What’s the Difference Between Standard Height and Comfort Height Toilets?

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. 

Comfort Height Toilet vs. Standard Height Toilet: Key Differences 

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. 

Standard Height Toilet Basics

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.

Best for:

• Children and adults under 5’4”

• Bathrooms with limited space 

• Bathrooms with built-in toilet paper holders at standard height

Standard Height Toilet Pros

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.

Standard Height Toilet Cons

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. 

Comfort Height Toilet Basics 

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.

Best for:

• Taller people

• Individuals who need or prefer elevated seats

• ADA-compliant bathrooms and accessible bathroom design 

• Larger bathrooms

Comfort Height Pros

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.

Comfort Height Cons

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.

Standard Height vs. Comfort Height Toilets

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.

Appearance​: Tie

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.

Options & Customizations​: Tie

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.

Price​: Comfort Height Toilets  

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.

Ease of Installation: Tie

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.

Accessibility: Comfort Height Toilets

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.