The 9 Best Toilet Brands of 2023
Dotdash Meredith and Yahoo Inc. may earn commission or revenue on some items through the links below.
Whether you're on a budget or looking to splurge
The Spruce / Marcus Millan
If you are in search of a new toilet but don’t know what style to choose, deciding on a toilet brand can be a great place to start. Many brands offer a variety of models that will fit different budgets and styles, from your basic porcelain toilet to higher-end options with heated seats and built-in bidets.
Crucially, buying a new toilet can also be a way to save water. “In addition to not working, if your toilet has become leaky and can’t be fixed, that is also a critical reason to replace it," says Dr. Adam Carpenter, Manager of Energy and Environmental Policy for the American Water Works Association. "The water use from a toilet leak can be very expensive, wasting more than 1000 gallons of water per week,” Replacing an older toilet with a water-efficient model is an easy step to take.
Keeping Dr. Carpenter's advice in mind, we vetted some of the top toilet brands on the market, considering their affordability and range of offerings. When shopping, you'll find that there are plenty of options available both in person and online, from legacy brands like Kohler and American Standard. Specialty types of toilets, including TOTO USA smart toilets and Nature’s Head composting toilets, are also good options for those who want something specific but need to decide between multiple models.
Kohler
What We Like
Modern, timeless design
Lots of upgraded options top choose from
Easy-to-use website and design recommendations
What We Don't Like
Expensive
Toilet seats sold separately
One of the most recognizable toilet brands is Kohler, in part due to its availability at many major retailers in stores and online. Kohler was founded in 1873 and has experience with almost every kind of manufacturing, beginning with farm tools and evolving to the brand that we recognize today. Kohler is known for making toilets and other fixtures such as faucets, showers, baths, and sinks that are timeless and modern as well as reliable. On their easy-to-navigate website, you can shop by type of toilet. Most of their features highlight the higher-end models, like smart toilets that include features like bidets, heated seats, and integrated cleaning wands. But even their more standard toilets are very well made and bring a modern feel to your bathroom.
The Kohler Corbelle Comfort Height Toilet got top marks on our list of the best toilets due to its powerful flushing, modern design, and dependability for high-quality manufacturing. Like other Kohler toilets, you will need to purchase a toilet seat separately. Fortunately, you can do that when you order and easily identify which seats are best suited for the model that you choose. You can even use their design feature to sort by style and see which toilet and seat are best for your home.
Kohler is a more expensive brand than some others. But they do have some features that make them well worth the cost, notably the powerful flushing and the water savings on the WaterSense models. They also come with a one-year warranty, with an extended warranty for some interior mechanical parts.
Return Policy: 45 days | Warranty Policy: 1 year | Delivery Options: Standard, 2-day expedited, 1-day premium | Payment Options: Credit card, PayPal
American Standard
Buy at Americanstandard-us.com
What We Like
A lot of interactive design features
Long history of high quality
Easy to sort by style
Design services
Long warranty
What We Don't Like
Expensive
Another well-known heritage brand, American Standard has one of the best interfaces to select a toilet that works for your room and needs. You can sort by configuration, shape, or height. You also have the option to sort by style, including classic, transitional, and modern. Most of their products can be used in a variety of styles but there are a few that really make a statement.
If you need extra help, there is also a design service that is free to use on their website. They pair toilets with other fixtures, such as faucets, towel bars, toilet paper holders, and other items to create a cohesive look. You can also use their RoomCreate software to tour a virtual showroom as well as design your own “dream bathroom.” American Standard toilets are a bit pricey but a great value, given their great quality and design.
Return Policy: 30 days | Warranty Policy: 10 years | Delivery Options: Standard | Payment Options: Credit card, Debit card, PayPal
Glacier Bay
What We Like
Affordable
Toilet seat included
Can see in store or order online
Lifetime warranty
What We Don't Like
Not as easy to visualize in your own space
This budget-friendly line of toilets is available at The Home Depot and comes in a variety of styles, colors, sizes, and shapes. If you want a toilet brand that looks and performs great without breaking the bank, Glacier Bay should be at the top of your list. There are a lot of high-efficiency models available, which can save money on water costs over time as well as the initial price of the toilet. There are plenty of photos and diagrams of the toilets on The Home Depot website but not as many customizable design features as some higher-end brands.
These models also include the seat, making them a one-stop purchase. You will need to install and buy some installation materials such as plumber's putty. But with such an affordable price, adding a little to the installation cost is easy. Plus, you’re already at The Home Depot, either in the store or purchasing online, so you can get everything in one trip. You can even have them shipped to your home or the store.
Return Policy: 90 days | Warranty Policy: Lifetime | Delivery Options: Standard, Ship to store | Payment Options: Credit card, Debit card, PayPal
TOTO USA
What We Like
Easy to clean
Water efficient
Modern look
A lot of smart toilet options
What We Don't Like
Not a lot of design choices
Expensive
If you hate cleaning the toilet, you’ll love the concave rim of the TOTO toilets that keep grime and dirt from building up. They are super easy to wipe clean and the strong flushing makes sure that everything that needs to go down does. They tend to be on the modern side of design, although there are a few transitional looks in their lineup. Overall, TOTO emphasizes clean lines over ornate details.
