While shopping for a new toilet may seem like an annoying task, it is always worth putting in the time to choose an option you will be happy with. There are plenty of features to consider, whether you want a low flush toilet, a smart toilet, a toilet tank with water efficiency, or a toilet with a good comfort height. Believe it or not, choosing a new toilet is more than just picking out new toilet paper.
To save you time and frustration, we have reviewed hundreds of options to come up with our list of the 7 best flushing toilets on the market today. Below, we will go over everything you need to know about choosing a new toilet for your home!
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Flushing Toilets
- OUR TOP PICK: KOHLER K-3493-RA-0 Highline
- RUNNER-UP: American Standard Champion 4
- BEST BUDGET OPTION: American Standard Cadet 3 FloWise
Comparison of the Best Flushing Toilets
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Factors to Consider Before Buying a Flushing Toilet
To help guide you through the buying process, we are going to highlight some important factors you should take into consideration before you choose a new flushing toilet:
Comfort Level
Given how many hours you will spend on your toilet over its lifetime, it is worth putting in some research to make sure you are choosing a comfortable option.
Style
While we might not think of a toilet as being stylish, the right model can have a major impact on the overall aesthetic of your bathroom. Make sure you are choosing an option that you like the look of. It is also worth taking the time to find one that is available in a color that matches your existing bathroom décor.
Ease of Installation
The best toilets can be installed relatively quickly and without much hassle. Look for a toilet that does not require professional installation if you want to save a little bit of money.
Bowl Type
Flushing toilets are typically available with either elongated or rounded bowls. This will determine what type of seat the toilet will use. The more modern toilets tend to have an elongated bowl, so they usually look better in more contemporary homes. The decision is largely down to personal preference, so pick the style that appeals to you the most.
Water Conservation Rating
Choosing a toilet that was designed with water conservation in mind is a great way to save some money on your annual water bill, as well as do your part for the environment. Most flushing toilets will list how many gallons of water they use per flush. The best options will also list how much water they save per year over a traditional flushing toilet.
Height
The height of your toilet will have a major impact on how practical and comfortable it is for you. If you and your family are on the shorter side, choose one of the standard-sized toilets. On the other hand, if you are a taller family, look for one of the higher options with an elongated seat.
How Easy the Toilet is to Clean
There is no getting around it, you need to clean a toilet on a regular basis if you want to reduce bathroom odors and prevent staining. The best toilets have easy-clean surfaces that can be cleaned quickly and effectively with basic cleaning products. They are also sealed in a way that the color will not fade as a result of exposure to harsh chemicals, like bleach.
Key Terms to Know
To help compare products in this review, we have included a few key specifications for each. Here is a quick summary of what they mean.
- Gallons Per Flush (GPF): How much water is used when the toilet is flushed. This can be a single metric or include two metrics in the case of a dual flushing toilet (which flushes differently depending on whether you are flushing liquids only or solids, as well).
- Installation Method: Whether the unit attaches to the floor or the wall.
- One-Piece or Two-Piece: This is whether the toilet is molded as one unit or the tank and base are separate.
- Dimensions and Weight: The height, length, width, and physical weight of the toilet.
- Material: The main material(s) the toilet is made of.
- Seat Shape (round or elongated): The compatible seat shape.
- Maximum Weight Limit: The maximum amount of weight the toilet can support.
Reviews of the Best Flushing Toilets
Now that we have explained some of the factors you should always take into consideration before you buy a new flushing toilet, we can go over some of our favorite options. The following 7 flushing toilets were chosen because they offer the perfect balance between style, performance, and value:
Best Overall
KOHLER K-3493-RA-0 Highline
Specifications
Gallons Per Flush (GPF): 1.6
Installation Method: Floor Mounted
One-Piece or Two-Piece? Two-Piece
Dimensions and Weight: 30-1/8 x 21-1/4 x 31-1/4″; 102.5 lbs
Material: Ceramic
Seat Shape: Elongated
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Review
KOHLER is one of the top manufacturers of flushing toilets and toilet accessories in the United States, so it is no surprise that this Highline toilet is made to an impressive standard. It sits much higher than a standard toilet, which makes for a more comfortable sitting experience, especially for those with mobility issues.
