When it comes to building or remodeling a home, you may not think a lot about the toilet you will put in your bathroom. But choosing the right one can significantly improve your bathroom’s efficiency, functionality, and comfort. Whether you want to renovate or replace an old, failing fixture, here’s everything you need to know to pick the perfect toilet for your home.

Consider the Toilet Type

You may not have realized it, but there are several types of toilets, each with unique features and installation requirements: 

Two-Piece Toilets — These are the most common type of toilet, which feature a separate tank and bowl. They are usually the most affordable and easiest to repair. 

One-Piece Toilets — These connect the tank and the bowl, making them look sleek and compact. They are easy to clean and work well in a smaller bathroom. 

Wall-Mounted Toilets — These are mounted on the wall, making them space-saving and modern. However, they require special plumbing and wall reinforcement. 

Smart Toilets — Smart toilets feature advanced technology, like heated seats, bidets, and self-cleaning functions. They may come at a premium cost but offer a luxurious experience in return. 

Measure the Rough-In Distance

The rough-in includes the distance from the wall behind the toilet to the center of the waste outlet. Most homes have a standard 12-inch gap, but older homes may have a 10 or 14-inch gap. For this reason, it’s important to measure it carefully to ensure your toilet will fit well and align with your plumbing system. 

Choose the Right Bowl Shape

Round Bowls — These are the most common because they are affordable and take up the least amount of space. They usually measure 16 and a half inches from the mounting holes to the front of the bowl rim, making them ideal for smaller bathrooms. 

Elongated Bowls —  These bowls are oval-shaped, making them longer, wider, and more comfortable, especially for adults. They measure about 18 inches from the mounting holes to the front of the bowl rim. However, they do take up more space, about two to six more inches from the wall to the toilet. 

Check the Flush Performance

Toilets now come with a variety of flush technologies:

Gravity-Feed — This flushing mechanism relies on gravity to draw water from the tank to the bowl. It is quiet, effective, and potentially less expensive than other mechanisms. It can also come in single-flush and dual-flush options. 

Pressure-Assisted — This mechanism utilizes a pressurized tank or system to force water into the bowl and deliver powerful flushing. It prevents clogs better than gravity-fed toilets, making it ideal for bigger households. However, it can produce a louder flush.

Dual-Flush — This one provides two flush options (typically 0.8 and 1.6 gallons), allowing you to use less water for liquid waste. It has a more complex design but allows you to contribute to water conservation. 

WaterSense Certified — These toilets are rigorously tested to meet EPA standards and use 20% less water than standard models. Most use 1.6 gallons per flush, but these use about 1.25 gallons per flush. 

Tornado/Swirl Flush — Newer models allow water to swirl around the bowl to create a cleaner, more powerful flush. 

Look at Height and Accessibility

Standard toilets measure about 15 inches tall, but comfort height models measure about 17 to 19 inches, making them easier for older adults, people with mobility issues, and those who are very tall. 

You should also be mindful of plumbing layout, wall clearances, and nearby cabinetry before selecting size and shape.

Think About Style and Color

Toilets come in a variety of styles and colors. While white remains the most common choice, options like black, bone, or gray can transform your toilet into a sleek, modern statement piece. Consider choosing a model that complements your overall bathroom decor and style. 

Set a Realistic Budget

Toilets range from $100 to over $1,000, depending on features, brand, and smart additions. Set a budget, considering both initial cost and long-term savings from water efficiency and durability.

Installation & Maintenance Considerations

Two-piece toilets can usually be easily installed with basic tools, while wall-mounted or smart ones often require professional installation. You may want a model with easy-access flush valves and parts readily available at hardware stores. You may also consider a soft-close seat to prevent loud slamming and wear. 

Which Toilet is Right for You? 

Your toilet is one of the most-used fixtures in your home — so make sure you choose the right one. Prioritize comfort, functionality, and efficiency, and you’ll find a model that suits both your lifestyle and your bathroom’s design.