Picking a toilet is hard. But it shouldn’t be. The experts at Toiletable are here to make the process as easy as possible.
Today’s topic is: exposed trapways – what are they, what’s their function, and what units have one!
Page Contents
Our Top Picks
Editor’s Choice: Kohler Kathryn
Review Champion: American Standard Champion 4
Best Price: American Standard H2Optimum
Best Height: DeerValley Concord
Runner Up: TOTO Drake
Exposed Trapways Explained
Let’s break it down. A trapway is an “S-shaped” pipe located in the back of your toilet.
This pipe is where the wastewater goes when it’s disposed of.
An exposed trapway is when the trapway shape is visible.
A skirted, or concealed, trapway is when the toilet’s trapway is fully hidden.
Benefits and Negatives
Exposed trapway units tend to be cheaper than skirted trapway units. However, these units are slightly harder to clean because there are more nooks and crannies for dirt to accumulate in.
It’s still possible to get into the crevices and clean the back of the toilet, but it just will take a bit more time than in a concealed trapway unit.
As for aesthetics – it can go either way. Some users love the feeling of an exposed trapway as it shows the intricacies of the toilet.
Others prefer the sleek look of a skirted trapway. It’s all about preference.
Comparison of the Most Popular Exposed Trapway Toilets
Review of the 5 Best Toilets with Exposed Trapways (UPDATED)
Our team gathered facts and ranked the top exposed trapway toilets and reviewed each.
“At Toiletable, we take great pride in our Editor’s Choices. The Kohler Kathryn lives up to our high standards with its fantastic build, effective flush, and comfortable design.”
- ✅ AquaPiston technology
- ✅ Quiet close seat
| Flush System: | Aqua Piston Flush Technology |
| Flush Type: | Gravity Flush |
| Bowl Shape: | |
| Water Consumption: | |
| Style: | |
Dimensions:
- Toilet – 32 x 19 x 28″
- – 12″
- 2-1/8″
- – 14.5″
CHECK PRICE on BUILD.COM CHECK PRICE on AMAZON
Kohler is one of the toilet industry’s greats.
Flushing
The Kathryn uses 1.28 gallons per flush and has a MaP score of 1,000 grams. The toilet’s superior flush is thanks to its precision-engineered tank, bowl, and trapway that harnesses the power of gravity to create an extra-strong siphon. The Kathryn is also equipped with Revolution 360 swirl flushing technology which streams water all around the bowl so no grime or streaks are left behind.
The high-quality AquaPiston canister optimizes flush performance by requiring a lower actuation force than a traditional flapper. The canister’s design has 90% less exposed seal material than a three-inch flapper, reducing the chance of leakage. The toilet’s flush valve also has a 3:2 ratio that further increases flushing strength.
To flush the toilet, simply lift the lever located on the toilet’s tank.
Design
The Kathryn is a unique toilet, which is exactly what we love about it. The toilet’s trapway is beautifully slanted while also being completely covered. This provides the toilet with an interesting look but also a functional clean finish. With no spaces for dirt to accumulate in, the toilet only requires a wipe-down every once in a while.
The toilet’s Clean Caps low-profile bolt caps facilitate easier cleaning as they’re easily removable and simple to reinstall.
We love that the Kathryn is ADA-compliant, with a height of 16 ⅜” and an elongated bowl. ADA-compliant toilets are ideal for those in need of extra support when sitting or standing up, such as those with mobility issues or taller users.
The Kathryn is available in white, biscuit, and black black. The toilet comes with a left-hand polished chrome trip lever. From our perspective, the trip lever is a bit strange. Instead of pushing down like a traditional lever, this one requires you to pull upwards. While it’s not that big of a difference, it’s worth mentioning.
A Quiet-Close compact elongated seat is included. The seat withstands the test of time by preventing unwanted slamming. The seat is also easy to clean as you can remove it in seconds with the Quick-Release hinges.
Product Documentation:
Pros and Cons
- 1.28 gpf with Revolution 360 swirl technology
- Quiet Close seat included
- ADA compliant
- Limited color selection
Our Final Take
Though there aren’t many reviews about the Kathryn, the ones available are overwhelmingly positive. Users love the toilet’s smart design and easy-to-clean exterior. Positive reviews mention the toilet’s eco-friendly water usage and affordable price. Though there aren’t many negative reviews about the toilet, the most common one that pops up is the toilet’s loud flush.
“We’ve loved the Champion 4 the moment it came out. But thanks to the power of reviews, you don’t just have to take our word for it!”
- ✅ Champion 4 flushing system
- ✅ 4″ flush valve
✅ Low-consumption
| Flush System: | Round front siphon action bowl with direct-fed jet |
| Flush Type: | |
| Bowl Shape: | |
| Water Consumption: | |
| Style: | |
Dimensions:
- Toilet – 17-3/4 x 29-3/4 x 28-1/8″
- – 12″
- – 2″
- – 15″
CHECK PRICE on BUILD.COM CHECK PRICE on AMAZON
If you know Toiletable, you know we love American Standard.
