Choosing the right toilet for your bathroom is an important decision that requires careful consideration of your needs, bathroom layout, and budget. With so many options available, from one-piece toilets to dual flush models, it can be overwhelming trying to select the perfect toilet. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about picking out the ideal toilet, from deciding on the right style and features to proper installation. Read on for expert tips and advice to help you find and install your dream toilet.
Types of Toilets
When beginning your toilet selection process, start by learning about the different types of toilets available. There are five main styles of toilets to consider:
Two-Piece Toilets
This is the most common toilet style. Two-piece toilets have a separate tank that sits above and behind the bowl. They are generally more affordable and easier to install than other models. However, they do require more cleaning around the tank-to-bowl connection.
One-Piece Toilets
As the name suggests, one-piece toilets integrate the tank and bowl into a seamless, elongated design. The sleek look makes for easy cleaning. But one-piece toilets are often pricier and heavier to install.
Wall-Hung Toilets
Wall-hung toilets mount directly to the wall rather than the floor. This floating aesthetic allows for easier cleaning around the base. Wall-hung models require special carriers and frames for installation.
Dual Flush Toilets
These water-saving toilets have two flush options: a half or full flush. This gives users control over water usage depending on needs. Dual flush models can be either one or two-piece style.
Smart Toilets
High-tech smart toilets offer features like heated seats, automatic lid opening, built-in nightlights, self-cleaning, and more. These advanced toilets require electrical outlets nearby to power the various options.
Toilet Shapes
In addition to the five main styles, toilets also come in different shapes. The most common options are:
Round Bowl
As the name suggests, round bowl toilets have a circular opening. They take up slightly less space than elongated bowls, making them a good option for small bathrooms. However, the round shape is not as comfortable to sit on.
Elongated Bowl
Elongated bowl toilets have a more oval opening that extends further back. The elongated shape feels more comfortable to sit on and is easier to get on and off of. But they do take up more floor space.
Compact Elongated
This hybrid shape combines the comfort of an elongated bowl with nearly the same compact footprint as a round bowl. Compact elongated bowls can be a good choice for small bathrooms that need to maximize comfort and space.
Toilet Heights
Standard toilet bowl height is around 15 inches from floor to seat top, while accessibility height is 17 to 19 inches. Here are the factors to consider when deciding on toilet height:
- Comfort: Taller toilets at accessibility height make sitting down and standing up easier for most adults.
- Mobility: For users with mobility issues, a taller toilet height of 17 to 19 inches is usually most comfortable.
- Age: Standard height works well for most children. For toddlers, kid-sized toilets around 10 inches high are available.
- Small Bathrooms: Compact standard height toilets conserve space in tight bathrooms.
- ADA Compliance: For commercial bathrooms, ADA-compliant toilets must be 17 to 19 inches high.
Testing out seats at different heights can help determine ideal comfort level. Keep in mind that toilet seat risers can also adapt standard height toilets for accessibility needs.
Toilet Flushing Systems
Toilets utilize one of two flushing mechanisms to operate:
Gravity-Fed
Gravity-fed flush relies on the weight of the water in the tank to push water into the bowl. These models are common and reliable, but use more water per flush.
Pressure-Assisted
Pressure-assisted flush uses compressed air in the tank to force a powerful yet quiet flush. This style conserves more water but costs more upfront.
Dual flush toilets employ a hybrid approach with both gravity and pressure-assist technology in one toilet.
When comparing flushing systems, consider noise level, water usage, flush power, and price. Testing different systems can help determine the best flush performance.
Key Toilet Features to Consider
Beyond the basics of style, shape, and height, there are a number of other features that can enhance convenience and customize your toilet to your needs:
- Comfort Height: As noted above, taller 17- to 19-inch toilets offer easier sitting and standing.
- Elongated Bowl: The oval shape is more comfortable and allows for proper alignment.
- Soft-Close Lid: The lid closes slowly and quietly with this feature that prevents slamming.
- Quick-Release Seat: Quick-release hinges allow for fast and tool-free removal of the seat for cleaning.
