Introduction
In recent years, we have seen incredible advancements in toilet technology that are revolutionizing the bathroom experience. From self-cleaning smart toilets to water-efficient and eco-friendly designs, these new “super toilets” offer convenience, hygiene, and sustainability. In this article, we will explore some of the most impressive new toilet innovations and how they are upgrading our toilets into sophisticated home appliances.
High-Tech Smart Toilets
One of the most exciting developments in modern toilet design is the emergence of smart toilets. These high-tech thrones integrate sensors, heated seats, automatic lids, personalized cleaning modes, warm water cleansing, built-in deodorization, and other advanced features. They can be controlled via apps and voice assistants, taking toilet technology into the future. Some of the leading smart toilet brands include:
Toto Neorest
The Toto Neorest line features luxurious smart toilets with advanced sensor-operated functions. They include a heated seat, warm air dryer, automatic open/close lid, dynamic cleaning modes, electrolyzed water sterilization, and air deodorizer. The Neorest monitors your usage and can auto-adjust settings like water temperature and spray position for customized comfort.
Kohler Numi
Billed as an “intelligent toilet”, Numi comes loaded with cutting-edge conveniences like foot warming, personalized cleansing, ambient colored lighting, Bluetooth music syncing, automatic open/close lid, heated seat, and hands-free flushing. The Numi allows you to fine-tune every aspect of your toilet experience.
Brondell Swash
Swash smart toilets have precision temperature and pressure-controlled wash features, heated seats, built-in nightlights, and eco-friendly power-saving modes. They can be paired with voice assistants like Alexa. Swash uses sterilizing UV light and antimicrobial materials to keep the bowl clean.
High-Efficiency Toilets
Water conservation is a growing concern globally. Luckily, the latest generation of high-efficiency toilets dramatically reduce water usage while still providing robust flushing power. Some key benefits of high-efficiency toilets:
- Use at least 20% less water than standard 1.6 gallon/flush toilets
- Qualify for utility rebates and tax incentives in many regions
- Save hundreds of gallons per year, reducing your water and sewer bills
- Reduce environmental impact and preserve water resources
Here are some standout high-efficiency toilets:
Toto Double Cyclone Flush
The innovative Double Cyclone flush system generates a powerful centrifugal rinsing action that cleans the bowl thoroughly with just 1.28 gallons per flush. It also has a low-profile, sleek one-piece skirted design.
American Standard Champion 4 MAX
This powerful, clog-busting toilet can flush away 70% more mass than standard toilets using only 1.6 gallons of water. The wide 4” trapway and large flush valve maximize flow.
Kohler Highline Comfort Height
The classically styled Kohler Highline toilet uses just 1.28 gallons per flush but still provides robust siphonic flushing performance. The elongated bowl and chair-height seat add comfort.
Dual Flush Toilets
Dual flush toilets offer a choice of two flush volumes: a full-flush for solid waste removal and a reduced flush for just liquids. This gives you on-demand control over water usage. Dual flush mechanisms include:
- Push button – Press a button on the top of the tank to select flush volume
- Dual flush handles – Side-by-side flush levers or handles allow you to pick flush strength
- Touch sensors – Wave your hand past a sensor to activate the full or light flush
Dual flush toilets reduce water use without compromising effectiveness. Popular dual flush toilet models include:
Toto Aquia Dual Flush
This sleek, skirted dual flush toilet has a universal height, elongated bowl, and Toto’s reliable flushing performance. The two-button actuator lets you choose between the 0.9 or 1.6 GPF option.
American Standard Studio Dual Flush
The intuitive dual flush paddle on the Studio Dual Flush toilet enables a robust 1.6 GPF for solids or reduced 1.1 GPF for liquids. It also features siphon-jet flushing action and EverClean antimicrobial surface.
Woodbridge Dual Flush
Woodbridge adds a contemporary style with its remote tank dual flush toilet. Pick the 0.8 GPF light flush or 1.6 GPF heavy flush with the top-mount chrome buttons. Includes soft-close seat.
Self-Cleaning Toilets
Who wants to scrub the toilet? Self-cleaning smart toilets automate the cleaning process, so you don’t have to. Here are some of the ways they clean themselves:
- Automatic bowl scrubbing – Spinning motion dispenses cleaner to scrub the bowl
- UV sterilization – UV light destroys bacteria and germs
- Electrolyzed water – An electric current converts water into a sanitizing solution
- Antimicrobial surfaces – Toilet surface prevents microbial growth in areas prone to bacteria
- Hands-free operation – Motion-activated lid, flush, and cleaning prevents spread of germs
Top self-cleaning toilet models include:
Kohler Veil Intelligent Toilet
The Kohler Veil has fully automated self-cleaning cycles. Just touch the remote to activate Kohler’s Freshwise cleansing, which dispenses cleaning solution into the bowl. Vibrant UV sterilization and a heated seat maximize hygiene.
