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The Best Toilet
Choosing the right toilet might not be the most glamorous home improvement project, but it’s one of the most important. After all, you’ll be using this fixture multiple times daily for years to come. Whether you’re building a new home, renovating your bathroom, or simply replacing an old toilet, finding the perfect balance of performance, efficiency, and style can feel overwhelming.
The good news is that toilet technology has come a long way. Today’s models offer impressive water efficiency, powerful flushing systems, and sleek designs that complement any bathroom aesthetic. However, with hundreds of options available, making the right choice requires understanding what features matter most and which brands deliver consistent quality.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about selecting the best toilet for your needs. We’ll cover the top-rated models, essential features to consider, and expert tips that will help you make a confident decision.
Everything We Recommend
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The Best Overall
TORNADO FLUSH and CEFIONTECT keep the bowl clean with less scrubbing.
Universal Height makes sitting and standing easier for more users.
1.28 GPF with a 3″ flush valve ensures powerful, water-saving performance.
Elongated design fits 10″ rough-ins with a left-hand trip lever.
Includes SoftClose seat and supports WASHLET+ bidet upgrades.
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The Best for Accessibility
21-inch extra tall toilet offers ergonomic comfort, ideal for seniors and those with mobility issues.
Elongated soft-close seat provides added comfort and quiet, gentle closing every time.
Designed for easy DIY installation with clear instructions and video support.
MAP 1000g rated with 1.28 GPF single flush for powerful, efficient waste removal.
Backed by responsive customer service for reliable support and satisfaction.
The Best Value Premium
Two-piece design offers classic style and easy maintenance.
Elongated bowl provides extra room for improved comfort.
Comfort Height seating makes sitting and standing easier for most adults.
1.28 GPF (4.8 LPF) ensures efficient, water-saving performance.
Features a left-hand Polished Chrome trip lever for easy flushing.
The Best Water-Saving Innovation
Uses only 1.28 GPF (4.8 Lpf) for reliable, water-efficient performance.
16.5-inch chair height bowl offers comfortable, easy access.
3-inch flush valve and 2-inch glazed trapway deliver a powerful flush.
PowerWash rim scrubs the bowl clean with every flush.
WaterSense is certified to meet EPA standards for water efficiency.
The Best Modern Design
Dual flush system offers 0.8 GPF for light flush and 1.6 GPF for full flush to save water.
2×4 in-wall tank carrier fits standard 4″ stud walls for secure installation.
Removable flush plate provides easy access to internal plumbing.
Wall-hung design with hidden tank saves space and adds modern appeal.
Adjustable carrier legs let you set the toilet height to your preference.
The Best Smart Technology
Lid opens and closes automatically for a hands-free, hygienic experience.
17-3/8″ chair height meets ADA standards and offers comfort for users with mobility issues.
Auto flush activates after use for a completely touch-free operation.
Dual flush system (1.6 GPF/1.1 GPF) achieves a top-rated 1000g MaP score.
Back-and-forth warm air drying with adjustable speeds reduces toilet paper use.
Front and rear wash with oscillation, filtered water, and adjustable pressure for a refreshing clean.
Foam shield reduces splashing and odors for a cleaner, more pleasant experience.
Foot sensor enables lid, seat, and flush control without touching.
UL, CSA, IAPMO certified with extended 1-year warranty upon registration.
What Makes a Great Toilet?
Before diving into specific recommendations, it’s important to understand what separates exceptional toilets from mediocre ones. The best toilets excel in several key areas that directly impact your daily experience.
Performance stands as the most crucial factor. A high-quality toilet should flush effectively every time, clearing waste completely without requiring multiple flushes. Modern toilets achieve this through advanced trapway designs, optimized water flow patterns, and powerful flushing mechanisms that work efficiently even with reduced water usage.
Water efficiency has become increasingly important as environmental awareness grows and utility costs rise. Design improvements have allowed toilets to use 1.28 gallons per flush or less while still providing equal or superior performance. This is 20 percent less water than the current federal standard of 1.6 gallons per flush. Look for WaterSense certified models that meet EPA standards for water conservation without sacrificing performance.
Comfort and ergonomics also play a significant role in toilet selection. The height, seat shape, and overall design should accommodate your household’s needs. Standard height toilets work well for most people, but comfort height models (17-19 inches) provide better accessibility for adults and seniors.
