Tips for Choosing the Right Toilet Height

From flushing mechanism to gallons per flush to tank capacity, there are many features to consider when choosing a new toilet. It turns out there is a good reason to seriously think about the height of your porcelain throne as well – especially for small children and people with joint pain or disabilities. Here are some tips for choosing the proper height for your new toilet.

General Guidelines

In general, your toilet should allow you to rest your feet flat on the ground while seated, and you should be able to sit and stand comfortably. Whether that toilet is a standard height, comfort height or extra tall model depends on many factors.

Standard Height Toilets

Standard height toilets are 16 inches tall or shorter measured from floor to seat. Individuals who are 5 feet 4 inches tall and under may find this height easier to use than taller toilets.

Standard toilets may also be more suitable for small children. When kids use toilets that are too tall, their feet often dangle, causing leg pain and foot numbness due to poor circulation.

For individuals with constipation, standard height toilets may help their condition. The ideal position for evacuating the bowels is with the hips below the knees in a squatting position, which can be better achieved using a toilet closer to the ground.

Comfort Height Toilets

Comfort height toilets are sometimes referred to as Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) toilets because the height is ADA compliant, measuring 17 to 19 inches tall from floor to seat. Taller individuals, older adults and anyone who has trouble standing from a squat typically find that these toilets are a better match.

Though ADA compliance is designed for people with disabilities, it does not automatically mean that everyone with a disability should use a comfort height toilet. Some may find that a standard height toilet is a better fit for their circumstance. In many cases, the best option is to test several sizes and determine which feels more comfortable.

ADA-Compliant Toilets for Kids

ADA compliance varies based on age. For schools, daycare centers and families that need to install toilets for special needs children, here is how compliance shakes out based on age:

• Ages three to four: 11 to 12 inches
• Ages five to eight: 12 to 15 inches
• Ages nine to 12: 15 to 18 inches

Extra Tall Models

Toilets taller than 19 inches are optimal for individuals over 6 feet tall who have difficulties with even comfort toilets due to their height or mobility issues. Extra tall versions are typically 20 to 21 inches from floor to bowl yet are compact enough to fit in the standard private bathroom.

Popular extra tall models like the Convenient Height Toilet are not available in all stores, however, and sometimes must be specially ordered.

Toilet Installation in Seattle

No matter which size toilet you feel most comfortable with, it is crucial you have your new throne installed with care. At South West Plumbing, we offer EPA-certified toilets and professional installation services throughout the Seattle area. For more information about how you can get the toilet of your dreams installed in your home or business, contact us.