Choosing between standard and comfort height toilets comes down to accessibility
Toilet height is the distance from the toilet seat to the ground.
Taller toilets are best for older adults and taller people.
Shorter toilets are best for children and shorter adults.
Standard height toilets are 14 1/2 to 16 inches from the ground.
Comfort height toilets are 17 to 19 inches from the ground.
As a homeowner, you might find yourself needing to replace your toilet. There are several considerations when it comes to picking the best toilet for your house, one of which is installing a standard height or comfort height toilet. Here are the main differences to help you make an informed decision.
When choosing between a standard height toilet versus a comfort height toilet, the difference is the height. Comfort height toilets are between 2 ½ and 3 inches taller than traditional types of toilets, meaning they’re easier to sit on and stand up from. They accommodate taller people and those who need extra support. A professional toilet installer can help source the right toilet for your bathroom.
The appropriate toilet height for your bathroom depends on your household’s needs. You likely already have a standard height toilet in your home, meaning the distance between the toilet seat and the floor is about 14.5 to 16 inches.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Fits better in smaller bathrooms | Not accessible for some people with disabilities or wheelchair users |
| Children can reach without a step stool | Difficult for older adults and taller people to use |
| Idea for children and adults under 5’4” | May require a raised toilet seat or toilet riser |
| Weighs less than larger toilets | More expensive |
Best for:
Children and adults under 5’4”
Bathrooms with limited space
Bathrooms with built-in toilet paper holders at standard height
The standard toilet height is comfortable for most people, including petite adults. If you have children, a standard height toilet is essential in their bathroom. Otherwise, they won’t be able to reach without a step stool. Since these toilets are standard height, they fit well in most bathrooms. The toilet seat will match the height of existing toilet paper holders and fit under existing shelves.
Unfortunately, standard toilets can be challenging for taller people, older adults, and people with disabilities. If you stick with a standard toilet, you can always purchase a raised toilet seat or a toilet riser, which you can install below the toilet for extra height.
The comfort height toilet, also known as a chair height toilet, is the same height as a standard chair. At 17 to 19 inches from floor to toilet seat, this type of toilet is best for the older population or taller adults.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Meets ADA requirements for adults | May be too tall for people under 5’4” and children |
| Safer for older adults and people with disabilities | Heavier than traditional toilets |
| No need for toilet risers or elevated seats | May be too tall for built-in toilet paper holders |
| Most comfortable for people 5’4” and over | May not fit in smaller bathrooms |
Best for:
Taller people
Individuals who need or prefer elevated seats
ADA-compliant bathrooms and accessible bathroom design
Larger bathrooms
A comfort-height toilet, also known as an ADA toilet, meets the Americans With Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements for adults (17 to 19 inches between the floor and the toilet seat). It's safer for those who need a higher seat, such as older adults or people with disabilities.
Because of the taller toilet height, you likely won't need a toilet riser or an elevated toilet seat for people with a taller build—that's why it’s called a "comfort" height.
The comfort height option has a few disadvantages. Children or petite adults in your home may have to use a steep stool while using a comfort height toilet. These toilets can also be more difficult to install, especially in small spaces, since they’re heavier and bigger than other models. Because of the increased height, you may need to adjust or replace the accessories around your toilet, like the toilet paper holder and storage shelves.
When choosing between a chair height versus standard height toilet, consider if one or the other accommodates all of the members in your household. If you have multiple bathrooms, you could install a standard height toilet in the children’s bathroom and a comfort height toilet in the primary bathroom.
One of the best tips for choosing the right toilet for your home is to test it by sitting on it before buying it. It should be easy to sit and stand up when in use. Rest your feet on the floor to ensure they don't dangle and check that the toilet seat is in a comfortable position.
Here's how the two choices stack up against one another so you can make the best decision.
Both standard height and comfort height toilets come in different colors, but most homeowners select white toilets. While you may have fond memories of your grandparents’ pink bathroom, neutral colors have more resale value if you ever put your house on the market.
New bathroom fixtures can make your toilet look dingy or outdated in comparison. Now’s the chance to replace it with a modern model, like one with an elongated bowl, to match your bathroom upgrades.
Comfort height toilets and regular height toilets come with similar characteristics and features. The sole distinction is the distance between the toilet bowl and the ground.
Both comfort height and standard height toilets fall within a similar price range, but standard height toilets are slightly more expensive. Pricing also depends on the brand and model, as both are available in low-end or luxury models.
Some brands sell different toilet seats separately, around $15 to $50 per piece. Overall, it may minimally affect your budget. Because the cost varies by location and brand, working with a local toilet installer can be beneficial for sourcing a quality toilet.
Installation is the same for both toilet heights, and the cost to install a toilet is about $375.
Choose a standard height toilet if you need the toilet to fit in a tight location like underneath a shelf. Otherwise, it could take some renovations to get a comfort height toilet to fit correctly.
Unless you hold a plumbing license, it's best to hire a professional in your area who will ensure the toilet functions properly, isn't wobbling, and connections aren’t leaking.
Comfort height toilets meet the ADA guidelines for accessible toilets and provide the height needed for people who use wheelchairs. The extra height makes it safer and easier for individuals with disabilities. Ideally, the toilet height should line up with the height of the wheelchair seat.
Stephanie Shaykin contributed to this piece.
