Like many other home appliances, toilets are getting seriously fancy these days.    

We're talking about the latest ‘smart’ toilet seats that include features like heated seats, self-cleaning, and (wait for it) even the option to play your tunes. Today’s

Does this trend represent the logical next step in the evolution of the bathroom, or is it just a luxury option for some households? 

Let’s flesh out the facts of this futuristic gadget together, from key features to pros and cons, and explore whether this bathroom upgrade is worth the investment. 

Key features and functionality: What makes a toilet smart?

A smart toilet is a techy throne designed to do more than just flush. These intelligent gadgets offer advanced features, from luxurious heated seats to automated lid opening. 

Built-in bidets

A bidet is a hygiene enhancing feature that alters the bum cleaning experience. Bidets come with different spray modes, water temperature controls and pressure options. 

Heated seats

Heated seats offer cosy comfort for your bum. This small luxury makes a huge difference, especially for people living in colder climates. 

Automatic lid opening

A closed toilet just looks better. But who wants to touch a toilet lid more than necessary? Get the best of both worlds with automatic lid opening, a sleek functionality providing no-touch convenience and futuristic flair.

Self-cleaning and deodorising functions

A toilet that cleans itself sounds like something from a sci-fi novel. Yet smart toilets tackle odours and boost hygiene without any human interaction. Letting your toilet minimise maintenance needs and do all the dirty work is a no-brainer. 

Remote app control

The best smart toilets even offer remote app control. Think customisable settings based on individual profiles, lighting modes, and even bathroom music — all controlled by your phone.

The perks of splurging on a high-tech throne

Let’s unravel the benefits of smart toilets.

Enhanced hygiene

For families with healthy toileting habits, features like bidets and self-cleaning keep bums and bathrooms cleaner.

Environmental friendliness and sustainability

Smart toilets significantly reduce household toilet paper consumption and waste. Since it takes over one million trees a day to make traditional toilet paper, smart technology can help fight deforestation.

The best smart toilets have the EPA’s WaterSense certification, which means they also reduce water waste by at least 20% compared to regular models. According to the EPA, the average family can save 15,000 gallons of water annually by replacing all old toilets with WaterSense models.

Increased comfort and convenience 

Smart toilets treat your bum like royalty with cushy and convenient components. Heated seats and air dryers turn each bathroom trip into a spa, while automated custom settings tailor every experience with precision.

Accessibility and independence 

For individuals with mobility issues, voice-activated assistance and ergonomic seating remove significant physical barriers. Next-gen toilets improve quality of life by increasing independence and safety.

On the other hand, smart toilets have downsides

Like any modern gadget, even the best smart toilets come with drawbacks. Let’s look at what lurks beneath the shiny surface.

High cost

Smart toilets aren’t exactly budget-friendly and cost much more than traditional options.

Complex installation requirements

Installation can be complicated and often demands professional help, especially if electrical upgrades are needed, driving costs up even further.

Expensive maintenance and repairs

More complex components mean DIY fixes are off the table. Repairs and maintenance are more costly due to expensive parts and the need for expert technicians.

Reliance on electricity

Since smart toilets depend on electricity, they won’t operate at full capacity — or at all — during power outages.

Steep learning curve

Some users might need time to master the complex controls.

Bulky aesthetics

The look of some next-gen toilet models doesn’t appeal to everyone. 

Shorter lifespan

Because they rely on electronic components that wear out faster, smart toilets may not last as long as traditional toilets.

Are smart toilets worth it?

To determine if upgrading is worth the extra paper, weigh the pros and cons of these futuristic toilets. 

Treating your bum might be well worth the investment if you’ve got cash to splash and desire upgraded functionality. Purchasing a new seat isn't prudent if you can’t afford the high cost or other drawbacks.

How to find the best smart toilet for you

Let’s say you decide to take the plunge. How do you select the best smart toilet for your household? Consider these seven factors:

1. Budget

Decide how much you're willing to spend, then filter search results to that price range.

2. Features

Determine which features and functionalities you can't live without, and only consider models with those components.

3. Brand reputation and reliability

Some brands engage in more sustainable business practices than others. Dig into the details on brand reputation, customer support approaches and product quality. 

TOTO, for example, shines for product transparency across the entire product lifecycle. American Standard’s parent company has an impact strategy focused on climate change mitigation, water sustainability and the circular economy.

4. Water and energy efficiency

Since toilets are the primary source of water use in the residential home, energy efficiency designs and WaterSense certifications are incredibly important. 

5. Ease of use

Ensure any smart toilet you consider has user-friendly features for all family members, including children and seniors. A major appliance purchase should offer comfort, not confusion. 

6. Installation requirements

Look into installation requirements and roll any costs into your budget to dodge any blindsides.

7. Warranty

Review the manufacturer’s warranty to protect your purchase and peace of mind.

Conclusion – The bottom line on the best smart toilets

The top smart toilets provide everything from self-cleaning functions to remote app controls. They enhance hygiene and comfort, reduce water waste and improve accessibility. 

However, weigh the higher price point and a shorter lifespan against the benefits. Before deciding if a high tech throne is worth it, carefully consider the pros and cons within the context of your lifestyle and needs. 

But even the smartest toilets can’t provide toilet paper. Shop Who Gives A Crap’s Bathroom Collection for planet-friendly alternatives that offer comfort, convenience, and a life-saving cause.