Despite the fact that it uses less water per flush than a standard toilet, it is incredibly effective at removing waste. This is down to KOHLER’s unique Class Five Flushing Technology, which uses gravity to create a strong siphon during flushing for a plug-free experience.
The elongated bowl design also helps with comfort and it gives the entire toilet a more modern appearance. The right-handed lever is easy to use and the entire toilet can be installed quickly and without much hassle. Overall, this is an exceptional toilet that is a really practical option for anyone that is looking for a toilet that sits higher than 17 inches.
Bottom Line
If you care more about performance and comfort than anything else, you cannot go wrong with the KOHLER Highline Classic. This elongated flushing toilet looks great and works even better. We were really impressed by the fact that it rarely clogs while somehow using less water than a conventional flushing toilet.
Pros
Meets ADA requirements
Available in your choice of a rounded or an elongated bowl style
Sits higher than a standard toilet for a more comfortable experience
‘DryLock’ installation system makes it easier to install than a standard toilet
WaterSense Certification means it saves an average of 16,500 gallons of water per year
Cons
Flushing handle can disconnect if it is pressed at an angle
Runner-up
American Standard Champion 4
Specifications
Gallons Per Flush (GPF): 1.6
Installation Method: Floor Mounted
One-Piece or Two-Piece? One-Piece
Dimensions and Weight: 17.75 x 29.75 x 28.5″; 118 lbs
Material: Vitreous China
Seat Shape: Elongated
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Review
The American Standard Champion 4 combines the traditional look of a one-piece toilet with the more modern styling of an elongated toilet design. It features an ‘EverClean’ exterior surface coating, which helps keep the toilet cleaner for much longer. It also means you can clean the surface with bleach and other harsh chemicals, without having to worry that the toilet will fade or become discolored.
It uses American Standard’s patented ‘4 Piston Accelerator’ flushing valve, which means it can eliminate waste quickly and effectively with even less water than a standard toilet. The slow-close toilet seat is a nice touch, as it prevents unnecessary slamming noises and is safer for small children.
One of the things we really liked about this toilet is how quiet it is when it is flushed. Most toilets create a significant amount of noise after they have been flushed, but the Champion 4 is incredibly quiet.
Bottom Line
If you are looking for a one-piece toilet that works just as well as any of the high-end options, the Champion 4 from American Standard is a great place to start. The fact it can be cleaned quickly and easily is a major plus, as is the low-consumption, siphon jetted bowl.
Pros
Available in three distinct colors
Includes a slow-close toilet seat
One-piece design is easy to install and has a clean appearance
Low-consumption design means it only uses 1.6 gallons per flush
Unique ‘EverClean’ surface prevents the buildup of mold and bacteria
Cons
One-piece toilets tend to be more fragile than two-piece toilets
Best for the Money
American Standard Cadet 3 FloWise
Specifications
Gallons Per Flush (GPF): 1.28
Installation Method: Floor Mounted
One-Piece or Two-Piece? Two-Piece
Dimensions and Weight: 28.25 x 15.75 x 30.75; 75 lbs
Material: Vitreous China
Seat Shape: Elongated
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Review
This two-piece toilet from American Standard has a sleek appearance and is designed to conserve water. Each flush only uses 1.28 gallons of water, which is 20 percent less than most modern toilets. It was ergonomically designed to have the perfect height for the average person to feel comfortable.
It also features American Standard’s ‘EverClean’ surface, so it fights stains and the spread of bacteria. One of the things we liked the most about this toilet is the fact that it is backed by an impressive 5-year warranty!
Despite its low-flow design, it does an excellent job of eliminating waste, so you will not have to worry about frustrating clogs. The chrome plated lever gives this modern toilet a really sophisticated look.
