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Toilet Buying Guide

Most Popular Toilet Models Sold in 2026 (By Volume)

Which toilet brands and models are actually flying off the shelves? We ranked the top sellers by reported sales volume, MaP flush scores, EPA WaterSense certification, and aggregated owner satisfaction -- so you know exactly what American households are choosing in 2026.

Why Trust Best Flushing Toilets

Research updated June 2026.

Quick Answer

The TOTO Drake II and American Standard Champion 4 dominate 2026 unit sales in two-piece toilets, while the Kohler Cimarron and Woodbridge T-0001 lead their respective segments. All four carry EPA WaterSense certification, MaP scores above 800 grams, and four-plus-star owner ratings across thousands of reviews.

Every year, millions of toilets are sold in the United States. But which specific models account for the largest share of those sales? This guide cuts through the noise and focuses on the models that consistently rank at the top of retailer sell-through data, plumber installation records, and consumer review counts -- all reliable proxies for actual unit volume.

We cross-referenced sales rank data from major home improvement and plumbing supply retailers, plumber preference surveys, and the depth of verified owner review counts to estimate relative volume. Models with thousands of verified reviews over a short period tend to have sold in genuinely high quantities. MaP flush-testing scores and EPA WaterSense certification status were then layered on top to show whether popularity is earned.

The short finding: the most popular toilet models in 2026 are popular for real reasons. They flush reliably, use water efficiently, install without drama, and hold up over years of daily use. Here is what households are actually buying.

What makes a toilet a bestseller in 2026?

The top-selling toilet models in 2026 share three traits: EPA WaterSense certification at 1.28 GPF or below, a MaP flush score of 800 grams or higher, and a price point under $500 at most major retailers. Consumers are prioritizing water efficiency alongside proven clog resistance rather than treating them as a trade-off.

A few structural factors are driving 2026 bestseller lists. First, rising water utility costs in the Sun Belt and Pacific states have pushed buyers toward WaterSense-certified models even when replacing toilets that still function. Second, plumbers increasingly specify proven two-piece models from TOTO and American Standard because callback rates are low. Third, online retail has concentrated buying power around models with large verified review counts, creating a self-reinforcing visibility loop.

Brand legacy still matters. TOTO, Kohler, American Standard, Gerber, and Woodbridge together account for the vast majority of all residential toilet sales. Swiss Madison and Horow have carved out a growing share of the sub-$300 modern-design segment. But in raw unit volume, the traditional brands dominate.

Expert Take

Licensed plumbers consistently cite the TOTO Drake II and American Standard Champion 4 as their go-to install recommendations for clients who want reliability without a premium smart-toilet price tag. Both models have trapway diameters and glazed surfacing that make callbacks for clogs genuinely rare -- which matters a lot to a plumber's reputation and a homeowner's sanity.

#1
Best Overall Bestseller

TOTO Drake II Two-Piece Elongated Toilet (CST454CEFG)

4.7 Best For: Any home wanting TOTO reliability at a two-piece price

The Drake II holds the top spot on virtually every retailer sales ranking for residential two-piece toilets, and the published data backs up why: it earns a MaP score of 1,000 grams -- the maximum possible -- while using just 1.28 gallons per flush.

MaP Score1,000 g (maximum)
Flush Volume1.28 GPF
Bowl ShapeElongated
Rim Height16.5 in (comfort height)
CertificationEPA WaterSense
Pros
  • Maximum 1,000-gram MaP score
  • TOTO's SanaGloss (CeFiONtect) ceramic glaze resists buildup
  • G-Max flushing system with 3-inch flush valve
  • Wide parts availability nationwide
  • Comfort-height option widely available
Cons
  • Two-piece design means a seam to clean
  • Tank lid can rattle on some units without adjustment
  • Cotton White shade varies slightly from pure white

TOTO's G-Max flush system uses a wide 3-inch flush valve and a large trap diameter to move waste efficiently on 1.28 GPF. The Drake II's elongated bowl at comfort height (16.5 inches to the rim) is the configuration that accounts for the majority of its sales. TOTO's CeFiONtect glaze -- marketed as SanaGloss -- bonds at a molecular level to the vitreous china, reducing the surface area where waste and mineral deposits can cling.

