The Toto Washlet C5 is praised by Wirecutter as a top-tier bidet seat that offers all the features users want, with intuitive controls and a balance of features, price, and usability. Reviewers note its prewarmed seat, heated fan, and comprehensive settings. However, it still requires occasional paper touch-ups, the wand makes gurgling noises, and the remote is prone to being lost. This model is recommended for those seeking a high-end bidet experience, though users who prefer simpler models may want to consider alternatives.
Full review
Heated seat comfort
The heated seat feature of the Toto Washlet C5 delivers a consistently warm and comfortable experience that reviewers found particularly valuable during colder months. Wirecutter's Harry Sawyers noted that the seat's 100-degree water washing and heated fan provide a desert breeze-like sensation at 8.83 cubic feet per minute, making morning use especially pleasant. Wildfire Interiors' Ashley emphasized that the heated seat is 'like being wrapped in a cozy blanket' and described it as a feature that 'deserves its own standing ovation.' The seat temperature can be adjusted, allowing users to customize the warmth to their preference. However, some reviewers pointed out that the heating element can make the seat feel slightly too warm for some users, particularly in summer months, though this is generally considered a minor inconvenience compared to the overall comfort benefits.
Water temperature and pressure controls
The Toto Washlet C5 offers comprehensive control over water temperature and pressure, which reviewers found to be essential for personal comfort. According to Wirecutter's Doug Mahoney, the C5 provides 'fully customizable' water temperature, pressure, and spray position adjustments. The system uses a warm water tank that provides about 60 seconds of warm water before transitioning to cool water, which reviewers noted is sufficient for most users. Wildfire Interiors' Ashley reported that she has never come close to running out of warm water, though she acknowledged this is a limited supply. The C5's ability to adjust spray position and pressure allows users to find the optimal cleaning angle, with reviewers noting that the spray can be adjusted to hit just right for individual comfort. The system also includes a pre-mist function that sprays the bowl with a fine mist before each use, helping to keep the toilet bowl clean.
Spray nozzle functionality
The spray nozzle on the Toto Washlet C5 offers multiple wash functions including rear wash, front feminine wash, and oscillating or pulsating spray options. Wirecutter's Harry Sawyers noted that the wand arm makes 'strange gurgling noises that’ll scare your kids right off the seat,' indicating that the nozzle's operation can be somewhat disruptive. However, the nozzle's adjustability is praised, with reviewers noting that it can be positioned in all wash functions and can oscillate back and forth. The C5 includes a dual-sided wireless remote control that allows for easy access to all wash functions, including the ability to adjust the nozzle position and water pressure. The system also features TOTO's EWATER+ technology, which electrolyzes normal tap water to create a disinfecting cleansing agent that sanitizes the spray nozzle between uses. This feature is particularly valuable for maintaining hygiene and reducing the need for manual cleaning.
Remote control usability
The dual-sided wireless remote control of the Toto Washlet C5 is a significant upgrade from previous models, according to BidetKing.com's Frank Ybarra. The remote features large, easy-to-read buttons and a clean interface on the front, with more detailed settings on the back. Wirecutter's Harry Sawyers noted that the remote control is easily lost, which he described as 'a common complaint' among users. The remote allows for control over basic wash functions, dryer, nozzle adjustments, and user preset buttons on the front, while the back controls seat, water, and air temperatures, automatic nozzle cleaning, and other fine-tuning adjustments. While the remote is praised for its intuitive design, reviewers also noted that it can be easily misplaced, particularly in busy households. The remote's dual-sided design makes it easier to operate without flipping it over, which is a significant improvement over previous models.
Installation and compatibility
Installation of the Toto Washlet C5 is described as straightforward by multiple reviewers, with TOTO providing step-by-step 3D installation instructions and video tutorials. Wirecutter's Doug Mahoney noted that installing a WASHLET is 'as easy as changing your toilet seat,' and that TOTO offers a 3D installation app with Bilt Intelligent Instructions available for iOS and Android devices. The installation instructions come in the box along with the owner's manual, making the process accessible to most users. TOTO USA's website indicates that WASHLET fits most existing toilets, and users can check compatibility through their 'TOTO Tips' entry, 'Will a WASHLET fit a Non-TOTO Toilet?' The installation process includes connecting the water supply hose and electrical cord, with the seat and lid designed to close slowly to prevent slams. The seat also includes a quick release tab for easy removal when needed, making maintenance and cleaning more manageable.
Air deodorizer effectiveness
The air deodorizer feature of the Toto Washlet C5 is described as a subtle but effective component that works silently in the background to eliminate odors and keep the bathroom fresh. Wildfire Interiors' Ashley noted that the deodorizer is 'not a fake-smelling air freshener; there's no scent' and that it works 'silently in the background.' The feature is described as 'literally just fresh air' and is appreciated for its effectiveness without being intrusive. The deodorizer kicks on as soon as the user sits down, providing a continuous fresh scent throughout the cleaning process. However, reviewers also noted that the drying fan is 'probably the one feature that doesn't quite live up to the hype' and that it 'works, sure, but it's not exactly speedy.' The fan is more of a 'nice to have' rather than an essential feature, and users may still need to reach for toilet paper for a quick touch-up.
Overall user satisfaction
User satisfaction with the Toto Washlet C5 is consistently high, with reviewers noting that it provides an excellent balance of features, price, and usability. Wirecutter's Harry Sawyers described it as 'an investment we can get behind' and noted that 'virtually nobody regrets investing in the Toto.' The C5 is praised for its intuitive controls and ability to be customized according to individual preferences. Wildfire Interiors' Ashley described it as 'the bathroom luxury you didn't know you needed' and noted that 'once you've been introduced to the warm-water magic, normal toilets are basically outhouses.' The product is also noted for its durability and long-term value, with reviewers suggesting that users who find it satisfying are likely to make additional purchases for other toilets in their homes. The C5 is positioned as a premium product that offers significant improvements over basic bidet attachments or cold-water models, with its heated seat, warm water, and comprehensive control features providing a luxury experience that many users find worth the investment.
Strengths
- +Intuitive controls that make it easy to dial in or disable features according to preferences
- +Prewarmed seat with 100-degree water washing for comfort
- +Heated fan blowing at 8.83 cubic feet per minute for drying
- +Includes a remote control with front operation buttons and back settings buttons
- +Features that make it a popular choice for users who have tested multiple bidets
Watch-outs
- −Still requires a little toilet paper touch-up at the end
- −Wand arm makes strange gurgling noises that may scare children
- −Remote control is easy to lose and hard to find while in use
How it compares
The Toto Washlet C5 offers a comprehensive feature set including prewarmed seat, heated fan, and remote control that the Tushy Classic 3.0 lacks entirely. While both are easy to install, the Toto provides heated water and a more advanced user interface, making it superior for users who want a high-end experience, unlike the Tushy which is basic and lacks temperature control.
Rating sources
“The C5 has all the features you'd want in a bidet seat, and this model's intuitive controls make it easier to dial in or disable those features according to your preferences.”
“It’s the gift that keeps on giving. Literally, every day. The truth is, I love it just as much as he does, which is why I’m sharing this review.”
“I love this product even more than I originally thought I would. I especially like the air dryer it's a feature I only have because units with one weren't that much more than ones without but being able to dry your rear after you've cleaned your business is very clutch”
Our 4.7 score is the average of these published ratings. Ratings marked * were derived from the reviewer’s written analysis or video transcript — the publisher didn’t print an explicit numeric score, so we inferred one from their own words. Click through to verify. More about methodology.
