So you’ve decided to invest in a self-cleaning toilet, but still choosing which model? Of course, you want to ensure that the self-cleaning toilet you choose lives up to its name, and your standards of cleanliness. We’ve done the research for you, keep reading to see our top choices of self-cleaning toilets and the features that landed these choices a place on our list. Let us know which model you choose!
Table of Contents
Our Top Picks
| Toto Integrated Toilet G400 | ||
| Economical Choice | American Standard ActiClean Toilet |
Self Cleaning Toilets – How They Work
There are various mechanisms that make a self-cleaning toilet work, depending on the model. The most popular models use cartridges or tablets that reach the bowl as soon as you flush. Some units also have special sensors that measure the exact amount of cleaning solution needed in each flush.
Usually, units have either a continuous, deep, or quick cleaning. Some models even have UV light and electrolyzed water that kills bacteria and viruses. However, with advanced features comes a higher price, so be ready to pay a few thousand dollars depending on the model.
Traditional vs. Self-Cleaning Toilets
When you compare the upsides and downsides of both types of toilets, you notice that there is no “winner.” For example, a traditional toilet might not be able to rinse the bowl perfectly, but it has fewer mechanical issues down the road compared to a self-cleaning toilet. When it comes to design and water efficiency, there is no great difference between traditional and self-cleaning units.
Comparisons of Our Top Picks
Reviews of the Top 6 Self Cleaning Toilets
1. Toto G400 – Review Champion
- Flushing Score:
- Water Consumption: 0.9/1.28
- Bowl Shape:
- Flushing System:
- Flush Type:
- Style: One-Piece
- Certification: ADA, WaterSense, CALGreen
- Dimensions (sourced from manual): Toilet (28.62″ x 15.37″ x 26.93″), (17″)See image with dimensions
Performance Ratings
★ Easy to install – 2.8 out of 5
★ Softness – 4.5 out of 5
★ Comfort – 4.6 out of 5
★ Easy to clean – 3.1 out of 5
★ Value for money – 3.3 out of 5
* based on Amazon’s rating system
Product Documentation
Customer Reviews
Last gathered: June 27, 2022
- Tons of luxury features compared to similar units
- Sleek and beautiful design
- Made from durable materials
- A bit of an investment
- Installation is more complex than a standard toilet
Summary of Recent Reviews
Buyers are pleased with the style and function of this toilet. “This is a sophisticated item attending to your hygiene needs with exquisite adjustability.” The luxury features include an automatic, heated seat, and a washlet among others.
2. American Standard ActiClean
- Flushing Score:
- Water Consumption: 1.28
- Bowl Shape:
- Flushing System:
- Flush Type: Single
- Style: Two-Piece
- Certifications: ADA, WaterSense
- Dimensions (sourced from manual): Toilet (30.18″ x 20.68″ x 31.37″), (17.25″) See image with dimensions
Product Documentation
Customer Reviews
Last gathered: June 27, 2022
- Relatively affordable
- Easy, straightforward installation
- Powerful flush
- There is a chance the tank will leak
- Buyers experienced poor customer service
Summary of Recent Reviews
While some buyers stated that the flush wasn’t efficient for them, most are pleased with its functionality. The toilet is heavy but the installation itself is straightforward according to buyers. “Quite the flush power which is something we were looking for in our new toilet.”
3. Kohler Karing
- Flushing Score:
- Water Consumption: 1.28
- Bowl Shape:
- Flushing System: Power Flush
- Flush Type: Single
- Style: One-Piece
- Certifications: WaterSense
- Dimensions (sourced from manual): Toilet (25″ x 22″ x 32″), (16.25″) See image with dimensions
Product Documentation
Customer Reviews
Last gathered: June 27, 2022
- Touch-free experience
- Saves up to two user profiles
- Carbon filter for reduced odors
- Expensive option
- Remote functions aren’t intuitive
Summary of Recent Reviews
Buyers are pleased with this investment – “Overall I think this is a great toilet with neat features.” Several customers mention that installation is complicated, so maybe consider hiring a plumber for this one. Buyers appreciate how much you can customize your experience using this toilet.
4. Ove Decors 735H
- Flushing Score:
- Water Consumption: 1.28
- Bowl Shape:
- Flushing System: Single Flush
- Style: One-Piece
- Certifications: ADA, WaterSense, CEC
- Dimensions (sourced from manual): Toilet (31.3″ x 16.83″ x 23.82″), (17″) See image with dimensions
Product Documentation
Customer Reviews
Last gathered: June 27, 2022
- Good value for the price
- Beautiful LED nightlights
- May come with defective parts
5. Toto Carlyle II Washlet+ C200
- Flushing Score:
- Water Consumption: 1.28
- Bowl Shape:
- Flushing System:
- Flush Type: Single
- Style: One-Piece
- Certifications: ADA, WaterSense
- Dimensions (sourced from manual): Toilet (28.31″ x 16.5″ x 28.62″), (17.6″) See image with dimensions
Performance Ratings
★ Comfort – 4.6 out of 5
* based on Amazon’s rating system
Product Documentation
Customer Reviews
Last gathered: June 27, 2022
- Very powerful flush
- Sleek and minimalistic design
- Possibly fragile trip lever
6. Kohler Veil
- Flushing Score:
- Water Consumption: 0.8/1.28
- Bowl Shape:
- Flush Type:
- Style: One-Piece
- Certifications: ADA, WaterSense, CEC
- Dimensions (sourced from manual): Toilet (26.38″ x 17.25″ x 21.38″), (16.5″)See image with dimensions
Product Documentation
Customer Reviews
Last gathered: June 27, 2022
- Beautiful design
- Easy to install
- Tons of features
- Price
Self Cleaning Toilets – Pros and Cons
Here’s a list of three considerations when choosing a self-cleaning toilet.
Advantages
The main advantage of these units is that you won’t have to pull on those rubber gloves and clean as frequently since the toilet rinses itself completely. Also, these units are able to trap odors for longer compared to traditional models. After you install the unit, which may be complicated in some cases, it will be extremely simple to use.
Disadvantages
Unfortunately, even though the unit is self-cleaning, you will still need to clean the exterior from time to time. Additionally, you may need to buy batteries and cleaning tablets to support continued self-cleaning. These items are not expensive but do add an extra cost. Also, these units have many more parts than traditional toilets, which increases the chance of possible maintenance issues.
Other Considerations
Some highly intelligent toilets might require access to an electrical outlet. Be sure to check if you have a free and accessible outlet in your bathroom, ideally one on the floor or wall behind the toilet. Most plumbing systems have floor outlets, but some systems have outlets on the rear. Floor outlets usually work by using gravity, while rear outlets use compressed air.
Finally, you should consider MaP performance—how much waste a toilet can handle per flush. Most high-quality units will have a rating of 1000, while some can go down to 300-400.
Final Verdict
Although these units were very expensive in the past, they are becoming more and more affordable. However, it doesn’t mean that these units are better than traditional toilets—they simply have extra features. If you are ready to invest more to reduce the amount of time you spend cleaning, buying a self-cleaning toilet is your best choice.