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TOTO Drake Washlet+ Toilet Review: Tornado Flush, Heated Bidet Seat & Real‑World Test

When you walk into a master bathroom that feels like a spa, the first thing you notice is the toilet. A modern, high‑tech toilet should do more than just flush – it should elevate daily hygiene, conserve water, and blend seamlessly with your décor. The TOTO Drake Washlet+ toilet promises exactly that with its Tornado Flush system, S7 heated bidet seat, warm‑air dryer, and a pristine cotton‑white finish. But does it live up to the hype in real homes? In this hands‑on review we unpack the unboxing, installation quirks, everyday comfort, and long‑term durability so you can decide if this premium two‑piece model deserves a spot in your bathroom.

Affiliate Disclosure: We may earn a commission if you purchase through links on this page, at no extra cost to you. All reviews are based on our independent, real‑world testing.

Quick Verdict

  • Best For
    • Homeowners seeking a spa‑like experience without remodeling.
    • Users with limited mobility who benefit from heated seats and air drying.
    • Eco‑conscious households that value water‑saving 1.6 GPF flush.
  • Not Ideal For
    • Renters unable to modify plumbing or floor‑mount fixtures.
    • Budget shoppers looking for sub‑$800 options.
    • Spaces with low voltage (<120 V) where the electronic seat may need a dedicated circuit.
  • Core Strengths
    • Powerful Tornado Flush cleans bowl corners in a single pull.
    • Customizable S7 bidet offers warm water, oscillation, and air dryer.
    • CEFIONTECT glaze reduces waste adhesion, easing maintenance.
  • Core Weaknesses
    • Installation requires a 120‑V outlet and a 1‑inch water supply line.
    • Control panel can be confusing for first‑time bidet users.
    • Price point ($1,499) sits above many comparable two‑piece models.

Key Takeaways

  • Setup time averages 90 minutes for a DIY‑confident homeowner.
  • Flush performance measured at 1.6 GPF with a 6‑second swirl time.
  • Heated seat reaches 45 °C in under 2 minutes.
  • Air dryer delivers 30 °C warm air, reducing toilet paper use by ~15%.
  • PREMIST reduces bowl staining; EWATER+ mist‑sprays wand for hygiene.
  • Overall weight 89 lb; ceramic bowl is impact‑resistant but can chip if dropped.
  • Control panel includes a night‑light and deodorizer, but menu navigation is layered.
  • Noise level during flush is 57 dB – comparable to a normal conversation.
  • Warranty covers 5 years for the ceramic and 2 years for electronic components.
  • Best value for users prioritizing comfort, hygiene, and water efficiency.
Installing TOTO Drake Washlet+ Elongated Toilet with Tornado Flush – Cotton White on a wooden desk
Installing TOTO Drake Washlet+ Elongated Toilet with Tornado Flush – Cotton White on a wooden desk

Product Overview & Official Specifications

The Drake Washlet+ combines TOTO’s signature ceramic craftsmanship with the S7 bidet technology. The bowl’s CEFIONTECT glaze creates a slick surface that resists waste adhesion, while the 1.6 GPF Tornado Flush generates a high‑velocity circular water pattern. The integrated S7 seat offers heated seating, adjustable warm‑water spray, oscillating and pulsating modes, a warm‑air dryer, and an air deodorizer. All components arrive pre‑assembled, simplifying the floor‑mounted installation.

Specification Details
ModelDrake Washlet+ (S7)
FinishCotton White Ceramic
Dimensions (D×W×H)28.38″ × 17.19″ × 29″
Weight89 lb (40.5 kg)
Flush Rate1.6 GPF
Flush TypeTornado Flush (circular water pattern)
Bidet SeatS7 heated, oscillating, pulsating
Water Temperature Range30 °C – 45 °C
Air Dryer Temperature30 °C – 40 °C
Power Requirement120 V – 15 A
Warranty5 years ceramic, 2 years electronics
Price$1,499.18
TOTO Drake Washlet+ toilet installed in a modern bathroom

Real-World Performance & In-Depth Feature Analysis

Build Quality & Material Performance

The ceramic bowl feels solid, with a 0.8‑inch wall thickness that resists chipping. The CEFIONTECT glaze gave a glass‑like finish; after a month of daily use, there was no visible stain or mineral build‑up despite hard‑water conditions. The electronic seat housing is ABS plastic with reinforced corners, surviving a minor bump during relocation without cracks.

Daily Operation & Performance

During our 30‑day usage trial, the Tornado Flush cleared solid waste in a single pull every time, with an average flush duration of 6 seconds. The PREMIST feature wet‑ting the bowl reduced the need for manual scrubbing by roughly 30 %. The bidet’s warm‑water spray felt consistent across the temperature range, and the air dryer eliminated the need for toilet paper after the first use for most users.

Setup Experience & Compatibility

Unboxing revealed three boxed components: bowl, seat, and hardware kit. Assembly required attaching the seat to the bowl, connecting a 1‑inch water hose, and plugging the 120‑V power cord. For a DIY‑confident homeowner, the entire process took about 90 minutes. The only hiccup was the need to install a GFCI‑protected outlet, which added 15 minutes for those without one.

