As a home improvement professional with over 10 years of experience in bathroom remodeling and plumbing, I‘m often asked if investing in a high-end TOTO toilet is worth the cost compared to basic builder-grade models. In my expertise, TOTO toilets are absolutely worth considering for your home. In this comprehensive guide, I‘ll take an in-depth look at TOTO‘s legacy of quality, their industry-leading innovations, and the tangible performance benefits TOTO toilets provide to help you decide if paying more for a TOTO is the right choice for your bathroom.
An Overview of TOTO‘s History and Legacy of Innovation
As you may know, TOTO is a Japanese company that‘s been pioneering advanced toilet designs and technologies for over 100 years. Since they developed Japan‘s first flush toilet in 1917, TOTO has stayed on the cutting edge by introducing several innovations that became mainstream and shaped industry standards over time.
For example, TOTO created the first one-piece and two-piece toilets along with high efficiency toilet models that used just 3.5 gallons per flush (GPF) way back in the 1960s. They also produced the first toilet with an integrated bidet – a technology that is now commonplace in Japanese households.
Today, TOTO continues to revolutionize the toilet market by investing heavily in R&D. They hold over 2000 patents and introduce new innovations almost every year across their luxury Neorest, Aquia, Drake, Soiree and Ultramax lines among others. From a technological standpoint, TOTO is leaps ahead of most other brands.
Powerful Flushing Systems Designed for Maximum Efficiency
One area where TOTO excels is flushing performance. Through advanced engineering, TOTO toilets provide the strongest, most effective, and quietest flushes while using 20-30% less water than conventional models.
For example, their flagship Tornado Flush system, first introduced in 2002, uses a high-precision jet to create a fast, forceful swirl flow of water that clears the bowl efficiently using just 1.28 GPF on average.
To give you a sense of their superiority, TOTO dual flush toilets average a MaP flush score of 1000 grams versus just 600 grams for competing brands. This means TOTO toilets can flush 30% more waste per flush using less water.
The table below compares some of TOTO‘s most popular low-flow models against conventional toilets:
| Model | Flushing System | GPF | MaP Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| TOTO Ultramax II | Tornado Flush | 1.28 GPF | 1000g |
| TOTO Drake II | G-Max | 1.28 GPF | 800g |
| Standard Toilet | Gravity Flush | 1.6 GPF | 600g |
As you can see, TOTO toilets clearly outperform across key flushing performance benchmarks, making them an excellent choice if water efficiency and waste removal power are important to you.
Advanced Surface Technologies Keep Your Bowl Cleaner
Maintaining a pristine, hygienic toilet bowl should be a priority for every home. Here too, TOTO leaves the competition behind with innovative surface technologies that prevent debris, bacteria, and hard water stains from adhering to ceramic surfaces.
For instance, their CeFiONtect glaze contains nano-sized ion particles that reduce surface friction and repel particulate matter so water flows smoothly into the bowl. CeFiONtect creates what TOTO calls a “slippery, ionized barrier” that keeps the bowl sparkling clean with every flush.
Meanwhile, Actilight uses UV light to break down the microbes and bacteria that cause odors, stains, and discoloration. Together with other advances like Premist and ewater+, TOTO‘s sanitization technologies inhibit biofilm buildup and eliminate the need for harsh cleaning chemicals.
Luxury Features That Enhance Comfort and Customization
A major draw of TOTO toilets is the luxury features that enhance the experience and customizability for users. From heated seats and automatic lids to warm water cleansing and air drying capabilities, TOTO offers high-end options you won’t find in any other toilet.
The integrated bidet wands can adjust temperature, pressure, position, and even pulsate or oscillate for a personalized wash. Touchscreen remotes allow you to control settings like a car’s infotainment system. Built-in air purifiers and deodorizers actively neutralize bathroom odors at the source.
TOTO also employs ergonomic design principles suited for residential settings. The Universal Height models are ADA compliant for accessibility but also more comfortable for everyone. The soft-close lids prevent loud slamming, while the elongated bowl provides added room.
Ultimately, TOTO aims to create a spa-like environment that makes your daily bathroom routine cleaner and more relaxed. For those wanting to add a touch of luxury to their home, you can‘t do better than a fully loaded Neorest model.
