June 17, 2025
Plumbing

TOTO Toilets: The Ultimate Guide to Modern Bathroom Comfort

When it comes to home upgrades, many people focus on kitchens or living rooms. But one of the most important and often-overlooked parts of your home is the bathroom, and more specifically, the toilet. If you’re looking for something that combines comfort, technology, hygiene, and efficiency, then TOTO toilets might just be the perfect choice for you.

In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about TOTO toilets. We’ll talk about what makes them special, how they work, their different models, and why they’re becoming the top pick for modern homeowners. Whether you’re building a new home or upgrading your old toilet, this guide is designed to help you make the best decision.


What Are TOTO Toilets?

TOTO is a Japanese company that’s been making toilets and bathroom fixtures since 1917. They are best known for combining traditional design with modern smart toilet technology. TOTO toilets are not your average toilets—they often include bidet functions, heated seats, automatic flushing, and even air purifiers.

Their most famous model, the TOTO Washlet, has become a symbol of luxury and hygiene. But TOTO also offers a wide range of models for different budgets and needs.


Why Choose a TOTO Toilet?

Here are the top reasons why homeowners and designers love TOTO toilets:

1. Advanced Hygiene Features

TOTO toilets go far beyond basic cleaning. Many models include:

  • Warm water bidet with adjustable spray settings

  • Self-cleaning nozzles for hygiene

  • EWater+ technology that mists the bowl with electrolyzed water to kill bacteria

  • Automatic lid open/close to avoid touching surfaces

These features help reduce germs and keep your bathroom fresher for longer.

2. Water Efficiency

Many TOTO models are WaterSense certified, meaning they use less water than standard toilets without sacrificing performance. Dual-flush options allow you to choose between a full or partial flush.

This saves water and reduces your utility bills, making it both eco-friendly and cost-effective.

3. Comfort and Convenience

Imagine using a toilet that:

  • Warms the seat in winter

  • Sprays you clean with warm water

  • Dries you with gentle air

  • Automatically flushes after you stand up

TOTO toilets are designed for maximum comfort. Some even have night lights and deodorizing fans to keep things fresh and user-friendly.

4. Sleek, Modern Design

TOTO toilets have a clean and stylish appearance. Whether you prefer a classic look or a modern aesthetic, there’s a TOTO toilet for your bathroom style. Their skirted designs make cleaning the outside of the toilet easier, too.


Popular TOTO Toilet Models

Let’s take a closer look at some of the most popular TOTO models and what makes them special.

1. TOTO Washlet

This is TOTO’s signature product. It’s not just a toilet—it’s a smart toilet seat that includes:

  • Heated seat

  • Bidet with adjustable spray

  • Dryer

  • Remote control

  • Self-cleaning features

You can buy the Washlet as an add-on for a standard toilet or get it built-in with other models.

2. TOTO Drake

A more traditional toilet but with advanced flushing power and reliability. The Drake series is popular in both homes and commercial spaces. Features include:

  • Tornado Flush technology

  • CEFIONTECT glaze to prevent sticking waste

  • High efficiency

It doesn’t have all the tech of a Washlet, but it’s extremely durable and budget-friendly.

3. TOTO Neorest

This is the top-of-the-line model. It combines a luxury toilet and bidet into one seamless unit. The Neorest includes:

  • Automatic open/close lid

  • Auto flush

  • Night light

  • Air deodorizer

  • Warm water spray

  • Energy-saving mode

This is the future of toilets—perfect for those who want the best.

4. TOTO Ultramax

A one-piece design that’s both compact and powerful. It features:

  • Tornado Flush

  • SoftClose seat

  • Sleek, modern design

  • Quiet operation

Ideal for smaller bathrooms or people who prefer a minimalist style.


