Looking for the best toilets to complete your bathroom renovation or upgrade? Choosing the suitable toilet can make a significant difference in terms of comfort, convenience, and water efficiency.
Finding the perfect toilet can be daunting with so many options available. In this guide, we’ll explore the various types of toilets, features to consider, and provide you with some top recommendations to help you find the best toilets for your needs.
Whether you’re looking for a sleek and modern design, a water-saving option, or a budget-friendly choice, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive in!
What to Look for in a Toilet
Toilet Style
There are three common styles of toilet:
One-piece
The toilet bowl and toilet tank are all made of one seamless piece where the bowl is separate from the tank and must be bolted on during installation. Because they don’t have gaps between the bowl and tank, one-piece toilets are typically easier to clean.
However, they are also heavier, making them trickier to install since the entire toilet has to be lifted into one unit.
Two-piece
This is the traditional toilet design, with a water tank bolted on top of a lower bowl. Two-piece tanks are often more affordable, with a wide variety of options. You can mix and match toilet bowls and tanks for more customization.
Wall Mount Toilet
Toilets mounted directly to the wall look sleek and save a lot of space in your bathroom. However, wall mounted toilets are complex to install, requiring additional bracing and plumbing modifications if you switch from a standard toilet.
This type of toilet is becoming increasingly popular due to its sleek and modern design and the fact that it saves space and is easier to clean. Wall mounted toilets also have the advantage of being adjustable, allowing the seat to be positioned at the most comfortable height for the user.
Flush Type
There are two choices to consider for your toilet’s flush:
Single-flush
This type of toilet uses the same amount of water for each flush and has a single mechanism for flushing. Single-flush toilets often have handles or levers rather than buttons.
Since they are more common, and have standardized components, it’s often easier to buy replacement parts for single-flush toilets, and repair costs are typically cheaper. However, single-flush toilets can be more water wasteful.
Dual-flush
A dual-flush toilet uses two buttons, typically on top of the tank, for two different types of flushing. One flush uses less water—typically less than a gallon per flush—and is meant for removing liquid waste. A second, larger flush is reserved for solid waste disposal.
Height
While the distance from the floor to the rim of your toilet bowl—often called the seat or bowl height—varies from model to model, there are two primary ranges into which bowl heights are grouped:
Standard Height
A standard height toilet has a rim that’s 14.5 to 16 inches from the floor. Shorter toilet seats may benefit bowel movements since it puts people closer to a crouching position, straightening the colon. This may reduce the need for straining and is the reason behind the popularity of position-adjusting products like the Squatty Potty.
Comfort Height (also known as Chair Height)
Comfort height toilets are taller—typically 17 to 19 inches—making it, so you don’t have to crouch as much to sit on them. While 16.125 and 16.5-inch toilet rim heights are sometimes described as comfort height, the standard is most often associated with models approved by the Americans with Disabilities Act, with rims at least 16.5 inches off the ground.
Bowl Shape
Toilets and toilet seats are designed for two different bowl shapes:
Round
Round bowls are common to older toilets and are still today. They are typically 16.5 inches from the tip of the bowl to the seat bolts. They provide a smaller opening, but can save two inches of space compared to an elongated bowl. A round bowl might be worth considering if your bathroom is incredibly cramped.
Elongated
In most bathrooms, people prefer elongated bowls, typically 18.5 inches long. They provide both a larger opening and a broader space for the toilet seat, making them more comfortable to sit on for most people.
The only downside to an elongated bowl is that it takes up more space and may not fit in a smaller bathroom.
Flushing Technology
Modern toilets typically use one of two different flushing technologies:
Gravity-Flush
These toilets hold water in a raised tank, then let gravity pull the volume of water down through the toilet bowl when you flush. It’s a simple, reliable mechanism that requires no additional help. Most residential homes use gravity-flush toilets.
Pressure-Assisted
Pressure-assisted toilets store water for flushing inside an airtight tank, then use air pressure to push out the water through the bowl. This allows for a more powerful flush with less water, since it can force the water through the bowl at a higher speed than gravity.
They’re much less likely to clog and can generate a powerful flush without wasting water. However, pressure-assisted flush toilets are typically more expensive and louder. Most toilets use a gravity-flush system to force water and its contents out of the bowl.
This flushing system is quiet and requires little maintenance, which is why it’s such a popular option. However, there are newer styles of flushing systems as well.
