THE BEST TOILETS FOR YOUR HOME

HOW TO CHOOSE = When shopping for the best toilets, talk to sales people to determine which type of toilet you prefer. Gravity-fed toilets are simpler and easier to repair. Pressure-assisted toilets are noisier and more expensive, but they perform best.

If you decide on a gravity-fed model, make sure it has a wider exit pipe. Dual-flush toilets will save water, but are harder to clean and might result in more odors. One-piece toilets are easier to clean, but more expensive.

Pressure-assisted toilets require household water pressure to be at least 25 psi. If your home has less, consider a gravity-fed toilet.

If you’re over 50, the “comfort height models” are something you should investigate. They have seats which are 2” higher than other toilets.

Round toilet bowls save space, while elongated bowls are more comfortable. These are 2” longer than round bowls. Most models come either way, but the elongated bowls are a bit more expensive.

White is still the standard, and the cheapest when it comes to colors. If you choose a 2-piece toilet, it might not come with a seat. So remember to budget extra for a compatible seat. Expect to pay between $200 and $350 for a good toilet.

THE REVIEW = The honor of being the Most Powerful Toilet goes to the Gerber Ultra Flush 21-312. Of all the best toilets, this 2-piece model gets the highest ratings for removing the most solid waste in a single flush.

I’m glad I wasn’t there for that test. This toilet also has a large water surface, which helps keep it clean and prevents stains. Though powerful, the Gerber is quiet.

Other top performers include:

Best One-Piece Toilet = TOTO Eco MS853113E for about $470.

Best Budget Toilet = TOTO Drake CST744S at $240.

Best Dual-Flush Toilet = Caroma Caravelle 305 at about $400.

Best Designer Toilet (ridiculous category) = Kohler Hatbox @ $2,800.

Best price found in Nov., ’09 and again in May, '10 = Prices were close. Things fluctuate, so I would look at all of these:

VintageTub.com; BuyPlumbing.net; & FaucetDepot.com.

Anything else you'd like to ask about best toilets, click here.