Toilets may not be the first thing that comes to mind when talking about remodeling your bathroom, but as an item that will be used multiple times every day, finding a high-quality model can make a huge difference.
New toilets cost between $200 and $500 on average, although some high-end models with features such as built-in bidets, light features, and automatic cleaning can cost several thousand dollars. Maybe that seems like a lot, but according to the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI), the average person spends a total of three years in the company of their toilet, so maybe it’s worth investing in a model that works well for you.
In this review, we take a close look at several of today’s top-rated toilets. We’ll talk key features, pros and cons, customer insights, and pricing.
The Best Toilet Options
Here are our top recommendations based on our research*:
*Links open to product retail page.
- Best Overall: American Standard H2Option
- Best Dual-Flush Toilet: WOODBRIDGE Dual-Flush
- Best for Young Families: Deer Valley Dual-Flush Toilet
- Best for Small Spaces: HOROW Small Dual-Flush
- Most Customizable: Swiss Madison St. Tropez
- Best Smart Toilet: Kohler Numi 2.0
- Best Comfort-Height: KOHLER Corbelle
Compare the Top Toilets
Before we review each of the best toilets in detail, let’s compare their key features at a glance.*
*Links in table open to product retail page.
| Product | Seat Height | Est. Price | Warranty | Shape |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
16.5 inches |
$319 |
1 year parts, 5 years finish |
Elongated |
|
|
16.5 inches |
$328 |
1 year |
Elongated |
|
|
16.85 inches |
$239 |
1 year |
Elongated |
|
|
16.5 inches |
$295 |
2 year |
Round |
|
|
16 inches |
$283 |
1 year |
Elongated |
|
|
16.5 inches |
$7,663 |
1 year |
Elongated |
|
|
16.5 inches |
$557 |
1 year |
Elongated |
Best Overall
American Standard H2Option
Good for: Homeowners seeking a straightforward, affordable toilet with powerful flushing.
The American Standard H2Option impressed, as this powerful round toilet features siphon jet bowl flushing technology with a power wash rim. The dual-flush feature and fully glazed trapway prevent clogs, and the few extra inches of height make sitting on this toilet comfortable.
Pros and Cons of American Standard H2Option
- Features anti-clog trapway
- Includes high-efficiency flush valve
- Includes dual-flushing that helps conserve water
- Does not include a toilet seat
- Seat height may be too tall for children and small adults
Key Features
- Height: 31.5 inches
- Shape: Elongated
- Warranty: 1 year parts, 5 years finish
Best Dual-Flush
WOODBRIDGE Dual-Flush
Good for: Those that want top-of-the-line toilet flushing without paying a premium price.
Given the price, we appreciate that the WOODBRIDGE Dual-Flush offers many luxury features. For example, this modern toilet has the highest flush rating on the market, and its dual-flush mechanism conserves water when you’re flushing liquid waste.
Pros and Cons of WOODBRIDGE Dual-Flush
- Boasts best-in-class MaP score
- Features water-saving dual-flush valve
- Has a powerful flush system that doesn’t leak
- Brand lacks a winning customer service reputation
- Not recommended for one-person installation
Key Features
- Height: 28 inches
- Shape: Elongated
- Warranty: 1 year
Best for Young Families
Deer Valley Dual-Flush Toilet
Good for: Customers looking for a one-piece toilet that’s easy to clean.
The Deer Valley Dual-Flush Toilet’s one-piece design and self-cleaning finish make cleaning easy. Everything you need to install the toilet, including the seat, comes in the package, making it a one-stop shop with no need for a plumber.
Pros and Cons of Deer Valley Dual-Flush Toilet
- Features a self-cleaning glaze
- Offers a child-friendly seat height
- Comes with pre-installed soft-closing seat
- Seat may be too short for those with mobility issues
- May not be as comfortable as some competing models
Key Features
- Height: 27 inches
- Shape: Elongated
- Warranty: 1 year
Best for Small Spaces
HOROW Small Dual-Flush
Good for: Those with limited space who still want a high-quality toilet.
This HOROW model is skinnier and shorter than standard toilets, making it our pick for those who have small bathrooms. In addition, it comes with a 5-year warranty on its porcelain glaze, giving you peace of mind about the longevity of your purchase.
Pros and Cons of HOROW Small Dual-Flush
- Has a fully glazed bowl that’s easy to clean
- Features a compact design
- Offers a child-friendly seat height
- Seat may be too short for those with mobility issues
- Slim design may not be ADA-compliant
Key Features
- Height: 28.4 inches
- Shape: Round
- Warranty: Two years
Most Customizable
Swiss Madison St. Tropez
Good for: Customers re-modeling their bathroom that want flexibility when selecting a toilet’s finish.
