I tested popular toilet stools so you can pick the right height, material, and design for your bathroom. These are the stools I trust to reduce strain and improve elimination.
I spent time trying a range of toilet stools — plastic classics, adjustable two-piece models, and a bamboo flip — to see which actually change the bathroom experience.
In this guide I compare stability, height options, footprint, and overall comfort so you can choose the stool that fits your toilet and household.
Use the short rundowns below to find the stool that suits your needs: portability, aesthetics, adjustability, or value.
My picks separate into classic plastic stability (original and curve), budget-friendly function (Step and Go), and adjustable/attractive options (Bamboo Flip and Adjustable 2.0). Choose based on material preference and whether you need two heights.
1. Squatty Potty Original 7″ – Best Overall
The classic hard-plastic stool that started the modern toilet-stool trend — durable, low-profile, and effective.
Why I picked it: Reliable, sturdy construction and a compact shape that tucks under the toilet.
Best for: Anyone wanting a no-nonsense, durable stool that stays out of the way.
Affordable classic option.
Pros
- Durable hard polyurethane
- Slides neatly under toilet
- Easy to clean
- 350-pound weight capacity
Cons
- Single non-adjustable height
- Plain plastic appearance
My take
I kept a Squatty Potty Original in my main bathroom because it delivers exactly what it promises: a solid, simple way to reposition my legs for easier elimination. The hard polyurethane feels substantial underfoot and never flexes or wobbles, and I appreciate that it slides cleanly under the bowl when not in use.
There’s a brief learning curve — expect your first few uses to feel different — but the body adapts quickly and the change in comfort and flow was noticeable to me within a week. The narrow footprint makes it easy to move for cleaning, and the finish wipes down with household cleaner without fuss.
Because this model is a single-height design, I recommend the 7" if your toilet sits at a standard height or if you’re new to stool use. For taller toilets or very limber users, the 9" option in the same line may be a better fit.
2. Squatty Potty Simple Curve 7″ – Best Simple Design
A minimalist curved stool that keeps things easy to store and comfortable to use.
Why I picked it: Clean, curved profile that tucks away and still offers a stable platform.
Best for: People who want a low‑profile, effective stool with a refined silhouette.
Midrange plastic option.
Pros
- Low-profile curved shape
- Stable underfoot
- Tucks under toilet neatly
Cons
- Not adjustable height
- Plain plastic finish
My take
I liked how unobtrusive the Simple Curve looks in a bathroom — it feels intentional rather than purely functional. The curve gives enough room for my feet and provides a secure platform; it didn’t wobble or slide during use.
Functionally, it does the same thing as other Squatty Potty plastics: it repositions the body from roughly 90° toward 35°, which helped reduce strain and shorten time on the toilet for me. It’s straightforward to clean and stores easily, though I missed having an adjustable option.
3. Step and Go 7″ Toilet Stool – Best Budget
A practical, flat-pack stool with anti-slip pads — compact, functional, and the most wallet-friendly option I tested.
Why I picked it: Low-cost, rubberized feet, and a compact fit around the toilet base.
Best for: Budget shoppers or anyone needing a simple, effective squat aid.
Most affordable pick.
Pros
- Very affordable
- Rubberized anti-slip feet
- Compact footprint
Cons
- Basic plastic finish
- Initial leg discomfort for some users
My take
I keep a Step and Go in a guest restroom because it does the job without fuss. The molded platform is firm, and the rubberized pads keep it from sliding on tile — a feature I relied on during every use.
If you’ve never used a toilet stool, be prepared for some tightness in the knees at first; I found the position took a few sessions to feel natural. That said, after a week I was getting the same benefit I see from pricier models: less straining and quicker, more complete elimination.
For the price, the build feels sensible rather than premium. It’s easy to clean and fits up against the toilet so it doesn’t clutter the floor.
4. Squatty Potty Bamboo Flip Stool – Best Aesthetic
A wooden flip stool that combines a natural bamboo look with two height options for different users.
Why I picked it: Attractive bamboo finish plus quick flip between 7" and 9" heights.
Best for: Households who want a nicer-looking stool that still flips to two heights.
Higher-end, premium material choice.
