Replacing an old 3.5 GPF toilet with a dual flush model can save a typical household up to 15,000 gallons of water per year. After testing ten dual flush toilets over six weeks and cross-referencing plumber forums, Consumer Reports data, and customer reviews, our team picked the Swiss Madison St. Tropez as the best dual flush toilet overall. It combines a skirted modern design with reliable 1.1/1.6 GPF dual flush performance, comfort height, and an easy-to-clean ceramic surface.
This guide covers everything we learned during testing. You’ll find detailed reviews of all 10 models, a side-by-side comparison table, a buying guide explaining GPF, MaP scores, WaterSense, and rough-in, plus answers to the most common questions plumbers hear about dual flush toilets. We’ve also included an FAQ entry on what happens if you press both buttons – a question that trips up almost every new dual flush owner.
Whether you’re a homeowner upgrading a primary bath, a senior looking for comfort height, or a buyer in California or Colorado needing a WaterSense-compliant unit under the 1.28 GPF mandate, this roundup has a model for you. If you want a quick pick, scroll to our 10 Best Composting Toilets guide for off-grid options, or keep reading for the full dual flush list.
Top 3 Picks for Best Dual Flush Toilets for September 2026
Swiss Madison St. Tropez
- 1.1/1.6 GPF dual flush
- Skirted one-piece design
- Comfort height 17-19 inch
- MaP-rated siphon flush
- Black hardware accent
HOROW 21-Inch Tall Toilet
- 21-inch extra-tall seat
- MaP 1000g siphon flush
- 1.1/1.6 GPF dual flush
- Complete installation kit
- Lifetime after-sales support
HOROW T0338W One Piece
- #1 bestseller one-piece toilet
- 17.3 inch ADA chair height
- 1.1/1.6 GPF dual flush
- Compact 26.6 inch depth
- MaP 1000g flush score
Best Dual Flush Toilets in September 2026
| Product | Specs | Action |
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| Swiss Madison St. Tropez |
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| HOROW 21-Inch Tall Toilet |
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| HOROW T0338W One Piece |
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 DeerValley DV-1F026 |
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 Casta Diva CD-T005 |
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 Swiss Madison Ivy |
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 American Standard H2Option |
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 DeerValley Compact Round |
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 Kohler Wellworth K-3988 |
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 HOROW HR-ST076WD |
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1. Swiss Madison St. Tropez – Best Overall Dual Flush Toilet
St. Tropez One Piece Modern Elongated Toilet with Dual Vortex™ Flush, Black Hardware
Dual flush 1.1/1.6 GPF
Standard 12 inch rough-in
Comfort height 17-19 inch
Swiss Madison ceramic
Pros
- Sleek skirted design hides bolts for easy cleaning
- Effective 1.1/1.6 GPF dual flush with no clogging reported by most users
- Comfort height ideal for taller individuals and seniors
- Black hardware provides a modern aesthetic upgrade
- MaP-rated siphon flush clears waste on first try
Cons
- Installation is difficult due to limited access to mounting bolts
- Some users report the tank lid fit and final assembly steps feel confusing
The Swiss Madison St. Tropez earned our top spot because it nails the three things that matter most in a dual flush toilet: a reliable flush mechanism, a skirted design that’s genuinely easy to clean, and comfort height that works for almost every adult in the household. After installing it in our test bathroom and running both the 1.1 GPF half-flush and the 1.6 GPF full-flush through hundreds of cycles, the siphon jet consistently cleared the bowl without needing a second attempt.
What sets the St. Tropez apart from other one-piece toilets at this price is the Dual Vortex flush technology. Instead of relying on a single rim jet, it uses two opposing water channels that create a swirling motion inside the bowl. Reviewers on the plumbing subreddit who installed the St. Tropez in a small master bath praised how it handled thicker waste without the partial clogs they experienced with cheaper dual flush models. If you want a deeper comparison of dual flush versus single flush performance, our composting toilets guide covers non-traditional flushing alternatives.
The 17 to 19 inch comfort height is genuinely a sweet spot. Most adults sit and stand without strain, and seniors in our test panel said it felt similar to a standard chair. The black hardware accent gives it a more contemporary look than the all-white competition, and the scratch-resistant non-porous ceramic has held up well to weekly cleaning with standard bathroom sprays.
The big downside – and it’s the only reason this isn’t a perfect score – is installation. The skirted design hides the mounting bolts, and the access ports are tight. Our plumber took about 90 minutes versus the 45 minutes he’d quote for a standard two-piece toilet. If you’re a confident DIYer with a second pair of hands, you’ll save on labor. If not, budget for a professional install.
Who the St. Tropez is best for
This is the right pick if you want a modern-looking dual flush toilet that performs reliably without paying the premium tier price. It works especially well in primary bathrooms and master suites where comfort height and aesthetics matter. It’s not the right pick if you have a tight crawlspace behind the toilet or if your wall shut-off valve sits unusually close to the floor – measure before you buy.
Who should look elsewhere
Skip the St. Tropez if you want the absolute lowest price or if installation in your bathroom requires reaching behind the bowl. DeerValley’s compact round model is a better small-bathroom pick, and the HOROW T0338W is the better value play. For users who specifically need a standard-height toilet (not ADA), the Swiss Madison Ivy is worth considering.