The Swiss Madison St. Tropez toilet comes in multiple finishes, making it an excellent choice for bathrooms with a bold sense of style. We also like that it features a dual-flush mechanism for water efficiency and doesn’t require any tools to disassemble when you want to do a deep clean.
Pros and Cons of Swiss Madison St. Tropez
- Features a comfort-height design
- Includes high-efficiency flush valve
- Has a gentle, soft-closing seat
- Lacks highly detailed instructions
- Not recommended for one-person installation
Key Features
- Height: 31 inches
- Shape: Elongated
- Warranty: 1 year
Best Smart Toilet
Kohler Numi 2.0
Good for: Customers seeking a smart toilet with all of the latest technology.
For customers looking for a high-end toilet where price is no object, this unique smart toilet from Kohler is an excellent option. The Kohler Numi 2.0 features a touchless lid, seat, and flush for the most convenient toilet experience possible. Plus, it comes with a variety of personalized smart settings like adjustable spray, wand position, water pressure, and temperature. This smart toilet also has a stunning modern design that will stand out in any bathroom.
Pros and Cons of Kohler Numi 2.0
- Features immersive light and sound settings
- Includes an automated bidet and pre-bowl mist for extra sanitization
- Can be controlled via Amazon Alexa
- Has a very high price point
- Unusual modern design would be out of place in some bathrooms
Key Features
- Height: 26.2 inches
- Shape: Elongated
- Warranty: 1 year
Best Comfort-Height
Kohler Corbelle
Good for: Homeowners that prefer a two-piece toilet with an elongated bowl design.
For those who prefer a traditional two-piece toilet, the Kohler Corbelle features an elongated bowl that provides more space and comfort. Additionally, it utilizes the brand’s Revolution 360 swirling flushing technology, which provides a forceful flush that keeps the bowl clean and minimizes maintenance.
Pros and Cons of Kohler Corbelle
- Features chair-height seating that makes standing and sitting easy
- Has a durable canister design that delivers leak-free performance
- Has a skirted trapway for simplified cleaning
- Does not come with a seat
- Has more difficult installation than a one-piece toilet
Key Features
- Height: 31.3 inches
- Shape: Elongated
- Warranty: 1 year
What to Know When Shopping for a Toilet
When choosing the best toilet for your home, make sure to consider the following factors before making a decision.
Toilet Space Requirements
Modifying your layout or floor plan to accommodate a new toilet may require professional assistance, but the investment can lead to a more functional and comfortable bathroom. Account for all dimensions and clearances before you start the installation process.
When selecting a toilet, consider how it will fit into your bathroom space. Proper placement affects comfort and accessibility. Measuring your space and noting existing plumbing fixtures can help you choose a toilet that fits.
Space Saving Toilets
Wall-mount toilets are a space-saving option that makes cleaning floors much easier. They are installed with a sturdy frame hidden in the wall, and the tank is concealed behind the wall as well. While they provide a sleeker look, they typically come at a higher price point and require more extensive installation work. Despite the higher initial cost and installation complexity, wall-mount toilets can be a great choice if you have little space in your bathroom.
Toilet Design
Knowing the fundamental aspects of toilet design will help you make an informed decision when purchasing a new toilet for your home. Here are some important things to decide on when selecting the best toilet for you.
One-Piece vs. Two-Piece Toilet
Two-piece toilets, with separate tanks and bowls, are easier to install but can develop leaks at the tank gasket over time. One-piece toilets have a sleeker profile, are ideal for smaller bathrooms, and eliminate the risk of tank gasket leaks.
One-Piece Toilets
One-piece toilets have a sleek, modern look and are easier to clean. This model features vacuum-assist technology, combining the flushing power of pressure-assist toilets with the quieter operation of a gravity-fed system. The integrated design reduces seams and crevices that can hold dirt and bacteria.
Two-Piece Toilets
Two-piece toilets remain a popular choice for their ease of installation and maintenance. This model’s elongated bowl lacks a siphon jet, which directs all water through the rim for cleaning. Separating the tank and bowl makes these units more accessible for repairs and replacements.
Round Toilet Bowl vs. Elongated
Round bowls project 25 to 28 inches, saving floor space in more compact bathrooms. Elongated bowls, projecting up to 31 inches, offer more comfort for many users but require more room. Decisions such as these can make all the difference when every inch of space matters.
