
It might seem like just another household item, but the toilet is more than a basic necessity—it’s your personal throne. Did you know that the average person spends about three years of their life on the toilet? That’s a significant amount of time spent in a single spot! So why not make it a space of comfort, efficiency, and even relaxation? A carefully chosen toilet can turn your bathroom into a sanctuary, where you can unwind and enjoy moments of peace and quiet. Here’s a comprehensive guide to selecting the perfect toilet for your main bathroom, blending style, comfort, and practicality.
1. Know Your Toilet Types and Designs
a. Two-Piece Toilets
- Structure: Separate tank and bowl.
- Pros: Affordable and easy to repair.
- Cons: Harder to clean due to the seam between the tank and bowl.
- Best For: Budget-conscious buyers who don’t mind basic design.
b. One-Piece Toilets
- Structure: Tank and bowl are fused into a single unit.
- Pros: Sleeker design, easier to clean, takes up less space.
- Cons: Usually more expensive.
- Best For: Modern bathrooms where aesthetics and easy maintenance are important.
c. Wall-Mounted Toilets
- Structure: Mounted directly onto the wall, with the tank hidden behind the wall.
- Pros: Saves floor space, offers a minimalist, floating look.
- Cons: More expensive, requires professional installation and wall reinforcement.
- Best For: Small or contemporary bathrooms where space-saving is critical.
d. Smart Toilets
- Features: Built-in bidets, heated seats, automatic lids, ambient lighting, and more.
- Pros: Luxurious features, enhanced hygiene, ultimate comfort.
- Cons: High price point, requires additional electrical and plumbing work.
- Best For: Anyone looking for the epitome of comfort and innovation in their bathroom experience.
2. Selecting the Right Bowl Shape
a. Round Bowls
- Pros: Takes up less space, suitable for smaller bathrooms.
- Cons: Not as comfortable for longer sessions.
- Best For: Powder rooms or bathrooms with limited clearance.
b. Elongated Bowls
- Pros: More comfortable, especially for extended use.
- Cons: Takes up more space than round bowls.
- Best For: Main bathrooms where comfort is a priority.
c. Compact Elongated Bowls
- Pros: Combines the comfort of elongated bowls with a space-saving design.
- Best For: Those seeking a balance between comfort and compactness.
3. Understanding Flush Mechanisms
a. Gravity-Flush Toilets
- How It Works: Uses gravity to create flushing power.
- Pros: Quiet, requires less maintenance.
- Cons: May use more water per flush than newer technologies.
- Best For: Most homes, as they are reliable and easy to maintain.
b. Pressure-Assisted Toilets
- How It Works: Utilizes pressurized air to create a powerful flush.
- Pros: Highly effective at removing waste with one flush, reducing clogs.
- Cons: Louder operation, slightly higher maintenance.
- Best For: High-traffic bathrooms where performance is key.
c. Dual-Flush Toilets
- How It Works: Offers two flush options—full for solid waste, half for liquid waste.
- Pros: Eco-friendly, reduces water usage and utility bills.
- Cons: More complex system, may require occasional maintenance.
- Best For: Eco-conscious homes focused on water conservation.
4. Water Efficiency Matters
a. WaterSense Certification
- Definition: WaterSense-certified toilets meet EPA standards, using 1.28 gallons per flush (GPF) or less.
- Benefits: Saves water without sacrificing performance.
- Best For: Homes looking to minimize water waste while maintaining a strong flush.
b. Gallons Per Flush (GPF)
- Standard Toilets: Use 1.6 GPF.
- High-Efficiency Toilets (HET): Use 1.28 GPF or less.
- Ultra-High Efficiency Toilets (UHET): Use as little as 1.0 GPF.
- Best For: Those in water-restricted areas or eco-conscious homeowners.
5. Comfort Features for a Relaxing Experience
Your bathroom should be more than a functional space—it should be a place where you can relax, unwind, and recharge. Here are some features that can elevate your toilet experience:
a. Seat Height
- Standard Height: About 15 inches from the floor.
- Comfort Height: Around 17-19 inches, which makes sitting and standing easier, especially for taller individuals or those with mobility issues.
- Best For: Main bathrooms where users seek comfort and ease of use.
b. Heated Seats and Soft-Close Lids
- Pros: Heated seats offer comfort in cold months, while soft-close lids prevent noise.
- Cons: Slightly increases the cost.
- Best For: Anyone looking to add luxury and comfort to their daily routine.
c. Bidet Attachments
- Pros: Improved hygiene, reduces the need for toilet paper.
- Cons: May require additional plumbing and space.
- Best For: Those prioritizing cleanliness and comfort.
6. Design and Aesthetic: Make Your Throne Look Royal
a. Color and Finish
- Common Options: White is the most popular and versatile, but other colors like beige or black can add a unique touch to your bathroom.
- Best For: Those who want a cohesive, polished look that blends with their bathroom design.
b. Material
- Porcelain: The most common material due to its durability and easy maintenance.
- Vitreous China: A premium option with a glossy finish that’s more resistant to scratches and stains.
- Best For: Anyone looking for a high-quality, long-lasting option that’s easy to clean.
7. Installation and Plumbing
a. Measure the Rough-In
- What It Is: The distance from the wall to the center of the drainpipe.
- Standard Measurements: Typically 12 inches, but some homes may have 10 or 14 inches.
- Best For: Ensuring a proper fit in your space is crucial before purchasing.
b. Professional Installation
- Best For: Wall-mounted and smart toilets require professional help to ensure safety and proper installation.
- DIY-Friendly: One-piece and two-piece toilets are easier to install, making them ideal for DIYers.
8. Budgeting and Long-Term Costs
a. Initial Costs
- Basic Models: $100-$300.
- Mid-Range Models: $300-$700.
- High-End Models: $700+, featuring smart technology and luxury finishes.
- Best For: Balancing cost and features based on your needs.
b. Long-Term Costs
- Water Bills: Choosing a water-efficient toilet can lead to significant savings over time.
- Maintenance: Think about the cost of replacing parts like seals and valves.
- Warranty: Always check for warranties to cover potential defects or issues.
9. Eco-Friendly and Future-Proof Options
a. Composting Toilets
- Pros: Completely waterless, ideal for eco-friendly or off-grid homes.
- Cons: Requires more maintenance and space.
- Best For: Anyone looking to reduce their environmental impact significantly.
b. Greywater Recycling Systems
- Pros: Uses water from sinks or showers for flushing, reducing overall water usage.
- Cons: More expensive, may require extra plumbing.
- Best For: Eco-conscious homeowners with the space and budget to invest in water-saving technologies.
Your Throne, Your Sanctuary
Your bathroom is one of the most private spaces in your home—a place where you start and end your day. The toilet, being a fixture you spend significant time using, should be comfortable, efficient, and suited to your personal style. Whether you prioritize eco-friendly features, modern aesthetics, or sheer comfort, choosing the perfect toilet can transform your bathroom into a peaceful retreat. So, don’t settle for anything less than the perfect throne—because after all, you deserve to feel like royalty, even in the most everyday moments.
Last update on 2024-08-25 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API