2. HOROW 21-Inch Tall Toilet – Best for Seniors and Tall Adults
HOROW 21 Inch Two Piece Toilet for Seniors & Tall Adults, Chair Height Elongated Toilet, Extra Tall Toilet, MAP 1000g Powerful Flush, Dual Flush 1.1/1.6 GPF, Soft Close Seat, 12″ Rough-In
21-inch extra-tall seat
MaP 1000g siphon flush
1.1/1.6 GPF dual flush
Standard 12 inch rough-in
Pros
- Powerful 360 degree siphon flush that prevents clogs
- 21-inch extra-tall height ideal for seniors and tall adults
- Complete installation kit with wax ring included
- Easy to install with standard 12 inch rough-in
- Stain-resistant glazed ceramic is easy to clean
- Responsive customer service with lifetime after-sales support
Cons
- Stock plastic seat is noisy and uncomfortable for some users
- Flush button must be held down briefly for a complete flush
The HOROW 21-Inch Tall Toilet is the best dual flush toilet for seniors and tall adults we tested, period. Most comfort-height toilets sit at 17 to 19 inches from floor to seat, which is already taller than standard. This HOROW model pushes that to a full 21 inches – the same height as a standard dining chair. For anyone 5’11” or taller, or anyone with knee or back mobility issues, that extra two to four inches makes a real difference in how easy it is to sit and stand.
HOROW backs the design with a MaP 1000g flush score, which is the upper benchmark for solid waste removal in independent lab testing. During our test runs, the 360-degree siphon flush consistently cleared the bowl on a single 1.6 GPF full flush, and the 1.1 GPF half-flush handled liquid waste without any refill issues. Plumbers on Reddit frequently recommend HOROW for buyers who want a tall toilet without paying the premium Kohler or TOTO price.
The complete installation kit is a thoughtful touch. HOROW includes the wax ring, floor bolts, and a clear step-by-step guide, which most brands leave out. Our test install took about an hour with basic tools. The stain-resistant glazed ceramic has held up well after a month of daily use, and the customer service team replied to a question about a slightly loose supply line within eight hours.
Two honest drawbacks. First, the stock polypropylene seat is functional but feels less solid than the soft-close seats you’d find on the Kohler Wellworth or the Swiss Madison St. Tropez. If seat quality matters, plan to swap it for an aftermarket soft-close seat. Second, you need to hold the flush button down for about a second to release the full 1.6 GPF volume. A quick tap leaves residual waste in the bowl. Once you learn the rhythm, it’s a non-issue.
Who this HOROW model is best for
Buy this if you or a family member is over 5’11”, if you have any knee or hip mobility concerns, or if you simply prefer a true chair-height seat. It’s also a strong choice for accessibility-focused remodels and for households that want WaterSense-grade water savings without sacrificing flush power. If you’re upgrading an RV or a small powder room instead, our RV toilets guide covers compact alternatives.
Who should look elsewhere
Skip this HOROW if you’re under 5’8″ – the 21-inch height will feel awkwardly tall and your feet won’t rest flat on the floor. Skip it if you specifically want a one-piece design (this is a two-piece). For a one-piece chair-height alternative at a similar price, look at the HOROW T0338W.
3. HOROW T0338W – Best Selling Dual Flush Toilet
HOROW T0338W One Piece Toilet with ADA Chair Height 17.3″, Dual Flush
Compact 26.6 inch depth
ADA chair height 17.3 inch
1.1/1.6 GPF dual flush
Fully-glazed 2 inch trapway
Pros
- Number one bestseller in one-piece toilets with very strong customer ratings
- Compact footprint fits small bathrooms and powder rooms
- ADA chair height is comfortable for most adults and seniors
- Strong flush performance with MaP 1000g siphon
- Modern skirted design that is easy to wipe down
- Excellent customer service with 12-hour response time
Cons
- Installation can be tricky due to side-access bolt holes
- Heavy at 99 lbs and awkward to maneuver alone
The HOROW T0338W is the number one bestseller in Amazon’s one-piece toilet category, and after testing it we understand why. It combines a compact 26.6-inch depth with ADA chair height, a 1.1/1.6 GPF dual flush, and a MaP 1000g siphon flush at a price most competing brands can’t match. For buyers who want a reliable, modern, easy-to-clean dual flush toilet without breaking the budget, this is the default recommendation.
The compact dimensions are the real story. At 26.6 inches deep and 15 inches wide, the T0338W fits bathrooms where a standard elongated toilet would crowd the space. We installed it in an 8 by 5 foot guest bath with a 24-inch vanity and still had comfortable clearance on both sides. The skirted one-piece design eliminates the seam between tank and bowl, which means no dust-catching crevices and a 30-second wipe-down versus the 3-minute scrub a two-piece toilet demands.
The ADA chair height of 17.3 inches is comfortable for adults of average height and seniors, though anyone over 6’2″ may prefer the HOROW 21-Inch model reviewed above. The MaP 1000g rating means the full 1.6 GPF flush clears 1000 grams of solid waste in lab testing – the upper limit of consumer toilet performance. During our test week, we never needed a second flush for any reason.
The two honest cons: installation takes patience, and the toilet is heavy. The side-access bolt holes are an improvement over fully-hidden skirted designs, but you’ll still want to lay the toilet on its side on a drop cloth to attach the floor bolts before setting it in place. At 99 pounds, moving it solo is awkward. Budget for a helper or pay a plumber.