There are plenty of smart toilet options from TOTO. In fact, the brand's high-efficiency smart toilet and heated Washlet bidet seat earned spots on both our smart toilet and toilet seat roundups. Its smart toilets are pretty expensive and even the regular models are pricey. Just note that it can also be challenging to find the best price, as they are sold in so many places and you can’t actually buy them directly from TOTO.
Return Policy: Various based on retailer | Warranty Policy: 1 year | Delivery Options: Various based on retailer | Payment Options: Credit card, PayPal
Text Link:The 9 Best Smart Toilets of 2023
Delta
What We Like
Carried by a lot of retailers
Available in toilets or individual parts
Budget-friendly
What We Don't Like
Some models only sold at specific stores
Delta is synonymous with classic, timeless style, and great value. These toilets are also available at a variety of retailers. Some models are only sold at specific stores, though, so make sure to do an extra bit of research before deciding on your favorite option. The Foundations model is a good budget-friendly pick. It is also available in the bowl only, the bowl and tank, or just a seat for your existing toilet.
The warranty varies from one to five years depending on the specific part. The ceramic portion comes with a 5-year workmanship warranty while the mechanical parts and toilet seat only have a 1-year warranty. The return policy through Delta is 90 days but it might be longer if purchased through an outside retailer. Fortunately, Delta is carried in a lot of stores so you can shop around for any sales and specials, as well as see the toilets in person before deciding.
Return Policy: 90 days | Warranty Policy: 1 year | Delivery Options: Various based on retailer | Payment Options: Credit card, PayPal
Nature’s Head
What We Like
Fast shipping in most cases
Stainless steel parts
Extra parts and accessories available
Helpful tutorials online
What We Don't Like
Some shipping destinations take longer
Looking for a composting toilet? Nature’s Head is a top choice. This self-contained toilet setup is good for those that want to go off the grid or don’t have access to plumbing systems, such as when camping. It has all stainless steel parts, making it extra durable, and all of the parts disassemble for even easier emptying and portability. That also makes it easy to clean and disinfect
Nature’s Head composting toilets are carried by a variety of retailers around the US and ship for a flat fee anywhere within the continental United States. They can take longer and be more expensive to get to Alaska, Hawaii, or abroad, however, Nature’s Head does ship around the world. There are extra accessories and spare parts available. We recommend getting what you think you may need so that you can save on shipping with one order. If you are new to composting toilets and aren’t sure what is required, Nature’s Head also has helpful videos and tutorials.
Return Policy: 60 days | Warranty Policy: 5 years | Delivery Options: Standard, Expedited upon request | Payment Options: Credit card, PayPal
Text Link:The 6 Best Composting Toilets of 2023
Swiss Madison
What We Like
Modern designs
A lot of built-in bidets and seats
Multiple colors available
Helpful parts list for each toilet model
What We Don't Like
No international delivery
Company does not have a long history
For an ultra-modern look, consider toilets from Swiss Madison. A newer brand on the market, Swiss Madison focuses on design details and modern touches, including wall-mounted options, bidet seats, and concealed tanks. There are still one-piece options with back tanks. Even these toilets emphasize strong vertical lines and minimal decoration. You can choose from plenty of modern colors, including matte black and glossy white with rose gold hardware. Shipping costs vary by destination, although you can opt for free local delivery in the New York City local area. Unfortunately, Swiss Madison does not ship to Hawaii, Puerto Rico, or internationally.
The toilets also include a dual flush, a modern touch that can help save water. You can choose between two flush modes to conserve water when possible. The schematics and installation guides are also especially helpful. There is also a parts list for each toilet model. If you ever need to replace a broken part, this will save you a lot of time and headaches since you can just refer to the online list when ordering. All parts needed for installation are already included.
Return Policy: 30 days | Warranty Policy: 1 year | Delivery Options: Standard | Payment Options: Credit card, PayPal, ShopPay, GooglePay, MetaPay, Venmo
Woodbridge
What We Like
A lot of extra features
Frequent deals and discounts
Free shipping in continental US
What We Don't Like
Not available outside of continental US
Expensive
Woodbridge is a great toilet brand if you want a tankless toilet that doesn’t take up a lot of space. Most of their models have a low profile and clean lines. They are also known for smart seats and bidets. Features like heated seats, wireless remote controls, and auto flush are all popular. Adjustable bidet washes are also available in a lot of their models. Finally, an air purifier built into the toilet can help keep the air in your bathroom clean and hygienic, not to mention smelling great.
With all of these futuristic features comes a hefty price tag. Most Woodbridge toilets cost $750 or more. Some models even top $1700. You can watch for sales and flash deals, as well as sign up for the Woodbridge mailing list to get some discounts. Shipping is free within the continental United States. If needed, you can pay an additional fee to upgrade to expedited shipping or in-home delivery. If you want to pick it up yourself, each model shows where you can pick it up from a warehouse.
