TOTO C5 Washlet Review – The Best Value Bidet on the Market
Cleaning your tush can be an unpleasant experience, especially if you’re still wiping with toilet paper. Bidets are more popular than ever, but choosing the right one can be difficult.
The TOTO washlet C5 is one of the best all-around bidet seats, versatile enough for most people looking to upgrade their bathroom routine. From dual-remote wireless remote to a proprietary Ewater+ feature and customizable water settings, you’re getting a washlet packed with innovative technology.
We’ve done all the legwork by testing and researching the TOTO washlet C5 ourselves. In this guide, we’ll give you a rundown of their features and our thoughts on this bidet. Read on to discover how the C5 can bring cleanliness and comfort to your daily regimen.
About TOTO: A Brief Overview
Upgrade your bathroom experience with TOTO Washlets. Advanced features provide a refreshing and hygienic clean. Eco-friendly design and intuitive controls make TOTO Washlets the perfect addition to any modern bathroom.
Founded in 1917, TOTO is a Japanese company that started as a producer of ceramic sanitary ware. Since then, the company has broadened its product range to encompass various bathroom fixtures and fittings, such as toilets, bidets, faucets, and accessories.
TOTO prioritizes sustainability and environmental responsibility as one of its core values. Its products are manufactured with eco-friendly materials and processes, and its toilets and bidets are designed to be water-efficient.
TOTO is recognized for its innovative design and advanced technology. Their products are equipped with cutting-edge features such as heated seats, air dryers, adjustable water pressure and temperature, and self-cleaning nozzles. They offer a myriad of cleaning options, like their front and rear wash and pulsating or oscillating water sprays. Additionally, TOTO is a pioneer in “smart” bathroom technology, including toilets that can be operated through a smartphone application.
Furthermore, the brand places significant emphasis on quality and workmanship, in addition to its commitment to sustainability and technology. Their designers and engineers employ premium materials and manufacturing procedures tailored to guarantee that each bidet meets its strict standards for performance and durability. In fact, their bidets have earned various recognitions for their flawless design, including the iF, Red Dot, and Green Good Design awards. These awards demonstrate the product’s outstanding functionality, aesthetics, and innovative features, evaluated by the world’s top design experts.
Check out our full Guide on the Best TOTO Washlet Bidets
TOTO Washlet C5 Review Highlights:
Before we dive into the specifics of the features and specifications, we’ll cover what we liked and didn’t like about the C5.
What We Liked:
- Power saving mode and built-in timer to turn off the heated seat when not in use to limit electricity usage
- Affordable compared to most bidet models
- Pre-mist function and eWater+ to keep the toilet bowl clean
- Air deodorizer to eliminate unpleasant smells
- Heated seat to keep you comfortable
What We Didn’t Like:
- Doesn’t have an auto-opening lid
- Lacks a night light
- Limited color options
TOTO Washlet C5 Review: Features and Specifications
When researching a bidet, it’s important to review the specifications to get a baseline understanding of how this washlet works and how it compares to other bidets on the market.
Below we’ve laid out the specifications of the TOTO washlet C5.
| Price | $$ |
| Heating Method | Tank-style heating method |
| Shape | Elongated or round |
| Extra Features | Ewater+, pre-mist cleansing, heated seat, air deodorizer, warm air dryer, SoftClose seat lid, wireless remote, auto energy saver, |
TOTO Washlet C5 Review: Our Insights
Every bidet model is unique. Evaluating the design, features, and how the TOTO C5 works will give you intel on whether it’s worth buying based on your needs. We’ve broken down our review into important features and factors you should be considering.
Build Quality
TOTO has been around for over a century and has a strong reputation for building high-quality bidets. Fortunately, the TOTO Washlet C5 is no exception. Designers have incorporated high-quality materials ensuring the product will last for many years to come.
The body of the bidet is built from durable plastic and ceramics, while the lid and the seat are constructed from scratch-resistant plastic. These materials ensure that they can withstand frequent use. Furthermore, its self-cleaning wand is made from stainless steel, ensuring the bidet is long-lasting and hygienic.
The C5 comes with a one-year limited warranty, which covers any defects in the workmanship and materials under normal wear and tears. TOTO also replaces or repairs the product if the defective product falls under the warranty. However, it won’t be covered for misuse, abuse, or improper installation of the washlet. The use of quality materials and design combined with its warranty means users are getting a reliable bidet built to last.
Water Pressure and Temperature Control
The TOTO Washlet C5 is designed to provide a personalized bidet experience thanks to its customizable features. Users can tailor their cleaning experience using the water pressure and temperature controls, which are easily adjustable via a wireless remote.
Its water supply pressure ranges between 7.25 PSI to 108.75 PSI, meaning you can choose between a very firm or gentle cleansing experience. This is particularly useful for those with sensitive skin who need a low PSI level. Strong water pressure is useful to help remove hard-to-reach and stubborn poo so you feel clean and refreshed.
