Choosing the Best Toilet for Your Bathroom: A Complete Guide

When choosing the best toilet for your bathroom, you'll need to consider various factors. Start by deciding on the toilet profile and bowl shape that suits your space and preferences. Consider height options for comfort and accessibility. Evaluate different flushing systems and their performance to ensure efficiency. Don't forget about water conservation features to reduce your environmental impact and utility costs. Look into comfort accessories like heated seats or bidet attachments. Factor in cleaning ease and maintenance requirements. Set a budget and weigh long-term costs. By examining these aspects, you'll be well-equipped to make an informed decision for your perfect throne.

Key Takeaways

• Consider toilet profile types like one-piece, wall-hung, or skirted for ease of cleaning and aesthetic preferences.
• Choose between elongated, round, or compact elongated bowls based on comfort and bathroom space constraints.
• Select an appropriate toilet height, considering standard, chair height, or ADA-compliant options for user comfort and accessibility.
• Evaluate flushing systems, including single-flush, dual-flush, or pressure-assisted, for performance and water efficiency.
• Factor in additional features like touchless flush, heated seats, or bidet attachments for enhanced comfort and convenience.

Types of Toilet Profiles

Variety is the spice of life, and that's true even when it comes to toilets. When choosing the best toilet for your bathroom, you'll encounter several profile types, each with unique features and benefits.

Two-piece toilets, with their separate tank and bowl, are a common choice. One-piece toilets offer a sleek, seamless design that's easier to clean. If you're looking to save space, wall-hung toilets attach directly to the wall, though they're pricier and more challenging to install.

When it comes to the toilet's appearance and cleanability, you have three main options. Visible trap profiles showcase the traditional S-shaped curve, while concealed trapway designs hide this feature for a smoother look. Skirted toilets take it a step further, with a seamless surface from front to back, making cleaning a breeze.

Your choice will depend on your bathroom layout, user needs, and personal preferences. Consider factors like available space, ease of cleaning, and aesthetic appeal. Remember, urinals are also an option for space efficiency and water conservation, using less than a gallon per flush.

Bowl Shape and Size

When it comes to toilet bowl shapes and sizes, you'll need to weigh comfort against space constraints. Elongated toilets, extending up to 31 inches from the wall, offer superior comfort for most users compared to round toilets, which typically measure no more than 28 inches. If you're looking for a middle ground, consider compact elongated toilets, which provide more space than round bowls while maintaining a smaller footprint.

Your choice between these options will depend on your available bathroom space and personal preference for comfort. Taller individuals may find elongated toilets more suitable, while round bowls can be ideal for smaller bathrooms. To make the right decision, it's crucial to measure your bathroom's dimensions and choose a size that fits comfortably within the available space.

Remember that bowl shape and size play a significant role in your overall bathroom experience. By carefully considering your needs and the limitations of your space, you can select a toilet that offers the perfect balance of comfort and practicality. Don't hesitate to try different shapes and sizes in showrooms to get a feel for what works best for you.

Toilet Height Options

Several toilet height options are available to suit different user needs and preferences. The most common are standard height, chair height, and ADA compliant toilets. Each option offers distinct advantages for different users.

Standard height toilets have a rim height of 14 to 15 inches from the floor. These are typically more comfortable for shorter individuals and children. Chair height toilets, on the other hand, feature a seat height of 17 inches or more. This elevated design can be beneficial for taller people, as it reduces strain when sitting down or standing up.

ADA compliant toilets strike a balance between standard and chair height, with a rim height of 15 to 17 inches. These toilets are designed to accommodate a wider range of users, including those with mobility issues. For seniors or disabled individuals, accessible toilets with higher seats and comfortable width are ideal, enhancing both comfort and safety.

When choosing a toilet height, consider the primary users of the bathroom. If you have a diverse household or frequently host guests, an ADA compliant toilet might be the most versatile option. However, if you have specific height requirements or preferences, standard or chair height toilets may be more suitable.

Flushing Systems and Performance

The flushing system is at the heart of a toilet's performance. When choosing a toilet, you'll encounter various types of flush toilets, each with its own advantages. Standard single-flush models use the force of gravity to create a strong siphon, while dual-flush options offer separate flushes for solid and liquid waste, potentially reducing water usage by up to 67%.

If you're looking for a more powerful flush, consider pressure-assisted or power-assisted toilets. Pressure-assisted models use water pressure to create a siphon jet action, delivering a forceful flush. Power-assisted toilets take it a step further by incorporating a pump that liquifies waste during the flush, ensuring thorough waste removal.

When evaluating flushing performance, pay attention to flush performance ratings. Higher-rated models typically offer more powerful flushing capabilities and better resistance to clogging. Pressure-assisted and power-assisted toilets generally outperform standard gravity-fed models in terms of flushing strength.

Consider your specific needs when choosing a flushing system. If water conservation is a priority, a dual-flush toilet might be ideal. For homes with low water pressure, a pressure-assisted model could provide the extra power you need for effective waste removal.

Water Efficiency Considerations

With water conservation becoming increasingly important, choosing a water-efficient toilet is a smart decision for both your wallet and the environment. Toilets account for nearly 30% of a home's indoor water use, making water efficiency a crucial factor when selecting a new model. You'll want to look for WaterSense labeled toilets, which use at least 20% less water per flush than the federal standard of 1.6 gallons.