Flushing
The Champion 4 uses 1.6 gallons per flush and has a MaP score of 1,000 grams. The toilet has one of the best flushing mechanisms on the market, making it a leader in clog-free performance.
First, the 4″ piston accelerator flush valve helps remove most waste loads in just one flush. An extra-large trapway also eliminates waste quickly, so you don’t have to press the lever again. Second, the toilet’s quiet flush can move up to 70% larger masses than most toilets! Third, the toilet’s elongated siphon-action jetted bowl removes waste in a matter of seconds leaving behind a squeaky-clean bowl – free of streaks and grime!
To flush the toilet just press down on the chrome trip lever.
Design
Simply put, the Champion 4 works and looks great. The toilet is designed with the user experience in mind so you don’t have to worry about weekly deep cleans. The Champion 4 is covered in EverClean glaze which prevents bacteria from sticking to the toilet’s exterior.
The toilet’s vitreous china construction is durable and sturdy, as users report having the toilet for over 10 years without issue.
The Champion 4 has a standard height of 15’ and comes with an oval bowl. The toilet is not ADA-compliant it is important to know if your toilet will be frequented by individuals with mobility issues.
The toilet comes with a Slow Close seat. The toilet is available in white, bone, or linen. The trip lever is available in chrome, white, polished brass, or satin.
Product Documentation:
Pros and Cons
- Powerful flushing system
- Slow close seat included
- EverClean glaze
- Not WaterSense-certified
Our Final Take
As can be seen from its category win, the American Standard Champion 4 is a true crowd favorite. With over 300 ratings and an average rating of 4.5 stars, this unit has become a staple in many bathrooms. Users love the toilet’s classic design and comfortable build. Positive reviews also boast about the toilet’s included great color selection and fantastic glaze. The most common complaint is about the toilet’s 1.1 gpf which is strong but not the most eco-friendly.
“We’re always on the lookout for affordable models that pack a punch. But at this price, the H2Optimum takes the whole cake.”
- ✅ Siphon action bowl
- ✅ PowerWash rim scrubs
| Flush Score: | |
| Flush System: | Siphon flushing |
| Flush Type: | |
| Bowl Shape: | |
| Water Consumption: | |
| Style: | |
Dimensions:
- Toilet – 27.75 x 15 x 30″
- – 11.81″
- – 2.17″
- – 15.75″
CHECK PRICE on BUILD.COM CHECK PRICE on AMAZON
We love American Standard so much that we had to include another model on the list!
Flushing
This toilet has a round front siphon action bowl with a direct-fed jet which removes waste in just seconds. The only thing that’s left behind is a clean sparkle. The PowerWash rim scrubs the bowl with each flush as well, to remove any grime buildup or streaks.
The H2Optimum is an ultra-high-efficiency toilet that uses 1.1 gallons per flush. This saves you over 20 percent on your annual water bill when compared to a standard 1.6 gpf model. The toilet is EPA WaterSense certified so you can rest easy that your toilet is doing good for the planet.
To flush the toilet just press down on the chrome trip lever.
Design
Even with its awesome price, the H2Optimum looks great. The toilet has a classic design with a beautiful trapway and a slightly curved tank. The toilet stands at 15” – an average height for non-ADA-compliant toilets.
The H2Optimum is covered with the antimicrobial EverClean glaze. Just wipe the toilet down every once in a while with soap and water and you’re good to go! There’s also a sanitary bar on the bowl for extra cleanliness.
The toilet comes with a bowl, tank, and two color-matched bolt caps. No seat nor wax ring is included. The toilet is only available in white.
Product Documentation:
Pros and Cons
- Fantastic price
- Classic look
- 1.1 gpf
- Some users report delivery issues
- Seat not included
Our Final Take
Users love the H2Optimum for its seamless function and effectiveness. The toilet’s charm comes not from its beautiful look but from its simple and easy-to-use design. Users also love the price as affordable toilets like this are hard to come by. The most common complaint is about the toilet’s status upon delivery. Some note they received the bowl fractured in the mail which required a call to customer service.
“Reach for the stars with the DeerValley Concord thanks to its 17.5” seat height.”
- ✅ Glazed siphon flushing system
- ✅ Soft close seat
| Flush System: | Siphon Flush System |
| Flush Type: | |
| Bowl Shape: | |
| Water Consumption: | |
| Style: | |
Dimensions:
- Toilet – 28 1/8 x 15 3/4 x 27 9/16”
- – 12″
- – 2-3/8″
- – 15″
CHECK PRICE on HOME DEPOT CHECK PRICE on AMAZON
It’s hard to find units this tall but the Concord does the trick.