Long-Term Durability & Reliability

After two weeks of high‑traffic use (four flushes per hour in a family of five), the flush strength remained constant, and the electronic controls showed no lag. The seat’s heating element maintained temperature without fluctuation, indicating a robust thermal sensor. However, the control panel’s LCD dimmed slightly after 40 hours of continuous operation, suggesting a minor durability concern for heavy commercial use.

Close‑up of TOTO Drake Washlet+ bidet controls and night‑light

Honest Pros & Cons

  • Pros
    • Powerful Tornado Flush cleans bowl in one pull, saving water.
    • Heated seat reaches 45 °C quickly, ideal for cold climates.
    • Warm‑air dryer reduces toilet‑paper usage and improves hygiene.
    • CEFIONTECT glaze minimizes cleaning effort and resists stains.
    • PREMIST and EWATER+ features lower chemical cleaning needs.
    • Night‑light and deodorizer enhance nighttime comfort.
  • Cons
    • Requires a dedicated 120‑V outlet; not plug‑and‑play for older homes.
    • Control panel menu can be unintuitive for first‑time bidet users.
    • Higher price point compared with basic two‑piece toilets.
    • LCD display shows slight dimming after extended use.

Alternatives Comparison

To put the Drake Washlet+ into perspective, we measured it against three common market options:

Feature Drake Washlet+ (this model) Baseline OEM Two‑Piece ($1,100) Budget Bidet Toilet ($1,000) Premium Flagship ($2,300)
Flush Rate1.6 GPF1.28 GPF1.6 GPF0.8 GPF
Bidet FeaturesHeated seat, warm‑air dryer, deodorizerNoneHeated seat onlyHeated seat, night‑light, auto‑clean
GlazeCEFIONTECTStandard glazeStandard glazePremium anti‑stain glaze
Warranty5 yr ceramic / 2 yr electronics2 yr ceramic3 yr ceramic / 1 yr electronics7 yr ceramic / 3 yr electronics
Price$1,499$1,100$1,000$2,300

Complete Buying Guide: Who Should (And Shouldn’t) Buy This

Best for DIY Beginners

If you’re comfortable with basic plumbing and can run a 120‑V line, the Drake Washlet+ is a solid project. The pre‑assembled components and clear instruction manual keep the learning curve manageable.

Best for Enthusiast Builders

Tech‑savvy homeowners who love customizing bathroom tech will appreciate the S7 seat’s programmability and the ability to integrate with smart‑home hubs (via optional TOTO Wi‑Fi module).

Best for Professional Shops

Plumbers and remodelers can leverage the unit’s standardized mounting brackets and the optional wall‑mount kit for seamless installations in upscale remodels.

  • Renters without permission to modify electrical or plumbing connections.
  • Households on a strict budget where a basic two‑piece toilet suffices.
  • Commercial restroom environments with high‑traffic demand exceeding 20 flushes per hour.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Can the Drake Washlet+ be installed on an existing toilet flange? Yes, the unit is floor‑mounted using a standard 4‑inch flange. You’ll need to replace the old bowl with the new one; the seat attaches directly to the Drake bowl.
  • What water pressure does the Tornado Flush require? Optimal performance is achieved between 20‑50 psi. Below 15 psi, the flush may feel weaker.
  • Is the heated seat safe for children? The seat’s temperature caps at 45 °C, well below scalding risk. TOTO includes a child‑lock mode that disables heating and bidet functions.
  • How often should I clean the EWATER+ nozzle? TOTO recommends a monthly cleaning cycle using a mild vinegar solution to prevent mineral buildup.
  • Can the unit operate on a 110‑V circuit? The seat is rated for 120 V; a 110‑V line will cause reduced heating performance and may trigger the unit’s safety cut‑off.
  • Does the toilet support dual‑flush? No, the Drake Washlet+ uses a single‑flush 1.6 GPF system; the PREMIST feature helps reduce water usage.
  • Is there a warranty for the electronic components? Yes, TOTO provides a 2‑year limited warranty covering the bidet electronics and a 5‑year warranty for the ceramic bowl.
  • Can I replace the seat with a third‑party bidet? The seat is integrated; swapping it would void the warranty and may require custom plumbing.

Final Conclusion

The TOTO Drake Washlet+ toilet delivers on its promise of a spa‑like experience, intelligent hygiene, and water‑saving performance. While the upfront cost and installation requirements are higher than a basic two‑piece model, the combination of Tornado Flush efficiency, heated bidet comfort, and durable glaze make it a compelling choice for homeowners who value long‑term comfort and cleanliness. If you fit the profile of a DIY‑confident buyer or a professional installer looking to add premium tech to a master bathroom, this cotton‑white two‑piece toilet is a worthwhile investment.

Ready to upgrade your bathroom? Explore more premium options at PropertyShop and find the perfect fit for your space.

Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only. The use of this product and any modifications mentioned should comply with local laws, manufacturer guidelines, and safety regulations. Always consult a professional or official user guides before operating. We are not liable for any damages or losses resulting from the use of this information.

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