One thing that many of us take for granted is the height of fixtures in our home. Interestingly, standard toilet height is 14 to 16 inches high (to the seat). However, this might be the lowest seat in your house – this is quite low compared to most chairs!
Low-height toilets can make it difficult for people with mobility challenges to sit down and get back up easily. Comfort height toilets solve this problem.
What is a comfort height toilet?
Comfort height toilets are toilets that are about 17 to 19 inches from the floor to the seat, so they’re about two inches taller than your average toilet. This is a much more natural sitting level for most people, which means it can be more comfortable to sit on, and easier to get on and off of.
Who should buy a comfort height toilet?
Comfort height toilets are great for those who struggle to squat down to the low height of a normal toilet. The height of a standard toilet can put stress on the knees and lower back.
So who benefits the most from comfort height toilets?
Those who are:
- Elderly
- Very tall, or
- Have mobility issues
For these people, comfort height toilets are just that – more comfortable!
Who shouldn’t get a comfort height toilet?
Children or people who are particularly short have difficulties with comfort height toilets because it can cause their feet to dangle. Also, those with digestive health issues typically prefer standard height toilets, as they put you in a better squatting position.
Do comfort height toilets look different?
Aside from the height difference, there is no major difference in appearance between comfort height and standard toilets. There is a wide array of styles of comfort height toilets available to fit your needs.
Is it hard to install a comfort height toilet?
No. There is no substantial difference in the installation process between comfort height toilets and standard toilets. It’s good to remember, though, that all toilets, comfort or not, work best when they are installed by professionals.
What is the cost of a comfort height toilet?
Contrary to what you might expect, comfort height toilets can be the same price or less expensive than standard toilets.
- Standard toilets will range from $220-$370
- Comfort height toilets can cost between $150-$300
It’s possible to get toilets for cheaper, but they will likely not be high-quality.
Are comfort height toilets ADA compliant?
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) regulates how businesses should be set up to ensure that they are accessible to people living with disabilities or mobility issues.
Many, but not all, comfort height toilets are ADA compliant. For a toilet to be ADA compliant, the toilet must:
- Have a seat between 17-19 inches off of the ground
- Have a flush control height no higher than 44”
- Be undercut (have a gap between the toilet bowl and the floor)
Some comfort height toilets are only 16.5” off the ground, so be sure to check this if you are purchasing one to be ADA compliant.
When setting up your place of business to accommodate people with disabilities, it can be easy to overlook the bathrooms.
Just know that almost all businesses with more than 15 employees are required by law to follow ADA requirements. You can find out more about ADA toilets and other height fixtures below to help you plan your plumbing.