For instance, you may come across pressure-assisted flushing technology, where pressurized air forces water into the bowl.
Water Usage
Today, laws dictate toilets can’t use more than 1.6 gallons of water with each flush, so you won’t need to worry that your new toilet will waste water.
However, high-efficiency toilets only use around 1.1 or 1.2 gallons per flush, conserving even more water. The Environmental Protection Agency’s “WaterSense” label often identifies these high-efficiency products.
Noise Level
If your new toilet is going to be installed somewhere that noise is a problem—such as next to your bedroom or your baby’s nursery—you’ll want to consider how loud it is. Gravity-flush systems are the quietest, and some toilets have special fill valves designed to be more peaceful.
Additionally, if noise is a concern, it’s helpful to opt for a soft-close lid that prevents it from slamming shut.
Appearance
Once you’ve figured out the technical aspects, you can consider the appearance of your new toilet and how it will fit into your bathroom.
The most common toilet color is white, but you can also find models that are black, gray, tan, or even bold colors like pink or yellow.
Additionally, you have options regarding the trapways of a toilet or the pipe bends behind the toilet bowl. If you choose a model with visible trapways, you’ll be able to see the bends and have to clean them.
To save a little effort with cleaning and create a sleeker look, you may want to consider a toilet with concealed or skirted trapways, where these bends are covered up.
Size
If you’re replacing an existing toilet, you’ll want to figure out its “rough-in” measurement or the distance from the wall to the floor drain.
The standard distance is 12 inches, but you may have 10- or 14 inches rough-in if you live in an older home. This measurement will help you choose an appropriately sized toilet that can easily be installed with your existing plumbing.
Special Features
As with many household fixtures, you can find toilets with special features—for an additional cost. For instance, there are models with touchless flushing, where you wave your hand to activate the flush.
Other advanced features include heated seats, overflow protection, night lights, bidet capabilities, self-cleaning, and more. However, these options will not only increase the initial cost of your toilet, but they may require increased maintenance over the life of the fixture.
Shopping Tips For Best Toilets
Until the recent revolution in toilet manufacturing, shopping was easy: Pick a color. Now it’s more complicated. Arming yourself with a tape measure, some measurements, a hand mirror, and a list of rated toilets can help.
Here’s why:
Many low-flow toilets take up a smaller space on the floor. So take the measurements of your current toilet’s floor print before shopping.
Installation of a new toilet can leave a 3-inch gap in your tile. Therefore, in some bathrooms, it may be prudent to keep the current toilet in good working order as long as possible and conserve water another way.
In the showroom, measure the height of the toilet’s rim from the floor. Many of the new types are higher than older models. That’s a plus for older and handicapped users but not young children.
A hand mirror allows you to check under the rim for slots or a series of holes. That’s where water is released to clean the bowl’s sides.
Slots can give an uneven cleaning, but holes may clog quicker than the slots if you have hard water.
Look at the amount of water (the water spot) in the bowl. Some low-flow models have tiny water spots. A wide water spot is best because it keeps the bowl cleaner; solid waste is less likely to stick to the sides.
The ANSI (American National Standards Institutes) sticker of approval means a toilet has passed a test to meet a minimum standard.
However, Consumer Reports’ test of toilets is more rigorous and, thus, more practical. The February 1995 issue contains a list of models that performed best.
Until recently, the standard toilet bowl and seat shape were round. Now nearly all manufacturers offer an elongated seat.
According to toilet manufacturers, the style is more comfortable for seated men and women, tending to hygiene needs.
Look at the quality of the ceramic finish. Sometimes lifting the tank lid lets you see how thick the ceramic coating is. A thick, even will be more durable and give more accurate color.
Best Toilets According To Consumer Reports
1. TOTO Drake II Two-Piece Toilet
The TOTO Drake II Two-Piece Toilet is our top pick for the best toilet on the market. It features a powerful and efficient flushing system that uses only 1.28 gallons per flush, which saves water and reduces your water bill.
The toilet is also designed to be comfortable, with a height of 17.25 inches, that is perfect for most people. It also has a universal height, making it easy to install and use.
2. Kohler Wellworth Two-Piece Toilet
The Kohler Wellworth Two-Piece Toilet is another excellent option for those looking for a high-quality toilet. It features a powerful flush that can easily handle waste using only 1.28 gallons per flush.
