The Best Toilets for 2021
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Best Toilet
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Upgrading to a modern toilet is a great way to quickly enhance the appearance of your bathroom while adding efficient water-saving technology. To help you select which one is best for you, I have outlined the various features below along with a list of the best toilets currently available.
UPDATED: November 4, 2021.
MY TOP PICK:
If you are looking for the best overall, I recommend the TOTO UltraMax II because it features an ultra-low water consumption of 1.28 gallons per flush, offers a convenient one-piece design, and includes a soft-close seat.
The flush toilet has come a long way since it was developed in the late 1700s. Joseph Bramah improved the current designs at the time by installing a float valve and hinged flap to seal the bottom of the bowl. He patented this flush toilet design in 1778.
Types of Toilets
There are as many different toilet designs as there are manufacturers. However, most flush toilets can be divided into two types by their method of operation. One option is flushing by via a tank and the other is by a high-pressure water supply.
The first option is probably what you are most familiar with. A tank of water sits above the bowl and when the lever is pressed it operates a flap that quickly discharges the water into the bowl.
The second option is to flush using the water supply directly so it does not need a tank. This is controlled through an appropriately named device called a “flushometer”. However, since it requires a large water supply it is mostly found in commercial bathrooms. If you would like a tankless toilet in your home you may need to upgrade the incoming pipe at (ideally to 1-inch) and have a water pressure of at least 30 PSI.
Pro Tip: If you are having a new home built and want tankless toilets, you should bring it up to the architect and contractor early in the process so the plumbing can be appropriately sized.
Selecting a Toilet
When selecting a new toilet make sure to check the length and width to avoid creating a potential obstruction. For example, a long bowl design may not allow a door to swing clear in a small bathroom so it may require a compact fixture.
Also, verify the “rough-in” dimension which is the distance from the center of the floor drain to the finished wall to make sure it matches the model you pick (the standard is 12 inches).
In addition, some do not include a seat but they should include the wax ring and bolts for installation. Check what accessories the manufacturer includes to see what other items need to be purchased.
One-Piece vs. Two-Piece
Toilets come as either a single piece or two pieces (the tank and bowl). The one-piece models are typically easier to install since you don’t have the additional step of joining the two halves. They are also easier to clean since there is no gap between the two components.
However, the two-piece fixtures tend to cost less and are easier to move around since they are usually lighter. In terms of operation, there is essentially no difference between the one and two-piece designs.
A fully skirted design is also something to consider. This is when the area below the bowl is concealed making for a simple curved face, making it much easier to clean.
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Water Usage
Another feature to note is the Gallons Per Flush (GPF). The U.S. Energy Policy Act of 1992 (EPAct 1992) set the maximum water use allowed for flushometer valve toilets at 1.6 GPF. However, some states have enacted their own restrictions. Therefore, if you live in one of those states you may not be able to buy a specific fixture or have it shipped to your house if it exceeds the limits. For example, all toilets sold in California cannot use more than 1.28 Gallons Per Flush.
To see if your area has its own restrictions, see the chart here: NCSL’s Water-Efficient Plumbing Fixtures.
If you are replacing an older unit these high-efficiency toilets can significantly reduce your water bill over time.
Accessibility
If the toilet is going to be used by someone with a physical limitation you should consider selecting a fixture that is ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) compliant. The primary accessibility feature to note is the seat height. An ADA compliant toilet in a residential dwelling unit* requires a height above the finish floor of 15 inches (380 mm) minimum and 19 inches (485 mm) maximum when measured to the top of the seat**. Most standard household toilets will typically fall within this range so it comes down to personal preference on whether to be on the high or low side.
A lower seat can make it more difficult to use for those with limited mobility. Alternatively, there are some taller options over 19 inches that may also be an issue for some.
*2010 ADA Standards for Accessible Design, Section 604.4, Exception 1.
**Heights are measured to the top of the seat so the exact total dimension will depend on the bowl height plus the thickness of the selected seat.
Note: if grab bars and other assistive devices are required please consult a licensed professional so they are properly secured and located according to the correct design and construction standards.
For a toilet installation overview check out this short video:
So here is my list of The Best Toilets for 2021.
Enjoy!
Best Overall: TOTO UltraMax II One-Piece Elongated Toilet
The TOTO UltraMax II features a 1.28 GPF (4.8 LPF) high-efficiency double cyclone flushing action.
Features two powerful nozzles to create a centrifugal action while minimizing water use.
Equipped with the SoftClose seat hinge for a “slam free” experience.
Offers a rim without holes for easy cleaning.
Includes the SanaGloss glaze which makes cleaning the surfaces easier.
