1. Determine your budget: Before you begin shopping, it’s essential to determine how much money you are willing to spend on a new toilet. Toilets can range in price from relatively inexpensive to very expensive, so having a budget in mind will help you narrow down your options.

2. Measure your bathroom space: Measure the dimensions of your bathroom and the distance from the wall to the toilet flange, as this will help you determine which size toilet will fit best in your bathroom.

3. Choose between one-piece or two-piece toilets: One-piece toilets have a seamless design and are generally easier to clean, while two-piece toilets have a separate bowl and tank, which can make installation and maintenance slightly more complicated.

4. Consider the type of flush mechanism: There are several types of flush mechanisms available, such as gravity-fed, pressure-assisted, or even dual-flush systems. Each type has its own advantages and drawbacks, so consider what feature matters most to you.

5. Evaluate bowl shapes: Toilet bowls typically come in round or elongated shapes. Round bowls take up less space and may be more suitable for smaller bathrooms, while elongated bowls offer more comfort for sitting.

6. Examine the height of the toilet: Toilets can be found at various heights ranging from standard to comfort height models. Consider who will be using the toilet regularly and choose an appropriate height for both comfort and accessibility purposes.

7. Assess water efficiency: To save money on water bills and reduce environmental impact, look for toilets that are certified under the WaterSense program or feature low-flow flush options.

8. Investigate additional features: Some toilets include features like heated seats, bidet functions, soft-close lids, or built-in nightlights. Consider whether these additional features are important to you and worth the extra investment.

9. Research brands and reviews: Take some time to research various toilet brands and read product reviews from other consumers to ensure the brand you choose has a reputation for producing quality products.

10. Shop around: Check prices at multiple retailers, both online and in-store, to find the best deal for your chosen toilet model.

11. Inquire about warranties: Before purchasing a toilet, make sure you understand what kind of warranty coverage is provided by the manufacturer.

12. Schedule a professional installation: If you’re not experienced in plumbing, it’s a good idea to hire a professional plumber for the installation process to avoid any potential issues.

13. Dispose of your old toilet responsibly: Once your new toilet is installed, dispose of your old toilet according to local disposal regulations, or consider donating it to a home improvement charity if it’s still in working condition.