The toilet is also designed to be comfortable, with a chair-height seating that makes it easy to get on and off. It’s also straightforward to install, with a standard 12-inch rough-in.
3. American Standard Cadet 3 Concealed Trapway Toilet
The American Standard Cadet 3 Concealed Trapway Toilet is an excellent option for stylish and modern toilets. It features a sleek design that’s perfect for contemporary bathrooms and a concealed trapway that makes cleaning a breeze.
The toilet is also very efficient, using only 1.28 gallons per flush, and has a comfortable height of 16.5 inches.
4. Niagara Stealth Two-Piece Toilet
If you’re looking for a powerful and efficient toilet, the Niagara Stealth Two-Piece Toilet is the perfect choice. It uses only 0.8 gallons per flush, the lowest of any toilet on the market. Despite using less water, it still has a powerful flush that can easily handle waste. The toilet also has a comfortable height of 16.5 inches.
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5. WoodBridge T-0001 One-Piece Toilet
The WoodBridge T-0001 One-Piece Toilet is a sleek and modern toilet perfect for any contemporary bathroom. It features a soft-closing seat and lid, which helps to prevent damage to the toilet and makes it quieter to use. The toilet also has a powerful flush that can easily handle waste, using only 1.28 gallons per flush.
FAQ on Toilets
1. What is a dual flush toilet?
A dual flush toilet has two different options: a partial flush for liquid waste and a full flush for solid waste. The partial flush uses less water and is more water-efficient than a full flush.
2. What is a wall-mounted toilet?
A wall-mounted toilet is a toilet that is mounted directly to the bathroom wall instead of being bolted to the floor. The plumbing is concealed behind the wall, giving the toilet a sleek, modern look.
3. What is gallons per flush?
Gallons per flush (GPF) measures the amount of water a toilet uses to flush waste. In the US, toilets are typically designed to use 1.6 gallons per flush, but low-flow toilets use less water to save water.
4. What is the best toilet paper to use?
The best toilet paper is one that is soft and strong yet also septic-safe. Look for toilet paper labeled as “septic-safe” or “biodegradable” to prevent clogs and protect the environment.
5. What is a toilet bowl?
A toilet bowl is the central part of a toilet that holds the waste and flushes it away. The bowl is typically made of porcelain or ceramic and can be round or elongated.
6. What is a toilet seat?
A toilet seat is the part of the toilet that you sit on. It can be made of plastic, wood, or other materials and be fixed or detachable.
7. What is solid and liquid waste?
Solid waste is feces, while liquid waste is urine. Both types of waste are eliminated through the toilet.
8. What is a wall hung toilet?
A wall hung toilet is mounted directly to the bathroom wall instead of being bolted to the floor. The plumbing is concealed behind the wall, giving the toilet a sleek, modern look.
9. What is a dual flush system?
A dual flush system is a toilet system with two different flush options, typically a partial flush for liquid waste and a full flush for solid waste. The partial flush uses less water and is more water-efficient than a full flush.
10. What is a gravity flush system?
A gravity flush system is a toilet system where water is released from the tank and flows into the bowl, causing the waste to be flushed away. The force of gravity is used to create the necessary pressure for the flush.
11. What is a smart toilet?
A smart toilet is a toilet that has built-in technology, such as automatic flushing, heated seats, and even night lights. Some models even have bidet features, air dryers, and built-in speakers.
12. What is a two-piece toilet?
A two-piece toilet is a toilet that has a separate tank and bowl that are bolted together during installation. Two-piece toilets are the most common type and relatively easy to install.
13. What is a heated seat?
A heated seat is a toilet seat with a built-in heating element that warms up the seat, making it more comfortable to sit on in cold weather.
14. What is flushing power?
Flushing power refers to the force and pressure a toilet uses to flush waste away. High flushing power is essential for ensuring that waste is eliminated effectively and efficiently.
15. What is an elongated bowl?
An elongated bowl is a toilet bowl that is longer and more oval-shaped than a round bowl. Elongated bowls are typically more comfortable to sit on and are a good choice for larger bathrooms.
16. What is an elongated bowl shape toilet?
An elongated bowl shape toilet is a type of toilet that has a longer and more oval-shaped bowl than a traditional round bowl toilet. It offers more space for seating and is considered more comfortable.