Durability and build quality determine how long your toilet will last and how much maintenance it will require. High-quality materials like vitreous china resist stains and scratches while maintaining their appearance over time. Additionally, reliable internal components reduce the likelihood of repairs and replacements.
The Top Toilet Our Picks
The TOTO Drake MS776124CEFG.10#01 represents the pinnacle of toilet engineering, delivering performance that transforms your daily bathroom experience. This model has earned widespread acclaim from homeowners and plumbing professionals alike because it consistently delivers on the promises that matter most in real-world use.
Picture this: you’re hosting a dinner party, and your main bathroom gets heavy use throughout the evening. While other toilets might struggle with multiple flushes or leave you worried about clogs, the Drake performs flawlessly every single time. This reliability comes from TOTO’s innovative TORNADO FLUSH technology, which creates a powerful centrifugal washing action that eliminates waste using just 1.28 gallons per flush.
What sets this toilet apart is its rimless design with dual nozzles that ensure every surface of the bowl gets cleaned with each flush. For busy families, this means significantly less time spent scrubbing and fewer harsh chemicals needed to maintain a spotless bathroom. The CEFIONTECT ceramic glaze creates an extraordinarily smooth surface that prevents waste and bacteria from adhering, making weekly cleaning a breeze rather than a chore.
The comfort height design positions the seat at 17 inches, making it ideal for adults and particularly beneficial for anyone with mobility concerns. Parents of elderly family members consistently praise how this height reduces strain when sitting down or standing up. The elongated bowl provides generous space and comfort, while the included SoftClose seat eliminates those jarring midnight slams that wake the entire household.
Installation professionals appreciate the 10-inch rough-in configuration, which fits most standard bathrooms without modification. The toilet arrives WASHLET+ ready, meaning you can easily upgrade to an electronic bidet seat in the future without any additional plumbing work.
This toilet excels in master bathrooms, family bathrooms, and any home where reliability and low maintenance are priorities. The combination of Japanese precision engineering and practical American design makes it an investment that pays dividends in daily convenience and long-term satisfaction.
The Simple Project HT-140 solves a genuine problem that affects millions of people daily: standard toilets are simply too low for comfortable use. At 21 inches tall, this toilet transforms the bathroom experience for seniors, tall individuals, and anyone managing mobility challenges or joint discomfort.
Consider the difference this extra height makes in your daily routine. Instead of the awkward, often painful process of lowering yourself onto a standard 15-inch toilet, the HT-140 allows you to sit down naturally as if settling into a comfortable chair. This seemingly simple change can mean the difference between independence and assistance for elderly family members, making it an invaluable addition to any home caring for aging parents.
Healthcare professionals consistently recommend higher toilets for patients recovering from hip or knee surgery, and the HT-140 delivers exactly what they need. The additional height reduces stress on joints and muscles, making bathroom visits safer and more comfortable during recovery periods. Many users report that the extra height also helps with proper posture and reduces strain during use.
The elongated bowl design provides additional comfort and space, accommodating users of all sizes. The powerful single flush system ensures reliable waste removal with each use, while the durable ceramic construction matches the longevity of premium brands. The clean, modern design complements most bathroom styles, and the included seat means everything arrives ready for installation.
This toilet particularly excels in master bathrooms designed for aging in place, guest rooms that accommodate elderly visitors, and any household where comfort and accessibility are paramount. The 90-day return policy provides peace of mind, allowing you to experience the comfort difference without risk.
For families transitioning to accommodate changing mobility needs, the HT-140 offers an affordable solution that delivers meaningful daily benefits. Users consistently report that once they experience the comfort of proper height, they never want to return to standard toilets.
The Kohler K-3999-0 Highline represents exceptional value in the premium toilet category, combining Kohler’s legendary reliability with thoughtful features that enhance daily use. This toilet demonstrates how established engineering can deliver superior performance without unnecessary complexity or inflated pricing.
The innovative Class Five flushing system provides powerful bulk waste removal while maintaining impressive water efficiency at 1.28 gallons per flush. For families with teenagers or busy households, this reliability eliminates the embarrassment and inconvenience of clogs, making it a practical choice for high-traffic bathrooms.