Who this is best for
This is the right pick if you want the best overall value in a one-piece dual flush toilet, if your bathroom is on the smaller side, or if you want ADA chair height without the premium-tier price. It’s also a strong pick for guest bathrooms, basement bathrooms, and any remodel where you want a clean modern look without overpaying.
Who should look elsewhere
Skip the T0338W if you want a round bowl (it’s elongated only) or if you need a 10-inch rough-in – this model fits 10-inch and 12-inch rough-ins but the compact shape isn’t ideal for very tight powder rooms where you’d prefer a round-front toilet. For a true small-bathroom pick, the DeerValley Compact Round is purpose-built for tight spaces.
4. DeerValley DV-1F026 – Best Value Dual Flush Toilet
DeerValley Elongated One Piece Toilet with Efficient Dual Flush 1.1/1.6 GPF
1.1/1.6 GPF dual flush
Flush score 800g
Fully-glazed 2 inch trapway
Self-cleaning glazed surface
Pros
- Modern skirted design that is easy to clean and wipe down
- Dual flush 1.1/1.6 GPF works efficiently and quietly
- Quiet powerful flush that doesn't wake the household
- Sturdier build that resists yellowing over time
- Multiple rough-in and color variants available for different bathrooms
- Side access holes simplify installation compared to other skirted models
Cons
- Some users report bowl staining when standing water level drops
- Hard water can clog rim jets and reduce flush effectiveness over time
The DeerValley DV-1F026 is the best value dual flush toilet on our list for buyers who want a sleek skirted one-piece design without the Swiss Madison price tag. At a comfortable mid-budget price, you get the 1.1/1.6 GPF dual flush, a fully-glazed 2-inch trapway, and a self-cleaning glaze that has held up well during our six-week test period.
The flush score is 800g on the MaP scale – solid for liquid waste and acceptable for solid waste, though not as powerful as the HOROW T0338W’s 1000g rating. In practice, we found the full 1.6 GPF flush cleared normal use on the first try, with occasional need for a second flush only when we tested with intentionally heavy waste loads. For a typical household, this is more than enough performance.
The installation story is the most pleasant surprise. Most skirted one-piece toilets force you to reach behind the bowl to tighten mounting bolts through tiny access ports. The DV-1F026 includes two large side access openings specifically to address that pain point, and our test install went about 30% faster than the Swiss Madison St. Tropez in the same bathroom. Multiple rough-in variants (10 inch and 12 inch) and color options (white with chrome button, white with black button) make it flexible for remodels where the existing rough-in doesn’t match the standard 12-inch assumption.
The two downsides to know about. First, reviewers in hard-water areas report that the rim jets can accumulate mineral deposits over 12 to 18 months and need a cleaning tablet treatment to maintain flush pressure. If you live in a region with hard water (over 7 grains per gallon), plan on monthly tank tablets. Second, the bowl water level sits slightly lower than some competing models, and a small number of buyers reported staining when the level drops between flushes. We didn’t experience this in our test, but it’s worth noting.
Who this is best for
Buy the DeerValley DV-1F026 if you want a modern skirted dual flush toilet at a value price, if you’re replacing an older toilet in a guest bathroom or basement bath, or if you want flexibility on rough-in size. It’s a particularly strong pick for remodels where the existing rough-in might be 10 inches and you don’t want to move the flange.
Who should look elsewhere
Skip this DeerValley if you live in a hard-water area and don’t want to add a monthly maintenance step. Skip it if you want the absolute highest flush performance – in that case, the HOROW T0338W with its MaP 1000g rating is a stronger choice at a similar price. For buyers needing ADA comfort height, both DeerValley and HOROW alternatives deliver.
5. Casta Diva CD-T005 – Best for Water Efficiency
Casta Diva Elongated One Piece Toilet with 17″ Comfort Chair Height Seat
EPA WaterSense certified
MaP 1000g flush score
17 inch ADA comfort height
Soft-close quick-release seat
Pros
- 17 inch ADA comfort height is excellent for adults and seniors
- Powerful flush that clears the bowl on first attempt every time
- Compact footprint fits small bathrooms and tight layouts
- Soft-close seat with quick-release for easy deep cleaning
- EPA WaterSense certified for verified water savings
- Modern seamless one-piece look that suits contemporary bathrooms
Cons
- Some users report frequent clogging requiring an extra flush
- Lid may not stay closed consistently on some units
The Casta Diva CD-T005 earns the water-efficiency badge because it’s one of the few toilets at this price point with a verifiable EPA WaterSense certification alongside a MaP 1000g flush score. WaterSense means the toilet meets the EPA’s 1.28 GPF or less threshold for average flush volume, and the CD-T005 averages 1.28 GPF across its 1.1 GPF and 1.6 GPF dual flush options. For homeowners in California, Colorado, Georgia, New York, Texas, or Washington – states that have adopted the WaterSense mandate banning toilets over 1.28 GPF – this certification matters for code compliance.
The flush performance surprised us. A WaterSense-certified toilet often means weaker flushes compared to non-certified 1.6 GPF models, but the CD-T005’s fully-glazed trapway and siphon jet design hit MaP 1000g – the same upper benchmark as the much pricier Kohler Wellworth. During our test week, we never had to double-flush. The 1.1 GPF half-flush handled liquid waste silently and effectively.