Owner reviews consistently cite installation straightforwardness and long-term clog absence as the primary satisfaction drivers. Plumbers routinely specify this model for new-build projects and bathroom remodels because parts are stocked at most plumbing supply houses and the flush mechanism rarely requires service. For buyers who want to understand how it compares to its sibling, see the Drake vs Drake II comparison.

Expert Take

The Drake II's 1,000-gram MaP score puts it in the top tier of all tested gravity-flush toilets. That score means MaP's protocol -- flushing soybean paste media that simulates real waste -- found zero failure across all test runs. For a toilet at this price tier, that performance is difficult to beat.

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Bottom Line: The Drake II's combination of a perfect MaP score, WaterSense certification, and proven long-term reliability makes it the single most consistently recommended two-piece toilet in the US market.
American Standard Champion 4 Two Piece Toilet
#2
Highest Volume in Home Centers

American Standard Champion 4 Two-Piece Toilet (2034.014)

4.5 Best For: Large-family and rental-property durability

The Champion 4 has been a top-volume model at big-box home centers for over a decade, and 2026 is no different -- its 4-inch flush valve (the largest in residential gravity-flush toilets) and fully glazed 2-3/8-inch trapway produce a flush that rarely clogs even under heavy use.

MaP Score1,000 g (maximum)
Flush Volume1.6 GPF
Flush Valve4-inch diameter
Trapway2-3/8 in fully glazed
Rough-In12 in standard
Pros
  • 4-inch flush valve is the largest in gravity residential toilets
  • Maximum 1,000-gram MaP score
  • Fully glazed 2-3/8-inch trapway
  • 10-year limited warranty
  • Widely stocked at home centers for fast pickup
Cons
  • 1.6 GPF, not WaterSense certified
  • Design is purely functional, not modern
  • No option for 1.28 GPF in this line

American Standard's Champion 4 uses 1.6 GPF, which is above today's WaterSense threshold, and that is its main trade-off against more modern competitors. However, the raw power of its 4-inch flush valve and the fully glazed trapway mean it virtually never clogs -- a fact reflected in thousands of owner reviews and American Standard's own marketing around the "Never Clogs" guarantee. For households with high usage or frequent flushing of larger amounts of tissue, the extra water per flush is a practical trade-off.

Rental property owners and plumbers who prioritize zero service calls favor this model. The 10-year limited warranty on the china is among the longest in the residential segment. For a detailed breakdown of how it stacks up against a key rival, the Champion 4 vs Cadet 3 comparison covers the key differences.

Expert Take

The Champion 4's 4-inch flush valve creates a faster, larger water release than the 2-inch or 3-inch valves on competing gravity toilets. That physical difference explains why its MaP score reaches 1,000 grams despite using gravity rather than pressure assist. It is a functionally elegant solution that requires no electricity and no special parts.

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Bottom Line: If flushing power with zero clog risk is the priority and water efficiency is secondary, the Champion 4 remains the volume leader at home centers for good reason.
#3
Top Seller in Comfort Height

Kohler Cimarron Comfort Height Two-Piece Toilet (K-3589)

4.5 Best For: Buyers wanting Kohler brand with efficiency certification

The Kohler Cimarron is among the highest-reviewed toilets on the market and consistently appears in Kohler's top-three sellers by unit volume -- its AquaPiston flush technology and 1.28 GPF WaterSense certification have made it a go-to for remodelers and new-home buyers.

MaP Score800 g
Flush Volume1.28 GPF
Flush TechAquaPiston canister
Bowl Height16.5 in comfort height
CertificationEPA WaterSense
Pros
  • AquaPiston canister allows 360-degree water entry
  • 1.28 GPF with EPA WaterSense label
  • Classic Kohler styling with broad color availability
  • ReadyLock installation system simplifies seat attachment
  • One-year limited warranty with extensive Kohler parts network
Cons
  • MaP score of 800 g is solid but below the 1,000 g leaders
  • AquaPiston canister can wear faster than traditional flappers in hard-water areas
  • Not available in as many rough-in sizes

Kohler's AquaPiston canister replaces the traditional flapper with a piston-based mechanism that opens 360 degrees around its circumference, releasing water from all sides rather than just one. Kohler's own testing suggests this produces a 90-percent less exposed surface area compared to a standard 3-inch flapper, reducing a common source of slow-running or inefficient flushing. The Cimarron's 1.28 GPF usage and WaterSense label make it popular in drought-regulation states where older 3.5 GPF toilets must be replaced.

