What is a Smart Toilet?

A smart toilet is a toilet that includes built-in technology to make the bathroom cleaner, easier to use, and more comfortable. Many models include features like a bidet wash, heated seat, automatic flushing, and warm air drying.

If you’re planning to remodel your bathroom, you may have come across smart toilets and wondered what they actually do. Simply put, they combine the basic job of a toilet with helpful features that improve hygiene and comfort.

A smart toilet is a toilet with built-in technology like bidet washing, a heated seat, automatic flushing, and warm air drying. These features make using the bathroom cleaner and more comfortable while reducing the need for toilet paper.

Smart Toilet Quick Answer

What is a smart toilet?
A smart toilet is a toilet with built-in technology such as a bidet wash, heated seat, automatic flushing, and warm air dryer. These features improve hygiene, reduce toilet paper use, and create a more comfortable bathroom experience.

Smart toilet features mostly include:

• Built-in cleansing
• Heated toilet seats
• Automatic flush
• Warm air dryers
• Deodorizers
• Auto open/close lids
• LED lights
• Self-cleaning technology

What Is a Smart Toilet?

A smart toilet is like a high-tech version of an ordinary toilet. Instead of just flushing, it includes electronic features that improve hygiene and make the bathroom more comfortable to use.

Depending on the model, a smart toilet may include built-in bidet washing, heated seats, automatic flushing, warm air dryers, auto open/close lids, deodorizing systems, and even soft LED nightlights for nighttime use.

In simple terms, a smart toilet combines an ordinary toilet with bidet technology and automated features in one fixture.

If you're new to bidets in general, it can also help to read What Is a Bidet? (Clear, Simple Guide) to understand how the washing function works in bidets.

Smart Toilet vs Smart Toilet Seat

Smart toilet technology usually comes in two: full smart toilets and smart toilet seats.

Full Smart Toilets

A full smart toilet is a complete unit where the toilet bowl and bidet system are together into one design.

These models include advanced features like automatic flushing, built-in bidet, and motion-activated lids.

Most homeowners install these as part of a full bathroom remodel or new construction project. Prices typically range from around $1,000 to $5,000 or more depending on the brand and technology.

These models are often categorized as Complete Bidet Toilets, where the bidet system is built directly into the toilet.

Smart Toilet Seats

A smart toilet seat replaces your existing toilet seat but keeps your current toilet bowl.

These seats can include many of the same features as full smart toilets, including heated seats, adjustable water washing, warm air dryers, and remote controls.

They are usually the easiest and most affordable way to experience a smart toilet setup. Most models cost between $80 and $800.

If you want a simple bathroom upgrade without replacing the whole toilet, many homeowners start with Bidet Toilet Seats.

What Does a Smart Toilet Do?

The main purpose of a smart toilet is to improve hygiene, comfort, and convenience during everyday use. Depending on the model, these toilets include a range of features designed to make bathroom visits cleaner and easier.

Built-In Bidet Cleansing

The bidet wash is the most important feature of a smart toilet.

A tiny nozzle extends from under the seat and sprays warm water for cleaning after using the toilet. Most models allow users to adjust the water temperature, pressure, and spray position. Many also include both rear wash and feminine wash settings.

If you have never used a bidet before, our guide How to Use a Bidet: Simple Step-by-Step Guide can help explain how the process works.

Heated Seat

This feature allows you to adjust the seat temperature so the toilet is comfortable even in colder weather and places! Many users appreciate this the most once they start using a smart toilet.

Warm Air Dryer

Many smart toilets also include a built-in dryer that gently blows warm air after washing. This reduces the need for toilet paper and can make the process more comfortable. Drying usually takes about 30 to 60 seconds.

If you’re curious about how drying works after using a bidet, you may check out How to Dry After Using a Bidet.

Automatic Lid and Flush

Some smart toilets include sensors that detect when you approach or leave the toilet. The lid can automatically open, and the toilet may flush automatically after use. This creates a hands-free experience and helps reduce contact with surfaces.

Deodorizer

Many smart models include built-in deodorizers that filter odors directly from the bowl during use that help keep the bathroom smelling fresh without needing sprays or air fresheners.

Self-Cleaning Technology

Most models usually include automatic cleaning features that rinse the nozzle before and after use. 

LED Nightlights

Many smart toilets include a small LED light inside the bowl so you can use the bathroom at night without turning on big bright lights.

How the Bidet Function Works

The bidet feature is what separates a smart toilet from a traditional toilet.