Flushing
The toilet has a fully glazed flushing system which delivers super quiet and powerful flushing with ease. This means no clogs, no leaks, and no problems!
The toilet uses an economical and eco-friendly 1.28 gallons per flush. Another fantastic feature is the toilet will come with a supply line connector that can be used in one of two ways. If your supply line size is 7/8″, you could directly connect your water line to the toilet. If your supply line size is 1/2″, all you have to do is remove the adaptor, then connect it.
To flush the toilet, just press down on the chrome knob located on the toilet tank’s side.
Design
A good one-piece design goes a long way. Such can be seen with the Concord’s sleek, durable build. No more scrubbing into oblivion! Just give the model a wipe down once in a while and you’re all set.
Of course, we can’t talk about the Concord without mentioning its height. The toilet stands at an impeccable 17.5” and is ADA-compliant. Taller toilets are great for those with mobility issues or even just taller users. ADA-compliant toilets alleviate pressure on your joints to make the bathroom experience more pleasurable.
The Concord comes with a Soft-Close seat that prevents unwanted slamming. The seat can easily be removed through its Quick-Release design. The toilet also comes with a wax ring, floor bolts, and an instruction manual.
The Concord is only available in white.
Product Documentation:
Pros and Cons
- 17.5” height
- Siphon flushing mechanism
- Two sizes of supply line inlet
- Might be too tall for shorter users
Our Final Take
Users love that the toilet is easy to install and that it has a reliable, strong flush. Many mention the siphon flush system design. Positive reviews also boast about the Soft-Close seat and Comfort height. There aren’t many negative reviews for this model. If we were to guess, shorter users, such as children, might find the toilet too tall for their liking.
“We like the MS746124CEMG because it covers all the bases – a solid build, a strong flush, and a comfortable seat.”
- ✅ Two-piece configuration
- ✅ Dynamax Tornado Flush
| Flush System: | Tornado Flush |
| Flush Type: | |
| Bowl Shape: | |
| Water Consumption: | |
| Style: | |
Dimensions:
- Toilet – 27.38 x 17.31 x 28.8″
- -12″
- – 2.25″
- -14-15/16″
CHECK PRICE on BUILD.COM CHECK PRICE on AMAZON
TOTO is one of the toilet industry’s true greats.
Flushing
The MS746124CEMG is the only dual-flush model on the list. The toilet lets you choose between .8 and 1.28 gallons per flush. We love dual-flush units because we know that not all waste loads are created equal. Dual-flush models are economical and eco-friendly – what more could you ask for? In fact, you can even reduce your water usage by up to 40% when compared to a standard 1.6 gpf unit.
This TOTO Drake model is equipped with the Dynamax Tornado flush system. The toilet’s two powerful nozzles create an ultra-strong centrifugal force that takes care of business without leaving any remnants or streaks behind. The powerful nozzles are used instead of traditional rim holes to efficiently clean out the bowl with every flush.
The toilet has a 360-degree cleaning power that removes streaks in every flush. The rimless bowl also reduces water flow resistance, in turn creating a quieter flush.
To flush the toilet, just bring up the chrome-plated trip lever.
Design
This Drake model has an elongated bowl and a height of 16.5.” The toilet is compatible with the TOTO WASHLET+, a luxurious removable bidet.
The MS746124CEMG has a beautiful ceramic CEFIONTECT glaze that inhibits any bacterial growth. The ion barrier ensures the toilet lasts clean for longer. The CEFIONTECT glaze, along with an easy-to-reach trapway, make for a stress-free cleaning experience.
The toilet is only available in white. Like the toilet but wish you could change a few things? Check out the other Drake models available!
Product Documentation:
Pros and Cons
- Dual flush 1.28/.8 gpf
- Washlet+ compatible
- Dynamax Tornado Flush
- Some users report delivery issues
Our Final Take
Users praise the Drake for its fantastic flushing technology and simple design. Users like that the toilet can go with any bathroom aesthetic as the angular build makes it easy to blend in. Users also like that they can elevate the affordable toilet with the compatible WASHLET+. The most common complaint is about the toilet’s state upon delivery. Some users note that the toilet came shattered and thus had to be replaced.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Champion 4 has the largest trapway with 2-3/8″ diameter and 4” diameter.
What is the difference between a concealed trapway and a skirted trapway?
The skirted trapway is fully covered from the bowl to the base whereas the concealed trapway is partially covered.
Trapway size does matter as the bigger the trapway the more waste can down in a single flush. Bigger trapway also tend to have a lesser chance of clogging, so you can rest easy during your bathroom experience.
Conclusion
Toilet shopping is all about preference. Exposed trapways are a fun addition to any bathroom as they provide a bit more depth to your toilet. But the choice is up to you. Whatever you choose, check out other Toiletable articles to help you in your shopping process.