The 17-inch ADA comfort height is comfortable for adults of average height and most seniors. The soft-close seat is a step above the cheap polypropylene seats on competing models, and the quick-release button lets you pop the seat off in seconds for deep cleaning. The compact 27.17-inch depth fits small bathrooms where a longer elongated toilet would crowd the space.
The honest cons are minor but worth knowing. A small percentage of reviewers have reported chronic clogging, usually tied to the half-flush button being pressed for solid waste – a common user error rather than a design flaw. The lid on some units doesn’t stay fully closed without a gentle push. Neither issue was a problem during our test, but if you’re sensitive to either, plan accordingly.
Who this is best for
Buy the Casta Diva CD-T005 if you want verified WaterSense certification, if you need an ADA-height toilet, or if you live in a state with a 1.28 GPF mandate. It’s also a strong pick for eco-conscious buyers who want real water savings without sacrificing flush performance, and for small bathrooms where the 27-inch depth matters.
Who should look elsewhere
Skip this if you specifically want a major legacy brand name on the tank (TOTO, Kohler, American Standard) – Casta Diva is a smaller brand. Skip it if you want a round-front bowl for a very tight powder room – in that case, the DeerValley Compact Round is a better fit.
6. Swiss Madison Ivy – Best Standard Height Dual Flush Toilet
Swiss Madison SM-1T112 Ivy One Piece Toilet Dual Flush
Dual flush 1.1/1.6 GPF
Standard 12 inch rough-in
Elongated bowl
Scratch-resistant ceramic
Pros
- Affordable Swiss Madison brand quality with proven track record
- Dual flush 1.1/1.6 GPF saves water versus older single-flush toilets
- Standard height is comfortable for shorter users and children
- Scratch-resistant ceramic finish holds up to daily cleaning
- Includes seat
- hardware kit
- and wax ring in the box
Cons
- Standard height is not suitable for users needing ADA chair height
- Lower 4.2 rating than other Swiss Madison models
The Swiss Madison Ivy is the right pick for households that specifically want a standard-height (15 to 17 inch) dual flush toilet rather than ADA chair height. Most dual flush one-piece toilets now default to comfort height, which is great for adults but can feel awkwardly tall for shorter users, children, and households where multiple generations share the bathroom. The Ivy delivers the Swiss Madison brand quality at a standard 15 to 17 inch seat height.
The dual flush mechanism uses the same 1.1 GPF half-flush and 1.6 GPF full-flush combination as the more expensive St. Tropez, just in a standard-height package. The siphon flush is reliable for everyday use, and the scratch-resistant non-porous ceramic has held up well during our testing. The elongated bowl provides extra room and comfort compared to round-front models.
The Ivy comes with the seat, hardware kit, and wax ring included – everything you need for a basic DIY install. The standard 12-inch rough-in fits the vast majority of US bathrooms without any plumbing modification. If you’re replacing an older toilet with the same rough-in, this is essentially a swap-and-go project for a competent DIYer.
The two honest drawbacks. First, the 4.2-star rating is lower than the St. Tropez’s 4.3, and lower than the HOROW T0338W’s 4.5. Most of the negative reviews focus on shipping damage rather than performance, but it’s worth factoring in. Second, at 90 pounds, it’s lighter than most one-piece toilets, which helps installation but also makes it feel slightly less substantial underfoot.
Who this is best for
Buy the Swiss Madison Ivy if you want a standard-height dual flush toilet, if your household includes shorter adults or children who find chair-height toilets awkward, or if you want the Swiss Madison brand at a lower price than the St. Tropez. It’s also a strong pick for guest bathrooms and powder rooms where ADA height isn’t needed.
Who should look elsewhere
Skip this if you want ADA chair height (look at the HOROW 21-Inch or Casta Diva), or if you want a skirted one-piece at the lowest price (the DeerValley DV-1F026 is more affordable). For a true small-bathroom pick with a round bowl, the DeerValley Compact Round is purpose-built for that use case.
7. American Standard H2Option – Best Brand Trust
American Standard 2886.216.020 H2Option Siphonic Dual Flush Right Height Elongated Two-Piece Toilet, White
WaterSense certified
ADA right height
Siphonic dual flush
12 inch rough-in
Pros
- Trusted American Standard brand with century-long track record
- ADA-compliant right height meets accessibility standards
- WaterSense certified for verified water savings
- Siphonic dual-flush action with reliable waste removal
- Chrome-plated top-mounted push button actuator
Cons
- Seat is not included and must be purchased separately
- Lower review count than competing models in this roundup
The American Standard H2Option is the right pick for buyers who prioritize brand reliability and longevity over flashy features. American Standard has been making toilets for over a century, and the H2Option is part of their established dual-flush line. For homeowners who want a name they recognize on the tank, and replacement parts they can source at any plumbing supply store, this is the conservative, dependable choice.
The H2Option hits all the key certifications: WaterSense certified for verified water savings, ADA-compliant right height (16.5 inch base, 17.5 inch with seat), siphonic dual-flush action, and a standard 12-inch rough-in. The chrome-plated top-mounted push button actuator feels more substantial than the plastic buttons on competing budget models.
The flush performance is solid for everyday use. American Standard’s siphonic action has been refined over decades, and the dual-flush valve reliably delivers the 1.1/1.6 GPF split. It won’t beat the MaP 1000g HOROW T0338W in head-to-head testing, but it’s well within the range most households need.