Bottom Line
As we have come to expect from American Standard flushing toilets, this unit is made to a really impressive standard. It is available at a really budget-friendly price, but it still looks and works just as great as any of the higher end toilets!
Pros
Includes a slow-close seat and cover
Only uses 1.28 gallons of water per flush
Oversized 3-inch flushing lever is easier to use
Siphon action jetted bowl with concealed trapway
‘EverClean’ surface inhibits the growth of bacteria and is easier to wipe clean
Cons
At 75 lbs, it is fairly heavy, which can make installation difficult for a single person
Most Powerful Flushing Toilet
TOTO UltraMax II
Specifications
Gallons Per Flush (GPF): 1.28
Installation Method: Floor Mounted
One-Piece or Two-Piece? One Piece
Dimensions and Weight: 28.31 x 16.56 x 28.75″; 101 lbs
Material: Ceramic
Seat Shape: Elongated
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Review
The TOTO UltraMax II is a one-piece, elongated universal height toilet. Its sleek design will look great in just about any bathroom, and the unique exterior glaze ensures it will not fade. The fact it is also bacteria and mold resistant is really helpful, as it makes it much easier to clean the inside and outside of the toilet.
What really sets the UltraMax II apart is its incredibly powerful flushing force. Despite the fact that it is designed to use less water than a conventional toilet, it can remove waste quickly and easily. This is partially helped by the fact that there is less space between the tank and the bowl than a typical toilet. Less space means the water gets there faster and with more force. Dual nozzles also create a centrifugal washing action that helps rinse the bowl quickly.
If you find that your current toilet clogs on a regular basis, the TOTO UltraMax II might be the right upgrade for your needs.
Bottom Line
TOTO makes some exceptional bathroom accessories and this powerful flushing toilet is no exception. If you value flushing power, you cannot go wrong with the UltraMax II. Just remember, this is a fairly heavy toilet, so it should be installed by at least two people.
Pros
Comes with a soft close seat
Chrome plated flushing lever
Universal height allows for a more comfortable sitting experience
Powerful TOTO ‘Tornado Flush System’ creates a powerful flushing force
Unique exterior glaze prevents the buildup of bacteria and mold inside and outside of the bowl
Cons
Somewhat expensive
Best Toilet for Flushing Large Waste
TOTO CST744SL Drake GMAX
Specifications
Gallons Per Flush (GPF): 1.6
Installation Method: Floor Mounted
One-Piece or Two-Piece? Two-Piece
Dimensions and Weight: 28 x 19.5 x 30.5″;
56.5 lbs
Material: Vitreous China
Seat Shape: Elongated
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Review
As mentioned, TOTO makes high-quality toilets and bathroom accessories. This particular model was designed to remove large amounts of waste quickly and effectively. It uses TOTO’s unique G-Max Flush Technology, which involves an extra-wide flush valve that allows the toilet to generate more force with the same amount of water.
Drawing water from the tank faster increases performance, while the fully glazed trap-way creates a quiet flush. In terms of style and appearance, the high-profile design and sleek, shiny exterior gives the toilet a really impressive look. The wide assortment of color variations also allows you to find the perfect look for your particular bathroom.
Bottom Line
If you struggle with clogs and blockages, the TOTO Drake G-MAX is the ideal solution. Not only does it create more flushing power than a conventional flushing toilet, it looks really nice and is made to the same high standard we have come to expect from TOTO products. Installation is also really easy and the brand’s reputation for reliability offers really valuable peace of mind.
