We use the bathroom every day, and the toilet is undoubtedly one of the most important parts of the bathroom. But have you ever considered how much the height of your toilet can affect your comfort and health? Today, we’re going to explore toilet heights and how to choose the one that’s most comfortable for you.
Related reading: Top 10 Toilet Manufacturers in China: Toilet Buying Guide
What height is considered a high toilet?
Toilets are usually between 15 and 19 inches tall, with the standard height being 15 to 17 inches. However, in recent years, higher toilets, often referred to as “comfort height” or “normal height” toilets, have become more popular as people become more concerned about their comfort and health. These toilets are usually between 17 and 19 inches tall, closer to the height of most people’s sit bones, making it easier to sit and stand. In fact, the toilet height used by seniors is also known as the comfort height.
How to measure height
Measuring the height of a toilet is actually quite simple. All you need is a tape measure or straightedge:
- To begin measuring: place one end of the tape measure or straightedge on the floor.
- Measure to the top of the toilet seat: Make sure you measure to the top of the toilet seat, not the lid.
- Record the reading: this is the height of your toilet bowl
What is the comfortable height of a toilet?
Comfort height varies from person to person, but most people find a height of 17 to 19 inches to be the most comfortable. This is because this height range is closer to the height of most people’s knees when sitting down, making it easier to sit and stand up. For people who sit on the toilet for long periods of time. For the elderly or those with joint problems, this height reduces stress on the knees and back, providing a more comfortable experience.
So how do you know which height is most comfortable for you? The best way is to try sitting on a few different heights of toilets yourself and find the one that you feel most comfortable with.
Here, we’ve explored toilet heights and how to choose a comfortable one. But are high toilets really for everyone? In the next section, we’ll look at who tall toilets are suitable for.
Who is a high toilet suitable for?
Tall toilets, also known as ‘comfort height’ toilets, are, as the name suggests, designed to provide a higher level of comfort. But that doesn’t mean it’s suitable for everyone. So, who would benefit from a high toilet?
- Seniors. As they age, many will find that their knees and joints are no longer as flexible as they were when they were younger. High toilets are designed to make sitting down and standing up easier, reducing stress on the knees and back.
- Patients with joint pain or after surgery. For those with joint pain or recent surgery, a high toilet provides extra support and comfort, making using the toilet easier.
- Taller people: For taller people, a standard-height toilet may not be comfortable enough. A high toilet provides them with a more natural and comfortable sitting position.
- People with mobility difficulties. For those who have mobility problems for various reasons, a high toilet can make it easier for them to use the bathroom independently.
However, a high toilet may not be the best option for small children or those who are shorter in height. As they may find that their feet do not fully reach the floor, which can lead to an unsteady or uncomfortable sitting position. It may also result in compromised blood circulation in the legs, which may cause numbness or discomfort in the legs.
Conversely, if the toilet is too low, the angle between the knees and thighs may be too small. Sitting like this for a long period of time may lead to compression of the legs, which again may cause discomfort or numbness in the legs.
In addition, an inappropriate toilet height may also lead to back and lumbar discomfort. Choosing the right toilet height is especially important for those with back or lumbar problems.
For a more informative blog about toilets, you can check out the following:
- How to Flush a Tankless Toilet Without Water
- How To Choose The Best Wall-Hung Toilets?
- Smart Toilets: Enhancing Comfort and Hygiene
Conclusion
Choosing the height of a toilet is an important decision that directly affects our comfort and experience in the bathroom. High toilets, especially those known as “comfort height” toilets, provide extra comfort and convenience for many people. However, it’s a good idea to consider your personal needs and physical condition before making your choice. This will ensure that the toilet you choose will give you the best experience possible. Whatever your choice, remember: comfort and health are always paramount!
FAQs
Is 21 inches too tall for a toilet?
For most people, a 21-inch toilet may feel a bit high. However, for people over 6 feet tall, especially those looking for a taller toilet because of their height or mobility issues, this height may be more comfortable. This extra tall toilet measures 20 to 21 inches from the floor to the lid. However, the design is still compact and perfect for installation in a standard home bathroom.
How tall is the ADA Comfort Height Toilet?
The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) recommended height of a comfortable toilet, from the floor to the rim of the toilet, is usually between 17 inches and 19 inches. The most popular comfort height toilets on the market today are usually about 16 1/8 inches tall from floor to rim. This height is designed to provide greater comfort and convenience for the user.
Which is better, a one-piece toilet or a two-piece toilet?
There are pros and cons when choosing between one-piece and two-piece toilets. Two-piece toilets may be more prone to cracks or leaks due to their interface between the tank and the toilet. The advantage, however, is that you have more options for fixing or replacing it if something goes wrong with one part. One-piece toilets, on the other hand, have a more compact design and are less likely to crack. However, in the event of a problem, especially an internal crack, you may need to replace the entire toilet because such cracks are difficult to repair. So, your choice should be based on your specific needs and preferences.