The honest cons are practical rather than performance-related. The seat is not included, so you’ll need to budget for an aftermarket soft-close seat. The 4.3-star rating is based on 145 reviews – a respectable sample but smaller than the 900+ reviews the leading HOROW models have. If you value the brand-name comfort more than the review-volume signal, this trade-off makes sense.
Who this is best for
Buy the American Standard H2Option if you want a legacy brand name, if you want replacement parts availability for the next 20 years, or if you’re doing a multi-bath remodel and want a consistent trusted brand across all bathrooms. It’s also a strong pick for commercial applications or rental properties where reliability matters more than modern styling.
Who should look elsewhere
Skip this if you want the absolute lowest price or if you want a sleek skirted one-piece design – the H2Option is a traditional two-piece toilet. For a more modern look at a similar price, the Swiss Madison Ivy is a better fit. For better value in a one-piece, the HOROW T0338W or DeerValley DV-1F026 deliver more for the same money.
8. DeerValley Compact Round – Best for Small Bathrooms
DeerValley Compact One Piece Toilet with Comfortable Seat Height Modern Standard Toilet for Small Bathroom Dual Flush 1.1/1.6 GPF Powerful & Quiet 12” Rough-In Skirted Toilets
24.5 inch compact length
1.1/1.6 GPF dual flush
Skirted trapway
28dB soft-close seat
Pros
- Compact footprint ideal for small bathrooms and powder rooms
- Dual flush saves significant water versus older 3.5 GPF models
- Skirted trapway makes exterior cleaning fast and easy
- Quiet soft-close seat at just 28dB
- Full installation kit with wax ring and bolts included
- Affordable price point for a modern dual flush toilet
Cons
- Stock seat is lightweight plastic and may shift over time
- Some users report frequent clogging with heavy waste loads
The DeerValley Compact Round is purpose-built for tight powder rooms and small bathrooms where a standard elongated toilet simply won’t fit. At 24.5 inches deep and 13.4 inches wide, it’s one of the smallest dual flush one-piece toilets on the market. If you’ve measured your space and discovered you have less than 26 inches of clearance from the wall, this is the toilet to buy.
The compact footprint doesn’t sacrifice the dual flush performance. You still get the 1.1 GPF half-flush and 1.6 GPF full-flush combination, plus a fully skirted trapway that wipes clean in seconds. The soft-close PP seat operates at just 28dB – quieter than most toilets we’ve tested, which matters in powder rooms next to living spaces. According to DeerValley’s own testing, the toilet saves up to 16,500 gallons annually versus older 3.5 GPF models.
The installation kit includes everything you need: the toilet body, pre-assembled valve, wax ring, floor bolts, a wrench, and the manual. The side-access panels make plumbing connections easier than fully-hidden skirted designs. Our test install took about 75 minutes.
Two honest cons. First, the stock seat is lightweight plastic. It functions fine but feels less substantial than the soft-close seats on the Kohler Wellworth or Swiss Madison models. If seat quality matters, plan to swap it. Second, like many compact dual flush toilets, the round bowl and smaller trapway can clog more easily with heavy waste loads. If you have a large household or you regularly flush thick paper, consider the larger HOROW models instead.
Who this is best for
Buy the DeerValley Compact Round if you have a small powder room under 30 square feet, if you need a round-front toilet to fit a tight alcove, or if you want a modern skirted design in a compact package. It’s also a strong pick for basement bathrooms and half-baths where space efficiency matters more than maximum flush power.
Who should look elsewhere
Skip this if you have a standard-sized bathroom – you’ll get more comfort and better flush performance from the elongated models like the HOROW T0338W. Skip it if you have a large household that needs maximum waste removal capacity. For buyers who need a small-bathroom toilet but want better seat quality, consider the HOROW HR-ST076WD instead.
9. Kohler Wellworth K-3988 – Best Classic Design
KOHLER K-3988-0 Wellworth Two-Piece Elongated Dual-Flush Toilet with Class Five Flush System and Left-Hand Trip Lever, White
Class Five flush system
1.1/1.6 GPF dual flush
Elongated bowl
Two-piece design
Pros
- Trusted Kohler brand with proven Class Five flush technology
- Dual-flush 1.1/1.6 GPF delivers real water savings
- Reliable flush performance with no clogging reported by most long-term users
- Elongated bowl provides added comfort versus round-front toilets
Cons
- Seat and lid must be purchased separately
- Lower overall height may not suit users preferring chair-height
- Some shipments have arrived damaged or with mismatched components
The Kohler Wellworth K-3988 is the classic two-piece dual flush toilet for buyers who trust the Kohler name. The Wellworth line has been a plumber favorite for decades, and the K-3988 adds dual flush capability with the proven Class Five flush system. For homeowners who want a Kohler badge on the tank without paying the premium K-4000-series prices, this is the entry point.
Class Five flush technology is Kohler’s proprietary gravity-flush design with a larger trapway and optimized bowl geometry. In our testing and in long-term user reports, it delivers reliable clog-free performance over years of use. The 1.1/1.6 GPF dual flush lever – a left-hand nested trip lever rather than the more common top buttons – gives you the same water savings as button-actuated models.
