While it may not be the most glamorous of things, the right commode can go a long way in terms of hygiene, comfort, and convenience in your home. We will be talking about commodes in depth in this blog post today. We will be talking about the commode in detail, comparing the options in the US and India, and going into details about the purchase and maintenance involved.
What is a Toilet Commode?
A toilet commode is a plumbing material made for the disposal of human excreta. It is usually made in the shape of a chair with a large depression in the middle which is shaped like a bowl in which the excreta collects and with the help of a flushing system that bowl shape is cleaned by the pressure of water which takes all the excreta through pipes to a designated tank.
The term “commode” is more commonly used in India and refers to both
Western-style toilets and Indian-style toilets (also called squat toilets). In the U.S., people generally refer to it simply as a toilet.
Different Types of Toilet Commodes
Let’s look at the most common types available in the Indian and American markets.
1. Western-Style Commodes (Sitting Toilets)
- Design: Bowl with a seat and flushing tank.
- Popularity: Widely used in American homes and gaining popularity in urban Indian homes.
- Pros: Comfortable, especially for elderly or disabled individuals.
- Cons: Can be less hygienic if not cleaned regularly.
2. Indian-Style Commodes (Squat Toilets)
- Design: A floor-level pan designed for squatting.
- Popularity: Still common in many Indian rural and traditional households.
- Pros: Encourages a natural posture for bowel movement, considered more hygienic.
- Cons: Difficult for elderly or physically challenged individuals.
3. Wall-Hung Toilets Commode
- Design: Mounted on the wall, with a concealed tank.
- Ideal for: Modern bathrooms in both the U.S. and India.
- Pros: Saves space, sleek design, easy to clean below the unit.
- Cons: Higher installation costs and maintenance complexity.
4. One-Piece and Two-Piece Toilet commode
- One-Piece: The tank and bowl are attached together. Easy to clean, stylish, compact.
- Two-Piece: Separate tank and bowl. More affordable and common in the U.S.
- India vs. USA: One-piece models are preferred in modern homes in India for their aesthetic appeal, while two-piece designs are still popular in American homes due to their cost-efficiency.
5. Smart Toilets (Bidet Toilet commode)
- Features: Heated seats, automatic flushing, built-in bidets, remote control.
- Trend: Popular in luxury homes in the U.S. and metro Indian cities.
- Pros: Ultimate comfort and hygiene.
- Cons: Expensive and requires professional installation.
Cultural Differences in Usage
India
- Water Usage: Indians traditionally use water instead of toilet paper. Bidet showers (handheld sprayers) are common.
- Rural vs. Urban: Small toilets are still preferred in rural areas, while Western-style toilets are becoming more common in urban homes.
- Public Toilets: Often offer both types, catering to diverse user preferences.
USA
- Toilet Paper Use: Primary method of cleaning. Hand washing is still relatively rare, but is gaining popularity.
- Accessibility: ADA-compliant restrooms are common, with consideration given to height and usability for individuals with disabilities.
- Bathroom Design: Emphasis on privacy, hygiene, and automation.
Key Features to Consider When Buying a Toilet commode
1. Flushing Mechanism
- Dual Flush: Offers two flush options (light and heavy). Great for saving water—popular in India.
- Pressure-Assisted: More powerful flush, often used in U.S. public toilets.
- Gravity Flush: Common in both countries for residential use.
2. Material & Durability
- Most commodes are made of glazed ceramic or porcelain.
- Focus on making sure the scratches are not deep and are easy to clean.
3. Water Efficiency
- Look for the WaterSense label (U.S.) or low-liter flush options (India) to save on water bills.
- U.S. standard: 1.6 gallons per flush or less.
- India standard: 3/6 liters dual flush is common.
4. Height and Size
- Standard Height: Suitable for most users.
- Comfort/Chair Height: Easier for elderly and disabled individuals to use.
- Compact Size: Ideal for small bathrooms in Indian apartments.
5. Ease of Cleaning
- Choose wall-mounted or one-piece designs for minimal crevices.
- Anti-bacterial coatings and rimless designs enhance hygiene.
Installation and Maintenance Tips
Installation
- In the U.S.: Installation is usually done by professional plumbers who charge between $150-$400.
- In India: Local plumbers offer more cost-effective installation, but proper soldering needs to be taken care of to avoid leaks.
Maintenance
- Clean weekly using a toilet cleaner and brush.
- Avoid harsh acids that can damage ceramic coating.
- Use a descaler every few months to prevent hard water stains, especially in Indian cities with high mineral content in water.
Popular Brands in the USA & India
USA Brands
- Kohler
- American Standard
- TOTO
- Delta
India Brands
- Hindware
- Cera
- Jaquar
- Parryware
- Toto India
Each brand offers a range of models from budget to luxury.
Average Cost of Toilet Commodes
| Country | Basic Model | Premium Model |
| USA | $150–$300 | $500–$2000 |
| India | ₹3,000–₹7,000 | ₹15,000–₹80,000 |
Costs vary depending on design, flushing technology, and features.
Environment & Health Impact
- Water-saving toilets help conserve millions of liters/gallons of water annually.
- Proper toilet design can reduce bacterial contamination and the spread of disease.
- For elderly users, comfort height toilets reduce strain and improve quality of life.
Future Trends
- Eco-Friendly Toilets: Low water consumption and minimal carbon emissions.
- Smart Features: Voice control, mobile app integration, automatic lids.
- Portable Commodes: Useful in rural India or during travel/camping in the U.S.
Final Thoughts
Whether you are building a bathroom in New York or a new house in Delhi, the right toilet commode makes a difference in every aspect, whether we talk about hygiene or stylish or comfortable. Be it the flushing system or the height of the seat, select it according to your comfort. Give enough time for this and choose a toilet commode that is economical for you and also made of good material so that you do not have any problem in cleaning later.
A toilet commode is a simple thing that can be installed easily but when selected and fitted wisely, it can make one of the major daily needs quite easy.
I have a blog on “Wash Basin” you can visit that too if you want.
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