Different Types of Toilets (and How to Choose the Best One for Your Bathroom)

When planning a bathroom remodel, it’s easy to focus on the big, eye-catching elements — tile, vanities, lighting. But one essential fixture quietly impacts both your comfort and your home’s efficiency: the toilet.

Modern toilets come in many styles, shapes, and technologies. Whether you’re upgrading for water conservation, accessibility, or simply a cleaner look, choosing the right model can make a surprising difference in how your bathroom feels and functions.

Let’s explore the different types of toilets, how they work, and what to consider when choosing one for your remodel.

What Is a High-Efficiency Toilet?

A high-efficiency toilet (HET) is designed to use less water per flush while maintaining strong performance. Most modern models use 1.28 gallons or less per flush, compared to older toilets that can use 3–7 gallons.

Instead of relying solely on water volume, these toilets use flushing velocity — the force and design of the bowl — to clear waste effectively. The result is a cleaner flush using a fraction of the water.

Benefits of high-efficiency toilets include:

• Lower water bills and long-term savings.
  
• Reduced environmental impact.
  
• Updated styling and comfort features.
  

When shopping, look for the EPA WaterSense label, which certifies toilets that meet strict efficiency and performance standards.

What Is a Dual-Flush Toilet?

If your goal is maximum water efficiency, consider a dual-flush toilet. These models feature two flush options — one for liquid waste and one for solid waste — typically controlled by two buttons on the tank lid.

The smaller flush uses less water (often around 0.8 gallons), while the full flush uses about 1.28 gallons. By giving you control over how much water is used, a dual-flush toilet can reduce household water consumption by up to 60–70% compared to older models.

Pros:

• Significant water savings.
  
• Modern, minimalist design.
  
• Available in various heights and shapes.
  

Cons:

• Slightly higher upfront cost.
  
• Some models may require more frequent cleaning since less water remains in the bowl.
  
• More complex parts can mean higher repair costs if something breaks.
  

What Is a Low-Flow Toilet?

Low-flow toilets are designed to meet minimum water-use requirements without the dual-flush option. They’re sometimes called single-flush high-efficiency toilets and are perfect for bathrooms with heavy use or for those who prefer simplicity.

There are two different types of low-flow flushing toilets:

Gravity-Fed Toilets

These use the natural force of gravity — water from the tank flows into the bowl, creating a siphoning effect that clears waste. They’re quieter and easier to maintain, making them a popular household choice.

Pressure-Assisted Toilets

These contain a small air tank inside the main tank that releases pressurized water for a stronger flush. They’re powerful and great for larger families but can be noisier than gravity-fed models.

Benefits of low-flow toilets:

• Reduce water use by up to 50% compared to older models.
  
• Simple operation — one flush type, no confusion.
  
• Available in compact, space-saving designs.
  

Dual-Flush vs. Low-Flow: A Quick Comparison

Both toilet types are designed for efficiency, but they suit different needs. Here’s how they compare:

Feature	Dual-Flush	Low-Flow
Water Use	Offers two flush volumes for maximum control	Uses one reduced-volume flush each time
Ease of Use	Two buttons or levers for different flushes	One standard flush mechanism
Maintenance	May require more frequent cleaning	Generally simpler to maintain
Cost	Slightly higher upfront cost, potential rebates	Usually more affordable
Best For	Homes prioritizing water conservation and flexibility	High-traffic bathrooms needing durability and simplicity

These two different types of toilets can both significantly reduce your household’s water usage — the best choice depends on your household’s size, budget, and comfort preferences.

How to Choose the Right Toilet for Your Remodel

Once you’ve narrowed down your preferred flush type, consider a few additional factors that can make your bathroom more comfortable and functional:

1. Height

Standard toilets are about 14–15 inches from floor to seat, while comfort-height or ADA-compliant models range from 16–17 inches. The latter are easier on the knees and ideal for taller users or anyone with mobility concerns.

2. Bowl Shape

• Round bowls are compact — perfect for small bathrooms.
  
• Elongated bowls offer more seating comfort and a sleek, modern appearance.
  

3. Style and Design

From one-piece toilets (tank and bowl integrated) to two-piece designs (separate tank and bowl), style impacts both aesthetics and cleaning ease. One-piece models look sleeker and are easier to wipe down, while two-piece designs are often more budget-friendly.

4. Additional Features

Modern toilets can include smart and comfort features like:

• Heated seats.
  
• Built-in bidet or washlet systems.
  
• Self-cleaning or deodorizing technology.
  
• Touchless or motion-activated flush.
  

Different Types of Toilets for Long-Lasting Comfort and Performance

Toilets may not be the flashiest part of a bathroom remodel, but they’re one of the most important. A well-chosen model combines style, performance, and efficiency — saving water, reducing maintenance, and improving everyday comfort.

If you’re replacing an older toilet, nearly any modern model will use far less water and perform better. From dual-flush flexibility to low-flow simplicity, the best choice depends on your priorities — budget, design style, and who uses the space most often.

A toilet might seem like a small upgrade, but the right one can make your bathroom safer, cleaner, and more comfortable — while saving thousands of gallons of water a year.

If you want help comparing these different types of toilets for your bathroom, contact Schicker — we’ll walk you through your options and help you choose the right fit.