The Top 10 Differences between TOTO’s Costco bidet and the TOTO S5
When comparing the TOTO Costco bidet vs TOTO S5, it’s important to understand what sets them apart. While they may look similar at first glance, there are several key differences in size, features, and performance that can affect your overall experience. In this TOTO Costco bidet vs TOTO S5 comparison, we’ll walk through the most important factors to help you choose the right bidet for your needs.
00:00 – Introduction
00:29 – Height
00:52 – Size Options
01:10 – Seat Seam
01:31 – Hidden Cords
01:50 – Seat Sensors
02:08 – Night Light
02:32 – Wash Options
02:51 – EWATER+
03:04 – Wand Cleaning
03:28 – Wand Temperature
The main differences between the TOTO Costco bidet and the TOTO S5 come down to comfort, features, and performance. The Costco model is more affordable, but it comes with a bulkier tank water heater, fewer wash options, and lacks features like EWATER+ sterilization and a seamless seat. The TOTO S5, meanwhile, offers a slimmer design, unlimited warm water, enhanced hygiene features, and more style options. Here’s a quick breakdown of some of the key differences:
1. Seat Height:
Starting off, you’ll notice the TOTO bidet from Costco is significantly taller than the TOTO S5 bidet, measuring over 6 inches tall in the back. This added height can push you forward on the seat, making it feel as though there is less usable seating space. By contrast, the S5 comes in at nearly an inch shorter in the back. This slimmer profile tends to blend better with most bathroom aesthetics and generally offers a more comfortable seated experience.
2. Size Options:
Currently, the Costco bidet is only available in an elongated size. If you’re looking for a bidet that pairs with a round toilet, you’ll need to consider a different model. The TOTO S5 is available in both round and elongated sizes, as well as in the standard Cotton White and Sedona Beige colors.
Not sure which size toilet you have? Check out our fit guide here!
3. Seat Seam:
TOTO bidets are generally well known for their seamless seats, but the model from Costco is unfortunately missing this feature. While the seam itself is not very noticeable, it does create an additional space where dirt and grime can build up over time. If you are looking for easy maintenance, the TOTO S5 or S7A are a breeze to keep clean.
Check out our comparison of the S5 vs. the S7A here.
4. Hidden Cords:
If you have a TOTO Washlet+ compatible toilet (or are considering upgrading to one), it’s important to note that the Costco model is not Washlet+ compatible. While it will still fit on a Washlet+ toilet, you won’t be able to conceal the hoses and cords like you can with the S5 bidet seat.
See how a Washlet+ model compares here.
5. Seat Sensors:
Both bidet seats utilize a pressure-based sensor to detect occupancy. On the S5, the sensor is located on the left-hand side of the seat (when facing it), while on the Costco model it is located on the right. This is a minor difference that most customers will not even notice. If the uneven seat bothers you however, consider looking into a seat that relies on a skin sensor to detect occupancy, rather than a pressure-based one.
6. Night Light:
If you are looking for a little extra illumination for your late-night visits to the bathroom, the S5 includes a built-in bowl light. This is not a feature you will find on the Costco model however. Other bidets from TOTO, like the S7 and the S7A, will have an external nightlight in addition to the bowl light as well.
7. Wash Options:
We found both units to offer solid front and rear wash performance. The Costco seat features three spray holes on the wand; however, during testing, we were unable to get water to flow from the third opening. The S5 includes one additional wash mode compared to the Costco seat, a soft rear wash. This can be particularly helpful for users with sensitivity issues.
8. EWATER+:
One of the standout features on the TOTO bidets is their use of EWATER+. This is a chemical-free, electrolyzed water, which has a slightly higher pH value, helping it to eliminate germs and bacteria buildup. The S5 uses this EWATER+ to sterilize the wand before and after every use. While the Costco seat will still rinse off the wand, it lacks the EWATER+ sterilization that other TOTO bidets use.
9. Wand Cleaning:
Both bidet seats perform a pre-rinse of the nozzle before use and a rinse after use. However, the S5 also includes an additional pre-rinse that activates when you first sit down. Combined with the EWATER+, this adds an extra level of cleanliness to your bidet.
10. Temperature:
This is one of the most significant differences between the two models. The Costco bidet uses a tank-style water heater, which contributes to its bulkier design. During testing, we found the tank heater to be somewhat inconsistent. Temperature adjustments took longer to take effect, and, as with all tank systems, warm water is limited. The S5 features a more modern tankless heater, which responds quickly to temperature changes and provides continuous warm water throughout your wash.
Conclusion:
Now that you have seen how the two bidets compare, which one is better for your home? If you’re looking for a basic bidet experience and don’t mind the added height, the TOTO bidet from Costco is a reasonable option at its price point. However, for households with multiple users, the S5 is definitely the better choice, offering enhanced sterilization features and faster, more responsive temperature adjustments.
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