The comfort height design complies with ADA standards, positioning the seat at an ideal height for adults while remaining accessible for children. This universal design approach makes it suitable for multi-generational households where different users have varying needs and preferences.
What distinguishes this toilet is its large 2-1/8 inch trapway, which significantly reduces the likelihood of clogs compared to standard designs. The three pre-installed tank bolts streamline installation, while the durable two-piece construction ensures long-term reliability and ease of maintenance.
The elongated bowl provides enhanced comfort without occupying excessive floor space, making it ideal for both master bathrooms and guest rooms. The clean, classic design complements both traditional and contemporary bathroom styles, ensuring broad appeal regardless of your decorating preferences.
This toilet excels in family bathrooms, guest bathrooms, and any application where dependable performance and water efficiency are priorities. The combination of Kohler’s quality, practical features, and competitive pricing makes it an excellent choice for discerning homeowners who want premium performance without premium pricing.
For households seeking a toilet that simply works day after day without drama or maintenance issues, the K-3999-0 Highline delivers the reliability and performance that justify its reputation as a contractor favorite and homeowner staple.
The American Standard H2Option 606AA002.020 represents a breakthrough in water conservation technology, offering homeowners genuine control over their water usage without compromising performance. This dual-flush system addresses one of the most common complaints about eco-friendly toilets: the need to flush multiple times to achieve proper waste removal.
The innovative push-button actuator on the toilet lid provides two distinct flush options: a light flush using just 0.92 gallons for liquid waste, and a full flush using 1.28 gallons for solid waste. Both options clear the bowl completely, eliminating the frustration of multiple flushes that plague many water-saving toilets.
For environmentally conscious families, this toilet delivers substantial water savings that translate to real financial benefits. A family of four can save thousands of gallons annually compared to older 3.5-gallon toilets, with many users reporting noticeable reductions in their water bills within the first few months of installation.
The chair-height design at 16.5 inches provides comfortable seating for adults while remaining accessible for children. The elongated bowl offers generous space and comfort, making it ideal for family bathrooms where multiple users have different needs and preferences.
What makes this toilet particularly appealing is its complete package approach. The toilet arrives with a seat, wax ring, and all necessary hardware, simplifying the installation process and ensuring compatibility. The clean white finish and modern design complement both traditional and contemporary bathroom styles.
This toilet excels in family homes focused on sustainability, rental properties where water costs impact profitability, and any household looking to reduce environmental impact without sacrificing performance. The dual-flush technology provides the flexibility to match water usage to actual needs, making it an intelligent choice for the modern, eco-conscious home.
The Swiss Madison SM-WK450-01C wall-mounted toilet represents the cutting-edge of bathroom design, offering a sleek, minimalist aesthetic that transforms any bathroom into a modern sanctuary. This toilet addresses the growing demand for space-efficient fixtures that don’t compromise on style or performance.
Wall-mounted toilets create the illusion of more space by eliminating the visible base, making small bathrooms appear larger and more open. The floating design also simplifies floor cleaning, as you can easily sweep and mop underneath without navigating around a toilet base. For busy households, this translates to faster, more thorough bathroom maintenance.
The hidden tank system, concealed within the wall, reduces noise and creates a cleaner visual line. The tank is easily accessible for maintenance through the flush plate, ensuring that repairs remain straightforward despite the concealed installation. The rimless bowl design ensures superior hygiene by eliminating hard-to-clean areas where bacteria can accumulate.
Installation requires professional expertise and proper wall reinforcement, but the investment pays dividends in both aesthetics and functionality. The toilet can support up to 880 pounds when properly installed, making it suitable for users of all sizes.
This toilet excels in modern homes, contemporary condominiums, and any bathroom where space efficiency and style are paramount. The clean lines and sophisticated appearance make it particularly popular in master bathrooms, powder rooms, and luxury renovations where every detail matters.
For homeowners seeking to create a spa-like bathroom environment, the SM-WK450-01C offers the perfect combination of form and function. The modern design ages well, ensuring your bathroom remains stylish for years to come.
The WOODBRIDGE Smart Bidet Toilet B0930-S represents the convergence of traditional toilet functionality with cutting-edge technology, offering a bathroom experience that redefines comfort and hygiene. This integrated system addresses the growing interest in bidet functionality while maintaining the familiar toilet design that American homeowners prefer.