17. What are tall toilets?
Tall toilets, also known as comfort height toilets, are toilets that are higher than standard toilets. They are designed to be more accessible and comfortable for people with mobility issues or disabilities and taller people.
18. What are toilet reviews, and where can I find them?
Toilet reviews evaluate different toilet models based on factors like flushing power, ease of cleaning, water efficiency, and overall performance. You can find toilet reviews on websites like Ours or Consumer Reports, Amazon, and other online retailers.
18. What is a gravity flush system?
A gravity flush system is a flushing mechanism in which water is released from the tank into the bowl through gravity. It is a common type of flushing system in traditional toilets.
19. What are traditional toilets?
Traditional toilets refer to the standard, floor-mounted, two-piece toilets that have been used in households for many years. They usually have a separate tank and bowl, and use a gravity flush system.
20. What is rear wash on a toilet?
Rear wash, also known as a bidet feature, is a feature found in some modern toilets that provides a stream of water for cleaning after using the toilet. The water is directed towards the back area of the body for cleaning.
21. What does it mean when a product has been around for over a decade?
When a product has been around for over a decade, it has been available on the market for more than ten years. This can be a strong indicator of product quality.
22. What are other types of toilets?
Other types of toilets include composting, wall-hung, dual flush, and high-efficiency toilets.
23. What is the shape of a toilet?
The shape of a toilet can be either round or elongated. An elongated toilet bowl is more oval in shape, while a round toilet bowl is more circular.
24. What is a Nature’s Head composting toilet?
Nature’s Head is a brand of composting toilet that uses a natural process to break down human waste. It is designed to be odorless, waterless, and eco-friendly.
25. What is a flushing system on a toilet?
A flushing system on a toilet is the mechanism that flushes waste and water from the toilet bowl. Common types of flushing systems include gravity flush, pressure-assisted flush, and dual flush systems.
26. What is dual flush technology?
Dual flush technology is a type of flushing system that offers two different flushing options: a lower-volume flush for liquid waste and a higher-volume flush for solid waste. This helps to save water and reduce water bills.
27. Where can I find a Nature’s Head composting toilet on Amazon?
You can find a Nature’s Head composting toilet on Amazon by searching for the product name in the search bar or direct click on below button.
Buy on AmazonDiagram Of All 5 Best Toilets Features
Conclusion
In conclusion, the best toilets of 2023 encompass a variety of innovative features, catering to individual needs and preferences while promoting water efficiency and environmental protection.
Dual flush toilets, such as those with a tornado flush system, allow users to choose between a half flush for liquids and a full flush for solids, conserving gallons of water per flush.
Smart toilets, such as the best smart toilet on the market, offer added convenience with high-tech features like adjustable water pressure, a built-in bidet, and a remote control for a more luxurious bathroom experience.
For smaller bathrooms, wall mounted and wall hung toilets provide a sleek and modern look while saving space, and for those on a budget, the best budget toilet offers powerful flushing pressure without breaking the bank.
Many of the best toilets also prioritize comfort and ease of cleaning, such as those with a comfort height toilet seat, easy cleaning features like an EverClean coated surface to resist stains, mold, and mildew, and a quiet close seat to prevent late-night disturbances.
High-efficiency and gravity-fed toilets with powerful flush mechanisms, such as those featuring a compressed air-assisted flush or a pressure-assisted flush, reduce the likelihood of clogs and the need for a plunger.
Composting toilets, available on Amazon, offer an eco-friendly alternative for those looking to minimize their environmental impact, with features like an electric fan to eliminate unpleasant smells, and a peat moss or other composting material to break down waste.
When it comes to bathroom style, one-piece models offer a streamlined appearance, while two-piece models provide more flexibility in terms of installation and maintenance.
Vitreous china is a popular material for durability and easy cleaning, and toilets with a skirted trapway eliminate crevices where dirt and grime can accumulate.
The EPA WaterSense label helps consumers identify water-efficient toilets that meet the Environmental Protection Agency’s standards for water conservation.
Ultimately, the best toilets of 2023 cater to a wide range of individual needs, preferences, and budgets while prioritizing water efficiency, environmental protection, and user comfort. Whether you’re seeking a high-tech smart toilet or a simple, budget-friendly option, a toilet on the market will suit your unique bathroom space and requirements.
As with any purchase, ask about warranties and watch for sales and promotions.
Last update on 2024-04-19 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
