We may be compensated if you purchase through links on our website. Our team is committed to delivering honest, objective, and independent reviews on home products and services.
Choosing the right toilet for your home is more complex than it may seem. While toilets appear similar on the surface, innovations and differences beneath the lid make selecting the best one a detailed process. This guide helps you navigate the latest technology, options, and upgrades. After learning everything you need to know, read our in-depth review of the best toilets to find the right one for your home.
Factors in Efficiency
Toilet efficiency has come a long way since the mid-1990s when the 1.6-gallons-per-flush (gpf) mandate replaced the previous 3.5 to 5.0 gpf standard. 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 Usage
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 balls. When shopping, look for models with WaterSense certification, which use 20% less water than the current 1.6-gallon mandate.
Toilet Basics
Knowing the fundamental aspects of toilet design will help you make an informed decision when purchasing a new toilet for your home.
Siphonic or Washdown?
Siphonic toilets feature a larger water spot but have long, narrow trapways that can clog. Washdown toilets have shorter, wider trapways, so they rarely back up but may require more frequent cleaning because of their smaller water spots. The choice between these two types can depend on maintenance and comfort in your bathroom.
One Piece or Two?
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 have a sleeker profile, are ideal for smaller bathrooms, and eliminate the risk of tank gasket leaks.
Round Bowl or Elongated?
Round bowls project 25 to 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. Decisions such as these can make all the difference when every inch of space matters.
Gravity-Fed or Pressure-Assist?
Most toilets rely on gravity for flushing, but pressure-assist models can be great for frequent clogging issues. These provide powerful flushes without using electricity, though they tend to be noisier than gravity-fed toilets. Weighing the noise level against flushing power will help determine the best choice for your home.
High Seat or Low?
Standard toilet height is 16 inches, but the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) recommends 17 to 19 inches for easier use by older and less mobile individuals. Think about your home’s needs when choosing seat height. It can impact accessibility and comfort for yourself and others in your home.
Types of Toilets
When selecting a toilet, consider both its design and flushing technology, including the differences between a two-piece, one-piece, high tank, and wash-down toilet.
Two-Piece Toilet
Two-piece toilets remain a popular choice for their ease of installation and maintenance. This model’s elongated bowl lacks a siphon jet, instead directing all water through the rim for cleaning. Separating the tank and bowl makes these units more accessible for repairs and replacements.
Shown: Stinson, from Sterling Plumbing.
One-Piece Toilet
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.
Shown: Stealth, from Niagara Conservation.
High Tank
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 be a unique focal point in a bathroom.
Shown: High Tank Pull Chain Water Closet, from Signature Hardware or find a similar design at Amazon.
Wash-Down Toilet
Wash-down toilets are designed to minimize clogs. With a wide, 4-inch diameter trapway, these models remove waste while using less water than traditional designs. The simpler nature of these toilets means fewer parts can get damaged, making them reliable and durable over time.
Shown: Sydney Smart Back Outlet, Caroma.
The Latest Must-Have Features
Dual Flush
Dual flush systems offer water-saving benefits by providing two options: a lower-volume flush for liquid waste and a full-volume flush for solids. This feature can reduce water consumption in your home, resulting in savings on water bills and environmental benefits.
Fully Glazed Trapway
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.
High MaP Test Score
Maximum Performance (MaP) testing evaluates a toilet’s ability to handle solid waste. A rating of 0.8 to 1.3 pounds for a 1.6-gallon flush is considered good, while high-performing models can handle up to 2.2 pounds using only 1.28 gpf. Higher scores determine a more reliable performance. To find a toilet’s MaP score, go to MaP Testing.
Antimicrobial Glaze
Some toilets have glazes infused with antimicrobial ions, typically silver, which actively kill 99% of germs on contact. This self-cleaning properly helps maintain hygiene between regular cleanings, providing extra protection against bacteria to keep your bathroom clean.
The Proper Fit
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.
Modifying your layout or 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.
Toilet Tank Location
Wall-mount toilets are a space-saving option that makes cleaning floors much easier. They are installed with a sturdy frame hidden in the wall, and the tank is concealed behind the wall as well. While they 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, wall-mount toilets can be a great choice if you have little space in your bathroom.
Toilet Technology
High-end toilets now provide advanced features that can make your bathroom more comfortable and sanitary.
No Toilet Paper Needed
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.
Shown: TOTO Washlet Bidet Toilet Seat on Amazon.
No Holes in the Rim
Some modern toilets eliminate rim jets, which can be difficult to clean and are prone to clogs. Instead, they 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.
Shown: American Standard VorMax on Amazon.
No Flapper
Canister-style flush valves, such as the AquaPiston, 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.
Shown: KOHLER AquaPiston on Amazon.
No Cleaning
Self-cleaning toilets, like those with ActiClean technology, 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.
Shown: AntiClean cartridge on Amazon.
Upgrade the One You’ve Got
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.
Hands-Free 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. Available for purchase at Amazon.
Flapperless Dual Flush
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. Available on Amazon.
Overflow Protection
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. Proactive measures like these are valuable in preventing unexpected home maintenance issues. Available on On Site Pro.
Upgrade Your Toilet Seat
Upgrading your toilet seat is an easy, budget-friendly way to add comfort and functionality to your bathroom.
Lighted
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. They are available on Amazon.
Vented
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. Available for purchase on Jon-E-Vac.
Heated
A heated toilet seat can be 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. Available on Amazon.