The built-in bidet features adjustable water temperature, pressure, and positioning, providing personalized comfort for each user. The heated seat with temperature control ensures comfort during cold mornings, while the automatic deodorizer keeps the bathroom fresh without additional air fresheners or sprays.
The one-piece siphon flushing system provides powerful waste removal while maintaining quiet operation, important in master bathrooms adjacent to bedrooms. The soft-closing seat and lid eliminate noise, making nighttime use more considerate of sleeping family members.
The integrated control panel allows easy adjustment of all functions, while the self-cleaning nozzle ensures optimal hygiene with minimal maintenance. The ceramic construction matches the durability of premium traditional toilets, ensuring long-term performance despite the advanced technology.
This toilet excels in luxury master bathrooms, contemporary homes, and any household interested in enhanced hygiene and comfort. The technology appeals particularly to users with mobility limitations, as the bidet function reduces the need for extensive manual cleaning.
For homeowners ready to embrace the future of bathroom technology, the B0930-S offers a comprehensive solution that combines familiar toilet functionality with advanced bidet features. The investment in smart technology pays dividends in daily comfort and convenience, making every bathroom visit more pleasant and hygienic.
Key Features to Consider When Choosing a Toilet
Flush Performance and Water Efficiency
Modern toilets must balance powerful flushing performance with water conservation. Recent advancements have allowed toilets to use 1.28 gallons per flush or less while still providing equal or superior performance. This is 20 percent less water than the current federal standard of 1.6 gallons per flush.
Look for toilets with WaterSense certification, which indicates they meet EPA standards for water efficiency. Dual flush options provide additional flexibility, allowing you to choose between a full flush for solid waste and a reduced flush for liquid waste.
The flush mechanism itself plays a crucial role in performance. Gravity-fed systems are the most common and generally reliable, while pressure-assisted systems provide more powerful flushing action. Advanced designs like tornado flush or PowerWash technology improve cleaning action and reduce maintenance needs.
Bowl Shape and Size
Toilet bowls come in two primary shapes: round and elongated. Round bowls are more compact and work well in smaller bathrooms, while elongated bowls provide additional comfort and are generally preferred for master bathrooms and guest bathrooms.
The trapway design affects both performance and maintenance. Larger trapways (2-3 inches) reduce clogs and improve waste removal. Glazed trapways resist buildup and are easier to clean. Some manufacturers offer fully glazed trapways for optimal performance.
Height and Comfort
Standard height toilets measure 15-16 inches from floor to seat, while comfort height models range from 17-19 inches. Comfort height toilets provide easier access for adults and seniors, reducing strain when sitting and standing.
Consider your household’s needs when selecting height. While comfort height models offer benefits for most adults, they may be too tall for children or shorter individuals. Some families opt for different heights in different bathrooms based on primary users.
Installation Requirements
Most toilets are designed for 12-inch rough-in measurements, but some bathrooms require 10-inch or 14-inch configurations. Measure from the wall to the center of the drain pipe to determine your rough-in requirement.
One-piece toilets integrate the tank and bowl into a single unit, making them easier to clean but more difficult to transport and install. Two-piece toilets separate the tank and bowl, allowing for easier handling during installation but creating more surfaces to clean.
Consider whether you need special features like an elongated bowl, comfort height, or specific color options. These choices affect both the initial purchase price and long-term satisfaction with your toilet selection.
Water Efficiency and Environmental Impact
Water conservation has become increasingly important as communities face water scarcity and rising utility costs. An EPA WaterSense certified toilet uses 20% less water than the existing federal standard for acceptable water usage from toilets.
Modern high-efficiency toilets achieve excellent performance while using significantly less water than older models. A family of four can save thousands of gallons annually by upgrading from an older toilet to a WaterSense certified model.
Beyond water savings, efficient toilets reduce strain on municipal water systems and wastewater treatment facilities. This environmental benefit extends beyond individual households to benefit entire communities.
Dual flush toilets offer additional water savings potential by allowing users to select the appropriate flush volume based on need. The 1.6/1.0 gallon dual flush option can reduce water usage by 20-30% compared to single flush models.
