Key takeaways
- Flappers, fill valves and wax rings are routine replacements; TOTO sells parts for common models.
- Use non-abrasive cleaners to preserve the glaze.
- Avoid in-tank bleach tablets, which attack rubber seals.
- Washlet electronics need an outlet, and nozzles need periodic cleaning.
The best TOTO toilet for most homes is the Drake II, a two-piece, 1.28 GPF model with Tornado Flush and a published MaP result of 1,000 grams. The Ultramax II is the best one-piece, the Aquia IV is the best dual-flush, the Nexus is the pick for modern design, and the Washlet C5 turns any compatible TOTO bowl into a bidet toilet. TOTO is consistently ranked first among toilet brands in 2026 roundups because its flush engineering, ceramic glaze and parts support are strong across the range.
Quick Comparison of TOTO Toilets
| Model | Best for | Flush | Construction | Key technology | Price range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| TOTO Drake II | Best overall | 1.28 GPF | Two-piece | Tornado Flush, CeFiONtect glaze | Mid to upper-mid |
| TOTO Ultramax II | Best one-piece | 1.28 GPF | One-piece | Tornado Flush, skirted body | Upper-mid |
| TOTO Aquia IV | Best dual flush | About 0.8 / 1.0 GPF | One-piece | Dual-Max flushing | Upper-mid |
| TOTO Nexus | Best modern design | 1.28 GPF | One-piece | Slim profile, hidden trapway | Upper-mid |
| TOTO Washlet C5 with a compatible bowl | Best bidet upgrade | Depends on bowl | Seat on existing bowl | Tankless warm water, EWATER+ | Mid to upper-mid |
| TOTO Neorest | Best flagship smart toilet | Dual flush | One-piece, tankless | EWATER+, UV, Tornado Flush | Premium |
Best Overall: TOTO Drake II
The Drake II is the TOTO model most plumbers recommend. It is a two-piece, elongated toilet with a 1.28 GPF Tornado Flush, a glazed trapway and the CeFiONtect finish that resists staining. Published comparisons list a 1,000 gram MaP score, which is the top result reported by that protocol. It is available in universal height and in different rough-in sizes. The trade-offs are the exposed base and tank joint, which are a little harder to wipe than a skirted body.
Best One-Piece: TOTO Ultramax II
The Ultramax II offers the Drake’s flush performance in a one-piece, skirted body. It looks more modern, has fewer crevices and is easier to keep clean. It is heavy and more expensive, and a cracked tank means replacing the entire fixture.
Best Dual Flush: TOTO Aquia IV
The Aquia IV combines Dual-Max flushing with a sleek one-piece body. It is among the lowest water-use options from a major brand while retaining TOTO’s glaze and build quality. Use TOTO-branded replacement parts, since the flush assembly is model-specific.
Best Modern Design: TOTO Nexus
The Nexus is a slim, contemporary one-piece with a hidden trapway. Roundups name it TOTO’s design-forward pick. It suits modern bathrooms where a classic profile looks out of place.
Best Bidet Upgrade: TOTO Washlet C5
The Washlet C5 is a tankless electric bidet seat with heated seat, on-demand warm water and EWATER+ self-cleaning of the wand. Many 2026 roundups name it the best bidet seat overall. It uses a wall-mounted remote and has no app. Check that your toilet’s bolt spacing and bowl shape match the seat’s requirements.
Best Flagship: TOTO Neorest
The Neorest line represents TOTO’s top-end smart toilets, with integrated bidet, UV and EWATER+ cleaning and Tornado Flush. Some models include a manual override flush. These carry premium prices and are best suited to high-end remodels.
Why TOTO Toilets Perform Well
| Feature | What it does | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Tornado Flush | Directs water in a swirling pattern from nozzles | Cleans the bowl without a conventional rim |
| CeFiONtect glaze | Smooth, ion-barrier ceramic surface | Resists staining and buildup |
| Large flush valve and trapway | Moves waste quickly | Reduces clogs at low water use |
| MaP testing results | Independent flush capacity data | Published scores around 800 to 1,000 grams |
How to Choose a TOTO Toilet
Choose the height
TOTO sells standard and Universal Height versions. Universal Height has a higher bowl suited to most adults and meets ADA seat-height guidance.
Choose one-piece or two-piece
One-piece is easier to clean but heavier and costlier. Two-piece is lighter and easier to repair.