Pros
Backed by a one-year warranty
Generates 8 psi of water pressure
G-Max flushing system has incredible suction power
Available in 5 different colors, including black and silver
High-profile tank looks really stylish and holds more water than a conventional toilet
Cons
Does not come with a toilet seat
Quietest Flushing Toilet
Swiss Madison SM-WT450 Chateau
Specifications
Gallons Per Flush (GPF): 1.28
Installation Method: Wall Mounted
One-Piece or Two-Piece? One-Piece
Dimensions and Weight: 20.68 x 14.75 x 13.37″; 48 lbs
Material: Ceramic
Seat Shape: Elongated
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Review
The Swiss Madison SM-WT450 Chateau is easily the most unique flushing toilet on our list. It has a floating design, which means the toilet is installed directly to the wall and has a concealed water tank. It has two flushing modes, so it will use less water if you are only flushing liquid waste.
What really stood out to us is how incredibly quiet this toilet is when flushed. This is partially due to the fact that the water tank is concealed behind the wall but also has a bit to do with the unique design of the bowl, which helps trap and dampen some of the noise when the lid is closed.
It is available in three distinct color options, so you can match it to your current décor. The fact that you can clean beneath the toilet and the bowl has an easy-to-clean ceramic surface means that you can keep the toilet looking fantastic for years to come.
Bottom Line
If you are looking for a truly unique and modern-looking toilet, you cannot go wrong with this option from Swiss Madison. Its concealed, floating styling looks really nice, but you should note that you will have to hire a professional to install it correctly. If you are fully renovating your bathroom and want a real statement piece, we highly suggest taking a serious look at this innovative and quiet flushing toilet.
Pros
Adjustable height
Easy-to-clean surface
Dual flushing options
Modern floating design
Incredibly quiet flushing sound
Cons
Very difficult to install and requires a concealed tank and wall actuator, which are both sold separately
Best Dual Flush Toilet
WOODBRIDGE T-0001
Specifications
Gallons Per Flush (GPF): 1.28
Installation Method: Floor Mounted
One-Piece or Two-Piece? One-Piece
Dimensions and Weight: 28.5 x 14.5 x 27.5″ ;
119 lbs
Material: Brass
Seat Shape: Elongated
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Review
Woodbridge designs and manufactures all of its kitchen and bathroom products in California, so it is no surprise that they have some of the most eye-catching designs in the industry. This sleek, one-piece toilet would not look out of place in even the most modern bathrooms.
The main feature we liked about this particular toilet is the fact that it offers dual flushing options, which means you can use a 1.0-gallon flush, or a 1.6-gallon flush. Using less water for removing liquid waste saves a tremendous amount of water over the duration of an entire year. We also liked other features, like the comfortable, easy-close seat.
It is really easy to install and Woodbridge backs the toilet with 24/7 customer support and a 1-year warranty!
Bottom Line
If you are looking to cut down on water usage and install a modern-looking toilet that is both comfortable and stylish, you cannot go wrong with the Woodbridge T-0001 Dual Flushing Elongated Comfort Toilet. It has a minimalist appearance that anyone that prefers contemporary design features will absolutely love!
Pros
Incredibly comfortable
Quiet and powerful dual flush design
Luxurious and modern design catches the eye
Comes with a soft closing toilet seat with stainless steel hinges
Concealed trap-way and one-piece design makes it really easy to clean
Cons
Somewhat expensive compared to other options
Types of Flushing Systems
Here are the types:
Gravity Flush System
This is the most common type of flushing system and it relies on the natural force of gravity to pull water through the toilet. A top-mounted water tank is drained to create a siphon and pull waste from the bowl. Most of the toilets we reviewed above rely on a gravity flush system to eliminate waste.
Pressure Assisted Flushing System
These toilets use both gravity and compressed air to create a more powerful flush than a traditional gravity flush system. A pressurized tank within the main water tank forces water through the pipes, which helps eliminate waste with more force than a basic gravity-reliant toilet.
Dual Flush System
These toilets feature two different flushing options, which allows the user to determine how much water should be used during the flush. One is for flushing liquid waste and uses less water, while the other uses a larger volume of water and is designed to flush away solid waste. The main advantage of these types of toilets is the fact that you can save a significant amount of water over the course of a year by only using the lesser flush when you are getting rid of liquid waste. They are a great option for people in drought-prone areas, or those that rely on a well system for their water.
