Toilets have come a long way — and if you’re building or remodeling a home, it’s worth taking a moment to really consider your options. Gone are the days when a toilet was just… a toilet. Today, these fixtures can be sleek, smart, and surprisingly luxurious.
Recently, I had an awkward (but necessary!) conversation with a client where I asked him to literally go sit on a toilet. He had selected a perfectly nice model — but basic. I felt it was my responsibility to let him know there’s a whole world of better-designed, more comfortable, and even tech-enhanced toilets out there.
The Modern Toilet: Comfort Meets Technology
Let’s talk features.
Today’s toilets can do a lot more than flush:
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Automatic seats that raise or lower when you approach.
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Heated seats for chilly mornings.
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Built-in bidet functions with adjustable spray and temperature controls.
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Air dryers and deodorizers for a truly hands-free experience.
It’s essentially the marriage of an electrician and a plumber—working together for your comfort and convenience.
You might not think about it often (it’s not exactly a hangout spot), but once you experience a truly comfortable toilet, it’s hard to go back.
What About Add-Ons Like the “Tushy Cushy”?
My children once gifted my husband the “Tushy Cushy” — a bidet-style seat attachment that offers a little taste of luxury. Unfortunately, it’s still sitting in a box. Why? Because even simple upgrades can require an electrical outlet and a dedicated hot water line. These after-market products sound easy, but installation can be tricky if your bathroom wasn’t built for it.
If you’re remodeling or building new, it’s the perfect time to plan for these features. A small bit of foresight (and an extra outlet) can make a big difference later.
How to Choose the Right Toilet
Here’s my advice:
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Visit a showroom. Sit on the toilet (yes, really!) to test the comfort and height.
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Ask questions. Let your plumber or sales rep walk you through the differences between standard, comfort height, and smart toilets.
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Do a little homework. Read reviews and compare water efficiency ratings.
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Think about placement and plumbing. Adding features later is often much harder than planning for them up front.
By no means am I a toilet specialist, but I’ve learned that the small details—like the right toilet—make a big difference in how your home functions day to day.
The Takeaway
I’m simply introducing you to the idea that not all toilets are created equal. Whether you want something simple and elegant or full of high-tech comfort, there are options out there that can make your bathroom feel just a bit more special.
Maybe I’ll even take my own advice and finally surprise my husband with a new fancy toilet for his favorite room in the house.