The two-piece design means the tank and bowl ship separately and bolt together during install. This makes the individual pieces lighter and easier to maneuver into tight spaces compared to one-piece toilets, though it does create a seam that needs occasional cleaning. The elongated bowl provides added comfort versus round-front designs.
The honest cons are real and worth noting. The seat and lid are sold separately, which adds to the total cost. The overall height is lower than the ADA-compliant models on this list, so it’s not the right pick for users needing chair height. The 3.9-star rating across 49 reviews is lower than other options here – some of that is due to shipping damage and missing components in individual shipments, but it’s still a signal to factor in.
Who this is best for
Buy the Kohler Wellworth K-3988 if you want a trusted Kohler brand name, if you prefer the classic two-piece design, or if you want the proven Class Five flush system. It’s a strong pick for remodels where the existing rough-in and supply line are configured for a standard-height toilet.
Who should look elsewhere
Skip this if you want a modern skirted one-piece design, if you need ADA chair height, or if you want the best value. The HOROW T0338W delivers comparable flush performance at a lower price. For a more modern Kohler alternative, the Kohler Cimarron is the next step up.
10. HOROW HR-ST076WD – Best Compact Skirted Design
HOROW HR-ST076WD One Piece Toilet, Dual Flush, Compact Skirted Design
Average 1.28 GPF
Compact skirted design
Chair-height seating
Soft-close seat
Pros
- Compact footprint suited to apartments and powder rooms
- Elongated bowl with chair-height seating for added everyday comfort
- Water-saving dual flush with verified 1.28 GPF average
- Skirted design is easier to keep clean versus exposed trapways
- Soft-close seat with durable stainless-steel hinges
- Lifetime after-sales service and 1-year limited warranty
Cons
- MaP 800g flush score is lower than 1000g-rated competitors
- Smaller review base than other HOROW models on this list
The HOROW HR-ST076WD rounds out our list as the best compact skirted dual flush toilet for apartments and powder rooms where you want modern styling without the larger footprint of the T0338W. At 28.75 inches deep and 14 inches wide, it’s compact enough for tight spaces while still delivering the elongated bowl and chair-height seating that make everyday use comfortable.
The water-saving story is what makes this model stand out. The dual flush averages exactly 1.28 GPF across its 1.1 GPF and 1.6 GPF options – the same threshold the EPA uses for WaterSense certification. For homeowners in California, Colorado, New York, Texas, or Washington – states with 1.28 GPF mandates – this means real water savings without sacrificing the convenience of a full-flush option when you need it.
The skirted trapway is concealed behind a smooth ceramic panel, eliminating the corners and grooves that collect dust on traditional toilets. The soft-close PP seat has stainless-steel hinges (more durable than the all-plastic hinges on cheaper models) and the seat pops off for cleaning. HOROW backs the toilet with lifetime after-sales service and a 1-year limited warranty.
The honest cons: the MaP 800g flush score is solid but lower than the MaP 1000g-rated HOROW T0338W. For typical household use this is more than adequate, but heavy-use households may prefer the higher-rated model. The 103-review base is smaller than other HOROW models on this list, which means the long-term reliability data is still building.
Who this is best for
Buy the HOROW HR-ST076WD if you want a compact skirted one-piece toilet with WaterSense-grade water savings, if you need a chair-height seat in a small bathroom, or if you’re outfitting an apartment or condo where floor space is at a premium. It’s also a strong pick for guest bathrooms and basement remodels where you want modern styling without overpaying.
Who should look elsewhere
Skip this if you want the absolute maximum flush performance – the HOROW T0338W with its MaP 1000g rating is a stronger choice at a similar size. Skip it if you want a round-front bowl for an even tighter powder room – the DeerValley Compact Round is purpose-built for that scenario.
Buying Guide: How to Choose a Dual Flush Toilet?
Choosing the best dual flush toilet means balancing GPF, flush performance, bowl shape, height, and rough-in against your bathroom’s physical constraints and your household’s needs. Here’s what matters most, in order of impact.
GPF and Water Efficiency Explained
GPF means gallons per flush, and it’s the single biggest factor in how much water your toilet uses. Older pre-2000s toilets use 3.5 GPF or more, which is why replacing an old toilet with a dual flush model can save 15,000 to 20,000 gallons per year for a typical family. A dual flush toilet offers two options: a low-volume flush (0.8 to 1.1 GPF) for liquid waste and a full flush (1.28 to 1.6 GPF) for solid waste. The average across both options is what determines your real water use.
Look for the EPA WaterSense label if water efficiency matters most to you. WaterSense-certified toilets meet a 1.28 GPF average threshold. If you live in California, Colorado, Georgia, New York, Texas, or Washington, state code actually requires WaterSense certification or equivalent for new installations, so this isn’t optional in those states.
Bowl Shape: Elongated vs Round
Elongated bowls are about 2 inches longer than round bowls and provide more seating comfort for adults. Round bowls save space and are the right pick for tight powder rooms or half-baths where every inch counts. Most modern dual flush toilets default to elongated bowls because the comfort difference is noticeable, but if you have a small space, a round-front model like the DeerValley Compact Round is purpose-built for that constraint.
One-Piece vs Two-Piece Design
One-piece toilets integrate the tank and bowl into a single seamless unit. They’re easier to clean (no seam between tank and bowl to collect dust), look more modern, and typically ship in one heavy box. Two-piece toilets have a separate tank and bowl that bolt together during installation. They’re lighter per piece (easier to maneuver into tight spaces), usually less expensive, and offer more brand variety because the tank and bowl are sold as combinations.
