Searching “how to choose a toilet” often brings a wall of specs with little real-life help. This guide keeps it simple and practical. First, you’ll get quick, confident answers to the six decisions that matter most: space, type, flush performance, bowl shape, height, and features. Then we expand in a clear order: measuring and fit, toilet types and installation, real‑world flush and efficiency, comfort and accessibility, easy-clean design and upkeep, style, budget and hidden costs, and FAQs. You’ll see user-tested tips, 2025 trends, and trusted standards (EPA WaterSense, , independent testing). Use the final checklist to pick the right toilet for your space, budget, and household needs.
How to Choose a Toilet: Quick Answers (Start Here)
Choosing the right toilet for your home isn’t just about looks—it’s about comfort, space efficiency, and long-term reliability. With so many toilet types, bowl shapes, and flush systems on the market, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. This quick-start guide breaks down the key decisions every homeowner should make before buying a toilet so you can avoid common mistakes and find the perfect fit for your bathroom.
The 6 Decisions You Must Nail (60-Second Overview)
Choosing a new toilet doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. Focus on these six key decisions first, and you’ll save yourself time, money, and frustration:
Space and Measurements
Always start with measurements. Confirm your rough-in size—most homes use a 12-inch rough-in, but older properties may have 10-inch or 14-inch setups. Measure from the finished wall (not the baseboard) to the center of the toilet’s floor bolts. Check the toilet projection (how far it extends from the wall) and ensure doors open freely without hitting the bowl. Poor measurements are one of the top reasons people return toilets, so measure carefully before buying.
Toilet Types
- One-piece toilet: Sleek design with no gap between the tank and bowl, making cleaning easier. They cost more but look modern and are less prone to leaks.
- Two-piece toilet: A classic choice, easier to transport and often more affordable, with plenty of size options.
- Wall-mounted toilet: Ideal for tight spaces and easy floor cleaning. Requires an in-wall tank system and professional installation.
Bowl Shape
- Elongated toilet bowl: About two inches longer than round bowls, providing added comfort for adults.
- Round toilet bowl: Saves space and is better for compact bathrooms or powder rooms. Be careful—elongated bowls in small spaces can feel cramped.
Height
- Standard height toilets: About 14–15 inches from floor to seat, suitable for kids and shorter adults.
- Chair/comfort height toilets: 17–19 inches high, making it easier for tall users, seniors, or anyone with mobility challenges. Comfort-height toilets now account for around 60% of U.S. toilet sales, reflecting growing demand for ergonomic bathroom fixtures.
Flush Performance and Water Use
Look for toilets with the EPA WaterSense label (1.28 gallons per flush or less) to save water. Check MaP scores—a rating of 600 grams or higher ensures reliable flushing for family homes. If your household has three or more people, prioritize flush performance over ultra-low water use.
Easy-Clean Designs and Features
A toilet that’s easy to maintain will save you time year after year. Look for skirted or concealed trapways, rimless flushing systems, nonstick glazes, and quick-release seats. Bidet compatibility is also worth considering, especially if you plan to upgrade hygiene or reduce toilet paper use. Over 70% of buyers now say that easy cleaning is a top priority.
Fast Picks by Household Type (who you are → what to buy)
- Small Bathrooms or Powder Rooms: Choose a round-bowl two-piece toilet with a 10- or 12-inch rough-in. If you’re renovating and can add wall support, consider a wall-mounted toilet to create an open, modern look.
- Families with Children: Go for a durable elongated bowl with a high-performing gravity or pressure-assist system. A side lever and soft-close seat will be easier for kids to use.
- Seniors or Users with Mobility Issues: Select a chair-height toilet (17–19 inches) with an elongated bowl and clear floor space that aligns with ADA guidelines. A heated or bidet seat adds extra comfort.
- Eco-Focused or Water-Conscious Homes: Stick to WaterSense-certified models at 1.28 GPF or less. Consider dual-flush toilets but make sure solid-waste performance is reliable.
- Design-First Remodels: Opt for a sleek one-piece or wall-mounted toilet with a skirted trapway. Plan wall structure, carrier system, and access panels early in your design.
Must-Measure Checklist Before Shopping: Find the Right Toilet for Your Space
- Rough-in: Measure from finished wall to the bolt center (commonly 12 inches).
- Projection: Check wall-to-bowl length; ensure doors swing freely.
- Width Clearance: Leave at least 15 inches from the bowl’s centerline to the wall or vanity (check local building codes).
- Supply Line Location: Verify that your water supply line won’t block skirted toilet designs—offset adapters can help.
- Floor Strength/Wall Support: For wall-mounted toilets, consult a professional to confirm your walls can support the tank carrier.