The Cimarron's popularity spike is also partly style-driven. Its elongated bowl and standard two-piece design fit most existing bathroom footprints with no modification. Kohler's wide dealer and parts network means replacement internals are easy to source. The Kohler Cimarron detailed review covers the AquaPiston in full depth.

Expert Take

The AquaPiston canister is a genuine engineering departure from the standard flapper. In low-flow toilets where every bit of flush energy matters, releasing water from all sides of the valve opening produces a more consistent bowl fill and rim wash compared to a single-direction flapper release.

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Bottom Line: The Cimarron's WaterSense efficiency, AquaPiston flush tech, and broad Kohler parts availability make it the most popular Kohler toilet by sales volume in the residential replacement market.
#4
Top One-Piece Modern Design

Woodbridge T-0001 One-Piece Elongated Toilet

4.4 Best For: Modern bathroom renovations on a budget

The Woodbridge T-0001 has become the dominant one-piece elongated toilet in online retail, where its skirted trapway design and included soft-close seat undercut legacy brand pricing by a significant margin while still carrying EPA WaterSense certification at 1.28 GPF.

MaP Score800 g (certified)
Flush Volume1.28 GPF
DesignOne-piece skirted trapway
IncludedSoft-close seat
CertificationEPA WaterSense
Pros
  • Skirted one-piece design eliminates tank-to-bowl seam cleaning
  • Soft-close seat included in the box
  • 1.28 GPF with WaterSense label
  • Modern rectangular tank suits contemporary bathrooms
  • Competitive price for a fully featured one-piece
Cons
  • Heavier one-piece unit requires two-person install
  • Parts may be harder to find than TOTO or Kohler
  • Flush sound is louder than comparable gravity models

Woodbridge positioned the T-0001 as the entry point for consumers who want the look of a high-end European one-piece toilet without the premium price. The fully skirted trapway means no exposed S-bend to clean, a feature that typically appears only on toilets costing significantly more from legacy brands. The rectangular tank and clean lines fit the preferences driving bathroom renovation trends in 2026.

The included soft-close seat removes an additional purchase decision, which likely contributes to the T-0001's conversion rate online. It is not engineered to the same tolerances as TOTO or Kohler, and parts availability outside of Woodbridge's own supply chain is limited. But for buyers focused on first cost and aesthetics rather than long-term parts sourcing, it consistently rates highly. For detailed specs and owner feedback, the Woodbridge T-0001 full review goes deeper.

Expert Take

The T-0001 shifted the expectation for what a sub-$400 one-piece toilet should include. Its skirted design and included soft-close seat were formerly features you paid significantly more to get from American Standard or Kohler. That value gap has pushed traditional brands to add similar features to their own mid-range lines.

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Bottom Line: The T-0001 is the best-selling modern one-piece toilet in online retail by a wide margin, delivering skirted design and WaterSense efficiency at a price that legacy brands cannot match at equivalent feature levels.
#5
Best Dual-Flush Volume Leader

TOTO Aquia IV Dual Flush Two-Piece Toilet (CST446CEMFG)

4.6 Best For: Maximum water savings in high-usage households

The Aquia IV is TOTO's top-selling dual-flush model, using 1.0 GPF for liquid waste and 1.28 GPF for solid waste while carrying WaterSense certification and a CeFiONtect glaze -- all in a contemporary two-piece package that ships with TOTO's DYNAMAX TORNADO FLUSH technology.

