Your Ultimate Guide to Selecting a Toilet

Choosing the right bathroom toilet is crucial for comfort, aesthetics, and water conservation. To simplify your decision-making process, we have created a comprehensive guide. It covers factors like toilet dimensions, types, and flush systems, helping you make an informed choice. With this guide, you’ll find the perfect toilet that fits your needs and preferences.

Table of Contents

• Consider the Dimensions
• Exploring Toilet Types
• Essential Toilet Features
• Decoding Flush Systems
• In Summary

Consider the Dimensions

Measure the Rough-In Size

• Determine the rough-in size, which is the distance from the wall behind the toilet to the center of the drainpipe or the bolts securing the toilet.
• Usually, the standard measurement is 12 inches, but older homes or smaller bathrooms may have 10-inch or 14-inch rough-in sizes.
• Accurate measurement of the rough-in size is crucial to ensure a proper fit without extensive modifications.

Account for Base Shape

• The shape of the toilet base significantly affects the overall fit within the bathroom space.
• Elongated toilet bowls offer increased comfort due to their greater length, measuring up to 31 inches from the wall to the front of the bowl.
• Round bowls, requiring less space, extend up to 28 inches from the wall, making them ideal for smaller bathrooms.

Ensure Proper Fit

• Choose a toilet that matches or is smaller than the base dimensions of the existing toilet to ensure a smooth installation.
• This prevents the need for new plumbing installations, thereby reducing costs.
• Consider the space for cleaning around the toilet base and opt for designs that offer easier maintenance to enhance bathroom hygiene and convenience.

Exploring Toilet Types

One-Piece Toilets

• Feature an integrated tank and bowl, creating a seamless design that is easier to clean and offers a modern appearance.
• Generally heavier and more expensive than two-piece toilets.

Two-Piece Toilets

• Have a separate bowl and tank, making them easier to handle during installation.
• Often more affordable and offer flexibility in mixing and matching components to fit various bathroom sizes.

Elongated Toilets

• Provide a larger bowl area, making them more comfortable for adult use and enhancing the aesthetic of modern bathroom designs.
• Require more space, so it’s important to consider bathroom dimensions before choosing this style.

Round Toilets

• Ideal for smaller bathrooms, saving space and often more budget-friendly.
• Offer practicality in tight areas, but their smaller seat and surface area might not provide the same comfort as elongated models.

Wall Hung Toilets

• Offer a sleek, space-saving solution as the tank is concealed within the wall.
• Facilitate easier cleaning and can be adjusted in height to meet different needs, although they generally involve a higher installation cost and can be more challenging to install.

Each type of toilet offers distinct advantages, depending on the specific needs and constraints of your bathroom project.

Essential Toilet Features

Toilet Bowl Height

• Toilet heights range from 14.5 inches to 21 inches, with standard height toilets around 14.5 to 16 inches and comfort height toilets (also known as chair height) ranging from 17 to 19 inches.
• Comfort height toilets are ideal for taller users and individuals with mobility issues, as they comply with ADA standards.

WaterSense Certifications

• Opting for toilets with WaterSense certifications ensures high efficiency and performance, using at least 20% less water than standard models.
• This conserves water and reduces annual water costs significantly, making it an environmentally and economically sound choice.

Soft-Close Seats

• Soft-close toilet seats prevent slamming by gently lowering the seat and lid, enhancing the longevity of the toilet and reducing noise.
• Quick-release mechanisms facilitate easy cleaning, ensuring better hygiene and maintenance.

Antimicrobial Coatings

• Toilets treated with antimicrobial coatings such as silver ions inhibit the growth of bacteria, viruses, and fungi, ensuring the toilet surface remains hygienic longer.
• These coatings are effective against common pathogens, providing an additional layer of protection in bathroom environments.

Heated Seats

• Heated toilet seats provide a warm surface, reducing the discomfort of cold toilet seats in cooler climates.
• Some models offer adjustable temperature settings, enhancing the comfort level during use.

By considering these features, individuals can select a toilet that not only meets their specific needs but also contributes to a more hygienic and comfortable bathroom environment.

Decoding Flush Systems

Pressure-Assist Toilets

• Use a combination of water and compressed air to generate a powerful flush.
• Effectively clear the bowl with a single flush and use less water compared to traditional models, making them a cost-effective choice over time.

Dual Flush Toilets

• Offer two flushing options: a low-volume flush for liquid waste and a full-volume flush for solid waste.
• Allow for significant water savings, making them an environmentally friendly and economical option for modern bathrooms.

Gravity Flush System

• Rely on the natural force of gravity to flush waste, with water released from the tank pushing waste through the trapway.
• Known for their reliability and ease of repair, these toilets are the most common type among households.

Low-Flow Toilets

• Since the introduction of federal standards in 1994, low-flow toilets have become prevalent, using no more than 1.6 gallons per flush.
• Designed to conserve water without sacrificing performance, with newer models improving upon the early designs to avoid clogging issues.

Siphon Jet Toilets

• Enhance the flushing mechanism by using a siphon system in the drain to create a vacuum that pulls waste with greater force than traditional flush systems.
• Particularly effective in preventing clogs and ensuring a clean bowl after each flush.

Choosing the right flush system involves considering both the efficiency and the environmental impact of each type. Whether upgrading an existing bathroom toilet or installing a new one, selecting the appropriate flush technology can lead to better performance and reduced water usage.

In Summary

Selecting the perfect bathroom toilet requires careful consideration of dimensions, types, and features. It’s important to create a functional and personalized space that aligns with your values, provides comfort, and promotes sustainability. Here are some key points to keep in mind:

1. Dimensions: Pay attention to the size and shape of the toilet to ensure it fits well in your bathroom. Measure the available space and consider factors like elongated or round bowls.
2. Types: There are various types of toilets to choose from, including two-piece toilets, one-piece toilets, wall-mounted toilets, and smart toilets. Each type has its own advantages and considerations.
3. Features: Consider the features that are important to you. For example, you may want a toilet with a water-saving flush mechanism, a soft-closing seat, or a bidet function. Think about what will enhance your overall bathroom experience.
4. Sustainability: Look for toilets with water-efficient designs that help conserve water. Choose models with a WaterSense label, which indicates they meet EPA standards for water efficiency.
5. Comfort: Consider factors like seat height and ergonomics. A comfortable toilet can make a big difference in your daily routine.

By carefully considering these aspects, you can make informed decisions that contribute to a well-designed bathroom while also having a positive impact on the environment. Prioritize sustainability and comfort to create a space that you’ll be happy with for years to come.