Siphonic vs. Washdown Toilet
Siphonic toilets feature a larger water spot but have long, narrow trapways that can clog. Washdown toilets have shorter, wider trapways, so they rarely back up but may require more frequent cleaning because of their smaller water spots. The choice between these two types can depend on maintenance and comfort in your bathroom.
Wash-down toilets are designed to minimize clogs. With a wide, four-inch diameter trapway, these models remove waste while using less water than traditional designs. The simpler nature of these toilets means fewer parts can get damaged, making them reliable and durable over time.
Gravity-Fed vs. Pressure-Assist Toilet
Most toilets rely on gravity for flushing, but pressure-assist models can be great for mitigating clogs.
Pressure-assisted toilets provide powerful flushes without using electricity, though they tend to be noisier than gravity-fed toilets. Weighing the noise level against flushing power will help determine the best choice for your home.
High Toilet vs. Low Toilet
Standard toilet height is 16 inches, but the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) recommends 17 to 19 inches for easier use by older and less mobile individuals. However, if you have young children, a lower toilet may be easier for them to use. Think about your home’s needs when choosing seat height. It can impact accessibility and comfort for yourself and others in your home.
High Tank Toilets
High tank toilets use gravity to increase flushing power. The elevated tank position creates more force during the flush, making these models more functional. These toilets are reminiscent of Victorian-era designs and can be a unique focal point in a bathroom.
Standout Features To Look For
Courtesy Shutterstock Installing a New Toilet
Check out our video on how to install a new toilet directly from This Old House experts below:
Read more: How To Install a Toilet
Toilet Cleaning Tips
Now that you have a new toilet, take the following steps to keep it in pristine condition. Here are some easy cleaning tips.
- Use toilet bowl cleaner: There are many toilet bowl cleaners on the market. You can go for a wand, liquid, or tablet. Toilet wands use single-use heads that come presoaked in a cleaning solution. Liquid toilet bowl cleaners come in a squirt or spray bottle. Toilet tablets sit in the bowl and flush down the pipe.
- Use specialty cleaners: Most toilet bowl cleaners treat limescale buildup. However, if you notice hard water or rust stains along your toilet bowl, you may want to invest in a specialty bathroom cleaner.
- Don’t neglect crevices: While the bowl is the most important part to clean because it sees the most germs, don’t forget the other surfaces. Wiping the tank and post with a paper towel soaked in a cleaning solution typically gets the job done.
- Treat stains overnight: If you have tough stains, try soaking them overnight in a cleaning solution or white vinegar, then wipe them away in the morning.
- Clean frequently: Clean your toilet bowl at least once a week. This keeps it looking and smelling fresh by eliminating germs.
Toilet Technology and Upgrades
High-end toilets now provide advanced features that can make your bathroom more comfortable and sanitary.
Bidet Toilet Seats
Bidet-style seats and integrated washlet systems provide an alternative to traditional toilet paper. These toilets offer customizable water sprays, air drying, and even deodorizing features for convenience and cleanliness.
Whirlpool Toilet Flush
Some modern toilets eliminate rim jets, which can be difficult to clean and are prone to clogs. Instead, they use innovative flushing systems that create a powerful whirlpool effect, scouring the bowl and improving hygiene. This design innovation makes maintenance and cleaning much easier.
Canister Flush Valve
Canister-style flush valves offer improved flushing performance by lifting the seal straight up. This design allows water to exit the tank with maximum force, resulting in a more efficient and powerful flush. The absence of traditional flapper valves reduces the number of parts that can wear out or cause issues over time.
Self-Clean Toilet
Self-cleaning toilets simplify maintenance by automating the cleaning process. With the push of a button, these systems dispense a cleaning solution and scrub the bowl, reducing the need for manual cleaning. This can save you time and effort while keeping your toilet clean and sanitary.
Toilet Upgrades
If you’re not ready to replace your entire toilet, you can still enjoy some of the latest technologies by upgrading parts of your existing toilet.
- Toilet Seat Lights: Install a motion-activated LED night light to improve visibility and safety at night. These battery-powered lights often offer multiple color options to suit your preferences. The soft glow can make nighttime trips to the bathroom safer and more convenient.
- Vented Toilet Seats: Vented toilet seats with a built-in air filtration system can eliminate odors at the source. These seats use fans and activated charcoal filters to keep your bathroom fresh. This upgrade can improve your bathroom’s hygiene.
- Heated Toilet Seats: A heated toilet seat can be a luxurious addition to your bathroom for ultimate comfort. Look for models with adjustable temperature settings and additional features like night lights for more convenience. A heated seat can make your bathroom much more comfortable during the colder winter months.