Common Toilet Buying Mistakes to Avoid
- Choosing Style Over Fit: A toilet that looks great but doesn’t fit your space will lead to costly returns.
- Buying Low-Power Models for Busy Homes: Underperforming toilets can clog often, frustrating families.
- Ignoring User Needs: Small top-mounted flush buttons can be difficult for children or arthritis sufferers—choose side levers instead.
- Overlooking Parts Availability: Select toilets with widely available replacement parts like flappers and valves to avoid future headaches.
Measure and Plan for Fit (Get this right first)
Before you even start comparing flush systems or bowl designs, get your bathroom measurements right. A toilet that doesn’t fit your space is one of the most expensive and frustrating renovation mistakes. The goal is to make sure your new toilet fits your bathroom layout, meets code requirements, and feels comfortable for every household member. Here’s what to measure first.
What is a standard toilet rough‑in and how do I measure it?
- Standard toilet size of rough‑in is 12 inches. Have a 10" or 14"? Older homes may have 10" or 14".
- How to measure: From the finished wall (tile or drywall surface) to the center of the closet bolts that hold the base. This equals your rough-in size.
- Buy a toilet that matches your rough‑in, or use offset flanges with care. Offset parts can affect flow if misused.
- Check vertical space above the tank for easy lid removal. Check door swing and front clearance.
Tip: Take a photo of the floor flange, bolts, and supply line. Bring measurements when you shop.
Elongated vs round bowl: which is better for my bathroom?
Elongated bowl (about 18.5" long):
- Feels roomier and more comfortable for most adults.
- Often better seat choices and bidet seat compatibility.
- Needs more space in front.
Round bowl (about 16.5"):
- Saves about 2 inches of projection.
- Useful in tight powder rooms and under tight door swings.
- Can feel snug for some users.
Try this: Tape the outline on the floor to see if your knees or door hit the bowl. Many returns happen because an elongated bowl crowds the room.
What is “comfort height” and who needs it?
Comfort or chair height vs standard height toilets is a key choice when choosing a new toilet.
- Comfort/chair height: Seat height about 17 to 19 inches. Easier for taller users and many seniors to sit and stand. ADA guidance for accessible seat height is in a similar range.
- Standard height of WC: Seat height about 14 to 15 inches. Often better for shorter users and young kids.
- Trend: Chair height now makes up about 60% of new toilet sales in US retail.
- Sit-test if you can. Height is personal.
Some brands now even market 3 common toilet heights (14–15", 16–17", and 17–19"). Always check WC dimensions in your new bathroom plan before you buy.
Code and clearance basics to prevent rework
Typical home guidance:
- At least 15 inches from bowl centerline to a side wall or cabinet.
- 21 inches clear in front (many aim for 24 inches for comfort).
- Check your local plumbing code.
Accessibility: For universal design in homes, leave more space around the toilet, add blocking in walls for future grab bars, and use lever locations that are easy to reach.
Relocation: Moving a drain or vent is pricey. A compact model that fits your current layout often costs far less.
Compare Toilet Types and Installation Paths
When choosing a new toilet for your new bathroom or replacing an old toilet, it helps to compare the most popular toilet models—from traditional two-piece toilets to sleek one-piece designs and space-saving wall-hung toilets. Understanding differences in toilet heights, bowl shape, and rough-in size can make installation smoother and ensure you find the right toilet for your space. This section will help you choose the best toilet style and make sure the toilet fits your layout and cleaning needs.
One-piece vs two-piece vs wall-hung (what changes in cleaning, cost, install)
- One-piece: Sleek look, no seam between tank and bowl, easier to clean, often more expensive, heavier to move.
- Two-piece: Lower cost range, easy to carry upstairs in two boxes, more size choices. The tank-bowl seam needs extra cleaning.
- Wall-hung: Floor is clear for easy mopping, adjustable height, short projection models save space. Needs an in-wall carrier, solid blocking, and service access for the tank parts.
Comparison at a glance:
| Factor | One-Piece | Two-Piece | Wall-Hung |
| Ease of cleaning | Easy (no seam) | Standard (seam needs attention) | Very easy (floor clear) |
| Cost | Medium to High | Low to Medium | Highest (carrier + wall work) |
| Installation | Simple swap | Simple swap | Advanced; pro install recommended |
| Space savings | Moderate | Varies | High (short projection options) |
| Repair access | Standard | Standard | In-wall access panel required |
| Style | Modern/minimal | Broad styles | Contemporary/minimal |
Do pressure-assisted toilets clog less than gravity models?
Pressure-assist: Uses compressed air inside the tank to push water fast.
- Pros: Strong, consistent flush; good in high-use baths.
- Cons: Louder; parts can cost more; not everyone likes the sound.
Gravity (most common): Uses tank height and gravity.
- Pros: Quieter, simple, lower upkeep cost; performance varies by design.
- Tip: Check MaP scores and real user feedback.
Dual-flush: Saves water by offering two buttons or levels. Choose models with proven solid-waste performance. For kids or folks with arthritis, side handles can be easier than top buttons.
Tankless, smart, and bidet-integrated options
Tankless/smart toilets:
- Require an electrical outlet (GFCI) and enough water pressure.
- Features can include heated seat, bidet wash, auto open/close, and self-clean cycles.
- Premium price and more complex service. Some have limited flush or none during a power outage. Check specs.
Bidet-integrated or add-on seats:
- Need a 120V outlet and a T‑valve at the supply line.
- Confirm seat shape (elongated vs round).
- Big hygiene upgrade with less TP use.
Retrofitting in older homes (minimize surprises)
- Expect 10" or 14" rough-ins, cast-iron flanges, and uneven floors.
- Supply line placement can conflict with skirted bowls. You may need to move the angle stop.
- Moving a toilet across the room means routing a new drain and vent. This can get costly fast. Choose a compact model that fits existing plumbing if possible.
Flush Performance and Water Efficiency (Real-world results)
When choosing a new toilet, it’s important to look beyond just style and toilet dimensions—flush power and water savings matter too. Today’s WaterSense-certified toilets use as little as 1.28 gallons of water per flush, offering big savings compared to an old toilet that might use 3.5+ GPF. By understanding MaP scores, advanced flushing systems, and how bowl design affects performance, you can find the right toilet that balances efficiency, noise, and reliability for your new bathroom.
Is 1.28 GPF enough? Understanding GPF, MaP, and WaterSense
- WaterSense toilets use 1.28 gallons per flush (GPF) or less. Replacing older 3.5+ GPF toilets can save about 13,000 gallons per year in a typical home.
- MaP (Maximum Performance) scores measure how well a toilet clears solid waste. Aim for ≥600 g for reliable performance in most homes.
- A well-designed 1.28 GPF toilet can perform as well as a 1.6 GPF model due to bowl and trapway engineering.
What actually drives a powerful, clean flush
Design details matter more than GPF alone:
- Siphon jet placement and power.
- Fully glazed trapway with smooth bends.
- Trapway diameter that maintains flow.
- Rim wash coverage to reduce streaks.
Valve components: Quality fill and flush valves improve reliability, refill speed, and bowl rinse.
Bowl rinse strength: Good rim holes or a rimless rinse channel keep the bowl cleaner between scrubs.
Households of 3+ or high-traffic bathrooms: tune your choice
Prioritize proven performance (MaP ≥600 g, independent testing).
- Strong gravity or pressure-assist both work; pick based on noise tolerance and service access.
- Consider tank refill time and nighttime noise.
- Keep common replacement parts on hand: flapper (or canister seal), fill valve.
Noise, condensation, and shared walls
- Pressure-assist is louder. Avoid placing it on a shared bedroom wall if noise-sensitive.
- Anti-sweat tanks or mixing valves can help if condensation drips in humid climates.
- Soft-close seats cut slam noise in kids’ and guest baths.
Comfort, Accessibility, and Hygiene Upgrades
Modern toilet design isn’t just about looks—it’s also about comfort, safety, and easy cleaning. From chair height vs standard height toilets to ADA-compliant models with bowl heights of 17 inches or more, these upgrades make bathrooms more accessible for all ages. Features like bidet toilet seats, heated toilet options, and touchless flushes can turn a traditional toilet into a smart toilet. Whether you’re planning a new bathroom or replacing an old toilet, this section will help you choose the best toilet setup for your family’s needs.
ADA, universal design, and lever placement
- Chair-height (17–19") seats and elongated bowls help with transfers for many users.
- Keep clear floor space to the side and in front. If remodeling, add blocking in walls for future grab bars.
- Lever force and location: Side levers are often easier for arthritis than top buttons.
Seats and add-ons that change daily comfort
- Slow-close, quick-release seats prevent slams and make cleaning easier.
- Bidet toilet seats offer warm water wash, heated seat, and sometimes air dry. They need an outlet and a T‑valve.
- Night-light seats and deodorizing lids are great for shared homes and guest baths.
Family-friendly details
- Side lever over small top buttons for kids.
- Keep a child seat reducer on an elongated bowl during potty training.
- Look for strong bowl rinse and splash control to cut down on extra cleaning.
Health and hygiene considerations
- Bidet use can reduce irritation from toilet paper and improve hygiene. Follow the maker’s cleaning steps for nozzles.
- Touchless flush kits lower contact points. Check battery access and sensor reliability.
Easy-Clean Designs and Long-Term Maintenance
If you’re choosing a new toilet or planning a toilet installation for a new bathroom, consider toilet models designed for easy cleaning and lasting performance. Features like skirted bases, rimless bowl design, and advanced flushing systems reduce scrubbing time and help keep your space hygienic. Understanding toilet dimensions, bowl shape, and material quality will make it easier to find the right toilet for your home, while choosing brands with reliable parts and warranties ensures your traditional toilet or smart toilet stays trouble-free for years.
Skirted/concealed trapways and rimless bowls
- Skirted sides remove dust traps and make wipe-downs faster—very popular since 2020.
- Rimless rinse designs reduce hidden grime under a rim. Check for strong bowl coverage to avoid splash.
- Some skirted models use adapter plates. Read the install guide so the floor bolts and supply line line up.
Bowl coatings, glazes, and material quality
- Vitreous china is standard and durable.
- Nonstick glazes help prevent staining and lime scale.
- Antimicrobial claims vary by brand; a steady cleaning routine matters more.
- In hard water areas, plan for descaling and use parts that resist mineral buildup.
Parts, warranties, and availability
- Favor models with standardized fill valves and flush parts so local stores carry them.
- Check warranty details and expected parts support for 5–10 years.
- Quick-release hinges and metal seat hardware reduce wobble and replacement costs.
Why does my toilet keep running? Prevention tips
- Common causes: Worn flapper or seal, float set too high, debris in the fill valve.
- Fix basics: Replace the flapper or canister seal, set the waterline to the mark, flush sediment from the valve.
- Prevent: Annual quick checks, in-line filters in hard water areas, avoid drop-in tank tablets that can degrade rubber parts.
Design, Aesthetics, and Bathroom Style (Without sacrificing function)
Your toilet is more than just a fixture—it’s a key element of your bathroom design. Whether you prefer modern wall-hung toilets, traditional two-piece toilets, or a sleek one-piece design, choosing a style that complements your space while meeting your functional needs is essential. This section covers different types of toilets, trending toilet models and finishes for 2025, and how toilet dimensions, bowl shape, and toilet height can influence comfort and style. With the right choices, you can create a new bathroom that feels spacious, practical, and timeless.
Match form to function: modern, traditional, minimalist
- Modern/minimalist: One-piece or wall-hung, concealed trapways, slim tanks or tankless designs.
- Traditional: Two-piece with classic lines. Combine with strong flush and rim wash so you don’t trade function for looks.
- Transitional: Skirted two-piece for a clean look without the highest price.
Color and finish trends for 2025
- White still dominates for price, availability, and resale value.
- Matte black and warm neutrals show up in design-forward baths; check finish durability and part matching long term.
- If your metals change over time, keep the toilet neutral to outlast trends.
Small-space and powder room playbook
- Use a round bowl or compact-elongated model to save inches.
- Consider a wall-hung to open the floor and make the room feel larger.
- Choose a quiet, high-performance flush to manage odor and noise in tight spaces.
Sustainability beyond water use
- Seek WaterSense certification and check for local rebates.
- Favor brands with published sustainability goals and minimal packaging.
- Plan for longevity: standard parts, easy repairs, and a timeless color that won’t push an early replacement.
Budget, Hidden Costs, and Buying Strategy
When choosing a new toilet or planning a toilet installation, it’s smart to look beyond sticker price. This section breaks down toilet models by cost range, from standard height toilets under $200 to smart toilets with bidet seats and premium features over $1,500. We’ll also cover hidden costs like supply lines, rough-in size adjustments, and wall-hung toilet installation needs. Whether you’re upgrading an old toilet or creating a new bathroom, these tips will help you buy a toilet that balances style, performance, and long-term value.
Price tiers—what you actually get
- Under $200: Basic two-piece gravity toilets. Review flush consistency and seat quality.
- $200–$500: Wider selection, WaterSense, better glazes, some skirted options.
- $500–$1,500: One-piece, premium flush/rinse, rimless bowls, sleeker designs.
- $1,500+: Smart or bidet-integrated models; plan for electrical and servicing.
Hidden costs that surprise many buyers
- Install supplies: Wax or wax-free seal, closet bolts, supply line, shims, cap covers.
- Repairs: Flange fixes, angle stop relocation (often with skirted designs), new shutoff valves.
- Wall-hung: In-wall carrier, wall rebuild, access panel, pro labor.
- Smart/bidet seats: GFCI outlet near the toilet; sometimes a dedicated circuit.
