There are two main toilet heights that are commonly used when manufacturing toilets: standard and comfort. There is a 3-inch difference in height between the two types, however, comfort height toilets—also called chair height toilets—may be the better choice for taller individuals, as well as people with mobility problems. The higher seat makes it easier for some people to sit down and stand back up. Find out what you should know about standard versus comfort toilet heights before purchasing a new toilet for the home.
Understanding Toilet Heights
Toilets will generally range from about 14.5 inches to 21 inches in height, though most toilets do not exceed 19 inches in height. Opting for a shorter toilet is a good idea if the toilet will be installed in a kids bathroom or if the occupants of the home tend to be shorter. However, a comfort height toilet may be a better option for taller occupants and individuals that would otherwise have difficulty lowering themselves to the seat and standing up again after use.
Standard Height Toilets
The most common toilet height is referred to as standard height. Standard height toilets sit lower to the ground than comfort height toilets, typically measuring about 14.5 to 16 inches in height.
Standard height toilets are suitable for kids and shorter individuals that may not like the additional height of a comfort height toilet. Children can climb up onto the seat easier, allowing them to use the toilet without a step stool. Also, standard height toilets weigh less than comfort height toilets, and can often take up less space, making standard height toilets ideal for smaller bathrooms.
Comfort (or Chair) Height Toilets
Comfort height toilets are not as commonly used as standard height toilets, though they can be a great choice for the homes of tall families. Generally, those over 5'4" in height will feel more comfortable sitting down and standing up from a comfort height toilet. These toilets measure 17 to 19 inches from the ground at the base of the toilet to the top of the toilet seat.
Instead of sinking down onto a toilet seat that is just over a foot off the ground, users can sit comfortably at a height of 17 to 19 inches. This added height makes it easier for taller users, but it's also safer for those that have difficulty getting up from a low seat, like seniors and people with mobility challenges. In fact, the requirements set out by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) state that an ADA-approved toilet must stand at a height of 17 to 19 inches.
Standard Height | Comfort Height | |
Height | 14.5 to 21 inches | 17 to 19 inches |
Comfort | Comfortable for kids and short adults | More comfortable and safer for taller individuals and those with mobility challenges |
Difficulty sitting | Toilet seat height is easier to access for shorter people | May require a step stool to help kids and smaller adults |
Installation | Low weight of the toilet reduces installation difficulty | Added weight can make installation more difficult |
Disability | Not suitable for homes with disabled individuals | Meets the toilet height requirements set out by the ADA |
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What are the most common toilet heights?
Standard height toilets are the most common option for homes. These toilets measure 14.5 to 16 inches from the floor to the top of the seat.
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What toilet height is best for seniors?
Seniors and other individuals with mobility problems will have an easier time sitting and standing up from a comfort height toilet, which measures 17 to 19 inches from the ground to the seat.
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Is 21 inches too high for a toilet?
You can find toilets that are 20 to 21 inches in height. These toilets are best for individuals who are taller than six feet. Shorter people may find that 21 inches is too high for a comfortable bathroom experience.