How TOTO Washlets Work

The Washlet is what put TOTO on the global map. Here’s a breakdown of how it works:

  1. Sits on Top of Your Toilet: It looks like a regular toilet seat but comes packed with tech.

  2. Control Panel or Remote: You use this to control the bidet, seat temperature, dryer, and more.

  3. Built-In Nozzles: These spray warm water to clean you after using the toilet.

  4. Self-Cleaning: The nozzles clean themselves before and after use.

  5. Drying and Deodorizing: A built-in air dryer gently dries you, and a fan eliminates odors.

It’s a full-on bathroom upgrade without replacing your entire toilet—unless you want to.


Benefits of TOTO’s Tornado Flush

TOTO’s Tornado Flush system is different from traditional flushing. It uses two or three powerful nozzles to create a swirling motion in the bowl. This does a few things:

  • Cleans more efficiently

  • Uses less water

  • Quieter flush

It’s one of the cleanest and most effective flushing systems on the market.


Installation: Can You Do It Yourself?

Some TOTO toilets, especially basic models, can be installed like any regular toilet. However, Washlets and Neorest models may require:

  • Electrical outlet nearby (for power)

  • Plumbing adjustments

  • Professional installation for best performance

It’s best to read the user manual and watch tutorials—or call a plumber if you’re unsure.


TOTO vs Other Toilet Brands

How does TOTO compare to other well-known toilet brands like Kohler, American Standard, or Duravit?

Feature TOTO Kohler American Standard Duravit
Bidet Functions ✅ Yes (advanced) ⚠️ Some models ⚠️ Few options ⚠️ Limited
Smart Toilet Options ✅ Wide range ⚠️ Limited ⚠️ Basic models ⚠️ Few available
Water Efficiency ✅ Excellent ✅ Good ✅ Good ✅ Good
Price Range 💲💲 to 💲💲💲💲 💲 to 💲💲💲 💲 to 💲💲 💲💲 to 💲💲💲
Design Options ✅ Sleek & modern ✅ Classic & modern ✅ Traditional ✅ Modern

TOTO Toilet Maintenance Tips

To keep your TOTO toilet in top shape:

  • Use mild, non-abrasive cleaners

  • Avoid bleach or harsh chemicals

  • Clean the nozzle and seat regularly (especially with Washlets)

  • Check for firmware updates (for smart models)

Most TOTO toilets are low-maintenance, but a little care goes a long way.


How Much Do TOTO Toilets Cost?

TOTO toilets range in price depending on features:

  • Basic models (like Drake): $300–$600

  • Mid-range with Washlet seat: $700–$1,200

  • High-end smart models (Neorest): $3,000–$5,000+

While they are more expensive than traditional toilets, many users say the comfort, hygiene, and water savings are worth it.


Are TOTO Toilets Worth It?

Here’s what real users say about TOTO toilets:

  • “I never thought I’d get excited about a toilet, but this changed everything.”

  • “The warm seat is a game-changer in winter.”

  • “I feel cleaner and more refreshed after every use.”

If you value comfort, cleanliness, and modern design, TOTO toilets are absolutely worth the investment.


TOTO Toilets for Seniors and People with Disabilities

TOTO toilets are also ideal for:

  • Elderly people who have difficulty reaching or cleaning themselves

  • Disabled users who need added comfort and independence

  • Caregivers who want to reduce manual effort

Features like remote controls, warm water cleansing, and automatic functions make TOTO a great choice for accessible bathrooms.


Where to Buy TOTO Toilets

You can find TOTO toilets at:

  • Home improvement stores (Home Depot, Lowe’s)

  • Online retailers (Amazon, Wayfair, Build.com)

  • Plumbing showrooms

  • Official TOTO website

Always check if the seller is authorized and offers a warranty.


Final Thoughts: Is a TOTO Toilet Right for You?

If you’re looking to upgrade your bathroom experience, a TOTO toilet is one of the best investments you can make. With features that promote cleanliness, comfort, and efficiency, it’s a brand that delivers value beyond expectations.

Whether you want a simple upgrade with a TOTO Drake or a luxury spa-like experience with a TOTO Neorest, there’s a model for every budget and lifestyle.

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