Smart toilet features explained: what is worth paying for
Specification lists make every seat look similar. In practice, a handful of features decide whether you enjoy using it. Here is what each one does and how much it matters.
Worth paying for
Adjustable wash: temperature, pressure and position
This is what you will use every time. Look for several steps of water temperature and pressure, and a nozzle position you can move forwards and back. A good wash on a cheaper seat beats a weak wash on an expensive one.
Continuous (instant) warm water
Cheaper seats heat a small tank of water. It works, but can run cool after a minute or so, which is noticeable if several people use the toilet in a row. Instant heating costs more but stays warm.
Self-cleaning, replaceable nozzle
The nozzle should retract and rinse itself before and after use. Check that it can be removed for cleaning or replaced, and that spare nozzles are sold in the UK.
Nice to have
Heated seat
Genuinely pleasant in a cold UK bathroom in winter. It is also the feature that uses the most electricity when left on all day, so look for an eco mode or timer.
Warm-air dryer
Useful, but slow on most seats: expect a minute or more. Many owners still use a little toilet paper to pat dry, so do not choose a seat on the dryer alone.
Wall-mounted remote
Easier than small buttons on the side of the seat, especially for anyone with poor eyesight, arthritis or limited reach. Check button size and contrast, and whether it can save two users' settings.
Usually optional
Deodoriser
Draws air from the bowl through a small carbon filter. It helps a little, but the filter needs cleaning or replacing, and a good extractor fan does more.
Automatic lid and flush
Handy for some people with limited mobility, as there is less bending and touching. For most buyers it is a convenience that adds cost and one more thing to go wrong.
Night light and app control
A soft light in the bowl is useful at night. App control is rarely needed day to day, but can be a simpler way to change settings on some models.
What does it cost to run?
Most of the electricity goes on keeping the seat and, on tank models, the water warm. Manufacturers publish standby and maximum power figures, so check the specification sheet. Using the eco or timer mode, or switching off the seat heater in summer, makes the biggest difference. We have not measured running costs ourselves, so we do not quote a figure.
Now check it will fit
Features only matter once you know a seat will fit your toilet and you can get power and water to it.
How to measure your toilet →