Chair Height vs Comfort Height Toilet vs Standard

Toilet height is measured from the floor to the top of the rim or seat excluding the cover. The varying heights is what brings about the terms Chair, comfort, and standard or regular toilet height. All these terms can be confusing but not anymore!

Kohler’s comfort height toilet, commonly known as chair height, typically measures above 17 inches. This height is best for taller individuals and people with mobility issues.

On the other hand, standard height toilets measure below 17 inches. This height is ideal for individuals of average or smaller size like children.

Following is a discussion comparing these toilet heights plus an insight into which is better for your home.

Chair Height vs Comfort Height Toilet

Chair and comfort height are two different terms but they refer to a toilet of the same height.

Chair height is the common term for all toilets with a height that is at least 17 inches while comfort height is a brand-specific term, for chair heights. It is used by Kohler CO, an American manufacturing company best known for its quality plumbing products.

Comfort Height Toilet vs Standard Height Toilet

Comfort height toilets completely differ from standard height toilets especially in terms of the measurements.

As you have learned, right-height toilets come at a height of above 17 inches. Without the seats, comfort heights measure 16 to 18 inches while with seats they measure 17 to 19 inches.

Standard height measures 14 to 15 inches without the seat and 15 to 16 inches with the seat

Comfort height toilet

Measuring two to three inches higher than the standard / regular/ traditional height toilets, they are very appealing to tall individuals, handicapped individuals as well as the elderly/ seniors.

With such a huge allowance, these sets offer more comfort and better convenience for all taller folks who may be struggling with using bathroom fittings. This is why they are common in restrooms, commercial spaces, plus other non-residential units.

For marketing purposes, different companies identify chair heights with different names, as mentioned earlier, for instance, Kohler refers to it as comfort height.

Pros:

• Perfect for tall people, disabled, elderly/ seniors.
• Cheaper than the standard height toilets.
• Most of them are ADA compliant.

Cons:

• May pose an issue for children and shorter adults who measure about 4 to 5 inches tall.
• They can cause your feet to dangle in the air – something not advised as it cuts off blood circulation in the body.
• They can increase your chances of constipation.

Standard Height Toilet

From the 19 century when the first flushing toilet was introduced, then came the standard height wash sets. Also referred to as regular height, they measure 14 to 16 inches tall – an ideal size for short individuals and kids.

Standard height toilet features

Standard toilet

With a low measure, they advantageously allow you to place your foot down as to go on with nature’s business. Another benefit of the regular height toilet is that they offer your hips excellent positioning ( less than 90° ) which is a more natural pose for efficient bowel movements.

Pros:

• They offer a more natural position for a bowel movement.
• Great for those experiencing constipation.
• Ideal for children and short adults.

Cons:

• Strenuous to aged and tall individuals.
• They are more difficult to erect from.
• They are more costly than chair height toilets.

Which is Better?

To wind up, here’s a comparison summary on all you need to know about toilet heights in regard to other factors.

1. Usage

As mentioned earlier, comfort height toilets are more prevalent than the standard toilets, probably because they serve a greater population than the other.

Either way, they allow for easier sitting and standing, regardless if you’re not physically challenged, aged, or tall.

This, however, doesn’t mean that standard toilets aren’t common. They are an excellent choice for kids as you won’t require to purchase a ladder or step chair for them to use.

2. Height

The ADA compliance act under exception clause 604.4 states that the recommended height for persons with a disability requires two to three inches taller than the standard height of 16 inches. This is the measure from the floor to the toilet seat.

This then qualifies comfort height toilets to be used commercially or universally since they cater to more individuals.

Standard height toilets are best for home use, where if you need additional height, you can invest in risers, arms, or paddles, among other seat raisers.

3. Appearance

The main differentiating feature between these two toilets is simply the height. That being said, design and coloring are available in variety for both, although white is the most common shade.

Also, the two wash sets do come in different designs from one-piece to a two-piece.

However, the one-piece can be rather expensive to purchase, which adds more financial strain, especially for the regular height toilets since they are occasionally more costly than the chair height type.

4. Sitting Position Constipation Issues

Standard toilets are thought to enhance bowel movements hence preventing constipation and hemorrhoids. This is because the hips will be well-positioned below the knees.

Because the ADA complaint toilets are taller, they offer a 90-degree seating angle. This position is good for the knees and back; especially for the aged, tall, and people with mobility issues.

However, some health experts claim that the chair-like posture inhibits natural bowel movement.

5. Cost

Finally, the budget price for these two toilets. Comfort height toilets cost between $100 to $300 depending on your preference and brands such as TOTO, Kohler, and American Standard.

As for the standard toilets, they can cost you between $200 to over $400. The best brands for these kinds of wash sets include Drake, TOTO, and American Standard.

Which height is best for you?

Whether the toilet is identified as standard height or chair height, the best toilet height will depend on the user. It should be one that allows you to easily sit down and stand up.