprehensive, user-friendly article of recommended products and additional information to help our readers make the right purchase.