Flushing Toilet Comparisons
Let’s compare the different types of flushing toilets.
Push Button Toilet vs Handle Flush
Push button flush toilets are a relatively recent invention. They are quickly becoming the standard in many European countries. They tend to use less water than a traditional handle flush toilet, as they let you more accurately control the amount of water you want to flow with the flush. They also have a more modern appearance, which is why they are more common in freshly renovated homes.
Handle flush toilets are far more traditional and you have probably seen countless varieties in older homes and restaurants. The choice between the two is largely down to personal preference, so choose the type that you prefer the look of!
Single vs Dual Flush Toilet
As mentioned above, a dual flush toilet gives you the choice between a large volume flush and a low volume flush. This lets you determine how much water should be released when you flush.
A single flush toilet simply has one button or lever, as there is only one option when it comes to flushing. They use more water, as the full flushing volume is released, even if you are just looking to flush away liquid waste.
Top Brands in the Flushing Toilet Space
To help you choose the right toilet, we are going to go over some of the best flushing toilet brands:
KOHLER
KOHLER is known for making stylish and modern kitchen and bathroom products. Their toilets are usually made with eye-catching designs and they are usually made with eco-friendly, water-saving features. They are widely recognized for having some of the highest quality flushing toilets on the market!
American Standard
American Standard is one of North America’s leading plumbing supply brands. They manufacture a wide range of high-performance flushing toilets. Their toilets range from traditional styles to the most modern designs. The fact that the American Standard brand has been making toilets and plumbing supplies for over 140 years is a testament to the brand’s enduring quality.
TOTO
TOTO toilets are known for their lasting quality. This is because the brand makes sure all of their bathroom and kitchen products are designed to be as durable as possible. When it comes to flushing toilets, the brand also focuses on comfort and water efficiency, so they tend to have comfortable seats and use less water per flush than other brands.
Price Points of a Flushing Toilet
Since budget is always an important consideration whenever you shop for any product for your home, we are going to take a look at some of the main price ranges for flushing toilets:
$100 – $250
Toilets in this price range are considered to be entry-level options. They usually have a really basic design and do not have any of the extra features you would get with a higher-end flushing toilet.
$250 – $400
This is considered to be the mid-range level for flushing toilets. Typically, these types of toilets are made to a better standard and have useful features like bacteria-resistant surfaces and powerful flushing forces.
$400 +
Once you get over $400, you are into the high-end flushing toilet category. These toilets usually have some of the more luxurious features, like extra-quiet flushes, dual flushing options, quiet-close seats, and more. They also tend to have the latest designs, so they look more stylish in a modern bathroom.
Conclusion
Now that you know a little bit more about flushing toilets, you will be able to make the right choice. Remember, each of the toilets we highlighted and reviewed above were chosen because they balance performance with value. Weigh up your personal preferences and choose the flushing toilet that matches your own budget and style!
People Also Ask
A Scottish inventor named Alexander Cumming is often credited as the official inventor of the flush toilet because he was granted the first official patent for one in 1775. With that being said, it is highly likely that others invented flush toilets earlier, but were unable to patent their designs.
The standard flushing volume is 1.6 gallons per flush. However, more recent toilets have switched to using only 1.28 gallons per flush, which helps conserve water. Using less water saves the user money and helps reduce the impact the person has on the environment.
Dual flush toilets tend to be more energy efficient than single flush toilets, as they give the user the option to use less water per flush. These toilets usually have a water-saving rating, as they use designs that harness gravity to remove waste, rather than just a large volume of water.
It is an acronym for Gallons Per Flush. It is used to quickly state how water and energy efficient a particular toilet is by telling you how much water it will use when it is flushed.
In the past, 1.6 gallons per flush was the recommended water volume; however, modern advancements in toilet design have made 1.28 gallons per flush the standard. Saving 20 percent of the water each time the toilet is flushed has massive ramifications for the environment when it is viewed from a large nation-sized scale.