Toto G400 Touchless Toilet
This smart toilet can automatically open, flush, and close hands-free to prevent germ transfer. The ACTILIGHT bowl surface makes cleaning easy. EWATER+ mists the bowl with electrolyzed water to sanitize with every flush.
Bio Bidet Bliss BB2000
Bliss BB2000’s self-cleaning mode uses bio cleaning solution and a vertical wand to scrub the interior. The nozzle sterilizes itself before and after each use. You can customize cleaning schedule and settings.
Waterless/Composting Toilets
Waterless toilets, also called composting toilets, are completely self-contained systems that do not require any water supply or wastewater plumbing. Instead of flushing, composting toilets use the natural process of decomposition to recycle waste. Benefits include:
- Zero water usage – For regions with limited water access
- Eco-friendly – No septic or sewer required
- Odor-free – Advanced composting systems contain smells
- Off-grid use – Ideal for remote locations like cabins
Some top composting toilet brands:
Nature’s Head Dry Composting Toilet
This non-electric, urine-separating toilet is USCG-certified for marine use. The vented system actively composts waste without smells or chemicals. Easy to install and maintain.
Sun-Mar Excel Self-Contained Composting Toilet
The Sun-Mar Excel has a patented Bio-Drum to accelerate composting. No need for water or electricity. Built-in agitator and heater aid decomposition. Can handle full-time residential use.
Separett Villa 9215 Waterless Toilet
With two separate waste containers that are easy to access and empty, the stylish Separett Villa is a high-capacity composting toilet suitable for a home or cabin. Handles over 2500 uses before emptying.
Space Saving Toilets
Bathrooms with confined space need a compact toilet. New space-saving toilets feature optimized dimensions and innovative tank configurations. Here are some standout options:
Kohler Veil Wall-Hung Toilet
This ultra-sleek toilet mounts on the wall, leaving floor space open. The tank is built into the wall and the elongated bowl protrudes just 24” from the wall. Customize the height.
American Standard Compact Cadet 3
The Compact Cadet has a small 25” width and 24” depth. It fits in tight corners or next to the shower. The concealed trapway increases usable space around the base.
Toto Ultramax II One-Piece Toilet
With a streamlined one-piece design and narrow tank, the Toto Ultramax II toilet is less than 28” wide. The 12” rough-in allows flexible installation. Sanagloss finish minimizes cleaning.
Stylish Modern Toilets
Today’s toilets come in attractive contemporary designs that can complement any decor. Sleek, simple styling and vibrant color options let them make a stylish statement in your bathroom. Some chic modern toilets include:
Duravit Starck 3 Wall-Mounted Toilet
This glossy white wall-hung toilet has iconic minimalist style designed by Philippe Starck. The elongated bowl mounts on the wall with minimal footprint. Soft-close seat.
Toto Ultramax II One-Piece Toilet in Cotton
Add a subtle pop of color with the Ultramax II one-piece toilet in Toto’s soothing Cotton hue. The universal height and CeFiONtect glaze prevent dirty buildup.
Woodbridge Modern Freestanding Toilet
Sleek European styling defines this Woodbridge toilet with its skirted trapezoidal tank and integrated toilet seat. Available in white, black, or biscuit shades to match any decor.
Top Toilet Brands
When selecting a new toilet, opting for a brand with a proven performance track record is advised. Here are some of the top toilet manufacturers:
Toto – Known for innovation and high-end toilets with advanced features like sensor-operated flushing, cleansing wands, automated lids, heated seats, and deodorizers. Excellent cleaning performance with minimal maintenance.
Kohler – Offers a full spectrum from affordable high-efficiency toilets to luxury smart toilets with loads of techie features. Numi intelligent toilet is their flagship. Bold stylish designs.
American Standard – Reliable, powerful flush performance across their range. Champion 4 and Champion 4 MAX have massive 4” trapways. Product line includes budget, standard, and luxury toilets.
Woodbridge – Direct-to-consumer brand that sells well-made contemporary styled toilets at very reasonable prices. Known for modern skirted toilets at low cost.
Toto continues to lead in high-tech toilet innovation, while Kohler dominates the high-design market. American Standard and Woodbridge provide quality and value across a range of toilet types. When chosen carefully, your new toilet can be a functional centerpiece of your refreshed bathroom.