With the built-in heating system, the water temperature control feature can also be adjusted to provide warm water for cleaning, especially during colder months. Warm water also helps to soothe and relax the muscles, making it beneficial for people with medical conditions like anal fissures or hemorrhoids. Users can adjust the temperature between 32 to 104 degrees Fahrenheit. The controls are user-friendly and intuitive, making it easy for users to adjust the water pressure and temperature settings to their desired level.
Heating Method
The TOTO Washlet C5 uses a tank-style heating method to deliver warm water for cleaning during use. This tank-style heating method involves storing a certain amount of water in a reservoir or tank and heating it to a specific temperature.
The downside of this heating method is that once the hot water stored in the tank is used up, there can be a wait time for the tank to refill and heat up again. Also, you’ll only get about 30-40 seconds of warm water before it goes cool and you need to wait. This can be especially inconvenient if multiple people use the same bidet toilet seat. Also, it’s not very energy efficient since the water in the reservoir constantly needs to be preheated when it cools to ensure that it is warm by the time you want to use it.
More advanced TOTO models will offer tankless water heating systems designed to heat water on demand. Tankless systems are superior as they offer unlimited warm water instantly and are more energy-efficient since it heats water as needed, reducing energy usage. That said, they’re typically more expensive and reserved for TOTO’s higher end models like the TOTO S550e.
Comfort Features
The TOTO Washlet C5 offers several comfort features, as the pulsating and oscillating features enhance the user’s experience. The pulsating feature creates a massaging effect by alternating between soft and strong water sprays, which is particularly beneficial for those who have hemorrhoids or suffer from constipation.
Conversely, the oscillating feature moves the nozzle back and forth, covering a wider cleaning area and ensuring a thorough clean. This is ideal for those who want a more extensive cleaning experience and want to ensure that all areas are cleaned properly.
Additionally, the TOTO Washlet C5 offers a heated seat feature, which can make those cold mornings a bit more tolerable. It has an adjustable seat temperature setting, so you can customize it to your preferences, ensuring you remain comfortable and cozy on the toilet. This heated function is perfect for those who live in areas with cold climates or those with health conditions where they can feel cold such as arthritis.
But there’s more! This washlet is equipped with an air dryer and air deodorizer, designed to enhance your bathroom routine. The air dryer eliminates the need for toilet paper since it gently dries you off after you use the bidet. With adjustable temperature settings, you can choose the perfect temperature for your comfort. This not only reduces waste but also helps you avoid the discomfort of wiping with rough toilet paper.
The air deodorizer is another comfort feature that ensures a pleasant and odor-free bathroom visit. It works by using an activated carbon filter to neutralize unpleasant smells, leaving your toilet smelling fresh and clean. If you’re using a shared bathroom, this feature is essential to keeping it odor-free.
In terms of comfort, I think TOTO Washlets are generally very good. My only gripe with this particular model is that since it uses a tank heating system, it takes up more space in the back of the unit, which limits the amount of sittable space. Higher-end models use instant heaters that are a lot slimmer and give you more room to sit.
Nozzle Position and Cleaning Wand
Nozzle position and cleaning are crucial components of any bidet. The TOTO C5 features a dual-action 2-in-1 nozzle that is adjustable to multiple positions, allowing users to customize the angle and positioning of the water spray for maximum cleanliness and comfort.
The nozzle’s position can move forward and back, ensuring it always hits the right spot. You can select between the front or rear wash to achieve a precise and thorough cleanse. It’s particularly handy for women who need special care and attention, especially during pregnancy or menstruation. The front wash of the C5 offers a gentle spray to the front area, while the rear wash delivers a more powerful spray to the back side. This allows women to clean both areas effectively, reducing the risk of discomfort and injections.
In addition, it has a self-cleaning function that automatically cleans the wand and bowl before and after each use. This ensures the wand is clean and free from residue or bacteria. As a result, it eliminates the hassle of having to manually reach in and clean the nozzle yourself.
Ease of Use
All the advanced technologies don’t mean anything unless it’s easy to use. The TOTO C5 is designed with intuitive controls and a user-friendly interface, making it a great choice for those new to using bidet technology. All of the buttons on the remote are clearly labeled, so you can find the feature and adjust the settings to your liking.
Self-Cleaning
Cleaning your toilet bowl is everyone’s worst nightmare. It’s an unpleasant experience having to scrub and plunge the residue and gunk left on your toilet bowl and seat. Fortunately, the C5 offers several self-cleaning features that are unique and can’t be found on most bidet brands.
The Pre-mist function sprays the entire toilet bowl with a fine mist of water before every use. This clever technology prevents waste from sticking onto your toilet bowl, keeping it cleaner for longer. It also reduces the need for frequent cleanings and harsh chemicals, making it an eco-friendly solution.
Another impressive function is the Ewater+ technology, an electrolyzed water system designed to sanitize the toilet bowl and bidet’s wand after each use. It generates electrolyzed water by passing tap water through a filtered special electrolyzing cell. The result is a powerful and organic disinfecting agent that is safe to use and environmentally friendly.
