What the flush?

“We’re not in Kohler anymore Toto”

D. Petriello

Come take a seat and experience the auto-warming seats, the complex series of adjustable bidet sprays, the anti-bacterial “pre-mist” self-cleaning feature, the euphemistic pictograms: what could be more Japanese?

Apologies in advance as I never thought I would write about a topic like this, but Japan’s sophisticated toilets are so foreign for someone like me. The Toto Washlets are simply brilliant. 

My first experience with this fantastic technology was when we landed at Narita Airport after a 14-hour flight from Newark, New Jersey. I never thought I would find “heaven in an airport,” but here I was in the family bathroom at Narita Airport. 

The first thing I noticed was the immaculate bathroom. Then to one side of the toilet, a place to store your diaper bag. The other side had a seat for your toddler so mama can use the bathroom too. That’s right, no more lapping it with your little ones. And then there it was the Toto Washlet. 

Since landing in Narita, I have come across many Toto Washlets. They have many advanced functions rarely seen outside of Asia, like a bidet function for a rear rinse and an air-purifying system that deodorizes after each use. There is even an air dryer and night light. 

My favorite function is the heated seat function; what gal doesn’t love a heated seat in the middle of the night after the insanely cold walk on the bathroom tile.  

In addition to standard functionality, other Toto Washlets have a music button, and you have options of white noise, soothing ocean waves, etc. No more lifting germy toilet lids and no more “hey honey, you left the seat up.” because you can walk by the toilet, and it will automatically lift the toilet lid for you. The toilet lid closes itself when you finish what your gotta do, and yes, my productivity just went up by another 10%! 

All of these functions are customizable and controlled by electronic buttons on a panel next to your seat. There are many other features that I have heard of but haven’t experienced yet.

I’m telling you, the Japanese are at the cutting edge of toilet innovation. All you have to do is take a seat, relax, and enjoy the experience. I mean, seriously! It’s the Bentley’s of toilets. Who knew a girl could have a dream toilet?

So is America behind on the pursuit of toilet happiness given its one feature functionality of flushing? Either way, I hope one day in our forever home we have Toto Washlets because what is life without my Toto.

Interesting fact: 

Neorest is the latest and most expensive Toto Washlet in Japan. It has all the standard features and includes:

• A “bacteria-neutralizing ultraviolet light.”
• A “titanium dioxide-fired toilet bowl.”
• A remote control.
• A toilet seat that automatically opens and closes.
• An air deodorizer.

What kind of fancy washrooms have you come across in your travels?

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