What is a Comfort Height Toilet?

What is a comfort height toilet and how does it differ from standard toilet height?

It’s simple really, a comfort height toilet is designed to be slightly higher than a standard toilet, sometimes up to 4 inches (10 cm) more so. So essentially you sit higher off the ground and don’t need to bend down as much to go to the bathroom.

‘Well how come all toilets aren’t as comfortable?’ – you may be asking yourself. Comfort height toilets aren’t exactly ‘more comfortable’ as such, in terms of the materials used or the shape of the toilet bowl itself. But they are easier to use if you have certain accessibility needs, for example. 

Continue reading for more information, features and benefits of comfort height toilets compared to standard toilet height arrangements.

Standard toilet height VS height of comfort toilet

Standard toilet height is typically 15 inches (38 cm) from the floor to the seat. With a comfort height toilet, this can range between 17 inches (43 cm) and 19 inches (48 cm). This extra height makes it easier for people with mobility issues, arthritis, or back problems to use the toilet.

Key features of comfort height toilets

Higher seat height

The height of comfort toilet arrangements provides a more comfortable sitting position and allows people to get on and off the seat with less strain.

Taller tank

A lot of comfort height toilets also come with taller tanks, so that the flush button is higher up. This means you do not need to bend down as much, if at all, to use this function.

Benefits of comfort height toilets

• Offers less strain: The main difference between standard toilet height arrangements and comfort height toilets is that they typically reduce strain on the legs, knees and back. Again, this is helpful for elderly people and those with physical limitations due to ailments or disability.
• Ideal for taller people: It’s not just people with physical limitations that can benefit from comfort height toilets. People who are taller may find standard toilets too low, so they will find this alternative more comfortable to use.
• Accessibility: Comfort height toilets are often used in homes with accessibility needs and where standard toilet height isn’t suitable. This can include physical limitations caused by arthritis, injuries, or old age.

Things you need to consider

Space requirements

As comfort height toilets are a bit taller, they will take up a little more area in your bathroom. This may not be ideal or possible in smaller bathrooms with limited space. This is perhaps your most major consideration when thinking about installing a comfort height toilet.

Aesthetic preference

If you don’t need a comfort height toilet for accessibility reasons, say for example you are considering one because you are tall, then consider how it might look in your bathroom space aesthetically. Many people prefer the look of the standard toilet height and this option isn’t to everyone’s taste.

Other people in the building

If you live with children or small people, they may find a comfort height toilet difficult or challenging to use. This may mean you need to have two different options in your house, to satisfy the height needs of some and potential physical accessibility needs of others.

Alternatives to comfort height toilets

If you have accessibility in mind when designing your bathroom, there are other alternatives and modifications beyond just comfort height toilets that can make the space safer and more comfortable.

These are just a few you may consider:

• Handle bars: These provide extra support in areas near the toilet, shower or bathtub to assist with balance and movement. They help with getting up and sitting down, and moving around the general bathroom space.
• Raised Toilet Seat: If you don’t want to, or cannot afford to, replace your entire toilet you can opt for a raised toilet seat instead. This is added to your existing setup to provide additional height.
• Wall mounted toilet: This type of toilet typically allows for adjustable seat height to suit your requirements and preferences. This leaves a space underneath the seat which makes for a modern aesthetic which is easier to clean. This is also ideal for toilets with low floor space.
• Smart toilets: These are popular in Japan, a lot more so than they are here in the UK. They are also on the expensive side! If you are lucky enough to have a smart toilet, they often come with adjustable heights, heated seats, and other advanced features like automatic flushing and cleaning. They also often include a bidet function!

As always, when choosing your toilet it’s important to factor in the specific needs of the person using it, the space limitations in your bathroom, your budget and the ease of installation. We are happy to help with all of these considerations.

Comfort toilets and a lot more from Boro Heating

Boro Heating is our sister business to Boro Bathrooms, a family-run business for over 50 years. This seamless collaboration allows us to provide the highest quality 

heating and plumbing supplies and services.

We don’t just work with members of the public either. We offer exciting trade deals and discounts, making sure our trade customers receive the high level of service we’re renowned for. Our dedicated team strive to provide the very best service and quality to ensure we meet and exceed your expectations.

If we can help with your comfort height toilet installation or any other bathroom plans, please do not hesitate to get in touch. Give our Bury branch a call on 0161 761 6066 or our Rochdale branch on 01706 655 395. Either of those teams will be more than happy to help with your enquiry.