Different Heights of Toilets in North America Explained
Toilets in North America come in two main heights: standard (14-15 inches) and comfort (17-19 inches), each suiting different needs and preferences.
Marketing is sometimes meant to confuse or, at the very least, entice with buzz words – universal height, right height, ADA height toilets, etc.
Don’t fall for it.
Let’s flush out the truth about different toilet heights and which may suit your unique needs.
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What are the two different heights of toilets?
Toilets generally come at two different heights – standard and comfort.
The major difference between the two is the inches from the floor to the toilet bowl. (the seat doesn’t count)
Standard Height Toilets
The modern flushing toilet was invented in the 19th century and was known as a Standard Height toilet, commonly referred to as regular height.
The standard variety of toilets is 14 to 15 inches from the floor to the top of the toilet bowl. (it doesn’t count toilet seats). It means that they’re perfect for children and adults below average height.
Pros
- Feet, don’t fall asleep. The main benefit of a standard toilet is that, regardless of height, everyone can put their feet on the ground, which means no pins and needles.
- Find the most natural position. For most people, a standard toilet is the best way to achieve the most natural position, which means staving off constipation.
Cons
- Standing up can be challenging. Whether it’s bad knees or long legs, standard height toilets are sometimes challenging to get off of.
- Sitting can be challenging, too. The elderly and long-legged people are sometimes uncomfortable while sitting.
Standard height toilets are recommended for specific people and places.
- homes that have people that vary in height
- shorter adults
- children
- common bathrooms
- guest rooms
Comfort Height Toilets
Comfort Height toilets are becoming more popular among the elderly and taller Gen Z’ers.
From floor to seat, a comfort height toilet is 17 to 19 inches. It means they’re several inches higher than a standard, which is more than you think.
You’ll see different companies branding comfort toilets as Universal Height or ADA-compliant height, but promise you – they actually mean comfort height toilets.
Pros
- Comfort height toilets are ADA-compliant. That’s why some companies use compliance as the main selling point, which is their right as long as it’s true.
- Safer and better for gut health for some people. The elderly, tall adults and disabled people benefit all around from choosing a comfort height toilet over a standard.
Cons
- Comfort height toilets are uncomfortable for some people. Children and not-so-tall people are likely not to be comfortable. And it can cause a loss of circulation, leading to sleepy feet.
- It could make constipation worse. It may be harder to go using a comfort height for anyone, even taller humans.
Certain people will find comfort height toilets comfortable.
- the majority of adults
- taller people
- elderly
- disabled people
- semi-public access toilets (offices, facilities)
What is the difference between standard and comfort height toilets?
As you can see, the only real difference between standard and comfort height toilets is the seat height, regardless of what a toilet salesperson tells you. Toilet flushing systems are completely unrelated.
How to Decide on the Best Toilet Height
Don’t let the word comfort confuse you when you’re choosing the suitable toilet for you.
If It’s Just You
Toilets are on show floors for a reason. Go try it out. Yes, it will probably feel weird, but how else will you know?
And, you’re sorta married to the one you choose to install. You could change your mind, but keep in mind it’s an expensive breakup.
If You’re Extra Tall
Some stores will let your special order an extra tall toilet. You can find some in the 20 to 21 inches range from floor to bowl.
And no worries, it’s still compact and will fit in your bathroom.
Multiple People
Your home may have people of various heights, ages, and physical needs. You’ll likely land on a standard toilet, but you’ve got a few things to consider first.
- How tall are the people in your household?
- What are the physical needs of your family members? (age, disabled people)
- How do you transfer on and off the toilet?
- Can everyone sit and stand up easily and comfortably?
- Do your feet touch the ground?
How to Strike a Compromise
Strike a deal of some sort. You have some variations (standard height 14-16 inches, comfort height 17-19 inches).
You’ve also got some accessories out there on the market that will help you meet in the middle.
ADA Compliant Toilets for Kids
Schools, daycares, and some families may need to install ADA-compliant toilets. Each age group has specific compliance.
- 3 to 4 years old – 11 to 12 inches
- 5 to 8 years old – 12 to 15 inches
- 8 to 12 – 15 to 18 inches
FAQs
What toilet height is best?
The best height is the one that accommodates everyone. We all have a right to be comfortable during our private bathroom time.
What is the difference between a toilet height and chair height?
A chair height toilet is the same thing as a comfort height toilet. It means that a chair height is a toilet height choice.
What are comfort height toilets?
Standard height toilets are 14 to 15 inches from the floor to the top of the bowl (not including the seat). People are shorter than average, and children benefit the most from standard height toilets.
What height toilet is best for seniors?
The best toilet height for seniors is comfort height. It’s 17 to 18 inches from floor to bowl. Those taller than average also get a lot of choosing a comfort height toilet.
What is the most common toilet height?
You will find that standard height toilets are the most common, especially in public restrooms. The average height is between 14 and 15 inches.
In most public restrooms, you’re likely to find an ADA-compliant toilet, which measures 14 to 15 inches.
Unless you require an ADA-compliant toilet, try to avoid taking up the stall. Someone may need it more than you.
More FAQs
What toilet height is best?
The best toilet height depends on individual preferences and needs. Standard-height rims, which are typically 14- to 15-inches from the floor, are suitable for shorter individuals. However, if you are taller, it may be more comfortable to opt for chair height toilets that have a toilet seat height of 17-inches or more.
What are the 3 heights of toilets?
The three heights of toilets range from 15″ to 19″, with standard toilets typically being under 17″. Additionally, there are chair-height toilets that measure 17″ or more.
How tall is a luxury height toilet?
The luxury height toilet is measured to be 17 to 19 inches from the floor to the seat, making it taller than standard toilets available in the market.
What is the difference between standard height and comfort height toilets?
The difference between standard height and comfort height toilets is that standard height toilets are typically 14.5 to 16 inches from the ground, while comfort height toilets are generally 17 to 19 inches from the ground.
Is a comfort height toilet worth it?
A comfort height toilet is worth it for individuals who struggle to stand up from a low position, like the elderly or disabled. On the other hand, a standard toilet is more suitable for children or individuals who are smaller in size.
