Introduction
When I first started looking for a smart toilet, I was surprised by the huge variety of features, brands, and price points. Some models were simple bidet seats, while others had heated seats, automatic flushing, and even voice control. With so many options, it was hard to know which smart toilet was the best choice for my needs.
If you’re in the same situation, this guide will help you choose the right smart toilet by breaking down:
✔ Essential features to look for (bidet function, self-cleaning, auto-flush, etc.)
✔ Budget considerations – what you get at different price points
✔ Brand comparisons – which smart toilet brands are the best
✔ Common mistakes to avoid when buying a smart toilet
By the end of this guide, you’ll have a clear understanding of what to look for and how to pick the best smart toilet for your budget and bathroom setup.
What is a Smart Toilet & Why Upgrade?
A smart toilet is a high-tech bathroom fixture equipped with advanced features like automatic flushing, bidet cleansing, heated seats, and self-cleaning nozzles. Unlike traditional toilets, smart toilets are designed to enhance hygiene, convenience, and comfort while reducing water and toilet paper usage.
💡 Why Upgrade to a Smart Toilet?
✔ Better Hygiene – Bidet functions clean more effectively than toilet paper.
✔ Hands-Free Operation – Auto-flush and touchless controls minimize germ contact.
✔ Water & Energy Efficiency – Smart toilets use precisely measured water for each flush.
✔ Comfort & Luxury – Features like heated seats, warm air drying, and deodorization improve the experience.
✔ Eco-Friendly – Reduces toilet paper waste, making it a sustainable choice.
📌 Tip: If you’re tired of toilet clogs, high toilet paper costs, or cold toilet seats in winter, a smart toilet is a great upgrade.
🚽 How Does a Smart Toilet Differ from a Traditional Toilet?
| Feature | Smart Toilet | Traditional Toilet |
| Flushing Mechanism | Automatic, sensor-based, or remote control | Manual flush with lever |
| Bidet Function | Built-in bidet nozzle with adjustable spray | No bidet – requires toilet paper |
| Seat Features | Heated seat, soft-close lid, and ergonomic design | Standard seat, no heating |
| Hygiene & Self-Cleaning | Self-cleaning nozzles & deodorization | Requires manual cleaning |
| Water Efficiency | Uses optimized flush settings | Uses more water per flush |
📌 Tip: Smart toilets save water, reduce waste, and improve hygiene, making them a modern solution for home bathrooms.
Key Features to Look for in a Smart Toilet
Not all smart toilets are created equal. Some offer basic bidet functions, while others come packed with advanced features like automatic flushing, self-cleaning technology, and voice control. Knowing what to look for will help you choose the right model for your needs and budget.
🚽 Must-Have Features in a Smart Toilet
| Feature | What It Does | Why It’s Important |
| Bidet Function | Uses a water spray for cleansing instead of toilet paper | More hygienic and eco-friendly |
| Heated Seat | Keeps the seat warm, especially useful in winter | Adds comfort and luxury |
| Auto-Flush | Automatically flushes after use | Hands-free operation, reduces germs |
| Self-Cleaning Nozzle | The bidet nozzle cleans itself after every use | Ensures hygiene and easy maintenance |
| Adjustable Water Pressure & Temperature | Allows users to customize the bidet spray | Personalizes comfort and cleansing experience |
| Air Dryer | Uses warm air to dry after the bidet function | Reduces or eliminates the need for toilet paper |
| Deodorizer | Absorbs and neutralizes odors | Keeps the bathroom smelling fresh |
📌 Tip: If budget is a concern, prioritize these three: bidet function, self-cleaning nozzle, and heated seat.
🎮 Bonus Smart Features (For High-End Models)
✔ Motion-Activated Lid – The toilet seat opens and closes automatically.
✔ Voice-Control or App Integration – Control settings via voice commands or a smartphone app.
✔ Night Light – A soft LED light for easy use in the dark.
✔ Tankless Design – Saves space and provides endless warm water for bidet cleansing.
📌 Tip: If you want a premium experience, look for a model with voice control and automatic lid operation.
💰 Smart Toilet Price vs. Features – What Can You Get for Your Budget?
| Price Range | Features Available | Best For |
| $300 – $600 | Basic bidet function, soft-close lid | Entry-level users |
| $600 – $1,200 | Heated seat, adjustable settings, remote control | Mid-range buyers |
| $1,200 – $3,000+ | Auto-flush, self-cleaning, air dryer, voice control | Luxury models |
📌 Tip: The sweet spot for most buyers is between $600 and $1,200, where you get good features without overspending.
Comparing the Best Smart Toilet Brands
When choosing a smart toilet, it’s important to consider which brand offers the best features, reliability, and value for money. Some brands specialize in high-end luxury models, while others provide budget-friendly smart toilets with essential features.
🚽 Best Smart Toilet Brands & Their Strengths
| Brand | Best Known For | Price Range |
| TOTO | Premium quality, best bidet functions, eco-friendly flushing | $1,000 – $3,500+ |
| Kohler | Modern design, great auto-flush & cleaning tech | $800 – $3,000 |
| Woodbridge | Affordable yet feature-packed smart toilets | $400 – $1,200 |
| BioBidet | High-tech bidet functions & customizable settings | $500 – $1,500 |
| Duravit | Sleek European design, high water efficiency | $1,200 – $4,000 |
| American Standard | Dependable smart toilet models with reliable flushing | $800 – $2,500 |
📌 Tip:
- If you want premium features and durability, go for TOTO or Kohler.
- For budget-friendly options, Woodbridge and BioBidet are great choices.
🔍 Brand Comparison: Which One Should You Choose?
✔ Best Overall: TOTO – Industry leader in luxury smart toilets with advanced bidet functions.
