Toilet Buying Guide: What to Know Before You Buy

How to Choose the Right Toilet

A good toilet lasts 25+ years, so it pays to choose wisely. Here is what actually matters when shopping for a new toilet.

One-Piece vs Two-Piece

Two-piece toilets (separate tank and bowl) are the most common and affordable option. Easy to ship and install. Top picks: KOHLER Cimarron, Delta Foundations.

One-piece toilets integrate tank and bowl seamlessly. Easier to clean, more modern look, but heavier. Top picks: KOHLER San Souci, KOHLER Persuade Curv.

Flush Technology Matters

KOHLER AquaPiston uses a 360-degree canister flush (not a flapper) for more powerful, consistent flushing with less maintenance.

Gravity flush is the standard — simple, reliable, quiet. KOHLER Class Five is their most powerful gravity option.

All modern toilets are WaterSense certified at 1.28 GPF or less — 20% water savings over older 1.6 GPF models.

Comfort Height vs Standard

Comfort Height (17-19" seat height) sits like a chair — easier for most adults and required for ADA compliance. This is now the default for most new toilets.

Standard height (15-16") may be preferred for children's bathrooms or shorter individuals.

Bowl Shape

Elongated — More comfortable, more sitting area. Standard choice for most bathrooms.

Compact elongated — Elongated comfort in a round-front footprint. Perfect for tight spaces.

Round-front — Saves 2" of space. Best for small powder rooms.

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