- Built-In Bidet: Integrated bidet washing functions promote hygiene.
- Nightlight: An illuminated bowl helps navigate the bathroom at night.
- Dual Flush: Having both full and half flush options conserves water.
- Self-Closing Lid: The toilet lid automatically closes after use to prevent the spread of germs.
- Heated Seat: Warming the seat keeps it cozy, especially in winter.
- Auto Flush: Motion-activated flushing adds convenience and hands-free use.
Choose the Right Toilet Style for Your Bathroom
Now that you know about the different toilet options available, it’s time to select the right style for your bathroom layout and needs:
Small Bathrooms
For compact bathrooms, round bowl and two-piece toilets take up minimal floor area. Low-profile, 10-inch models maximize space for kids’ bathrooms. Wall-hung models are also great space-savers.
Large Bathrooms
Those with ample bathroom space can opt for one-piece and elongated bowl toilet models that give a seamless, contemporary look. Accessibility height provides comfort.
Half Baths
For a powder room with just a toilet and no bathtub or shower, a space-conscious corner toilet allows more floor and storage space.
Contemporary Style
One-piece toilets with soft-close lids, easy-clean materials like acrylic or enameled steel, and wall-mounted stylings blend with modern décors.
Traditional Style
Two-piece, gravity-flush toilets with classic porcelain design harken back to traditional powder rooms. Add vintage details like pull chains or distressed finishes.
Accessibility Needs
For accessibility, look for ADA-compliant toilets with 17- to 19-inch bowl height, easy-grasp handles, and comfort-height seats. Walk-in and wall-hung styles ease transfers.
Take measurements of your bathroom space and assess your needs to choose the right toilet style before purchasing.
Measure for the Perfect Toilet Fit
Once you’ve selected the ideal toilet style for your bathroom, it’s crucial to take measurements of the space to ensure proper fit. Follow these steps:
1. Measure rough-in distance: The rough-in is the wall-to-center distance of the waste pipe where the toilet will connect. Standard is 12 inches.
2. Mark drain and wall locations: Note down drain and wall positions, making sure the layout allows a minimum of 15 inches from wall to toilet center for clearance.
3. Consider clearances: Allow minimum clearances behind and around toilet for comfortable use.
4. Check dimensions: Compare toilet dimensions like width, depth, and height to your measurements to select the right size model.
5. Install test toilet: Temporarily setting up a test toilet can help identify any fit issues before permanent install.
With the right measurements, you can determine the perfect toilet size and specifications for an ideal fit in your bathroom layout. Always double-check rough-in, drain location, clearances, and test fit before purchasing.
How Much Does a Toilet Cost?
Toilet prices span a wide range depending on style, features, and materials. Here are average costs for toilets:
- Basic two-piece gravity-flush toilet: $100 – $300
- Elongated bowl two-piece toilet: $150 – $400
- One-piece elongated toilet: $250 – $700
- Dual flush one-piece toilet: $300 – $900
- Smart toilet with integrated bidet: $500 – $5,500
- Water-efficient pressure-assisted flush: $150 – $500
- ADA-compliant commercial toilet: $300 – $1000
- Luxury wall-hung toilet: $500 – $2000
- DIY toilet with installation kit: $150 – $500
Toilet seat bidets, risers, and other accessories can add $50 to $500 more. When budgeting, allow additional costs for professional installation, hauling away old toilet, and any bathroom repairs needed. Checking sales can help find discounted toilet models that fit your budget.
How to Install a Toilet
When installing a new toilet, careful attention to proper procedure helps ensure a secure, water-tight connection. Follow these key steps:
1. Turn Off Water Supply
Locate the shut-off valve for the toilet’s water supply line. Turn the valve clockwise to shut off water to the toilet to avoid leaks during install.
2. Remove Old Toilet
Empty the tank and bowl completely. Disconnect and remove supply line. Unbolt toilet from floor and lift off old toilet. Plug floor waste opening to prevent odor.