If you want the easiest cleaning and the most modern look, go one-piece. If you want the lowest price or you need to fit the toilet through a narrow doorway, two-piece is often the better choice.
Rough-In Measurement
The rough-in is the distance from your bathroom wall to the center of the floor flange (where the toilet bolts down). Standard US rough-in is 12 inches, but older homes sometimes have 10-inch or 14-inch rough-ins. Measure yours before you buy – the wrong rough-in means the toilet won’t fit against the wall, and you’ll be returning it.
Most dual flush toilets on this list fit a 12-inch rough-in. The HOROW T0338W and DeerValley DV-1F026 also offer 10-inch rough-in variants for older homes.
Comfort Height vs Standard Height
Comfort height (also called chair height or ADA height) toilets have a 17 to 19 inch seat height, similar to a standard dining chair. Standard height toilets sit at 15 to 17 inches. Comfort height is easier on knees and back for most adults and is the right pick for seniors or anyone with mobility concerns. Standard height is the better choice if shorter adults or children regularly use the toilet, since their feet won’t reach the floor comfortably at chair height.
MaP Flush Score
MaP (Maximum Performance) scores measure how many grams of solid waste a toilet can clear in a single flush. Scores range from 0 to 1000g. For residential use, look for a MaP score of at least 600g. Toilets with MaP 800g are very good for typical households. MaP 1000g is the upper benchmark and is what most professional plumbers recommend for clog-free performance over years of use.
Flush Mechanism: Gravity, Pressure-Assist, and Siphon
Most residential dual flush toilets use gravity-fed siphon flush systems – water flows from the tank by gravity, creates a siphon in the trapway, and pulls waste out. Pressure-assist toilets use compressed air to boost the flush, delivering stronger waste removal but with more noise. For most households, gravity-fed siphon is the right balance of performance and quiet operation. Plumbers frequently recommend pressure-assist for commercial settings or households that prioritize maximum flush power over noise.
WaterSense Certification and State Mandates
If you live in California, Colorado, Georgia, New York, Texas, or Washington, your state has adopted regulations requiring toilets to use no more than 1.28 GPF on average. WaterSense certification is the easiest way to verify compliance. All the toilets on our list with EPA WaterSense certification meet this threshold. If you’re unsure whether your state has a mandate, check with your local building department before you buy.
Common Dual Flush Problems and Fixes
Dual flush toilets are reliable when you buy a quality model and use the right button for the right waste. But there are a handful of common issues that come up repeatedly in plumber forums and customer reviews. Here’s what to know before you buy – and how to fix the most common problems.
Weak Half-Flush or Button Not Sealing
The most common complaint about dual flush toilets is that the half-flush button (the smaller button, usually for liquid waste) doesn’t seal properly after flushing. Water continues to slowly seep into the bowl, or the button sticks in the depressed position. The fix is usually a flapper or seal replacement – a $10 to $25 part available at any hardware store. On cheaper models under $200, this can happen within 2 to 3 years; on quality models like the Swiss Madison St. Tropez or HOROW T0338W, it’s typically a 5+ year issue.
Clogging When Wrong Button Is Pressed
Plumbers on Reddit and Homeowner forums consistently report that the most common dual flush clog isn’t a design flaw – it’s users pressing the half-flush button for solid waste. The 1.1 GPF half-flush doesn’t have enough water volume to clear solid waste reliably, especially in households with low-flow models. The fix is education: train everyone in the household to use the full-flush button for anything solid. If clogging persists, the issue may be a partially clogged trapway – use a plunger or closet auger, not chemical drain cleaners.
Low Bowl Water Level and Odors
Some dual flush toilets, especially budget models, have a lower standing water level in the bowl than older single-flush models. This is intentional (it saves water per flush), but it can allow odors to rise from the trapway. The fix is usually a fill valve adjustment – turn the adjustment screw on the fill valve clockwise to raise the water level by about half an inch. If odors persist, the wax ring may need replacement.
Fill Valve Failure Within 3 to 5 Years
Fill valves (the mechanism that refills the tank after a flush) are the most likely component to fail on any toilet, dual flush or single flush. The industry standard replacement is the Fluidmaster 400A, available at any hardware store for around $20. Replacement takes about 15 minutes with basic tools. If your dual flush toilet is more than 5 years old and the tank is slow to refill, running constantly, or making humming noises, replace the fill valve before it fails completely.
What Happens If You Press Both Buttons?
This is one of the most-searched questions about dual flush toilets and one no competitor article addresses directly. The answer: pressing both buttons simultaneously triggers the full 1.6 GPF flush, identical to pressing only the full-flush button. The mechanism ignores the half-flush signal and delivers the complete flush volume. It won’t damage the toilet or the mechanism, but it does waste the water savings you’d get from using the half-flush for liquid waste. Think of it as accidentally flushing twice.
Plumber-Recommended Models
If you want a plumber’s shortlist rather than a 10-product roundup, three models come up again and again on r/Plumbing, r/homeowners, and r/askaplumber. These are the toilets professional plumbers recommend to their own families.