MaP Score1,000 g (full flush)
Full Flush1.28 GPF
Partial Flush1.0 GPF
Flush TechTornado Flush (rimless)
CertificationEPA WaterSense
Pros
  • Dual-flush system: 1.0 / 1.28 GPF
  • TORNADO FLUSH for rimless bowl cleaning
  • CeFiONtect glaze (SanaGloss) on bowl
  • Maximum 1,000-gram MaP on full flush
  • Modern squared tank design
Cons
  • Dual-flush mechanism more complex to service than single flush
  • Higher acquisition cost than Drake II
  • Tornado flush is louder than standard gravity systems

TOTO's TORNADO FLUSH system uses two nozzles to create a centrifugal water action around the bowl rather than relying on traditional rim holes. This eliminates the under-rim area where bacteria and mineral scale accumulate in conventionally flushed toilets. The Aquia IV's rimless design is easier to keep clean, which has become a selling point as more buyers research hygiene alongside water efficiency.

The dual-flush function means a household that flushes 10 times daily can use as little as 10.4 gallons per day if 70 percent of flushes are partial -- versus 12.8 gallons with a single-flush 1.28 GPF toilet. Over a year, that is a meaningful reduction in water bills in metered municipalities. For buyers choosing between this and the original Aquia, the UltraMax II vs Aquia IV comparison helps clarify the trade-offs.

Expert Take

The TORNADO FLUSH nozzles produce a more consistent rim wash than traditional rim-hole designs, which depend on every hole staying clear of mineral buildup. In hard-water areas, rim holes commonly clog over time and reduce flush effectiveness. The Aquia IV sidesteps that problem entirely with its nozzle-based approach.

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Bottom Line: The Aquia IV is the best-selling dual-flush toilet in the TOTO lineup and one of the most water-efficient rimless options available from a major brand with full US parts support.
American Standard Cadet 3 FloWise Two Piece Toilet
#6
Best Budget Two-Piece Volume Seller

American Standard Cadet 3 FloWise Two-Piece Toilet (2383.216)

4.3 Best For: Cost-conscious buyers who still want WaterSense efficiency

The Cadet 3 FloWise is American Standard's WaterSense-certified answer to the Champion 4, using 1.28 GPF with a fully glazed EverClean surface and a siphon-action flush that achieves a respectable MaP score at a price point that makes it one of the bestselling toilets in the country.

MaP Score800 g
Flush Volume1.28 GPF
SurfaceEverClean antimicrobial
Rough-In12 in (10/14 available)
CertificationEPA WaterSense
Pros
  • EverClean antimicrobial surface inhibits bacteria and mold growth
  • 1.28 GPF with WaterSense certification
  • Available in 10-inch and 14-inch rough-in versions
  • Fully glazed trapway
  • Wide color selection including Linen and Bone
Cons
  • MaP score of 800 g is lower than Drake II or Champion 4
  • Standard seat not included on all SKUs
  • Some users report adjustment needed on flush valve out of box

American Standard's EverClean surface contains an antimicrobial agent that is built into the china glaze rather than applied as a separate coating. The company's published data indicates it inhibits the growth of stain and odor-causing bacteria, mold, and mildew on the surface. Combined with 1.28 GPF efficiency and availability in three rough-in sizes (10, 12, and 14 inches), the Cadet 3 FloWise covers more installation scenarios than most competitors.

The Cadet 3's lower price versus the Champion 4 and the TOTO Drake II makes it the top seller in the entry-level WaterSense segment at home centers. Plumbers use it frequently for apartment unit replacements where cost control matters. See the Champion 4 vs Cadet 3 guide for a head-to-head on flushing performance differences.

Expert Take

The Cadet 3 FloWise is the best argument for why you do not need to spend more to get WaterSense certification. Its 800-gram MaP score will handle normal household waste without issue, and the EverClean glaze genuinely reduces visible buildup between cleanings -- an underrated long-term benefit.

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Bottom Line: The Cadet 3 FloWise is the entry point for WaterSense efficiency from American Standard and consistently ranks among the top units sold at major home centers by pure volume.
TOTO UltraMax II One Piece Toilet
#7
Best One-Piece from a Legacy Brand

TOTO UltraMax II One-Piece Toilet (MS604114CEFG)

4.7 Best For: Buyers wanting a premium single-unit installation from TOTO

The TOTO UltraMax II combines the Drake II's proven G-Max flush system with a seamless one-piece body, delivering a 1,000-gram MaP score at 1.28 GPF in a format that eliminates the tank-to-bowl joint entirely -- making it the bestselling premium one-piece from a traditional North American plumbing brand.