With the combination of Ewater+technology and pre-mist, the chances of having a buildup of germs or bacteria are dramatically reduced, which also limits infections and odors.
Customer Reviews
There’s generally positive sentiment about the TOTO Washlet C5, with many expressing high levels of satisfaction. A common theme among customers who enjoy the C5 is that they’ve become accustomed to using a bidet and can no longer imagine living without it again.
Customers love the convenience of having adjustable cleansing and drying features, so they can completely enjoy a hands-free experience. Many are satisfied with their experience and enjoy saving money on toilet paper.
TOTO Washlet C5 Review Alternatives
There are many bidet toilet seats on the market, and while the TOTO Washlet C5 is a great option, it may not be the perfect fit for everyone. Here are some alternatives to consider:
TOTO Washlet C5 vs. Bio Bidet BB-2000
The TOTO Washlet C5 and the Bio Bidet BB-2000 are both high-quality bidet toilet seats that offer many advanced features, but they have some key differences that set them apart. The TOTO Washlet C5 features a sleek and modern design, with a slim profile and a variety of color options to choose from. In contrast, the Bio Bidet BB-2000 has a bulkier and more substantial design, with a larger water tank and a built-in night light.
Another difference is that the Bio Bidet BB-2000 uses a tankless heating system, which provides on-demand hot water without needing a reservoir. This means the BB-2000 can provide a continuous stream of warm water, whereas the TOTO Washlet C5’s tank-style heating system can sometimes run out of hot water during long washes.
Furthermore, the Bio Bidet BB-2000 offers one of the strongest spray pressures on the market. It’s perfect for users who prefer a firm and powerful wash. It also is equipped with a unique enema function that the C5 doesn’t have. This enema function is a powerful, narrow spray designed to reduce and alleviate constipation.
If you’re seeking a more affordable and sleek design option, we recommend the TOTO C5. However, for those who want a bidet with more bells and whistles, the Bio Bidet BB-2000 provides more features to deliver a more powerful cleaning experience.
TOTO Washlet C5 vs Kohler C3-455
The TOTO Washlet C5 and the Kohler C3-455 are two bidets within a similar price range. Deciding between bidets can be difficult, especially if you’re unsure how they differ.
With the Kohler C3-455, you receive a LED night light that illuminates your toilet bowl, preventing you from turning on a bright overhead light that could disturb your sleep. Additionally, it can help the visually impaired or elderly who may have a hard time seeing in low-light conditions.
The Kohler C3 also has a more comprehensive warm-air drying system, where users can adjust the airspeed and temperature. A few customers have voiced their complaints about the lack of robust features in the C5’s air dryer system.
However, the most notable difference is their water heating system. The Kohler bidet uses a hybrid water heating system, which allows for a constant supply of warm water without waiting for a tank to fill up, like the tank-style system that the C5 uses. It’s also more energy-efficient since it only heats up when water is used, reducing energy waste.
That said, the C5 offers more self-cleaning options like the Pre-mist and ewater+ technology. Additionally, it has an auto-energy saver to reduce electricity and power used during cleaning. The choice ultimately comes down to your preference. If you enjoy less cleaning, the C5 is right for you. However, if you want a few extra features like more customization in your air dryer or a night light, then the Kohler C3-455 is a formidable option.
TOTO Washlet C5 vs SmartBidet SB-1000
The SmartBidet SB-1000 and TOTO Washlet C5 are both popular bidet solutions with innovative functionalities. One of the main differences between them is the nozzle position. While the TOTO Washlet C5 has a single 2-in-1 nozzle system that provides front and rear washes, the SmartBidet SB-1000 has two separate nozzles for each wash, providing a more targeted and customizable spray.
Another distinct difference is the water heating method. The SmartBidet SB-1000 uses a tankless water heating system that allows for continuous and instant hot water, while the TOTO Washlet C5 utilizes a tank-style heating system that delivers consistent water temperature but may run out of hot water with extended use.
The SmartBidet SB-1000 has a few more customizable options, such as an air dryer with five levels of adjustments and a heat seated with three levels of temperature settings. Additionally, it has a skin sensor activated when the bidet is heated to ensure the heat doesn’t disturb or cause rashes for those with sensitive skin.
If you’re looking for a more customizable choice, the SmartBidet SB-1000 may be the better option. However, the TOTO Washlet C5 does offer more self-cleaning options, saving you the hassle of cleaning your toilet bowl frequently.
Conclusion
With dozens of bidets on the market with their own unique features, finding the right bidet isn’t easy.
The TOTO Washlet C5 is a great affordable solution that offers impressive features that will undoubtedly improve your bathroom routine. With its adjustable nozzle positions, temperature settings, and self-cleaning technologies, it’ll certainly offer a new level of convenience and comfort that you didn’t know you needed.
Whether you choose the TOTO Washlet C5 or another bidet, there’s no better feeling than leaving the bathroom feeling clean and refreshed.
