Which Toilet Should I Buy? A Guide to Choosing the Best Toilet

Buying a new toilet may seem like a straightforward task, but with so many options on the market, it can quickly become overwhelming. From different flushing mechanisms to varying sizes and styles, the choices are extensive. This guide will help you navigate the features to consider when selecting the perfect toilet for your home, ensuring comfort, efficiency, and reliability.

1. Consider the Flushing Mechanism

When considering which toilet should I buy, it’s important to think about the flushing mechanism. Here are the most common types:

Gravity-Flush Toilets: These toilets use the natural force of gravity to move water from the tank to the bowl, flushing waste away. They are reliable, easy to maintain, and often more affordable.
Pressure-Assisted Toilets: These use pressurized air to increase flushing power. They’re great for homes with heavy usage or frequent clogs, but they can be noisier than gravity-flush toilets.
Dual-Flush Toilets: Dual-flush models offer two flushing options—one for liquid waste (which uses less water) and one for solid waste (which uses more water). These are ideal for saving water and lowering utility bills.
Tankless Toilets: Commonly found in public restrooms, these models don’t have a tank and use the home’s water pressure directly to flush. They are sleek but may require additional plumbing adjustments.

2. What to Look for When Buying a Toilet: Size and Comfort

Toilets come in different sizes and shapes to accommodate various bathroom layouts and preferences:

Round Bowls: These are more compact and ideal for smaller bathrooms, but they may be less comfortable for taller individuals. If you’re wondering which toilet should I buy for a smaller bathroom, round bowls might be the best choice.
Elongated Bowls: These provide more comfort due to their oval shape but take up more space. They’re great for larger bathrooms where space isn’t a concern.
Comfort Height: Comfort height toilets, also known as chair height, are the most common type installed in homes today. These toilets sit higher than standard models, making them easier to use for taller people, elderly individuals, or anyone with mobility issues. They are also referred to as “ADA-compliant” toilets.

3. Best Water-Efficient Toilets: A Guide to Making the Right Choice

When selecting a toilet, water usage is an important factor, especially if you want to reduce your utility bills or contribute to water conservation. Look for toilets with the WaterSense label, as they are certified to use 20% less water than standard models. Low-flow toilets use 1.28 gallons per flush (gpf), compared to the 1.6 gpf used by older models, making them a great option for both eco-conscious and budget-minded homeowners.

4. Additional Features to Consider

Modern toilets come with a range of additional features designed to improve comfort and functionality:

Soft-Close Seats: These seats close quietly and slowly, preventing slams and potential damage.
Bidet Functionality: Some toilets come with built-in bidets or can be paired with a bidet seat for added hygiene.
Heated Seats: A luxurious feature, heated seats can be a comforting addition, particularly in colder climates.
Touchless Flush: These toilets use sensors to flush automatically, minimizing contact with germs.

Top Toilet Brands to Consider When Buying a Toilet

When it comes to choosing a reliable and high-performing toilet, these brands stand out:

TOTO: A global leader in bathroom fixtures, TOTO is known for its eco-friendly toilets and cutting-edge designs like the Washlet bidet seat, which enhances comfort and hygiene. TOTO also leads the industry with some of the most advanced technology available in toilets.
Kohler: Renowned for both design and function, Kohler toilets offer advanced features like water-saving technologies and quiet-close seats. Kohler is also known for incorporating the latest technology into their models, making them a top choice for those seeking innovation.
American Standard: With over 140 years of experience, American Standard is known for reliable, high-performing toilets that combine modern technology with timeless design. Their toilets are a top choice for homeowners seeking efficiency and durability.
Gerber: Gerber is known for its durable and efficient flushing systems. Their commitment to water efficiency and sustainability makes them a trusted brand for both residential and commercial properties.