Installation and Maintenance Tips
Proper installation ensures optimal performance and longevity for your new toilet. While many homeowners can handle toilet installation, complex situations may require professional assistance.
Start by turning off the water supply and removing the old toilet. Clean the flange area thoroughly and inspect for damage. A damaged flange can cause leaks and instability, so address any issues before installing the new toilet.
Use a new wax ring or wax-free seal when installing the toilet. Position the toilet carefully to ensure proper alignment with the flange. Tighten the bolts gradually and evenly to prevent cracking the porcelain.
Connect the water supply line and test for leaks. Adjust the water level in the tank according to manufacturer specifications. Most toilets require the water level to be about one inch below the rim of the overflow tube.
Regular maintenance keeps your toilet functioning properly and extends its lifespan. Clean the bowl regularly with appropriate cleaners, avoiding abrasive materials that can scratch the surface. Check and replace the flapper, chain, and other internal components as needed.
Budget Considerations and Value Analysis
Toilet prices vary significantly based on features, brand, and quality. Basic models start around $100-200, while premium and smart toilets can cost $500-2,000 or more.
Consider the total cost of ownership when evaluating options. A higher-quality toilet may cost more initially but provides better performance, durability, and water savings over time. Water-efficient models can reduce utility bills, and reliable construction minimizes repair costs.
Factor in installation costs if you’re hiring a professional. Complex installations or modifications to existing plumbing can increase total project costs. However, proper installation ensures optimal performance and prevents future problems.
Warranty coverage varies by manufacturer and model. Look for comprehensive warranties that cover both the toilet and internal components. Some manufacturers offer lifetime warranties on specific parts, providing additional peace of mind.
Popular Toilet Brands and Their Strengths
Several manufacturers dominate the toilet market, each offering unique advantages and specializations.
Toto leads in innovation and performance, consistently receiving high ratings from consumers and professionals. Their advanced flushing systems and attention to detail make them a premium choice for quality-conscious buyers.
American Standard offers excellent value across their product line, providing reliable performance at competitive prices. Their widespread availability and comprehensive warranty coverage make them a practical choice for many homeowners.
Kohler combines style and performance, offering extensive design options and color choices. Their comfortable height models and advanced features appeal to homeowners seeking both function and aesthetics.
WOODBRIDGE focuses on innovative smart toilet technology, bringing modern convenience and hygiene features to the American market at accessible price points.
Special Considerations for Different Bathroom Types
Master bathrooms typically benefit from comfortable height toilets with elongated bowls for enhanced comfort. Consider premium features like soft-close seats, advanced flushing systems, and attractive designs that complement your bathroom décor.
Guest bathrooms should prioritize reliability and easy maintenance. Standard height toilets with proven flushing performance work well, and neutral colors ensure broad appeal.
Powder rooms often have space constraints that favor compact designs. Round bowl toilets or wall-mounted models can maximize available space while providing necessary functionality.
Basement bathrooms may require special considerations for plumbing and ventilation. Ensure adequate water pressure for proper flushing, and consider models designed for challenging installation conditions.
Future-Proofing Your Toilet Selection
Technology continues to evolve in the toilet industry, with smart features becoming more common and affordable. Consider whether you want basic functionality or advanced features like heated seats, automatic flushing, or integrated bidets.
Water efficiency standards may become more stringent in the future, making current high-efficiency models a smart long-term investment. WaterSense certified toilets already exceed current requirements and should remain compliant with future standards.
Universal design principles are becoming more important as populations age. Comfort height toilets and accessible features provide benefits for users of all ages and abilities.
Conclusion
Selecting the best toilet for your home requires balancing performance, efficiency, comfort, and budget considerations. The models highlighted in this guide represent excellent choices across different categories and price points.
The TOTO Drake offers exceptional overall performance with proven reliability and advanced features. The Simple Project HT-140 provides unmatched comfort for users needing extra height. The American Standard H2Option delivers intelligent water conservation with dual-flush technology, while the Swiss Madison wall-mounted toilet offers a modern space-saving design. The Kohler Highline provides premium performance at an accessible price point, and the WOODBRIDGE Smart Toilet represents the future of bathroom technology.
Remember to consider your specific needs, bathroom configuration, and long-term goals when making your selection. A quality toilet is an investment that will serve your household for many years, making careful selection worthwhile.