When shopping for a new toilet seat, you’ll find that there are two main types: standard and comfort height.
Standard toilets are the ones you’re probably most familiar with as they’re the style that most homes were built with before comfort height toilets took over. Comfort height toilets gained popularity in the last few decades as companies created more accessible models to accommodate all user needs.
Check out our FAQ down below to better understand the core differences in standard and comfort height toilets.
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Standard Height Toilets
The standard height toilet is the most common type of toilet in the United States, which means that most people are accustomed to using it. The standard toilet has a bowl height of 15 to 16” from the floor to the top of the seat, whereas a comfort height toilet has a height of 17 to 19”.
This may not seem like much, but when you’re sitting on the toilet for a prolonged period of time those extra inches can make all the difference.
Comfort Height Toilets
Comfort height toilets have their seat higher off the ground than the standard height toilet seat, usually with a height between 17 and 19”. Comfort height toilets were created as a more accessible option for users with difficulties sitting or standing up, by alleviating the pressure that’s usually put on the knees in standard units.
Which Type is Better?
Toilet preferences depend on the user. Standard and comfort height toilets tend to have the same installation costs, though some market comparisons show that some comfort height toilets may cost slightly less than their standard height counterparts.
The best way to decide what height type is the best for your home is to take a look at your needs. If bathroom users in your home tend to be on the shorter side, such as children, a standard-height toilet may be easier for them to use. For taller users, as well as ones with disabilities, the comfort height option is more accessible to use.
Comparison – Comfort Height vs. Standard Height Toilets
Height
Standard height toilets are great for shorter individuals, but for anyone over about 5’4″, they can start to be a real pain. The reason for this is that the bowl of a standard toilet is about 15 to 16” high, which means if you’re 5’8″ or taller, you’re going to have your knees bent uncomfortably far up when you sit down.
With a comfort height toilet, the seat is 17 to 19” off the ground, making it easier for taller individuals and those with disabilities to sit and stand up. For a toilet to be ADA-compliant, it must be at comfort height.
Aesthetic
Many brands offer both a standard height and comfort height version of their units. This makes it easy to find something that suits your bathroom aesthetic as you won’t need to sacrifice good looks for comfort.
Final Thoughts
If you want your home to be comfortable as well as safe, then it is important that you choose the right kind of toilet that will fit in with your budget and aesthetic preferences.
Keep in mind who typically uses your bathroom, such as guests and family members in need of special accommodations. While the height type may not make a difference to you, it can be a pivotal factor in other people’s bathroom experiences.