Consider these water-efficient options:

• Dual-flush toilets: Offer separate flush options for liquid and solid waste
• Pressure-assisted toilets: Provide powerful flushing with less water
• Power-assisted toilets: Deliver strong performance while conserving water
• Low-flow toilets: Reduce water consumption without sacrificing efficiency

Installation and Rough-In Measurements

Before you rush out to buy a new toilet, it's crucial to understand the installation requirements and rough-in measurements for your bathroom. The rough-in is the distance from the wall to the center of the toilet's drain, typically 12 inches but sometimes 10 or 14 inches. You'll need to measure from the wall to ensure the new toilet you choose fits your existing plumbing.

When selecting a new toilet, consider its base size compared to your existing toilet. It's important that the new toilet's base is the same size or smaller to fit the available floor space. You have several options to choose from, including one-piece toilets, two-piece toilets, and wall-hung toilets. One-piece toilets are easier to clean but more expensive, while two-piece toilets are more cost-effective but can be harder to maintain. Wall-hung toilets offer easier cleaning underneath but require more complex installation.

Remember that standard toilets come in various designs, so you'll need to consider factors like cleaning ease, cost, and installation complexity when making your choice. By carefully measuring your space and understanding the different toilet types available, you'll be able to select the best option for your bathroom.

Comfort Features and Accessories

Modern toilets offer a range of comfort features and accessories that can transform your bathroom experience. When choosing a toilet, you'll want to consider these innovative options that can enhance both functionality and comfort. Soft-close toilet seats and lids are a popular choice, preventing accidental slamming and protecting fingers from getting pinched. For added luxury, heated seats provide warmth and comfort, especially beneficial for seniors or those with mobility issues.

Bidet-style toilet seats are gaining popularity, offering water-based cleansing that reduces the need for toilet paper and improves hygiene. Motion-activated nightlights make nighttime bathroom visits safer and more convenient, while touchless flush mechanisms minimize contact with germs and bacteria.

To make the most of your toilet's comfort features and accessories, consider:

• Installing a soft-close seat for quiet operation
• Upgrading to a heated seat for year-round comfort
• Adding a bidet-style attachment for improved cleanliness
• Choosing a model with built-in nightlights for easy navigation

Cleaning and Maintenance Factors

Cleaning and maintaining your toilet is an essential consideration when choosing the best model for your bathroom. You'll want to select a toilet that minimizes the time and effort required for upkeep. Skirted toilets offer a smooth surface and seamless design around the base, making them easier to clean compared to exposed trapway models. Similarly, concealed trapway toilets provide a cleaner appearance and simplified cleaning process.

One-piece toilets are generally considered more user-friendly when it comes to maintenance, as they lack the crevices and joints found in two-piece designs. To further enhance hygiene, look for toilets with antimicrobial surface coatings that inhibit bacterial growth and simplify cleaning routines.

For those seeking the ultimate in convenience, self-cleaning toilet technologies can significantly minimize manual scrubbing. These advanced systems automatically flush or clean the bowl, reducing the need for frequent maintenance.

When evaluating different toilet models, prioritize those with features that make cleaning easier and more efficient. By choosing a toilet with a smooth surface, concealed trapway, and innovative cleaning technologies, you'll spend less time on maintenance and more time enjoying your bathroom.

Budget and Cost Analysis

When selecting the best toilet for your bathroom, you'll need to balance your desired features with your budget. Basic, low-quality toilets can cost less than $75, while mid-range gravity toilets typically range from $100 to $500. If you're considering a pressure-assist toilet for improved flushing power, expect to pay between $225 and $600.

Custom features and unusual flush mechanisms can drive up both the initial purchase price and long-term repair costs. Insulated tank models, which prevent sweating and dripping, may come with a higher price tag but can offer long-term benefits.

When analyzing your budget, consider these factors:

• Initial purchase price
• Long-term operating costs
• Maintenance expenses
• Potential repair or replacement costs

Remember that the cheapest option isn't always the most cost-effective in the long run. A slightly more expensive toilet with better features and durability might save you money over time. Consider your household's needs, water efficiency, and the toilet's expected lifespan when making your decision. By carefully weighing these factors against your budget, you'll be able to choose a toilet that offers the best value for your specific situation.

Special Needs and Accessibility

Accessibility is a crucial factor to consider when choosing a toilet for individuals with special needs or mobility limitations. The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) sets specific guidelines for toilet height, with a rim height of 15 to 17 inches being compliant. When selecting a toilet for a small bathroom, wall-hung models can provide greater clearance for wheelchairs and make cleaning easier.

Comfort Height toilets, also known as chair height toilets, offer a seat elevation of 17-19 inches, making it easier for users to sit down and stand up. These height toilets can be particularly beneficial for seniors or those with limited mobility. When choosing a toilet, consider installing grab bars on the wall behind the toilet for added support and stability.

For improved hygiene and accessibility, bidet-style toilet seats can be an excellent addition. These seats often come with features like heated toilet seats and customizable flushing systems. Remember that accessibility features can be added to most toilets, so you don't need to compromise on style or functionality when prioritizing special needs. By carefully considering these factors, you'll ensure your bathroom meets the needs of all users.