What Was the Best Toilet Brand in the 1980s?
What Was the Best Toilet Brand in the 1980s? – Toilets might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of the 1980s, but they were a big part of daily life—just like cassette tapes, arcade games, and neon fashion. If you’ve ever wondered what was the best toilet brand in the 1980s, you’re not alone.
Back then, homeowners wanted reliable, stylish, and powerful toilets that could handle anything. The technology wasn’t as advanced as today, but many brands were already making high-quality models that lasted for decades. In fact, some of these toilets are still in use today!
So, let’s take a deep dive into the top toilet brands of the 1980s, what made them great, and how they compare to modern options.
The Top Toilet Brands of the 1980s
If you ask what was the best toilet brand in the 1980s, you’ll likely hear a few familiar names. Some of these brands are still industry leaders today, while others have faded into history.
1. American Standard – The Household Favorite
In the 1980s, American Standard was a name you could trust. Their toilets were in millions of homes across the U.S., and for good reason.
Why was American Standard so popular?
✔ Durability: Many American Standard toilets from the ‘80s are still functioning today.
✔ Classic Designs: Whether you wanted a basic white toilet or something a little fancier, they had plenty of choices.
✔ Good Flushing Power: Though not as water-efficient as modern models, these toilets were powerful and dependable.
If your family had an American Standard toilet back in the day, chances are it served you well for years—if not decades!
2. Kohler – The Premium Pick
For those who wanted something a little more high-end, Kohler was the way to go. Kohler toilets in the 1980s were stylish, well-made, and built to last.
What made Kohler stand out?
✔ Premium Materials: High-quality porcelain and well-crafted flushing systems.
✔ Sleek, Stylish Designs: If you wanted your bathroom to look fancy, Kohler was the brand to choose.
✔ Reliable Performance: Kohler toilets were known for their smooth flushing and long lifespan.
If you were wondering what was the best toilet brand in the 1980s in terms of luxury and design, Kohler was at the top of the list.
3. TOTO – The Innovator
TOTO was already a big deal in Japan in the 1980s, but they were slowly making their way into other markets. They were ahead of their time, offering advanced features that weren’t common in Western toilets yet.
Why was TOTO special?
✔ Early Water-Saving Tech: Even in the ‘80s, TOTO was experimenting with efficient flushing.
✔ Superior Engineering: Japanese precision meant fewer issues and longer-lasting toilets.
✔ Comfort and Innovation: Some TOTO models even had bidet functions—something almost unheard of back then.
If you wanted cutting-edge toilet technology in the 1980s, TOTO was the brand to watch.
4. Eljer – The Underrated Workhorse
While not as famous as American Standard or Kohler, Eljer made some of the strongest and most durable toilets of the 1980s.
What made Eljer stand out?
✔ Powerful Flushing: These toilets could handle heavy use without clogging.
✔ Built to Last: Many homeowners still have Eljer toilets from the ‘80s that work perfectly.
✔ Great for Families: If you had a big household, an Eljer toilet was a solid choice.
It may not have been the most stylish option, but if you wanted a no-nonsense, long-lasting toilet, Eljer was a great pick.
1980s Toilets vs. Modern Toilets: What’s Changed?
Toilets in the ‘80s were built for durability and power, but they weren’t as efficient as today’s models. If you’re wondering what was the best toilet brand in the 1980s, it’s important to see how they compare to modern toilets.
1. Water Usage
- 1980s Toilets: Used 3.5 to 7 gallons per flush (gpf).
- Today’s Toilets: Use 1.6 gpf or less, thanks to water-saving regulations.
2. Flushing Technology
- 1980s: Gravity-fed and pressure-assisted flushing were common, but not very efficient.
- Today: Dual-flush, tornado flush, and vacuum-assisted flushing make toilets more powerful with less water.
3. Design & Comfort
- 1980s: Round bowls, basic seats, and simple designs.
- Today: Elongated bowls, soft-close seats, and even smart toilets with bidets and heated seats!
So, What Was the Best Toilet Brand in the 1980s?
If you’re still wondering what was the best toilet brand in the 1980s, the answer depends on what you were looking for.
For everyday reliability? American Standard was the go-to choice.
For luxury and style? Kohler was the best pick.
For innovation and early eco-friendly designs? TOTO led the way.
For heavy-duty performance? Eljer got the job done.
Each of these brands had its own strengths, but they all played a major role in shaping the toilets we use today.
Final Thoughts: A Flush of Nostalgia
Looking back, it’s clear that the 1980s was a great decade for toilets. While modern models are more advanced, many of the best toilet brands of the 1980s are still around today, proving their quality and reliability.
Whether you grew up with an American Standard classic, a fancy Kohler, or a TOTO ahead of its time, one thing’s for sure—toilets in the 1980s were built to last.
And who knows? Maybe in a few decades, people will look back at today’s smart toilets and ask, “What was the best toilet brand in the 1980s?” all over again!
Related Posts:
