Finding the best toilet for your bathroom shouldn’t be a chore. In fact, it’s easy and can be fun! Gone are the days when everyone has the same toilet and gone are the days when the bathroom must conform to fit a standard size toilet.
These days there are plenty of toilet choices. Styles range from tankless, to composting, to toilets for small bathrooms, and toilets for water conservation. Whatever you need, we’ve got you covered.
Given my thorough experience in the bathroom (we all have) I’ll share the most important aspects of a toilet and the best brands. I’m a tall guy so measurements are important, as is weight, and let’s not forget material (we need something sturdy).
In this article we’ll take a look at the best toilets for your bathroom. Our rankings will pull from modern toilets and traditional toilets. We’ll mention a few toilets that help conserve water (check the gallons per flush or GPF)!
Accessing Your Bathroom and Toilet
First things first. Before you buy the best toilet for your bathroom you should consider a few things. These included:
- The size of a toilet
- The style of your toilet (modern vs. traditional)
- Your expectations (functionality vs. appearance)
- The brand of toilet (which toilet is the best brand)
- The environment (do you live in an area affected by drought)
- Color of toilet (unfortunately most ceramic toilets are white but you can accessorize if needed)
Before you arrived at this article you likely already considered these factors but we wanted to give you a friendly reminder. Hopefully you’ve already measured the area in your bathroom the toilet will go, as space will play a major role in your decision.
Reputable Brands of Toilets
Unless you’re really aware of toilets you probably don’t know the best brands of toilets. Our toilet rankings (below) will choose from a range of brands, some which are more popular than others.
Let’s introduce a few of the most popular toilet brands.
Toto
The Toto Company was founded in 1917 by Kazuchika Okura. Mr. Okura had a vision of sewage systems before they existed in Japan.
His company helped revolutionize the bathroom by making the toilet a comfortable, sanitary, and stylish part of the bathroom. With a strong history in hand-made items, Japan, and more specifically Toto became recognized as an industry leader.
These days Toto has production facilities in 9 countries, including the U.S. If you want to support American-made goods but love the Toto brand don’t worry because chances are the toilet was made in the U.S.A.
American Standard
American Standard Companies date back to 1929, however, the brand and products have changed throughout the years. The company makes more than just toilets, including HVACs and radiators but are likely best known for their work in the bathroom (toilets and sinks).
The company now focuses on the bathroom and plumbing and have done significant charitable work (donations of plumbing fixtures and accessories after Hurricane Katrina in 2011.
Kohler Co.
Kohler is another one of those companies you’ve probably heard of. Founded in 1873, this is truly a historical company that manufactures everything from plumbing to furniture, to cabinetry and engines.
We typically see their logo on bathroom faucets and toilets. They manufacture a lot of their items in China but they’re a solid American Company.
Best Toilets For Your Bathroom In 2022
1. Dometic 300 Series
You might not be familiar with the name Dometic, but we’re sure you’ve heard of their parent company Electrolux. Dometic is a Scandinavian company that prides itself in innovation and style.
The Dometic 300 series stands out as a stylish toilet for the bathroom that conserves water and maintains high performance. The Dometic 300 series offers a few options for homeowners.
- It comes in two colors: white and bone (an off-white)
- Multiple heights (low profile, standard height)
- With hand spray or without
This is a porcelain toilet, rather, it’s made from polypropylene plastic that is durable and lightweight. Sturdy plastic toilets are usually easier to move around and install.
You can worry less about breaking during installation and guest almost never notice the material your toilet is made from (only that it works!).
Highlights:
- Multiple colors
- Multiple heights
- Handheld spray (optional)
- .12 gallons per flush (incredible)
- Polypropylene plastic (more durable than regular toilets)
- 2-year warranty
- Affordable price point
The Dometic 300 Series is also mindful of the environment and uses only .12 gallons per flush (that is amazing as most traditional American toilets have 1-gallon tanks. Personally, I like the price point near 100 dollars and the fact it isn’t bulky.
The foot flush is something new for me, but it’s hidden on the underside of the toilet which makes toilet appear sleeker. Best of all is Dometic’s 2-year warranty. 2 years will protect even the most cautious buyer (2 years is a long time for a product that gets so much use!).
Dometic works fine for homes but many reviewers suggest that this toilet is perfect for a recreational vehicle. Other reviews mention it might not be sturdy enough for heavier individuals (or large people).
2. Toto Drake Elongated
This Toto is a beauty and comes in 5 different colors (Beige, 2 whites, Bone, and Black). It’s also a best seller, so this is a good choice if you want a popular item that other people like too. If you prefer traditional style toilets with an elegant look, it’s hard to go wrong with Toto.
It comes in a 2 piece (top tank and bottom) however it does not come with a seat (sold separately). It’s not lightweight either – weighs 69 lbs and measures 28 x 19.5 x 30.5 inches.
The seat area measures 12 inches, more than enough for large persons. The amount of water used (1.6 gallons per flush) is one thing I don’t like but some people might prefer it.
Customers like that it has a quiet flush perfect for bathrooms attached to bedrooms. The flush performance is overwhelmingly positive, however, we know it flushes well due to the amount of water it uses! You won’t find many negative reviews with this product!
Toto toilets come with a 1-year warranty but don’t worry, their products last generations and the company has a great reputation for customer service as well.
3. American Standard 288DA114.020
American Standard knows how to make toilets – they’ve been doing so for a hundred years!
This toilet comes with options which is always nice.
- Normal height (14 inches) vs Right height (15.5 inches)
- Round front vs Elongated front
However, it only comes in one color, white. The elongated toilet bowl is made specifically for people who are taller. The longer bowl helps keep waste in the center of the bowl and not on the backside.
I like that it uses less water than the Toto Drake Elongated (1.1 gallons per flush) and is low water consumption certified. It’s proprietary Siphon jet bowl and PowerWash rim helps the toilet thoroughly clean after use with minimal water.
In some areas of the country, you can get a rebate for buying this toilet because it saves water (think about it!).
Highlights:
- Energy efficient (water – 1.1 gallons per flush)
- Long bowl options
- 1 color
- Possible rebate depending on your State/community
- Reliable company
- Strong flush
- Works for small bathrooms or large
- 5-year warranty (parts and chinaware)
You can’t beat American Standard’s 5-year warranty. If something goes wrong, they’ll fix it or send you a new toilet. But think about it, besides clogging nothing usually goes wrong with toilets. Take care of your toilet and American Standard will take care of you!
Of note: this toilet does not come with a seat. If you’re moving into a new house I suggest bring your toilet seat from your prior home (most people change them anyway)!
4. Woodbridge T-0019 Dual Flush Elongated One Piece Toilet with Soft Closing Seat
Woodbridge is a newer company that makes high-end bathroom products. The company was founded in 2005 and prides itself in quality products and great customer service.
Although it doesn’t have the history of some of the other toilet brands on our list, they make up for their inexperience with superior engineering and an eye for fashion.
Woodbridge brings style into the bathroom with sleek toilets that take up little space. This toilet is made from vitreous china (porcelain). Their toilets look classy and expensive, however, they’re listed at a reasonable price.
Highlights:
- 118 pounds (heavy duty)
- 5 x 14.5 x 27 inches
- Elongated style
- Includes toilet seat
- 5-year limited warranty (1 year for toilet seat)
The T-0019 Woodbridge comes in 3 styles (Cotton White, Pure White, and “with bidet”). The style is low profile so if you’re looking for a tall toilet this isn’t your best option but it’s described as “chair height”.
If you’re looking for something that fits in a modern bathroom, Woodbridge makes a toilet look good by using buttons rather than a handle and a square tank that blends into the bowl.
The seat, which is included, effortlessly blends into the rest of the toilet. I also like that Woodbridge conserves water with an average flush of 1.28 gallons per flush (it is a WaterSense Certified toilet).
You got to love the toilet seat that’s included and the 5-year warranty. I like long warranties and companies that stand by their product.
5. Toto Aquia Two Piece 1.6 Gallons Per Flush
This another toilet that makes an environmental statement. Not only do I like the look of this toilet, I also like the craftsmanship of a toilet that uses less water.
Even though the Toto Aquia is a traditional two-piece toilet, it has a modern look. The top and bottom pieces blend into each other so it appears as though it’s one piece.
It has a minimalist look. I’m the type of person that doesn’t want the toilet to be noticed in the bathroom – this one could blend into a wall nicely.
Highlights:
- 6 Gallons per flush or .9 Gallons per flush (depending on the button)
- Elongated bowl (great for tall people)
- Modern sleek design
- No flapper, push to flush
- 5 x 14.2 x 31.2 inches
- 1-year warranty
This Toto uses a 16-inch bowl top and 17-inch height (comfort seat). The bowl is elongated which helps for tall people!
It uses less water, so a smaller hole. Larger people may experience some clogging or notice that it doesn’t get everything down. There will be a learning curve with this toilet and some customers have given tips.
- Hold the button down a few seconds longer to release more water and get a better flush
- Installation can be tricky – it’s best to have a professional do it.
- 3) Tall people 6 foot and over will like it a lot!
Overall the reviews are positive and as one customer stated, “It’s a modern toilet, that saves water and flushes strong”. That’s good enough for me and might be for you too!
6. American Standard Corner Toilet
We’ve listed American Standard on our best toilets list because they have great reviews, a solid warranty, and plenty of options.
Some buyers will need a corner toilet and this meets that criteria. You might choose the corner because it’s a small bathroom or simply because the pipes directed you. Either way, American Standard offers some good options for corner toilets.
The American Standard Cadet 3 is a traditional 2 piece with a sharp backside (triangle). It uses a round, not elongated, bowl that is made from porcelain and the seat area is 16.5 inches tall (seat not included).
The “ever clean” added finish is naturally antimicrobial.
I like the clever flapper that is coated so it won’t rust over time. It weighs 59 pound which isn’t exactly heavy for a toilet but it’s solid enough to stay put. It measures 32 x 19.2 x 31.5 inches and comes in one color, white.
The tank capacity is more than the 1.6 gallons per flush that you’ll get – for that reason you may be restricted from purchasing this toilet in California.
Customers shared that this is the cheapest, yet best corner toilet available. The price is competitive with other models from American Standard and Toto.
Customers also like the fact that a corner toilet makes a bathroom appear much larger than it would otherwise! If I was remodeling a bathroom I’d definitely consider using the “wasted” corner space as a place for a toilet!
FYI, if you’re considering a corner toilet, you might be able to use your existing toilet with a new triangle tank (could save a few bucks).
7. American Standard Wall Mounted Toilet (Glenwall)
This toilet is our best for those looking for a wall toilet (mounts to the wall). I like toilets for a number of reasons.
- Cleanliness
- Space
- Minimalist look
Traditional toilets take up space on the wall and on the floor. This is what we’re used to so we’re not bothered by it. But have you ever visited a home and seen the toilet attached to the wall?
These toilets look more modern, allow light under and around the toilet, and make it appear like there’s more space. You may be hesitant to put all your weight on a wall toilet but don’t worry, they are firmly mounted.
Wall toilets are extra easy to clean. From my experience, cleaning around the bottom of a toilet is gross. Dust and hair can get caught in the caulking around the base and it’s challenging to clean behind the base of the toilet.
With wall mounted toilets the process is easy! A few swipes with a Swiffer or mop and the area is clean!
Highlights:
- 120 pounds
- 30 x 19.5 x 29.5 inches
- White in color
- Elongated for taller individuals
- 6 gallons per flush
- 5-year warranty
The wall mounted toilet by American Standard uses a back outlet to wash away waste. This option is elongated which is perfect for taller individuals. The cleaning process uses the company’s “Siphon jet action” cleaning to reduce the chance of residue.
Similar to many of the other toilets on our list, the Glenwall has low water use at 1.6 gallons per flush with a larger bowl for all sizes. The toilet seat is sold separately.
Customers like the ease of cleaning underneath. They also mention that mounting the toilet is a serious job and will need large bolts and a steel plate for proper installation. Some customers said they installed it on their own with some time and elbow grease.
8. Kohler
Our list of best toilets for your bathroom wouldn’t be complete without a mention of Kohler. This company has been around for over 100 years and they make beautiful bathroom products.
Whether it’s a sink, shower head, or toilet, Kohler likely has a product in your home.
We chose the Kohler K-4007-0 San Souci for a few reasons, namely:
- It’s beautiful
- Traditional style yet modern look
- Environmentally friendly (low water consumption)
- Plenty of colors (10!)
- Has curves
Interestingly, it’s a one-piece toilet with an upper tank (there aren’t many like it). The one-piece design makes it easier to clean and dust around the exterior. Colors range from white to ice grey, cashmere, sand, and black. More options than other toilets on our list.
Using their proprietary AquaPiston technology, water enters the bowl from all sides 360 degrees for a cleaner flush and less residue. What I really like about this toilet is that it uses 1.28 gallons per flush.
Its water consumption is one of the lowest on our list and it’s WaterSense Certified.
The toilet weighs 92 pounds (standard for porcelain toilets) and measures 30.5 x 21 .29.2 inches. Kohler San Soucci is a “comfort height” toilet with a 17.5-inch height from the floor (measurement includes a seat).
Customers like the toilet a lot. They mention the color options, the style of the toilet and the comfortable size.
A few customers mentioned they weren’t expecting a powerful flush because of the smaller gallons per flush but were pleasantly surprised with Kohler’s cleaning and flushing ability. All-in-all people really like this toilet and so do I.
Thinking of Changing Your Toilet?
Changing your toilet should not be a common occurrence. Thankfully, porcelain holds up well over time.
Most people who need to change their toilet usually do so because of a chip in the exterior (appearance) or wear within the bowl in the form of water spots or stains.
Upgrading your toilet might be a consideration in two instances:
-
Bathroom remodel
When remodeling, a new toilet can go a long way. Maybe it’s about style (some toilets actually look good) while other people are changing the location of their toilet (corner toilet) and need a different size or shape.
Recently wall toilets have become common with the minimalist theme because wall mounted toilets add space to a small bathroom. Some people are even putting fancy urinals in their bathroom which I think is cool.
-
Environmental Concerns
If you live in a drought-affected area of the world you likely know that water is becoming a precious resource. Old style toilets can use up to 5 gallons of water per flush.
Over time, water usage adds up. In places like California, new homes are required to use water conscious tanks, around 1 gallon or less per flush.
If you live in a dry, arid climate you should consider getting rid of your old toilet. Even though the cost will be more upfront, the money you’ll save on water will pay off after a few years.
Cleaning Your Toilet
Cleaning your toilet doesn’t have to occur as much as you’d think. Many people use toilet bowl cleaners that attach to the side of the bowl (turn the water a blue color) but even cleaners aren’t necessary.
A weekly scrub with a brush will prevent plaque from building up and minimize stains. The best part about a weekly scrub is you won’t even need to use a chemical cleaner.
Clean the toilet at times it isn’t needed and you’ll find that your toilet bowl stays cleaner, longer!
Conclusion
In this article, we reviewed the best toilets for your bathroom. In the past 20 years, toilet technology has come a long way. Large tanks and bulky toilets are no longer needed to get rid of waste. Nor do toilets all look the same.
There are a few toilet brands that really stick out. They are American Standard, Toto, and Kohler. Many of their traditional toilets look similar, but be sure to check their water usage (gallons per flush), and whether the toilet is round or elongated.
You can also check the height of the toilet as taller toilets are more comfortable for larger people.
But don’t be limited by the best toilet brands. Newer brands focus on modern style and accessories – they will likely perform as well as the older brands.
Depending on your style and placement in a bathroom, there are options for everyone. There are corner toilets that are space savers, and there are wall mounted toilets that create more room and make cleaning easy.
There are also composting toilets but we’ll save that list for another time.
We hope you enjoyed our article on the best toilets for bathrooms. Whether we like to discuss it or not, bathrooms and toilets are a big part of our life.
Since we spend so much time there, why not invest in a comfortable toilet that looks and performs well. Thanks for reading.