What should I look for when buying toilet features worth paying for?

Comfort height + slow-close + elongated = the three features that matter most. Skirted trapway is the best cleaning upgrade. Buy bidet seats separately -- same function at 1/5 the price.

What are common mistakes when buying toilet features worth paying for?

Paying $500+ for integrated bidet when $250 add-on seat works. Standard height in an adult bathroom. Paying extra for self-cleaning coatings as primary feature.

Toilet Features Worth Paying For

Buying Guide

Created by Ryan Pietrzak Illinois Licensed Plumber · In the plumbing industry since 2009

Updated February 20, 2026

Key Takeaway

Toilet features range from genuinely useful to marketing gimmicks. This guide identifies which upgrades are worth the money.

Overview

Toilet features range from genuinely useful to marketing gimmicks. This guide identifies which upgrades are worth the money.

What to Know

Worth It

Comfort height (17-19 inch seat): easier for adults. Slow-close seat: no slamming, $10-20 premium. Elongated bowl: more comfortable. All three are must-haves.

Consider It

Skirted trapway: smooth sides, much easier to clean, $50-100 premium. WaterSense: saves water, often qualifies for rebates.

Skip It

Self-cleaning coatings: wear off over time. Integrated bidet toilets ($2000+): buy a $250 add-on seat instead. Night lights and Bluetooth: gimmicks.

Buying Tips

Comfort height + slow-close + elongated = the three features that matter most.
Skirted trapway is the best cleaning upgrade.
Buy bidet seats separately -- same function at 1/5 the price.
Spend budget on flush performance (MaP) first, features second.

Common Mistakes

Paying $500+ for integrated bidet when $250 add-on seat works.
Standard height in an adult bathroom.
Paying extra for self-cleaning coatings as primary feature.
Ignoring the seat quality.

Bottom Line

Comfort height, slow-close seat, elongated bowl are must-haves. Skirted trapway for easy cleaning. MaP 800g+ matters more than any cosmetic feature.