Where to buy, returns, and quality control
- Home centers: Good same-day availability and simple returns. Inspect boxes for damage.
- Plumbing showrooms: Strong spec guidance and easier part support. Confirm lead times.
- Online: Double-check model numbers, rough‑in, bowl shape, return windows, and shipping insurance.
What’s the biggest mistake when buying a toilet?
- Not measuring rough‑in and bowl projection first.
- Ignoring flush performance for a pretty silhouette.
- Picking the wrong height for the main users.
- Overlooking actuator ergonomics (top buttons vs side lever) for kids or arthritis.
Ultimate decision checklist
Use this to pick the best toilet for your home:
Measurements
- Rough‑in: 10" / 12" / 14" (wall to center of bolts)
- Projection (wall to front of bowl): fits door swing and knee room
- Width: 15" min from bowl centerline to wall or cabinet
- Supply line location clear of skirted sides
- Floor/wall structure OK for wall-hung
Type and flushing systems
- One-piece / Two-piece / Wall-hung
- Gravity / Pressure-assist / Dual-flush
- Smart or bidet-integrated need power/water access
Performance
- WaterSense target ≤1.28 GPF
- MaP score ≥600 g
- Strong rim wash / bowl rinse
Comfort
- Bowl shape: Elongated or Round (or compact-elongated)
- Height: Standard (~15") or Chair/Comfort (17–19")
- Actuator: Side lever vs top buttons (who’s using it?)
Cleaning and maintenance
- Skirted/concealed trapway
- Rimless rinse
- Nonstick glaze
- Quick-release, soft-close seat
- Standardized valves and flappers
Features
- Bidet seat compatibility or integrated bidet
- Heated seat / night light / deodorizer
- Touchless flush
Budget and install
- Price tier target
- Hidden costs: wax ring, bolts, supply line, angle stop, flange fix
- DIY vs pro install
- Return policy and parts availability
FAQs
1. What is the best flush capacity for a toilet?
There’s really no single “best” flush capacity because it depends on your bathroom setup, how many people are using the toilet, and what you value more—water savings or extra flushing power. In most homes, a WaterSense-certified toilet using just 1.28 gallons per flush (GPF) with a MaP score of 600 grams or higher is a sweet spot for performance and efficiency. If you’ve got a high-traffic bathroom, like in a large family home, consider a top-rated gravity flush or even a pressure-assisted toilet. They’re built for heavy use, though they tend to be louder. When choosing a new toilet, always check the toilet dimensions, bowl design, and flushing technology—these often matter more than GPF alone.
2. Is a 1.6 or 1.28 toilet better?
It’s less about the exact number of gallons of water per flush and more about the engineering behind the toilet. A well-designed 1.28 GPF model can easily match or beat the performance of an older 1.6 GPF standard toilet, thanks to advanced flushing systems, trapway design, and stronger bowl rinse. If your local codes still allow 1.6 GPF, you’ll have more models to choose from, but if you want to save water and lower your utility bill, go with WaterSense toilets. Compare MaP scores before you buy—that’s the best way to find the right toilet for your space.
3. What’s better, a round or elongated toilet?
It really comes down to your bathroom size and comfort preference. Elongated bowls are generally more comfortable for most adults, while round bowls are great for small bathrooms or powder rooms because they save a few inches of space. If you want something in-between, look for a compact-elongated toilet—it gives you the comfort of an elongated bowl without taking up extra room. When choosing a new toilet, also check the rough-in size and how the shape of the bowl fits your bathroom design.
4. Are 1-piece toilets better than 2-piece toilets?
Both styles have their strengths. A one-piece toilet has a sleek design with no seam between the tank and bowl, making it easier to clean and great for a modern bathroom look. A two-piece toilet is more affordable, easier to install, and comes in a wider range of sizes. The flushing power doesn’t depend on whether it’s one-piece or two-piece—it’s all about the toilet model and its engineering. If you’re planning a new bathroom and want a low-maintenance setup, go one-piece. If budget and flexibility matter, a two-piece is a solid choice.
5. What type of toilet has the most powerful flush?
For pure power, pressure-assisted toilets are hard to beat. They use compressed air to push water through the bowl fast, which makes them perfect for busy households or commercial spaces. Just keep in mind they’re noisier and a bit pricier to maintain. Don’t overlook gravity-flush toilets though—many modern gravity models with high MaP ratings are surprisingly strong and stay quiet. When choosing a new toilet, think about your bathroom’s layout, noise level needs, and even the wall behind the toilet if you’re considering a wall-hung design.
Leave a comment
This site is protected by hCaptcha and the hCaptcha Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.