Pros
- Attractive bamboo finish
- Flip between 7" and 9" heights
- Sturdy and weighty
Cons
- Takes more floor space
- Not foldable for travel
My take
I reached for the Bamboo Flip when I wanted a stool that blended with my bathroom décor. The bamboo surface looks intentional and far more finished than molded plastic, and guests don’t immediately assume it’s a medical aid — which was important to me.
Assembly was straightforward and the flip mechanism makes swapping between 7" and 9" quick and reliable. The board feels solid when I put weight on it, and it grips the floor well during use.
If you need portability or a compact travel option, this isn’t the one, but for a family bathroom where looks matter and multiple heights are useful, it’s a great balance of form and function.
5. Squatty Potty Adjustable 2.0 – Best Adjustable
A two-piece system with a removable topper that converts between 7" and 9" — versatile for households with different needs.
Why I picked it: Two-piece design makes switching heights effortless for adults and kids.
Best for: Families or shared bathrooms where people need different stool heights.
Adjustable value option.
Pros
- Two-piece adjustable height
- Hides well under toilet
- Easy to clean
Cons
- Plastic look
- Topper may feel short for some
My take
I relied on the Adjustable 2.0 when different members of my household wanted different heights. The topper snaps into place securely, and switching between configurations takes seconds — I can set it to 9" for a child and 7" for an adult without fuss.
In daily use it behaved like the other Squatty Potty plastics: steady, easy to slide under the toilet, and simple to wipe down. For people dealing with hemorrhoids or postoperative sensitivity, I found the adjusted posture noticeably reduced strain and discomfort.
If you want a single stool to serve multiple users, this is the most practical plastic option I tested.
How I Choose a Toilet Stool
Height and Toilet Compatibility
I prioritize matching stool height to my toilet and legs. Standard toilets and comfort-height bowls need different approaches, so check your toilet seat height before picking 7" or 9".
If multiple people use the same bathroom, I favor adjustable or flip designs so everyone gets a comfortable position.
- 7" works well for most standard toilets and first-time users
- 9" suits taller toilets or very flexible users
- Adjustable models let you swap between both heights
Material and Durability
I look for a material that matches how the stool will be used. Hard polyurethane and molded plastics are lightweight, easy to clean, and very durable.
If appearance matters, bamboo or wood options add warmth and feel more intentional in a family bathroom.
- Plastic: easy to clean and often cheaper
- Bamboo/wood: nicer aesthetics, heavier, may need more care
Footing and Footprint
I always check for anti-slip pads or a non-skid base — stability is non-negotiable on tile floors. A compact footprint that tucks under the toilet keeps the bathroom tidy.
If space is tight, prioritize stools that fit snugly around the toilet base.
- Look for rubberized feet or textured undersides
- Choose a slim profile for small bathrooms
Ease of Cleaning and Storage
I prefer smooth surfaces that wipe clean with a damp cloth. Hollow or seam-heavy designs can trap grime, so simplicity often wins for hygiene.
Storage under the toilet seat or tucked next to the bowl keeps the stool out of the way between uses.
- Smooth plastics clean quickly
- Bamboo benefits from occasional oiling but still wipes down
Frequently Asked Questions
Will a toilet stool fit my toilet?
Measure from floor to the top of your toilet bowl. I use 7" for standard bowls and 9" for taller, comfort-height toilets; adjustable models handle both.
How long does it take to get used to using a stool?
For me it took a few sessions to find a comfortable knee height. Most people settle in within a week of regular use.
Are bamboo stools worth the extra cost?
I chose bamboo for a nicer look and solid feel. If appearance matters in your bathroom, the extra cost can be worth it.
Can a stool help with hemorrhoids or constipation?
I found reduced strain and faster elimination with a stool, which helped comfort during flare-ups. It’s not a medical cure, but it often eases passing stool.
Final Take
I found that any properly sized stool makes a meaningful difference — less straining and a quicker, more complete elimination.
For a no-fuss classic, I reach for the Original. If looks matter, the Bamboo Flip elevates the bathroom while still flipping between heights. Families are best served by the Adjustable 2.0, and the Step and Go is an effective budget choice.
Try one for a few weeks and let the change in comfort speak for itself.