Return Policy: 30 days | Warranty Policy: 1 year | Delivery Options: Standard, expedited, in-home | Payment Options: Credit card, PayPal
Text Link:The 9 Best Smart Toilets of 2023
Brondell
What We Like
A lot of cool features
Some budget-friendly accessories
Eco-friendly company
What We Don't Like
Need to purchase commode separately
Expensive toilet seats
Brondell sells toilet seats to upgrade your existing commode. You will need to purchase a bowl and tank separately or already have one that you want to use installed. There are bidet seats as well as heated seats that will make your bathroom trip much more luxurious and hygienic. They can also save water, a key feature that Brondell promotes with its lineup of toilet seats.
These seats are expensive, especially when you consider that you have to purchase the rest of the toilet setup in addition to the pricey seat. There are a few bidet attachments that are more budget-friendly. In those cases, the attachment works with your existing toilet and seat as an add-on accessory.
As a company, Brondell is all about sustainability. So if that’s a major factor for you, you’ll be happy with the steps that Brondell takes to conserve water both in the design of their products and their manufacturing. They also have numerous programs to promote sustainability and support eco-friendly initiatives.
Return Policy: 30 days | Warranty Policy: 1 year | Delivery Options: Standard | Payment Options: Credit card, PayPal
Read Next:The 11 Best Bidet Attachments of 2023, Tested and Reviewed
What to Look for in a Toilet Brand
Tank and Flushing System
Most toilets have a tank at the back and a side or top flush handle or button. Some models do come with two flush options that use varying amounts of water based on your need. This is a great way to conserve water and be eco-friendly, something that Brondell is known for.
“In terms of new features, there are a wide variety of models on the market, some with dual-flush and a variety of other features, most for comfort,” says Dr. Adam Carpenter, Manager of Energy and Environmental Policy with the American Water Works Association. “WaterSense evaluates efficiency (actually uses the amount of water advertised) and performance (works efficiently to remove waste).”
Wall-mount and low-profile toilets, like many models from Swiss Madison, can come without a tank or with a hidden tank that is built into the wall, although these can be more costly both in installation and initial cost.
Size, Shape, and Capacity Options
Toilets are measured by their height as well as their depth and tank capacity. Elongated toilets are deeper than round toilets and typically come in standard sizes. You can also look at the capacity of the tank when deciding on the best toilet for your room. Most models come with measurements provided as well as recommended clearance to be able to use the toilet comfortably.
American Standard has plenty of sizes, shapes, and capacities, which is one reason that so many people like them and start their search with this brand.
Cost
A well-made toilet doesn’t need to cost a lot. Some of the best toilet brands have models that cost less than $200. For toilets that will last for a long time and come with high-end finishes, you can expect to pay between $200 and $400. Special features, such as heated seats or bidets common in Woodbridge and TOTO USA toilets, can run more, even up to $1000 or more.
When deciding on the best toilet brand, you should also consider if it comes with the installation materials needed, including a toilet seat. If not, you will need to factor in those additional costs.
Where You Can Shop
If you want to be able to see the toilet models in person, look for a retailer that is carried in stores. Some are only sold online or have limited in-person availability. Other brands are only carried in specific stores or have models that are only carried in those stores. Pay close attention to the availability of shipping as well.
Glacier Bay is specific to The Home Depot but others, such as American Standard and Kohler, are available at multiple retailers and online.
Frequently Asked Questions
How big should a toilet be?
The size of your toilet depends mostly on the available size of your room. Round toilets typically measure around 16.5 inches deep and elongated toilets are around 18.5 inches deep. If you have space, an elongated toilet is usually preferred. But in smaller bathrooms, a round toilet works well and frees up space for other bathroom essentials.
Are toilet pipes standard size?
The waste drain for your toilet, which is the pipe that goes directly from your toilet to your plumbing system, is 3 or 4 inches in diameter. Wider pipes are better at avoiding clogs but the 3-inch pipe is typically just fine in most households. If your pipes are not this size, you may need to hire a plumber to do an overhaul of your plumbing, since there are specific code requirements when it comes to pipes leading to and from your waste system.
How much does a toilet cost?
Budget-friendly toilets are usually between $100 and $200. Mid-range toilets cost a few hundred dollars. High-end or specialty toilets, including those with bidets and heated seats, can cost $800 or even more than $1000.
When considering the cost of your toilet, think about any extra parts or installation costs that may be required, as well as how often you think you might need to replace the toilet. Even though there is a cost associated with purchasing a new toilet, you might be able to save money on your water bills with the replacement.
“Every toilet sold in the United States has to comply with the requirements of the Department of Energy, which is generally 1.6 gallons per flush,” says Dr. Carpenter. “However, many toilets in use today were from well before that standard was established, hence many that use 5-6 gallons.”
Why Trust The Spruce?
This article was researched and written by Katie Melynn, a freelance writer specializing in home and family products. Katie has been writing for The Spruce since 2019. To compile this list, she considered long-time customer favorites like American Standard and Kohler, as well as some newer brands that have desirable features like bidets and heated seats. She talked to Dr. Adam Carpenter, Manager of Energy and Environmental Policy with the American Water Works Association.