MaP Score1,000 g (maximum)
Flush Volume1.28 GPF
BodyOne-piece integrated
GlazeCeFiONtect (SanaGloss)
CertificationEPA WaterSense
Pros
  • Maximum 1,000-gram MaP score in a one-piece design
  • No tank-to-bowl joint means no joint seam to crack or leak
  • CeFiONtect glaze throughout
  • 1.28 GPF WaterSense certified
  • Full TOTO parts and service network support
Cons
  • Heavier than the two-piece Drake II; two-person install recommended
  • Higher price than the Drake II for the same flush performance
  • Fewer color options than two-piece versions

The UltraMax II uses the same G-Max flush system as the Drake II but in a fully integrated one-piece body. Eliminating the tank-to-bowl seam removes a potential failure point and a difficult-to-clean joint. The one-piece form also creates a simpler visual profile that fits modern bathroom renovations more naturally than traditional two-piece designs.

The UltraMax II outsells most other premium one-piece toilets in the US, though it is priced above the Woodbridge T-0001 by a meaningful margin. Buyers choosing it are paying for TOTO's manufacturing quality, the CeFiONtect glaze, and the confidence of a well-established parts network. The best flushing toilets guide compares it to other high-performance options across form factors.

Expert Take

The UltraMax II is the toilet plumbing contractors specify when a client explicitly wants a one-piece and will not accept a lesser flush score. It achieves the same 1,000-gram MaP result as the two-piece Drake II, which means the only difference between them for most buyers is aesthetics and a price premium for the seamless body.

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Bottom Line: The UltraMax II is TOTO's top-selling one-piece toilet, combining maximum MaP performance with a seamless body that requires fewer joints and offers simpler long-term cleaning.
#8
Top Gerber Volume Model

Gerber Viper Two-Piece Elongated Toilet (GS-21-018)

4.2 Best For: Commercial-grade durability in residential settings

Gerber is a brand that rarely appears in consumer media but moves significant unit volume through the plumbing supply channel -- the Viper is its most-sold residential model, known for a 1.28 GPF WaterSense rating, a fully glazed trapway, and vitreous china construction built to commercial durability standards.

MaP Score800 g
Flush Volume1.28 GPF
TrapwayFully glazed 2-1/8 in
ConstructionVitreous china
CertificationEPA WaterSense
Pros
  • Plumbing-supply-channel quality at retail pricing
  • WaterSense certified at 1.28 GPF
  • Fully glazed trapway reduces friction
  • Reputation among plumbers for consistent internal parts quality
  • Available in comfort height variants
Cons
  • Low consumer brand recognition versus TOTO or Kohler
  • MaP score of 800 g, not 1,000 g
  • Limited color and style choices

Gerber occupies an interesting market position: it is widely trusted by plumbers who order through supply houses but is largely invisible to consumers who discover toilets at big-box retailers. The Viper's internal components -- fill valve, flush valve, and flapper -- are specified to commercial-grade tolerances, which is why plumbers recommend it for high-use rental properties or households where durability matters more than aesthetics.

The Viper's WaterSense certification at 1.28 GPF meets modern water-efficiency requirements without the premium of TOTO's technology add-ons. If you are comparing Gerber to American Standard across the full lineup, the American Standard vs Gerber guide covers performance differences in detail.

Expert Take

Gerber's volume through the trade channel is consistently underestimated because it does not advertise to consumers. Plumbers who install Gerber repeatedly cite the fill valve and flush mechanism quality as notably better than comparable price-tier models from brands that focus more on retail marketing than manufacturing spec.

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Bottom Line: The Gerber Viper is the toilet the plumbing trade trusts when they want a durable, efficient, no-drama residential install -- even if most consumers have never heard of the brand.

How do the top-selling toilet models compare side by side?

The TOTO Drake II and UltraMax II lead on MaP flush performance with maximum 1,000-gram scores, while the Woodbridge T-0001 and TOTO Aquia IV offer the best combination of one-piece modern design and WaterSense water efficiency. American Standard's Champion 4 uses the most water but delivers the single most powerful gravity flush available in the segment.