Match the rough-in
Twelve inches is common. Verify the model’s rough-in and projection against your bathroom.
Check the seat
Many TOTO toilets are sold without a seat. Choose a matching SoftClose seat or a Washlet.
Ownership Realities
- Flappers, fill valves and wax rings are routine replacements; TOTO sells parts for common models.
- Use non-abrasive cleaners to preserve the glaze.
- Avoid in-tank bleach tablets, which attack rubber seals.
- Washlet electronics need an outlet, and nozzles need periodic cleaning.
Which TOTO Toilet Should You Buy?
| Your situation | Best choice |
|---|---|
| Most homes | TOTO Drake II |
| Easy cleaning | TOTO Ultramax II |
| Lowest water use | TOTO Aquia IV |
| Modern bathroom | TOTO Nexus |
| Add a bidet | TOTO Washlet C5 |
| Luxury remodel | TOTO Neorest |
TOTO Model Names Decoded
TOTO model numbers look confusing, but they follow patterns. Many names carry a prefix for the style (C for close-coupled two-piece, M for one-piece, W for wall-hung), followed by the series, flush volume, and a finish code at the end. Tank and bowl are often sold separately in two-piece lines, so check that both pieces are in the listing. Universal Height models carry a different code than standard height, and the seat is usually sold separately, so match the seat to the bowl shape.
Worked example: tank, bowl and seat
A two-piece Drake II listing might include only the tank and bowl, not the seat. If you want a bidet, you can add a Washlet C5; if not, add a matching SoftClose seat. Check bolt spacing and clearance under the tank before ordering a bidet seat, and confirm the bowl is elongated if the seat is elongated.
Decision Matrix
| Need | Model | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Dependable all-rounder | Drake II | Best-known TOTO flush performance |
| Modern, easy to wipe | Ultramax II or Nexus | One-piece, skirted bodies |
| Lowest water use | Aquia IV | Dual-Max flushing |
| Add bidet cleaning | Washlet C5 | Tankless warm water |
| Flagship remodel | Neorest | All-in-one smart features |
Step-by-Step: Replacing a Toilet and What to Check
- Shut off the supply valve, flush, and sponge out the remaining water. Reason: a wet bowl is heavy and messy to lift.
- Disconnect the supply line and remove the closet bolt caps and nuts. Reason: stuck nuts are the most common cause of a cracked base, so cut them with a hacksaw blade if they will not turn.
- Lift the old toilet straight up and scrape off the old wax. Reason: leftover wax prevents a new seal from seating.
- Inspect the flange. It should sit on top of the finished floor, not below it, and the metal ring should be solid. A damaged flange needs a repair ring before the new toilet goes on.
- Set a new wax ring or a wax-free gasket, lower the toilet straight down onto the bolts, and press firmly. Reason: lifting it again to reposition breaks the seal.
- Tighten the nuts alternately, a little at a time, until the toilet is snug and does not rock. Reason: ceramic cracks under uneven pressure.
- Reconnect the supply line, open the valve, let the tank fill, and flush several times while looking for leaks at the base and the tank connection.
- Run a bead of caulk around the front and sides of the base, leaving the back open so a leak would show.
Maintenance schedule
| Task | How often | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Check for rocking and base leaks | Twice a year | A loose toilet breaks the wax seal |
| Inspect flapper and fill valve | Every 2 to 3 years | Worn rubber causes silent leaks and extra water use |
| Dye-tablet leak check | Yearly | Color in the bowl without flushing means a flapper leak |
| Clean under the rim and jets | Every few months | Mineral buildup weakens the flush |
| Replace supply line | Every 5 to 10 years | Braided lines can corrode and fail |
Frequently Asked Questions
Are TOTO toilets worth the price?
For most buyers, yes. They combine strong published flush results, durable glaze and good parts support, which tends to reduce long-term hassle.
Which TOTO toilet is best?
The Drake II is the most recommended for general use; the Ultramax II is the pick for a one-piece.
Are TOTO toilets good at flushing?
Published MaP data places many TOTO models between 800 and 1,000 grams, which is at the strong end of the market.
Where are TOTO toilets made?
TOTO manufactures in several countries. Check the exact model’s label and warranty documentation.
Do TOTO toilets come with a seat?
Some do, and many do not. Check the listing for what is included.
