The toilet is arguably the most important item in every bathroom. That’s why when buying a new toilet, it’s crucial to pick one that is reliable, comfortable, and durable. The best toilets must be water-efficient and require low maintenance. Flushing them once should be enough to effectively clean the toilet bowl. To help you decide which toilet to buy for your bathroom, here are some criteria that you should look for.

Toilet Seat Height

The first thing to look for when deciding to buy a new loo is the toilet seat height. Comfort height bowls have a height of 17 to 19 inches, while standard bowls stand at 14 or 15 inches from the bathroom ground. Some people prefer comfort height toilets because they are more comfortable and easier to get on and off. These toilets also tend to be more suitable for taller or older people as they cause less strain on their backs and knees. However, this type of toilet may be more difficult for children to use. Aside from the height, you should also take into consideration the toilet’s “rough-in” measurement, which is the distance between the wall and the center of the toilet flange. 

Toilet Bowl Shape 

The bowl shape is another thing to look for when purchasing a new toilet. There are typically two types: round compact bowls and elongated bowls. A round toilet bowl takes up less space and is generally better for smaller bathrooms and for children’s use. However, most adults tend to prefer elongated bowls as these allow more seating room, give better thigh support, and have a larger opening. Some toilet manufacturers offer compact elongated bowls, which are a compromise between the two types. This option can give you the same level of comfort as the elongated bowls while taking up less space like the round compact bowls. 

Efficient Water Usage 

For those who live in areas where water shortages are common, choosing a water-efficient toilet is of the utmost importance. High-Efficiency Toilets (HET) can not only help you conserve water but also reduce your water bill. The lavatory specialists at Toiletable explain that toilets account for around 24% of the water used on a daily basis around the world, so choosing a water-efficient toilet is not only a priority but a must. Thankfully, most of today’s modern toilets offer great performance while maintaining effective water usage. In any case, you should still keep this factor in mind when making a purchase. 

Two-Piece or One-Piece Toilets

Another thing you might want to look at when changing your WC is whether it is a two-piece or one-piece toilet. In most stores, the two-piece model, a toilet where the seat and tank are two distinct pieces, is the most common one. It is less expensive than a one-piece model and easier to transport as it can be taken apart. On the other hand, one-piece toilets are more modern and sleek but they are more on the pricey side. They are heavier to carry than two-pieces but easier to clean because there’s no space between the seat and tank. This is a good feature, especially when you live in a house full of children. 

Flush Power 

Flush power is perhaps the most important feature you should be looking for when replacing your toilet. A good toilet should typically flush out the entire bowl with one press, saving both energy and water. For example, pressure-assist toilets generally offer more powerful flushes than gravity toilets, making them more efficient in clearing solid wastes. Also, many toilets today come with the option of dual-flushing. These loos have two buttons located on the toilet tank, letting you expel wastes either partially or fully. Lavatory models with the best flushing capabilities allow complete eradication of solid waste when you press the full flush and effective flushing of liquids when you activate the partial-flush mode.

Flush Noise 

The last thing you may want to consider in choosing a toilet is the noise made from flushing. It is particularly important if your bathroom is near the kitchen or living room, or you have a small house. With that said, you should always ask the salesperson about the noise level of the toilet flush to make sure you are going for a toilet with a relatively low sound, and consequently, less disruptive to your household. 

 

Even though you might be tempted to choose a toilet based on the design and price alone, these are not the only factors you should consider. When replacing your old toilet, it’s more important to know how much water the toilet you are considering consumes and how many flushes you will need to clean the toilet bowl completely. The tips above can help you pick the best fit for your needs and budget, so make sure you refer back to this guide before making a purchase.