Toilet Buying Considerations
Selecting the right toilet for your needs and space involves looking at a few key factors:
- Bowl shape – Elongated bowls fit most adults better while round bowls work in tight spaces
- Rough-in – Standard 12” rough-in or 10” and 14” for replacing existing toilets
- Toilet height – Standard 15” height or 17”-19” chair height for easier sitting and standing
- Water usage – Look for WaterSense models using 1.28 gpf or dual flush options
- Flushing type – Gravity flush, pressure-assisted, double cyclone, or tornado flush
- Toilet style – One-piece and two-piece designs, wall-hung, corner toilets, etc.
Test flushing power and make sure the toilet fits your space constraints. Factor in special needs like accessibility requirements. Determine your budget, as prices range widely from under $100 to $5000+ for luxury smart toilets.
Toilet Installation Tips
When replacing an existing toilet or installing your new toilet for the first time, here are some helpful guidelines:
- Turn off the water supply and flush out any remaining water
- Remove the old toilet by disconnecting the supply line and unbolting from the floor
- Clear away debris, clean the floor flange, and ensure proper drainage
- Place a new wax ring on the flange to seal the drainage opening
- Lower the new toilet onto the flange, press down firmly, and bolt it in place
- Reconnect the water supply line from the valve to the tank fill valve
- Seal the base of the toilet to the floor with silicone caulk for stability
- Turn the water back on and test for leaks by flushing several times
- Let the caulk set for 24 hours before full use of new toilet
A properly installed, leveled toilet will be stable, leak-free, and provide trouble-free performance for many years. Avoid slamming the seat down; install soft-close seat hinges to prevent cracking.
Troubleshooting Common Toilet Problems
Toilets are relatively straightforward appliances, but occasional issues can still crop up. Here are some quick troubleshooting tips for common toilet problems:
Clogged Toilet
- Use a plunger to clear blockages
- Flush with hot water to dissolve buildup
- Clear the trap and drain pipes with an auger
Running Toilet
- Check flapper seal and replace if worn
- Adjust float height if too high
- Replace fill valve if not shutting off
Leak at Base
- Tighten bolts securing toilet to floor
- Seal with new wax ring and caulk if needed
Weak Flush
- Clean debris from rim waterways
- Check for low water level in tank
- Clear obstructions in trapway/drain
- Replace worn flapper
Noisy Tank Fill
- Adjust fill valve float cup or replace fill valve
- Lubricate flapper chain/hinges with silicone spray
With DIY troubleshooting or help from a handyman, most common toilet problems can be resolved fairly easily. Know when to call a pro – for instance, if pipes under the floor leak.
Toilet Maintenance Tips
Simple routine maintenance keeps your toilet in optimal functioning condition. Follow these toilet care tips:
- Scrub interior weekly using toilet brush and bathroom cleaner
- Clean exterior surfaces as needed with mild cleaner and soft cloth
- Prevent scale buildup with bathroom cleaner containing acid like CLR
- Check rubber parts like flapper every 6 months and replace if worn
- Clean hidden passages like rim waterways with pipe cleaner
- Tighten mounting bolts if loose to prevent rocking
- Clear clogs quickly to avoid overflow disasters
- Shine chrome surfaces by polishing with toothpaste or chrome polish monthly
- Use in-tank cleaners like TioletWand or Kaboom to prevent stains and scale
Avoid abrasive scouring pads, harsh chemicals, and in-bowl cleaners that can damage surfaces and plumbing parts. Conduct annual visual inspections to identify potential problems early.
Innovations in Toilet Design
Engineers and designers are continually improving upon toilet form and function. Here are some futuristic toilet technologies on the horizon:
- Toilets with built-in health sensors to analyze waste
- Self-disinfecting coatings that kill microbes automatically
- Low-flow toilets removing all waste on just a half gallon per flush
- Composting toilets that convert waste to pathogen-free fertilizer
- Automated diagnostics that identify and resolve performance issues
- Toilets powered by recovered “blackwater” bioenergy
- Sleek tankless toilets with all mechanics contained in bowl
- Robotics and artificial intelligence managing toilet operations
- Floating toilets for flood-prone regions or disaster response
- 3D printed toilets and plumbing components adapted on-demand
- Toilets designed for space travel and lunar/Martian colonies
Even the humble toilet will continue to advance along with other appliances. While high-tech features aid health and convenience, the most important consideration is how well a toilet handles the basics like flushing efficiency, water savings, and maintenance needs. With smart selection, your new toilet can offer the ideal blend of form and function.
Conclusion
Modern high-performance toilets provide advantages in convenience, hygiene, efficiency, sustainability, and style. When upgrading your toilet, key factors to consider are the bowl shape, rough-in, flushing system, water usage, toilet height, ease of cleaning, and visual appeal. Top brands like Toto, Kohler, and American Standard offer toilets packing the latest innovations. Follow proper installation and care guidelines to ensure your new toilet serves dependably for decades. With the amazing toilet tech available today, you can give your bathroom an epic throne.