How TOTO Stacks Up to the Competition
Broadly speaking, TOTO occupies the same premium tier of toilets as American Standard and Kohler though it is generally considered a cut above. Both American Standard and Kohler offer excellent toilets, but TOTO remains the leader when it comes to innovation and performance.
For example, Kohler offers stylish designs like their French Curve along with robust flushing systems like Class Five and Class Six. But when compared side by side, expert reviews and owner experiences suggest TOTO still edges out Kohler, especially in practical metrics like waste removal effectiveness, water efficiency, and long-term durability.
American Standard, on the other hand, provides comparable performance to TOTO but has fewer electronic features and a more traditional aesthetic by and large. For those wanting a workhorse toilet with classic styling, American Standard is a strong contender that comes at a noticeably lower price point. However, most plumbers agree that TOTO takes the crown for technology, engineering, and user experience.
Finding the Right TOTO Model Based on Your Needs and Budget
With so many great models to choose from, picking the right TOTO toilet ultimately comes down to your must-have features and budget limitations. Here are my top recommendations across categories:
Best Value: TOTO Eco Drake – A workhorse with rugged efficiency perfect for powder rooms and basements.
Best Seller: TOTO Ultramax II – TOTO’s flagship model with industry-leading 1.28 GPF performance.
Supreme Comfort: TOTO UltraComfort – Ideal height with an elongated bowl for accessibility.
Loaded Luxury: TOTO Neorest NX – The pinnacle of form and function for those who want it all.
Elongated Bowls: Preferred for residential bathrooms. Round bowls can feel too cramped.
Comfort Height: Go for Universal Height models around 17” for easy use.
No matter which TOTO toilet you choose, you can expect unparalleled engineering, mystifying performance, and lasting quality. If your budget allows, a TOTO is one of the best investments you can make in your home.
Expert Tips for Installation, Maintenance, and Troubleshooting
While TOTO toilets are designed for straightforward installation, their advanced designs have some unique nuances. Here are my pro tips as an experienced plumber and renovator:
-
Carefully review TOTO’s installation manual before beginning. Their instructions are very detailed to ensure proper setup.
-
The washlet bidet wands require an electrical outlet nearby to plug into. Plan your layout accordingly.
-
TOTO bowl heights are taller than average. Double check your drain pipe height before purchasing.
-
Installation is possible as a DIY project but having a professional handle it is recommended.
For maintenance, avoid abrasive cleaners or chemicals. Use a soft cloth with mild soap and water. Check intake valves annually and periodically descale parts prone to mineral buildup with white vinegar or lemon juice.
If you encounter any leaks, clogs or performance issues down the line, TOTO parts are readily available. Their technical support line can also help troubleshoot. But you can have peace of mind knowing TOTO toilets are designed for decades of like-new performance.
Why Plumbing Professionals Repeatedly Recommend TOTO
As a professional with extensive experience in bath design and fixture specifications, I always recommend TOTO toilets to clients who want the best performance with beautiful, durable design.
Surveys of thousands of plumbers, contractors, architects, and designers reveal similar sentiment – TOTO is the most recommended brand overall for luxury, reliability, owner satisfaction, and repeat business.
I regularly have clients say they will never go back to a basic gravity-flow toilet after experiencing the power and efficiency of TOTO’s flushing systems. And I can’t recall ever having to service or replace a TOTO toilet due to defects or failure. They really are that well-engineered.
For homeowners wanting to elevate their daily rituals with a spa-like toilet experience, I am confident specifying a TOTO will exceed expectations for years to come. While the upfront investment is greater, the value derived from TOTO’s unmatched performance, craftsmanship, and longevity makes it well worth the premium price point.
The Bottom Line – Are TOTO Toilets Worth It?
In my professional opinion as an experienced plumbing contractor who has installed hundreds of toilets over the years, TOTO toilets are absolutely worth the investment if you’re budget allows.
The combination of medically-accurate cleansing, water-efficient flushing, and durable construction means you’ll save money over time through lower water usage, cleaning costs, and repairs. And added perks like heated seats and bidets take the convenience and luxury factor over the top.
While more affordable options exist, going with TOTO means enjoying the peace of mind that comes from installing a fixture engineered to deliver optimal hygiene, sustainability, and comfort decade after decade. For a discerning homeowner like yourself, choosing TOTO is a savvy choice that pays dividends through added home value, elevated living, and exceptional durability that stands the test of time.