Features an ADA compliant design.
Includes tank cover, fittings, and a chrome-plated trip lever.
Runner-Up: WOODBRIDGE T-0019 Dual Flush One-Piece Toilet
The WOODBRIDGE T-0019 features an ultra-low consumption at an average of just 1.28 gallons per flush.
Features a siphon flushing system the offers quieter operation than a standard flush.
Equipped with a soft closing seat with stainless steel hinges.
Includes a skirted trap that makes cleaning easier.
Offers a design that has few creases and curves on the outer surfaces that makes it easier to clean.
Features a dual flush system that offers both 1. 0 and 1.6 GPF that averages out to 1.28 GPF.
Includes the wax ring and floor bolts for installation.
Best Elongated Design: TOTO Drake Two-Piece Toilet
The TOTO Drake two-piece elongated toilet features a low consumption siphon jet flush of 1.6 Gallons Per Flush (6 LPF).
Features a high profile design.
Compatible with a 12-Inch rough-in dimension.
Includes the tank and lid, along with fittings and a chrome-plated trip lever.
Offers an ADA compliant design.
Seat is not included.
Must-have Accessory Upgrade:
A modern alternative to the traditional wax seal.
Best Tall Design: Convenient Height Toilet
The Convenient Height’s extra tall toilet features a dual flush valve with both 1.28 GPF and 0.9 GPF.
Features a height to the top of the toilet seat of 21 inches for those that want a tall option, assuming a 1-inch thick seat.
Note this is higher than the recommended ADA standards.
Includes a soft-close seat for quiet use.
Features a bowl and tank constructed from durable and easy-to-clean porcelain.
Includes a metal lever and plastic flush components to minimize corrosion.
Equipped with a reinforced base for load-bearing.
Features a two-piece design.
Best Modern: Swiss Madison SM-1T254 Toilet
The Swiss Madison SM-1T254 toilet features a simple modern design that is fully skirted making it easy to clean.
Features a dual flush function that offers either 0.8 or 1.6 gallons per flush (GPF) to reduce water consumption.
Features one-piece ceramic construction for an easy installation.
Equipped with quick-release hinges finished in matte chrome.
Offers the ability for the seat to be easily removed for cleaning.
Features a soft close lid for a premium feel without it slamming down.
Best Self Contained Composting: Nature's Head Toilet
The Nature's Head Self Contained Composting Toilet is designed for cabins, workshops, barns, RVs, or anywhere that easy access to a water source is not possible.
Features a self-contained waterless operation.
Equipped with a built-in low volume fan to reduce odors.
Offers an environmentally friendly design with no water use.
Equipped with stainless steel hardware.
Made in the U.S.A.
Best Budget Option: American Standard 288DA114.020 Toilet
The American Standard 288DA114.020 features a low water consumption of 1.1 gallons per flush.
Features a round front design for a compact footprint.
Includes the EverClean surface to reduce the incidence of mold and mildew growth.
Features a PowerWash rim that rises the bowl with every flush.
Equipped with a two-inch fully glazed trapway.
Features a 15" bowl rim height.
Best Right-Hand Lever: Kohler K-3979-RA-0 Toilet
The Kohler K-3979-RA-0 features a two-piece design with 1.6 gallons per flush.
Equipped with single-flush gravity siphon system.
Includes a polished flush lever.
Offers a three-bolt installation.
Does not include a seat.
Best Surface for Cleaning: American Standard 2887218.020 Toilet
The American Standard 2887218.020 features a dual flush system for either 0.92 or 1.28 GPF.
Features the innovative EverClean surface coating that makes cleaning easier and reduces the growth of mildew and the incidence of bacteria forming.
Equipped with the siphon jet bowl system.
Includes a chrome-plated top-mounted flush button.
Features a 16-1/2" bowl height.
Does not include a seat.
Best Minimalist Design: Kohler K-5401-PA-0 One-Piece Toilet
The Kohler K-5401-PA-0 features a tankless design with a UV light and electrolyzed water self-cleaning function for wand surfaces.
Equipped with a stainless steel wand for an adjustable spray, temperature, and various modes.
Features a motion-activated, hands-free opening and closing of both the seat and cover.
Offers a dual flush system of either 0.8 or 1.28 GPF.
Front and rear wash modes provide warm water for cleansing.
Equipped with a heated seat and adjustable temperature settings.
Includes LED lighting to illuminate the bowl at night.
Includes a touchscreen LCD remote control.
I hope this list of the best toilets was helpful.
If you think I left out one that is important or have a suggestion for a future article, let me know in the comments below.
Brandon Hubbard, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP BD+C
