Buying a new toilet is not something you do every day, so you have to make the best choice when it is time to do so. One of the most important things you should consider when purchasing a toilet is its height.
You will come across various options, and knowing the difference between chair-height vs. standard-height toilet options is essential.
A standard-height toilet is between 15 and 16-1/8 inches tall, and you can find them in many typical restrooms. Chair-height toilets are more akin to chairs at 17 to 19 inches tall and are preferred by taller and older people.
These toilet categories might seem confusing, but they do not have to be because we are here to help.
How Tall Is a Standard Toilet?
One of the questions that often pop up when people shop around for toilets has to do with their comfort level. Many consumers fail to realize at this point that toilet height has a lot to do with how comfortable a toilet is. So how tall is a standard-height toilet?
A standard-height toilet measures 15 to 16-1/8 inches from the bathroom floor to the top of the seat. That variation of 1-1/8 inches might make some standard-height seats seem more comfortable than others, depending on how tall you are.
Standard-height toilets became widely used in the 19th century. They were made of that height, considering the average height of people at the time.
People have generally become taller since those days, which is probably why toilet manufacturers introduced taller toilets. You might also see standard-height toilets marketed as “Regular Height” toilets.
Depending on how tall you happen to be, a standard-height toilet just might be what you are looking for. A toilet of this height is suitable for shorter people as well as kids. This is not to say that taller people cannot use standard-size toilets.
One of the benefits of sitting on a toilet that is a bit short for you is that it allows you to effortlessly adopt a semi-squat position which is ideal for relaxing the sphincter and makes defecation easier.
Disadvantages of a standard toilet have to be considered as well. Some people might have difficulty standing up when using a toilet of this height.
Chair-height toilets can be a bit confusing, especially when you learn that other names often refer to them. But how tall is a chair-height toilet?
Chair-height toilets get their name because they are designed to be as tall as chairs, but of course, there are chairs of different heights. Chair height is considered to be from 17 to 19 inches measured from the top of the toilet seat to the bathroom floor.
Chair-height toilets are basically the same as comfort height toilets. You just have to understand that the Kohler Company calls its chair-height type “comfort height toilets,” so when you see that term, it is a toilet of chair-height specifically made by that brand. e
All of these chair-height options can differ in different ways, such as the addition of arms for disabled people, but they are more or less the same height.
Chair-height toilets are an excellent choice for tall people and those who experience difficulty sitting on and getting up from a standard-height toilet.
One of the cons of chair-height toilets is that shorter family members and children can find them challenging to use.
How Do I Measure Toilet Seat Height?
Having to replace your toilet for any reason does not necessarily mean that you have to change the current height. You might be happy with using a toilet of the same height that you already have. So how do you measure toilet height?
Measuring your toilet’s height is not complicated at all. You just have to take a measuring tape and measure from the top of the toilet bowl to the top of the floor, or vice versa.
Once you know how tall your current toilet is, you will know what to look for.
Chair Height vs. Regular Toilet
Once, people had no choice but to opt for mass-produced toilets, and they did not get much of a choice about the height. In modern times, you can easily find yourself wondering whether you should get a chair-height or regular toilet. Both of these have their pros and cons.
You have to consider certain things when purchasing your next toilet, such as how you will use the toilet, the desired sitting position, and the final cost.
Usage
Chair-height toilets are arguably more comfortable than standard toilets, and that is one of their main selling points. This type of toilet allows users to sit and stand up with ease which is not only pleasing but also minimizes the possibility of accidents.
On the other hand, if most people who will use the toilet are short in stature, they will find it easier to use a regular-height toilet.
Sitting Position
Chair-height toilets can be more comfortable and easier to sit on but using a standard-height toilet a bit short for you can help you use a semi-squat position which helps bowel movement.
When you buy a new toilet, you want it to last. This means that going cheap should not be an option, but you still have to consider the cost.
Chair-height toilets can cost you from $100 to $350, depending on the brand and quality. Standard-height toilets range in price from $200 to $450.
Conclusion – Chair Height vs. Standard Height
Having both a chair-height and regular-height toilet in your home would be great, but most of us have to choose between the two types of toilet models. Making that choice is easier when you consider the pros and cons of both we discussed here, such as usage and cost.