3. Install Bowl Bolts
Insert new bolt caps and toilet bowl bolts in base holes. Stick protective cardboard ring between bolts to prevent damage to new toilet.
4. Set Bowl in Place
Carefully lower new toilet bowl in place over bolts and waist flange. Ensure bowl is level.
5. Connect Water Supply
Attach toilet tank to bowl according to manufacturer instructions. Connect new supply line to valve and tank.
6. Seal Base
Apply putty around base and bolts to create watertight seal. Do not overtighten bolts.
7. Connect Toilet Seat
Secure toilet seat and lid using provided hardware. Ensure proper fit and function.
8. Turn on Water
Open shut-off valve slowly. Check for leaks at connections and base seal. Flush to test function.
Follow all safety procedures, wear protective equipment, and get professional help for tricky installations.
Common Toilet Problems and Repairs
While most toilets provide years of reliable service, they can occasionally develop issues. Here are some quick troubleshooting tips for common toilet problems:
Clogged Toilet: Use a plunger to clear blockages. For stubborn clogs, try a closet auger or remove the toilet to snake the drain manually.
Leak at Base: Tighten bowl bolts to reseal the base. Adjust toilet foot height if bowl rocks. Apply new wax ring seal if needed.
Tank Leaks: Ensure flapper valve seals fully after flushing. Replace worn flapper valve or float ballcock assembly if parts are outdated.
Weak Flush: Check flapper valve and chain – worn or misaligned parts can prevent complete flush. Clear blockages. Consider replacing old low-flow valve.
Running Toilet: Debris, flapper issues, and float height can cause phantom flushing. Adjust float cup height or replace defective flapper.
Noisy Fill Valve: Adjust water level to proper 1-inch below overflow pipe height or clean out sediment and debris from tank and valves.
For major toilet issues, contact a professional plumber to perform repairs. Annual toilet tune-ups help prevent problems and keep parts operating smoothly.
FAQs About Choosing Toilets
What is the standard toilet size?
The standard toilet size is around 28 to 30 inches high, with a bowl width of 16 to 18 inches and depth of approximately 28 inches. Rough-in distance is usually 12 inches. Always measure your bathroom space to ensure proper fit.
How much does it cost to replace a toilet?
On average, total costs to replace a toilet with professional installation range from $200 to $600, depending on the type of toilet and labor involved. DIY toilet replacement costs $80 to $250 just for the new toilet.
Can I replace a toilet myself?
With some DIY skills, you can replace a standard two-piece gravity toilet yourself. Turn off water supply, remove old toilet, install closet bolts and gasket for new toilet, set bowl, connect water supply, and turn water back on to test for leaks.
Does toilet height matter?
Yes, toilet height impacts comfort, accessibility, and ease of use. Standard height is around 15 inches. For comfort and ADA compliance, elongated toilets should be 17 to 19 inches high measured from floor to seat top.
How do I choose a toilet for a small bathroom?
For small bathrooms, look for compact elongated or round bowl toilets under 30 inches long. Low-profile 10-inch models maximize space for kids. Corner placement, wall-hung, and one-piece toilets also conserve room.
When should I replace an old toilet?
Replace your toilet when it is over 25 years old, frequently clogs, has a very weak flush, runs constantly, leaks, cracks, wobbles, or shows other signs of wear. Modern water-saving toilets greatly improve performance.
Is a comfort height toilet worth it?
If you are tall or have mobility issues, a comfort height toilet (17-19 inches high) can make sitting, standing and getting on/off much easier. For kids and short adults, standard height (15 inches) may suffice based on needs.
Conclusion
Choosing the perfect toilet involves careful consideration of toilet types, features, measurements, personal needs, and bathroom aesthetics. Focus on identifying the right style and specifications for your space and comfort. From water-efficient dual flush models to space-saving corner toilets to luxury wall-hung designs, today’s options allow you to customize your toilet to match your lifestyle and décor. Follow proper installation procedures or work with professionals to ensure your new toilet functions flawlessly for years to come. With this comprehensive toilet buying guide, you now have all the information you need to confidently select and install a dream toilet for your home.