1. Press the bidet button on the remote or control panel.
2. A nozzle extends beneath the seat.
3. Warm water sprays to cleanse the user.
4. Spray pressure and temperature can be adjusted.
5. When done, the nozzle retracts and cleans itself automatically.

Water cleansing is widely considered more hygienic and gentler on the skin than wiping with toilet paper alone.

Many people find bidets helpful if they have sensitive skin, digestive conditions, mobility limitations, or are recovering from surgery.

What Is a Japanese Smart Toilet?

Japan is widely known as the birthplace of modern smart toilet technology.

The term “Washlet,” created by TOTO, has become closely associated with bidet toilets and smart toilet seats.

Japanese toilets are famous for their advanced features like precision washing systems, silent flushing mechanisms, and tankless designs. Plus, there's the automation of sanitation technology.

These innovations helped establish the standard for many of the smart toilets sold around the world today.

What Is a Smart Height Toilet?

A smart height toilet refers to the height of the seat rather than the technology itself.

Standard toilets are usually about 15 inches tall. Comfort height toilets measure around 17 to 19 inches, which is closer to the height of a chair.

This design can make sitting down and standing up easier for older adults, taller individuals, and people with mobility challenges.

Many modern smart toilets are built using this comfort height design.

What Is the Point of a Smart Toilet?

Smart toilets are not just about luxury features. They offer several practical benefits for everyday use.

Improved Hygiene

Cleaning with water is generally more effective than using toilet paper alone. Touchless features also reduce the spread of germs in the bathroom.

Reduced Toilet Paper Use

Because the bidet wash cleans thoroughly, most households use far less toilet paper after switching to a smart toilet. If you're wondering how much toilet paper people actually use with bidets, check out our guide Do You Use Toilet Paper With a Bidet?.

Environmental Benefits

Reducing toilet paper use can also help our environment, since producing toilet paper requires large amounts of water and trees.

Better Accessibility

Smart toilets can also make the bathroom easier to use for older adults and people with mobility challenges.

Disadvantages of Smart Toilets

While smart toilets offer many benefits, there are also a few potential downsides to consider.

Higher Cost

Smart toilets cost more than standard toilets. Prices can range from a few hundred dollars for basic models to several thousand dollars for advanced designs.

Electrical Requirement

Smart toilets require a GFCI electrical outlet near the toilet.

More Complex Repairs

Because smart toilets include electronic components, repairs may sometimes require specialized parts or service.

Learning Curve

New users may need a few days to become comfortable using the controls and settings.

Power Dependency

If the electricity goes out, the advanced features like the bidet wash and heated seat will temporarily stop working.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Smart Toilets Need a Plug?

Yes. Smart toilets need a plug for electricity to power features like heated seats, water heaters, sensors, and air dryers. Most models use a standard 120V outlet located near the toilet.

Do You Use Toilet Paper With a Smart Toilet?

No - you do not necessarily need to use a toilet paper with a smart toilet because bidet wash handles most of the cleaning, and the air dryer can handle drying. Some people still use a small amount of toilet paper, but overall usage drops a lot.

Are Smart Toilets Worth It?

Yes - smart toilets are worth it for many. Smart toilets provide better cleaning, they are much comfortable and less reliance on toilet paper.

If you're considering upgrading but are unsure about the cost, you may check out our guide Are Bidets Worth It?

What is the difference between a smart toilet and a bidet?

The difference between a smart toilet and a bidet is that a bidet is designed for washing after using the toilet. A smart toilet combines a regular toilet with a built-in bidet system and additional automated high tech features.

Do smart toilets use electricity?

Yes - smart toilets use electricity to power their advanced features like the heated seat, water heater, air dryer, and sensors.

Are smart toilets sanitary?

Yes - smart toilets are sanitary than traditional toilets because they use water cleansing, touchless flushing, and self-cleaning components.

Can you install a smart toilet yourself?

It depends - smart bidet seats can be installed in under an hour with basic tools but full smart toilets may require professional installation.

How long do smart toilets last?

A durable smart toilet can last 10 to 15 years or more with proper maintenance.

Do smart toilets save money?

Yes - smart toilets save money because they reduce toilet paper use, so many households save money over time.

Do plumbers recommend dual flush smart toilets?

Yes - a lot of plumbers recommend dual flush smart toilets because they can help conserve water while maintaining effective flushing performance.

Final Thoughts

So, what is a smart toilet really?

A smart toilet combines bidet washing, automation, and comfort features to create a cleaner and more convenient bathroom experience.

Whether you choose a smart bidet seat or a fully integrated smart toilet, upgrading to this technology can improve hygiene, reduce toilet paper use, and make everyday bathroom use more comfortable.