✔ Best for Budget Buyers: Woodbridge – Affordable but still offers bidet, heated seat, and auto-flush.
✔ Best for Design Lovers: Duravit – Minimalist European aesthetics with smart features.
✔ Best for Bidet Enthusiasts: BioBidet – Specializes in high-performance bidet cleansing.
📌 Tip: If you prioritize bidet functionality, go for TOTO or BioBidet. If modern design matters, Kohler or Duravit is your best choice.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Buying a Smart Toilet
Buying a smart toilet is a big investment, and choosing the wrong model can lead to installation issues, discomfort, or wasted money. Here are the most common mistakes to avoid when selecting your smart toilet.
🚨 1. Not Checking Power & Electrical Requirements
✔ Many smart toilets require an electrical outlet nearby.
✔ Some models only support 120V power, which may not be standard in all homes.
📌 Tip: If your bathroom doesn’t have an outlet near the toilet, you may need an electrician to install one.
🚽 2. Ignoring Water Pressure Compatibility
✔ Some tankless smart toilets require higher water pressure than standard toilets.
✔ If your home has low water pressure, you may need a pump or a model with a built-in tank.
📌 Tip: Check the manufacturer’s water pressure requirements before buying.
📏 3. Choosing the Wrong Toilet Size
✔ Some smart toilets are larger than standard models, which can cause installation problems.
✔ Round vs. elongated seats – Make sure to choose a shape that fits your bathroom space.
📌 Tip: Measure your bathroom and compare it with the toilet’s dimensions before purchasing.
🔋 4. Buying a Model Without a Manual Flush Option
✔ If the power goes out, some smart toilets won’t flush without electricity.
✔ High-end models offer a backup manual flush, but not all do.
📌 Tip: If you live in an area with frequent power outages, choose a model with a manual flush lever or battery backup.
🛠️ 5. Not Considering Installation Complexity
✔ Some smart toilets require professional installation due to complex wiring and plumbing.
✔ Others can be DIY-installed if they come with detailed instructions and standard fittings.
📌 Tip: Check the installation requirements before buying—some models may require a plumber.
📌 Summary Table: Smart Toilet Mistakes to Avoid
| Mistake | Why It’s a Problem | How to Avoid It |
| No power outlet nearby | Toilet won’t function | Install an outlet before purchasing |
| Low water pressure | Weak flush or bidet spray issues | Check manufacturer’s pressure requirements |
| Wrong toilet size | Won’t fit in your bathroom | Measure space before buying |
| No manual flush option | Won’t work during power outages | Choose a model with backup flushing |
| Complex installation | May require hiring a plumber | Select an easy-installation model if DIY-ing |
📌 Tip: If you’re installing a smart toilet for the first time, consult a professional plumber or electrician to avoid problems.
FAQs – Answering Common Questions
When buying a smart toilet, you may have questions about installation, maintenance, and features. Here are the most common questions people ask before making a purchase.
❓ What is the best smart toilet for beginners?
✅ Best for first-time users:
✔ Woodbridge B-0960 – Affordable, easy to install, and includes bidet & heated seat.
✔ BioBidet BB-2000 – Best for bidet beginners with adjustable settings.
✔ TOTO Washlet C5 – A smart bidet seat that fits most standard toilets.
📌 Tip: If you’re new to smart toilets, start with a bidet seat attachment before upgrading to a full unit.
❓ Are smart toilets worth the investment?
✅ Yes! Smart toilets offer:
✔ Better hygiene – Bidets clean better than toilet paper.
✔ Eco-friendly savings – Uses less toilet paper and water.
✔ Hands-free convenience – Auto-flush, heated seats, and air dryers add luxury.
📌 Tip: Over time, smart toilets save money on toilet paper costs and reduce plumbing issues.
❓ Can smart toilets be installed in any bathroom?
✅ Most smart toilets require:
✔ A power source nearby – Some models need a standard 120V outlet.
✔ Compatible plumbing – Check water pressure requirements.
✔ Enough space – Some models are larger than traditional toilets.
📌 Tip: Measure your bathroom space and check if an outlet is available before buying.
❓ Do smart toilets use a lot of electricity?
✅ No, they are energy-efficient.
✔ Most models only consume power when in use.
✔ Some have eco-mode settings to reduce standby power consumption.
✔ Heated seats and air dryers use minimal electricity.
📌 Tip: If energy use is a concern, choose a low-wattage model with energy-saving mode.
❓ What happens if a smart toilet loses power?
✅ It depends on the model.
✔ Some smart toilets have a manual flush button.
✔ High-end models may have battery backup flushing.
✔ If no backup is available, use the bucket method to flush manually.
📌 Tip: Check if your chosen model has a manual flush option before purchasing.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right smart toilet can enhance your bathroom experience by offering better hygiene, hands-free operation, and long-term cost savings. Whether you’re looking for a basic model with bidet functions or a luxury toilet with voice control and auto-flush, there’s an option for every budget.
If you’re considering upgrading to a smart toilet, remember these key takeaways:
✔ Look for essential features like bidet function, self-cleaning nozzles, and a heated seat.
✔ Check compatibility with your bathroom’s power and water supply before buying.
✔ Compare top brands like TOTO, Kohler, and Woodbridge to find the best fit for your needs.
✔ Avoid common mistakes, such as choosing a model without a manual flush option or ignoring installation requirements.
Which Smart Toilet Should You Choose?
✅ For budget buyers: Woodbridge B-0960 – Great features at an affordable price.
✅ For best bidet experience: BioBidet BB-2000 – Excellent water pressure and customizable wash settings.
✅ For luxury seekers: TOTO Neorest NX2 – High-end design with voice control and self-cleaning functions.
📌 Tip: If you’re unsure, start with a bidet seat attachment before committing to a full smart toilet.
