Posted on: June 11, 2007
Smarter Toilets for Modern ‘Spa’ Bathrooms
Today’s electronic toilets take it to extremes with self-cleaning capabilities, heat controls, air dryers and deodorizers
By Matthew M. F. Miller
CTW Features
New toilets and toilet seats are incorporating anti-odor technology such as fans, vents and automatic deodorizers Image courtesy Toto
Toilets have never been the sexiest feature in the bathroom and are perhaps even more of an afterthought in this era of dramatic tubs, multihead steam showers and sinks that could double as art.
And while no amount of features will turn the toilet from necessity to focal point, today’s models are aiming to claim a larger portion of consumer appreciation – and budget.
Toto, Morrow, Ga., released the Neorest 600 MS990CGR with user-friendly – if less-than spectacular – features such as automatic flush and seat and lid closure, and incorporated an automatic air purifier and remote control. Users can adjust the water temperature of front- and back-aerated warm water sprays, and opt for an oscillating spray massage, heated seat and warm air dryer. The added gloss finish helps keep your toilet clean.
Kohler, Kohler, Wis., offers the C3 series toilet seat with an in-line heated bidet, oscillating sprayers, air dryer and adjustable air and water temperatures. It also emits a soft blue light for nighttime use.
Brondell, Inc., San Francisco, aims to eliminate bathroom odors with the heated Breeza Warm toilet seat, which automatically begins deodorizing when the user sits via pressure-activated sensors. But they don’t stop there: A fan and intake capture odors at the source and push them into a replaceable, odor-absorbing carbon filter.
And while this new technology won’t allow toilets to emerge from the shadows of the bathroom’s less personal, grander features, these king-sized upgrades finally infuse the “throne” with some royal flair.