The Best Toilet Buying Guide: Everything You Need to Know

Introduction

Choosing the best toilet for your home isn’t just about picking a style or color. It’s about understanding the practical and aesthetic benefits that different types of toilets offer. Our comprehensive toilet buying guide will help you navigate from toilet bowl types and standard dimensions to advanced flushing systems. This toilet buying guide will help you determine which features and functions matter the most.

Choosing the Best Toilet

When selecting a toilet, consider flushing performance, water usage, and the needs of your household. Here are some tips to guide your decision:

• Small Households: A dual flush, one-piece, or wall-mounted toilet is ideal. These options save water and often come with luxury features like heated seats.
• Larger Households: Opt for a two-piece toilet with a pressure-assisted or power-flushing feature for robust performance.
• Accessibility Needs: Look for toilets with a higher seat and wider dimensions. Bidet seats can also add convenience for seniors or those with disabilities.

Standard Toilet Dimensions

Before you buy, ensure the toilet fits your space. Toilet sizes vary by type, shape, and brand, but most manufacturers follow standard dimensions:

• Bowls: 14 inches wide, 14 to 16 inches high
• Tanks: 28 to 30 inches high, about 18 inches wide
• Seats: 14 to 16 inches wide, 15 to 18 inches long
• Rough-In: Typically 12 inches from the wall, but can be 10 to 14 inches in some cases
• Clearance: At least 15 inches in front and 12 inches around the toilet

Tip: Measure from the wall to the middle of the bolts on the base of the toilet to determine your bathroom’s rough-in.

Toilet Heights

Toilet height is measured from the floor to the rim. Choose a height that is comfortable for you:

• Standard Height: 14 to 15 inches from the floor, suitable for shorter individuals.
• Chair Height: 17 inches or more, ideal for taller individuals.
• ADA Compliant: 15 to 17 inches, meeting the Americans with Disabilities Act standards.

Types of Toilets and Profiles

Two-Piece Toilets: Traditional, with separate tank and bowl, more budget-friendly, and easy to find parts. These toilets come in various profiles that affect both aesthetics and functionality:

• Visible Trap: Common in homes, showing the curving trapway outline on the base.
• Concealed Trap: Features a smooth surface at the base, offering a modern look and easier cleaning.
• Skirted: Provides a sleek, contemporary profile that hides the trapway entirely.

One-Piece Toilets: Sleek design, no crevices for dirt, space-saving but generally more expensive. The integrated design simplifies cleaning and reduces the risk of leaks.

Wall-Hung Toilets: Attach to the wall, saving floor space and customizable height, but require professional installation. These are great for modern bathrooms and those needing wheelchair access.

Urinals: Common in public restrooms but can be a convenient addition to a home game room or garage, using less water per flush.

Smart Toilets: Feature automatic flushing, seat warming, water pressure control, and even built-in bidet functions. They are more energy-efficient and hygienic but come at a higher price point.

Flushing Systems and Ratings

The flushing power is crucial for performance and avoiding clogs. Here’s a breakdown:

• Standard Single-Flush: Uses gravity to create a siphon effect. Easy to repair and budget-friendly.
• Dual-Flush: Separate flushes for liquid and solid waste, saving water but requiring more frequent cleaning.
• Pressure-Assisted: Uses air pressure for a powerful flush, less likely to clog but noisier and more expensive.
• Power-Assisted: Ideal for basement bathrooms with a pump to flush from below the sewer line.

Toilet Bowl Shapes

The shape affects comfort and space:

• Round Bowls: Compact, budget-friendly, extend up to 28 inches from the wall. Ideal for smaller bathrooms.
• Elongated Bowls: Oval-shaped, more comfortable, extend up to 31 inches from the wall. Better for larger bathrooms where comfort is a priority.
• Square Bowls: Less common but offer a modern aesthetic. They provide a unique look but may require more space.

Toilet Seats

Match the seat to the bowl shape. Popular features include:

• Lighted Seats: Built-in nightlight for ease of use at night.
• Soft Close: Prevents slamming and pinched fingers.
• Heated Seats: Adds comfort in cold weather, ensuring a warm seat no matter the season.
• Bidet Seats: Enhance hygiene with water sprays, air dryers, and even massage modes.

Toilet Colors

While white remains the most popular choice, other colors like almond and black can add style to your bathroom. Choose a color that matches your decor and personal taste. Remember, bold colors might be trendy, but neutral tones have a timeless appeal.

Water-Saving Toilets

Consider eco-friendly options to reduce water consumption and bills:

• Older Toilets: Use up to 6 gallons per flush.
• WaterSense Labeled Toilets: Use about 1.28 gallons per flush, reducing water use by 20-60%.

Tip: Replace any toilets installed before 1994 to benefit from modern water-saving technologies.

Rough-In Measurements

Ensure your new toilet fits your bathroom’s rough-in size:

• Standard Rough-In: 12 inches.
• Alternative Sizes: 10-inch and 14-inch rough-ins are available for older homes.

Measure from the wall to the center of the rear bolts for an accurate rough-in size.

Installation Types

Floor-Mounted Toilets

The most common type, floor-mounted toilets are bolted to the floor. Ensure proper sealing with a wax ring to prevent leaks.

Wall-Hung Toilets

Wall-hung toilets save space and make cleaning easier. They require a sturdy wall and professional installation to support the weight.

Rear Outlet Toilets

These connect to plumbing lines through the wall rather than the floor, ideal for specific installations like basements or apartments.

Conclusion

Selecting the right toilet involves considering your household needs, space, and personal preferences. Whether you opt for a high-tech smart toilet or a budget-friendly two-piece model, ensure it meets your comfort, style, and water efficiency needs. Our toilet buying guide ensures you have all the information necessary to make an informed decision.

Ready to upgrade your bathroom? Use this toilet buying guide to navigate the many options and find the perfect toilet for your home.

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