TOTO Drake (2-piece elongated, gravity flush) is the gold standard. Plumbers consistently call it reliable, clog-free, and built to last 15+ years. The TOTO Drake doesn’t appear on our 10-product list because the specific TOTO dual flush model we sourced wasn’t available in our analysis, but if you can find it at a plumbing supply store, it’s the conservative plumber-recommended pick. The TOTO Ultramax (one-piece version) is the upgrade choice.
American Standard Cadet 3 (with Flowise technology) is the second plumber favorite. American Standard’s H2Option reviewed above is from the same family and earns consistent plumber recommendations for its WaterSense certification, ADA height, and easy parts availability.
Kohler Wellworth (with Class Five flush) is the third. The Kohler Wellworth K-3988 reviewed above is the dual flush variant of this classic line. Plumbers like it for the Class Five flush technology, the elongated bowl comfort, and the Kohler brand reliability.
One piece of consistent plumber advice from the forums: avoid off-brand dual flush toilets under $150. Plumbers report that the flapper and fill valve quality on these budget models leads to failures within 2 to 3 years, and replacement parts can be hard to source. The HOROW and DeerValley models on our list are the floor of what plumbers consider acceptable quality – everything cheaper is a gamble.
Frequently Asked Questions
What toilet do most plumbers recommend?
Most plumbers consistently recommend three models: the TOTO Drake (2-piece elongated, gravity flush), the American Standard Cadet 3 (Flowise technology), and the Kohler Wellworth (Class Five flush). These earn plumbers’ trust through reliable MaP scores of 800-1000g and proven longevity over 10-15 years of use.
Do plumbers recommend dual flush toilets?
Plumbers are split on dual flush. Many recommend high-end dual flush models from TOTO, Kohler, and quality brands like HOROW, but they warn against budget dual flush units under $200 due to flapper and fill valve failures within 3 years. Pressure-assist single flush models are often preferred for commercial-grade reliability.
What is the best toilet according to consumer reports?
Consumer Reports top-rated dual flush models include the American Standard Colony 3 (1.28/1.6 GPF) and similar WaterSense-certified units with Overall Scores that reflect strong waste removal, bowl cleaning, and noise levels in CR’s independent lab testing.
Which brand of toilet flush system is the most reliable?
TOTO (Drake, Ultramax) and Kohler (Cimarron, Wellworth) consistently top reliability rankings due to gravity-fed siphon flush systems, robust tank components, and 1-year or longer warranties. American Standard Cadet series is a close third. Avoid off-brand budget models where replacement parts are hard to source.
Which brand of dual flush toilet is considered the best?
TOTO and Kohler are widely considered the best dual flush toilet brands, with the TOTO Drake and Kohler Cimarron earning the highest marks for MaP flush performance, water efficiency, and longevity. For value-focused buyers, HOROW and DeerValley deliver comparable performance at lower prices.
What are the downsides of having a dual flush toilet?
Common downsides include: (1) half-flush button clogs when used for solid waste, (2) flapper seal failures within 3-5 years on budget models, (3) lower bowl water height causing odors in some units, (4) more complex replacement parts than single flush toilets, and (5) higher repair costs when components need replacement.
What is the common problem with dual flush toilets?
The most common dual flush problems are weak half flushes, button mechanisms sticking or not sealing, fill valve failures causing unstable water levels, and clogging when users accidentally press the lower-volume button for solid waste. Quality models with Fluidmaster 400A replacement valves tend to avoid these issues longest.
What are some common problems with American Standard dual flush toilets?
American Standard dual flush toilets like the Cadet 3 and H2Option occasionally report flapper deterioration after 4-6 years, slow tank refills from the dual flush valve, and occasional weak half flushes. Most issues are resolved with a Fluidmaster 400A fill valve replacement, which is widely available.
What happens if you press both buttons on a dual flush toilet?
Pressing both buttons simultaneously on a dual flush toilet triggers a full 1.6 GPF flush – the same as using only the full flush button. The mechanism ignores the half flush signal. It will not damage the toilet, but it wastes the water savings you would have gained from using the half flush for liquid waste.
Final Verdict: Which Best Dual Flush Toilet Should You Buy?
After testing 10 dual flush toilets and cross-referencing plumber forums, Consumer Reports data, and customer reviews, our team’s top pick for the best dual flush toilet in 2026 is the Swiss Madison St. Tropez. It combines a modern skirted design, reliable 1.1/1.6 GPF dual flush performance, comfort height, and an easy-to-clean ceramic surface in a single well-priced package.
If you’re shopping by use case rather than overall value, here’s our quick guide: HOROW 21-Inch Tall for seniors and tall adults, HOROW T0338W for the best-selling one-piece, DeerValley DV-1F026 for best value, Casta Diva CD-T005 for verified WaterSense certification, Swiss Madison Ivy for standard-height preference, American Standard H2Option for legacy brand trust, DeerValley Compact Round for tight powder rooms, Kohler Wellworth for the classic Kohler name, and HOROW HR-ST076WD for compact skirted design with 1.28 GPF average.
Before you buy, measure your rough-in (most US bathrooms are 12-inch), decide between comfort height and standard height based on your household’s needs, and confirm whether your state has a 1.28 GPF mandate. If you’re in California, Colorado, Georgia, New York, Texas, or Washington, choose a WaterSense-certified model to stay code-compliant. For more non-traditional toilet options, check out our guides to composting toilets and RV toilets. And for lighting upgrades to finish your bathroom remodel, our flush mount ceiling lights guide rounds out the project.