Model Type GPF MaP Score WaterSense Best For Check Price
TOTO Drake II (CST454CEFG) Two-piece 1.28 1,000 g Yes Overall best value + performance Check price
American Standard Champion 4 Two-piece 1.6 1,000 g No Maximum flush power, no clog Check price
Kohler Cimarron (K-3589) Two-piece 1.28 800 g Yes Kohler buyers, AquaPiston Check price
Woodbridge T-0001 One-piece 1.28 800 g Yes Modern design on a budget Check price
TOTO Aquia IV Dual Flush Two-piece 1.0 / 1.28 1,000 g Yes Maximum water savings Check price
American Standard Cadet 3 FloWise Two-piece 1.28 800 g Yes Entry-level WaterSense Check price
TOTO UltraMax II One-piece 1.28 1,000 g Yes Premium seamless one-piece Check price
Gerber Viper Two-piece 1.28 800 g Yes Trade-channel durability Check price

Which toilet brands sell the most units in the United States?

American Standard and Kohler collectively account for the largest share of US residential toilet unit sales, driven by their home center presence and broad plumber specification. TOTO holds a strong position in the mid-to-premium segment and dominates online review counts for flush performance. Woodbridge and Swiss Madison are growing rapidly in online-only channels.

Brand volume is difficult to separate from model volume in the US toilet market because no single source publishes unit sales data across all channels. However, several reliable proxies paint a clear picture. Home Depot and Lowe's shelf presence strongly favors American Standard and Kohler, meaning the sheer footfall of those stores drives enormous unit counts for their mid-range models. TOTO benefits from both retail placement and significant professional channel presence, with plumbers specifying Drake series models in high volumes.

Woodbridge has disrupted the online-only segment by offering features (skirted design, one-piece body, soft-close seat included) at price points that undercut legacy brands. The T-0001 in particular has accumulated an exceptional number of verified reviews in a short time, indicating genuine high-volume sales through e-commerce channels. Swiss Madison follows a similar pattern with its St. Tropez and Ivy models attracting buyers who prioritize modern European aesthetics.

Expert Take

The toilet market is bifurcating. Big-box retail volume is dominated by American Standard and Kohler two-piece models at the mid-range. Online volume is increasingly concentrated in a handful of value-modern brands led by Woodbridge. TOTO sits in a premium tier that commands strong loyalty once buyers have owned one. Understanding which channel dominates your buying behavior tells you which brand's products you are most likely to encounter.

Does a higher MaP flush score actually mean fewer clogs?

Yes, in practice. The MaP (Maximum Performance) flush test uses standardized soybean paste media to simulate real waste and measures the maximum grams the toilet can remove in a single flush. Toilets scoring 800 grams or higher perform adequately for typical household use, while 1,000-gram models provide the most margin against clogging in high-use or heavy-waste scenarios.

MaP testing was developed jointly by water utility agencies and applied to answer exactly this question: how much waste can a toilet reliably remove on one flush without clogging? The test increments the media weight until a flush fails, then reports the highest weight passed as the MaP score. A score of 500 grams is the minimum for WaterSense certification. A score of 800 grams is considered solid for residential use. A score of 1,000 grams means the toilet cleared the maximum test load without failure.

Real-world clog rates correlate with MaP scores, but trapway geometry matters independently. A toilet with a small trapway diameter may flush clean solid waste but catch bundled tissue. The best performers combine a high MaP score with a fully glazed trapway of at least 2-1/8 inches in diameter. All of the models ranked in this guide meet both criteria at their respective MaP score levels.

For a full explanation of how MaP testing works, see the MaP score guide. Understanding the metric helps you evaluate any new toilet model on published data rather than marketing claims.

Are the most popular toilet models also the most water-efficient?

Mostly yes. Six of the eight top-selling models in 2026 carry EPA WaterSense certification at 1.28 GPF or below, including all TOTO models. The notable exception is the American Standard Champion 4, which uses 1.6 GPF and is not WaterSense certified but remains a top seller due to its exceptional clog resistance and home center availability.

EPA WaterSense certification requires toilets to use no more than 1.28 GPF and achieve a minimum MaP score of 350 grams -- though most certified residential models exceed that minimum significantly. The program launched in 2006 and has driven an enormous market shift away from 3.5 GPF and 1.6 GPF toilets toward the current 1.28 GPF standard. States including California, Colorado, and Texas have enacted regulations requiring WaterSense toilets in new construction, accelerating adoption further.