- Hands-Free Toilet Flush: Install a touchless flush kit to improve hygiene by eliminating the need to touch the flush lever. These motion-activated systems are easy to install and can reduce the spread of germs in your bathroom.
- Dual Flush Valve Installation: Upgrade your toilet’s flushing mechanism with a canister-style dual flush system. This can improve performance and water efficiency, even on older toilet models. It’s a budget-friendly way to bring modern technology to your existing toilet without a full replacement.
- Toilet Leak Detection: Add a leak detection and automatic shut-off system to prevent water damage from overflowing toilets. These can save you from costly repairs and provide peace of mind.
Pro2ProTip
- “If you want a bathroom in the basement, get a macerator toilet, like the ones made by Saniflo. After each flush, an electric-powered grinder processes and pumps waste up and out to the drain. Here’s the best part: There’s no digging. The unit sits right on the slab, either under the toilet or behind it.” —Richard Trethewey, TOH plumbing expert
Toilets With Efficient Flushing
Toilet efficiency has come a long way since the mid-1990s when the 1.6-gallons-per-flush (gpf) mandate replaced the previous 3.5 to 5.0 gpf standard. Today, high-efficiency toilets (HET) and ultra-high-efficiency toilets (UHET) use even less water, at 1.28 and 0.8 gpf. These water-saving models have improved flushing efficacy, and independent tests show some UHETs can flush up to 1.75 pounds of solids with every flush.
Water conservation is key in modern toilet designs. The evolution from high-volume flushes to today’s models has reduced household water consumption and lowered water bills. When shopping, look for models with Environmental Protection Agency’s WaterSense certification, which use 20% less water than the current 1.6-gallon mandate.
The Bottom Line
Being at home means being comfortable, and there are few places in your home where you’ll spend more time than your toilet. Just because it may not be the first thing that pops into your head when upgrading your bathroom doesn’t make it any less essential.
The type of toilet that’s best for you and your household can depend on several factors such as size, your design preferences, your budget, and what features most stand out to you.
Toilet FAQs
What is a toilet’s MaP score?
A toilet’s MaP score is its maximum performance according to the protocol put forth by Maximum Performance Testing (MaP Testing), an independent evaluation program. It refers to the number of grams of waste a toilet can discard in a single flush. An ideal score is between 600 and 1,000 grams. Learn more about the testing protocol at MaP Testing’s What is MaP? page.
What shapes do toilet bowls come in?
Most toilet seats are either round or elongated. I find that elongated toilet bowls are spacious and comfortable to sit on, while round bowls fit better in smaller bathrooms. There is a third option: compact elongated. Compact elongated bowls split the difference, providing the comfort of an oval shape without taking up too much room.
How do you determine the best height for your toilet seat?
I recommend measuring the height of your current toilet seat; most likely, you have a standard height toilet. If that works for you, stick with that height when shopping for a new one. If you’re looking to make your bathroom ADA-compliant, comfort height toilets sit higher off the ground, making them more accessible for people with disabilities or limited mobility. An over-the-toilet organizer may also play a role in seat height.
Can I install a toilet by myself?
If you have rudimentary plumbing experience and a basic kit of essential plumbing tools, you can probably install a toilet yourself. But keep in mind that most toilets are quite heavy and cumbersome, so having two people on the job is typically safer and easier. Also, if you have a smart toilet with a built-in bidet and other features, it’s usually best to hire a professional plumber for the installation.
Why Trust The This Old House Team
This Old House has empowered homeowners and DIYers for more than four decades with top-notch home improvement advice in the form of television programs, print media, and digital content. Our team focuses on creating in-depth product and service review content. To date, we’ve published over 1,600 reviews on products in the home space, including power tools, outdoor equipment, major appliances, kitchen gadgets, electronics, and more that focus on product quality and helpfulness to our readers.
Our Methodology
To provide our readers with the best recommendations possible, we rely on several key sources of information to help guide our selection process.
Initial Research: Our research process began by generating a list of toilets with a significant number of verified buyer reviews and an average customer review rating of 4–5 stars. We looked at positive and negative reviews alike, focusing on information from both satisfied and critical buyers.
Expert Insights: To complement our in-house expertise, our team looked at reviews and videos from trusted publications and independent testers, spoke with subject matter experts, and drew insights from reader contributions.
Final Product Selection: We then began fine-tuning our list by replacing older models with the latest versions and eliminating any discontinued models. From there, we compared each model’s feature set to create a final short list, selecting the best-in-class options for various buyers, budgets, and scenarios.
Once we conclude our research, we craft a comprehensive, user-friendly article of recommended products and additional information to help our readers make the right purchase.
