Here’s How to Choose the Right Toilet

The right toilet will improve your bathroom’s form and function.

Toilets vary by type, style, size, and features. When making your decision, consider your bathroom space and your lifestyle. The right toilet will complement both.

Toilet Types Find the Right Toilet Style and Size Bathroom Toilet Features

Toilet Types: One- or Two-Pieces

Toilets come in a choice of one-piece or two-piece models. Each have advantages, depending on preference and space.

Toilets by Flush Type

Once you’ve narrowed your one- versus two-piece toilet options, consider flush type. Flushes are not created equal: Look for features that match your lifestyle and water-conservation goals.

Find the Right Toilet Style and Size

Toilets also vary by height and toilet bowl shape. Consider your space and lifestyle (including the age of family members) when decision-making.

Standard vs. Comfort Height

Toilet height is measured from the floor to the top of the bowl, not including the seat. Ideally, you should be able to sit and stand with ease, and comfortably rest both feet on the floor while seated.

	Standard-height toilets are typically 14-15 inches high, making them ideal for children and users of average height.
	Comfort-height toilets are 16 inches (or more) in height, which can make it easier for taller people, older folks, and those with leg, back, and mobility issues to sit down and get up again.

Round vs. Elongated bowls

Toilet bowl size impacts the general dimensions of a toilet as well as its toilet seat style.

Tip: The more common a toilet bowl shape is, the easier it will be to find a replacement seat.

	Round bowls take up less space, making them popular for smaller bathrooms. Average dimension: 16.5 inches from seat bolt hole to bowl front
	Elongated bowls offer more thigh support and comfort, as they are about two inches longer. Average dimension: 18.5 inches from seat bolt hole to bowl front
	Compact elongated bowls feature an elongated toilet bowl but take up the same space as a round bowl. Average dimension: Varies by model

Bathroom Toilet Features

Once you’ve narrowed your toilet selection down between one- versus two-piece types, flush type, and size, consider those features that make sense for your bathroom design and lifestyle.

Buying a Toilet Seat

While toilets are usually sold with a matching seat, you may be in the market for a new seat if you want to customize your purchase or if you’re updating an existing toilet.

Toilet Seat Materials

Generally, toilet seats come in either plastic, wood, or polypropylene.

Toilet Seat Features to Consider

These product features may improve function in various settings.

Open front seats

Open front seats (also known as “split seats”) are designed to reduce soiling and prevent contact with spills.

Soft Close

These lids close slowly and quietly without slamming (great if you have kids).

Quick-release hinge

Look for this feature for easy removal and thorough cleaning.

Adjustable-heat seat

Cozy in winter – especially in a cottage or cabin!

Built-in bidet

Luxurious and practical, but may require electrical and water hook-ups.

Built-in potty seat

This perk pays off for large families with young children.

Installation Tips & Tricks

Ensure your toilet fits your space by determining the rough-in measurement. This is the distance between the floor drain and the wall.
While the most common rough-in is 12 inches, some houses may have 10 and 14 inch rough-ins. Determine the rough-in by measuring from the wall behind the toilet to the middle of the bolts on the base.
Toilets are heavy, so use caution when lifting. Ask for help if you need it!
If in doubt, hire a pro.

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FAQs

What is a comfort-height toilet?

Comfort-height toilets are typically 16 inches or more in height, which is several inches higher than a standard toilet. This extra height makes it easier for anyone with mobility issues to sit down and rise up again. It can also be helpful for taller people and older people.

What is the difference between elongated and round toilets?

A round toilet is usually 16.5 inches from back to front, which makes it well-suited to smaller bathrooms. An elongated toilet is about two inches longer. The benefit is it offers more thigh support and comfort while sitting.

What’s the difference between one-piece and two-piece toilets?

A one-piece toilet combines both the tank and bowl in a single unit, which is also ideal for smaller bathrooms. The seamless construction makes for a sleek look and helps ensure easy cleaning. Two-piece toilets feature a separate tank and bowl. They’re available in a wider range of styles and heights, and the tank and bowl can be replaced separately if one breaks.

What is a bidet?

A bidet is a specialized bathroom fixture that sits inside your toilet bowl. It provides a stream of water that makes it easier to care for your personal hygiene. Handheld bidets are available, and you can also find bidet attachments that fit on to your existing toilet. Bidet toilet seats are a newer innovation. They feature a built-in bidet with an integrated water heater so you can enjoy warm water washes. Additional features can include a heated seat, night light, deodorizer, and warm air dryer.

Are low flush toilets good?

Yes. A low flush toilet uses less water which makes it a great eco-friendly option for your home.

Low flush toilets are also sometimes called dual-flush toilets when they feature two buttons on top of the tank: one for low flushing, and one for full flushing when needed.

Bath Plumbing Improvement