Fortunately, technology continues to improve as manufacturers tinker with noise control solutions.  Your bathroom remodeling budget will be better spent on a high-quality showerhead or fancy bath towels. Look for a model with a slow-drop toilet seat that closes gradually, sparing your ears as well as tiny fingers. Some slow-close seats are also removable, which makes cleaning a snap.

What feels fresh to you now will likely seem dated in five or ten years and could even make your home harder to sell. It’s best to buy white or bisque fixtures that never go out of style. Some health experts claim that the chair-like posture inhibits natural functioning. And if you’re short or there are small children in your household, a right-height toilet may not be your best bet. It’s a good idea to sit on the model you’re considering before you buy it to make sure it suits your needs. Some toilet manufacturers offer a special surface finish that inhibits mold and bacteria. And if you’re battling both grime and a lack of space, a wall-mounted toilet can be a genius (though expensive) solution.