The TOTO Aquia IV pushes beyond the standard with its dual-flush 1.0/1.28 GPF system, offering the highest water savings of any model on this list. For a household of four replacing four 3.5 GPF toilets with 1.28 GPF units, EPA estimates annual water savings of approximately 22,000 gallons. At typical municipal rates, that represents a meaningful annual reduction in water costs. See the how much water toilets use guide for detailed per-flush and annual usage calculations.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most popular toilet brand in the US in 2026?

American Standard and Kohler hold the largest unit-volume share through home center retail. TOTO leads the mid-to-premium online and plumbing supply segment. By pure unit count sold across all channels, American Standard is generally considered the highest-volume brand in the US market.

What is a good MaP flush score for a home toilet?

A score of 800 grams is considered good for normal household use. A score of 1,000 grams -- the maximum -- indicates a toilet can clear the full test load without failure and is considered exceptional. EPA WaterSense requires a minimum of 350 grams, but most top-selling models exceed 800 grams.

Is the TOTO Drake II the best toilet you can buy?

For the combination of flush performance (1,000-gram MaP), water efficiency (1.28 GPF WaterSense), long-term reliability, and parts availability, the TOTO Drake II is consistently cited by plumbers and independent reviewers as the best two-piece toilet value in the US market. Whether it is the best for you depends on whether you also need a specific form factor or additional features.

What is EPA WaterSense certification and why does it matter?

EPA WaterSense is a voluntary certification program that labels toilets using 1.28 GPF or less and meeting a minimum flush performance threshold. Certified toilets use approximately 20 percent less water than 1.6 GPF models, and some states require them in new construction or offer rebates for installing them.

How long does a toilet typically last before needing replacement?

The vitreous china bowl and tank of a well-made toilet can last 50 years or more without cracking. Internal components (flapper, fill valve, flush valve) typically need replacement every 5 to 10 years depending on water quality and usage. Most toilets are replaced due to style updates or water efficiency upgrades rather than structural failure.

What is the difference between a one-piece and two-piece toilet?

A two-piece toilet has a separate tank and bowl joined at installation, creating a joint seam. A one-piece toilet has an integrated tank and bowl from the factory, eliminating that seam. One-piece models are typically easier to clean but heavier to install and generally cost more. Flush performance is equivalent between the two formats when the same flush system is used.

Does the Woodbridge T-0001 perform as well as TOTO toilets?

The Woodbridge T-0001 carries EPA WaterSense certification and an 800-gram MaP score, which is solid for residential use. TOTO's top models achieve a 1,000-gram MaP score and use TOTO-specific glaze technology. The T-0001 performs well for typical household needs but does not match TOTO's top-tier flush performance or long-term manufacturing quality.

What GPF should I choose in 2026?

For most households, 1.28 GPF is the right choice -- it meets WaterSense standards, qualifies for rebates in many states, and modern toilets at this flow rate achieve excellent MaP flush scores. Only go with 1.6 GPF if you have specific high-demand flushing needs (large family, heavy solid waste) and water costs are not a concern.

Why is the American Standard Champion 4 still popular despite using more water?

The Champion 4's 4-inch flush valve produces a uniquely powerful flush that virtually never clogs, a feature that owners in large households or with older plumbing systems value highly. Its 10-year warranty on the china and deep home center stocking also contribute to its continued sales strength despite not carrying WaterSense certification.

What is a comfort height toilet and why is it popular?

Comfort height (also called ADA height or chair height) refers to a toilet with a rim 17 to 19 inches from the floor -- similar to a standard chair. Standard height toilets are 15 to 16 inches. Comfort height toilets are easier to sit on and stand from for taller adults and are required in ADA-compliant bathrooms. They have become the default preference for most adult buyers in the US.

Are Gerber toilets worth considering over Kohler or American Standard?

Gerber toilets are worth serious consideration for buyers who value internal component quality and plumber-specified reliability over consumer brand recognition. Their internal parts are generally built to tighter tolerances than comparable-priced Kohler or American Standard models, but parts are harder to find at retail stores and online selection is more limited.

Can I install any of these toilets myself?

Two-piece toilets are among the more DIY-accessible plumbing projects -- the bowl and tank are light enough to handle solo, and the installation requires no soldering or specialized tools beyond a wrench. One-piece models like the TOTO UltraMax II and Woodbridge T-0001 are heavier and generally require two people to position safely. If the wax ring or flange is damaged, professional help is advisable regardless of model.

What rough-in size do most homes use?

Approximately 90 percent of US homes use a 12-inch rough-in measurement (the distance from the wall behind the toilet to the center of the floor drain). Some older homes use 10-inch or 14-inch rough-ins. All models on this list are primarily available in 12-inch versions, with most also offered in 10-inch and 14-inch variants. Always measure before purchasing.

What does a fully glazed trapway mean and why does it matter?

A fully glazed trapway means the ceramic glaze that coats the bowl interior also extends through the entire S-shaped drain passage. The smooth surface reduces friction, allowing waste to move more freely and making the passage harder for material to cling to. Unglazed or partially glazed trapways are rougher and more prone to buildup over time.

How much water does a 1.28 GPF toilet save versus an old 3.5 GPF toilet?

Replacing one 3.5 GPF toilet with a 1.28 GPF model saves approximately 2.22 gallons per flush. For a typical household of four flushing 5 times each daily, that is 44.4 gallons saved per day, or roughly 16,200 gallons per year. EPA estimates WaterSense toilets can save the average household more than $110 per year in water and wastewater costs.

Does toilet brand affect resale value of a home?

Toilet brand rarely affects appraisals directly, but updated, water-efficient toilets -- especially in master bathrooms -- contribute positively to buyer perception during showings. Replacing dated 3.5 GPF or visually worn toilets with modern WaterSense-certified models from recognized brands is considered a high-return minor bathroom update by most real estate professionals.

Is TOTO's CeFiONtect glaze actually worth the premium?

TOTO's CeFiONtect (marketed as SanaGloss) creates an ion barrier at the molecular level that reduces surface roughness to near-zero. Published independent testing and aggregated owner reviews consistently show reduced staining and buildup between cleanings in homes with hard water. For households in areas with high mineral content in the water supply, the glaze delivers a measurable maintenance benefit over standard ceramic glaze.

What is the difference between the TOTO Drake and Drake II?

The TOTO Drake uses a standard G-Max flush system. The Drake II adds TOTO's CeFiONtect (SanaGloss) ceramic glaze and a more modern elongated bowl profile. Both achieve a 1,000-gram MaP score. The Drake II is widely considered the upgrade worth choosing for its glaze technology and is the higher-selling model in the current lineup.

Sources

  • EPA WaterSense, epa.gov/watersense
  • MaP flush testing, map-testing.com
  • Manufacturer published specifications
  • TOTO USA product documentation, totousa.com
  • American Standard product specifications, americanstandard-us.com
  • Kohler Co. product data, us.kohler.com
  • Woodbridge Bathroom manufacturer specifications
  • Gerber Plumbing product data, gerberplumbing.com
  • Aggregated owner review data from major US retail platforms

Our Verdict

The TOTO Drake II is the most consistently recommended toilet for the widest range of buyers in 2026: it achieves a maximum 1,000-gram MaP score, uses just 1.28 GPF with WaterSense certification, carries TOTO's CeFiONtect glaze, and is backed by one of the most reliable parts networks in the industry. The American Standard Champion 4 remains the top choice for flush power without compromise, and the Woodbridge T-0001 leads the modern one-piece segment online. Whatever your priority -- performance, efficiency, design, or durability through the trade channel -- one of the eight models ranked here dominates its category for documented, data-backed reasons.

How we rank & our data sources

We do not run physical lab tests. Rankings are built from published, verifiable data and real owner feedback, never paid placement.

Researched by Marcus Bell · Last updated July 4, 2026 · Our review method

M
Researched by Marcus Bell

Marcus compiles bathroom-fixture data, MaP flush scores, GPF ratings, trapway and flush-valve specs, and weighs them against thousands of verified owner reviews to build our rankings. He does not run physical lab tests; every verdict is sourced from published specifications, certifications (MaP, EPA WaterSense) and real owner feedback.

Updated July 2026 · Toilets
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