More and more, technology is being seamlessly integrated into our daily lives. From voice-activated lighting to smartphone-controlled kitchen appliances, is it any surprise that the humble toilet is getting an upgrade too?

If you’re looking to give your home all the modern technological comforts, getting a smart toilet is one addition that truly elevates your bathroom space to the epitome of luxury. But what is a smart toilet? How does a smart toilet work, and what are its benefits? Learn all the answers to these questions and more in this ultimate guide.

What is a smart toilet?

For centuries, toilets have followed a relatively simple design that allows both laymen and aristocrats alike to do their business in an easy and hygienic manner. However, with the advent of the 21st century, humans did what they do best — improve on what already seemed to be perfect. Thus, the modern smart toilet was made, sporting a variety of features that create a more luxurious and efficient experience.

Common features of a smart toilet:

• Bidet functionality — With their integrated function, a modern toilet allows for accurate and complete cleaning after use. There are even features that allow you to adjust water pressure, temperature and the angle of the stream, ensuring you’re cleaned as thoroughly as possible every time you answer nature’s call
• Heated seating — Especially important during winter or in places with colder climates, smart toilets can come with heated seats that make your bathroom experience much more comfortable. 
• Air drying — After being washed by the integrated bidet, some models of smart toilets include air dryers. This saves toilet paper and allows you to be on your merry way as soon as you get up.
• Lighting — With built-in lights on your toilet, often in a wide range of adjustable colours, you can easily locate it in the middle of the night without having to turn on the bright overhead fixtures. Its soft glow also adds greatly to the cosy ambience of your modern restroom.
• Self-cleaning and deodorising function — With an automatic flushing function, smart toilets are a germ-free, touch-and-go experience. Some models also come with deodorising and self-cleaning mechanisms that use UV light or electrolysed water to sanitise the bowl and eliminate bacteria and germs.
• Remote control — By coming with a remote control, or a smartphone app, users can easily customise the toilet to suit their individual preferences. 
• Water and energy-saving features — With water shortages constantly on the news and the price of energy slowly rising, it’s important for a smart toilet to be an investment that doesn’t break the bank. Despite their luxurious amenities, many smart toilets are designed to be environmentally friendly, using less water than traditional models.

Benefits of a smart toilet

Now that you know what a smart toilet is and its common features, you might be wondering whether you need all of that tech in your bathroom. To give you the full picture of why smart toilets are becoming more and more popular among home and business owners, here are just some of the benefits:

• Improved hygiene — With self-cleaning abilities, better bidet function and even air drying, a smart toilet offers a more sanitary way to do your business. The added cleanliness also minimises the risk of health issues such as haemorrhoids and urinary tract infections, as well as decreasing the amount of chores and maintenance you have in the bathroom.
• Enhanced comfort — Other than sitting on a cold and slippery surface every time you have to go number two, wouldn’t you prefer sitting on a dry and warm throne? With built-in heating, drying and lighting features, smart toilets offer a level of comfort in the bathroom that’s unparalleled. 
• Convenience and accessibility — From automatic flushing and remote control to lighting and more, a smart toilet can be used by people of all ages and abilities. Whether you’re elderly or dealing with mobility issues, these types of toilets come with features that are both convenient and promote independence.
• Environmental friendliness — Being efficient in water and energy is not only easy on your monthly bills, but good for the environment as well — using only the most optimal amount of resources necessary to get the job properly done.
• Modern aesthetics — Smart toilets come in different shapes and sizes but often boast a modern, sleek design. The minimalist appearance allows it to be easily integrated into all types of interior bathroom designs, accentuating and elevating the look and feel of the space as a whole.

Choosing the right smart toilet for your home

If you’re sold on the idea of a smart toilet, it’s now time to know how to choose the right one for your space. Each model of smart toilet is different, coming with its own set of dimensions and capabilities. To make the most of your budget, here are some of the things to consider when choosing a modern toilet:

• Budget — As nice as it is to have the latest and greatest, it’s still important to be practical with your purchase. Luckily, smart toilets come in a wide range of prices. Determine your budget and explore models within that range, considering the features that matter most to you.
• Features — Are you looking for the best bidet functions and heated settings, or do you require automatic flushing and remote control? Different models offer varying features, so prioritise the features that align with your preferences and needs.

• Size and design — Ensure that the smart toilet you choose fits comfortably in your bathroom space while still offering you sufficient room to sit comfortably. It is also important to choose a model with a design that complements your bathroom's interior design.
• Installation — Consider the ease of installation and whether you'll require professional assistance. Some smart toilets may have specific installation requirements due to their advanced features, and this will inevitably affect the overall cost. 
• Maintenance — While getting a smart toilet can be the best investment you can make in comfort and luxury, acquiring such an advanced piece of tech will always require a bit of know-how to ensure it lasts as long as possible. Look into the maintenance requirements of the smart toilet, including cleaning and replacement of filters or components. 

Smart toilets represent a remarkable fusion of technology and personal comfort. With a host of features that make them easy to use, highly functional, comfortable and convenient — smart toilets are an investment you’re sure to benefit from in more ways than one. As technology continues to advance, it's likely that smart toilets will become even more sophisticated and accessible, making them a valuable addition to modern homes.

Looking for the right bathroom fixtures? Look no further than ACS Bathrooms

If you’re looking for more advanced bathroom fixtures, browse the curated collection at ACS Designer Bathrooms. On our user-friendly website, you can choose from a wide range of high-quality, competitively-priced bathroom fixtures and accessories. We have products from top manufacturers to ensure you create the ideal bathroom environment. We also provide quality customer service, trustworthy consumer protection and quick shipping across Australia.

If you have any questions or would like some help selecting the perfect bathroom fixture for your space, please feel free to get in touch with us, and our friendly team will be happy to help. You can contact us by calling +61 2 9386 9809 (Woollahra, Sydney) or +61 3 9428 9996 (Richmond, Melbourne). To check out our products in person, you can also stop by one of our showrooms. We look forward to helping you design the bathroom of your dreams.