Overview
The Toto S550e Washlet is a premium bidet toilet seat that represents the pinnacle of Toto's bidet technology. At $799, it's one of the most expensive bidet toilet seats on the market, but it delivers exceptional features, build quality, and performance that justifies the premium price point. This is the choice for luxury bathroom upgrades and users who want the absolute best bidet experience.
Key Specifications
Product Type
Bidet Toilet Seat
Heated Seat
Yes (3 settings)
Nozzles
Dual with oscillation
Seat Types Fit
Round & Elongated
Water Connection
Cold water inlet
Features & Technology
The Toto S550e is packed with advanced features designed to maximize comfort and hygiene:
| Feature |
Description |
Included |
| Dual Cleansing Nozzles |
Separate nozzles for posterior and feminine cleansing |
✓ |
| Oscillating Wash Mode |
Nozzles move side-to-side for broader coverage |
✓ |
| Pulsating Wash Mode |
Alternating water pressure for variety |
✓ |
| Heated Water |
Water heating maintains comfortable temperature |
✓ |
| Heated Seat |
3 temperature settings for cold climates |
✓ |
| Air Drying |
Warm air dryer reduces toilet paper usage |
✓ |
| Night Light |
LED night light with 3 brightness settings |
✓ |
| Self-Cleaning Nozzles |
Auto clean before and after use |
✓ |
| Wireless Remote |
All functions controlled from remote |
✓ |
| Power-Saving Mode |
Auto standby reduces electricity consumption |
✓ |
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Exceptional build quality from trusted Toto brand
- Dual nozzles with individual positioning
- Excellent heated water system
- Powerful air dryer reduces toilet paper
- Wireless remote for convenience
- Night light is well-designed
- Self-cleaning nozzles
- Works with round and elongated bowls
- 3-year warranty
- Outstanding customer reviews (4.8/5)
- Soft-close lid adds luxury
- Power-saving mode
Cons
- High price point ($799)
- Requires electrical outlet nearby
- Installation more complex than attachments
- Remote batteries need replacement
- Air dryer is somewhat loud (80dB)
- Air dryer takes 2-3 minutes
- Water pressure feels weak to some users
- Heated seat takes time to warm initially
- Occasional electronic glitches reported
- May not fit all toilet configurations
- Full seat replacement if component fails
Performance & Real-World Use
Cleansing Performance: The Toto S550e delivers exceptional cleaning with dual nozzles and multiple wash modes. Most users report needing minimal or zero toilet paper. The adjustable nozzle positioning ensures perfect customization for your body.
Water Temperature: The heating system is reliable and maintains consistent water temperature year-round. In winter, water heats within 30-60 seconds. Temperature remains stable throughout extended use.
Air Drying: The warm air dryer is powerful and loud (about 80 decibels). It takes 2-3 minutes for complete drying. Most users find the drying adequate, though some prefer a small amount of toilet paper for final touch-up.
Comfort: The heated seat is genuinely comfortable, especially in cold climates. Three temperature settings let you customize comfort. The soft-close lid adds a subtle luxury touch.
Comparison with Competitors
vs Brondell Swash 1400 ($599): Brondell is $200 cheaper with similar features. However, Toto has superior build quality, better heating, and more customization. Toto worth the premium if budget allows.
vs Bio Bidet BB-1000 ($299): Bio Bidet is an attachment that costs $500 less. Toto offers far more features, better performance, and premium construction. Choose Toto for luxury; Bio Bidet to save money.
vs Kohler DTV+ ($1,199): Kohler is more expensive with app control. For most users, these aren't essential. Toto is better value with identical core functionality at lower price.
vs Coway Bidetmega 400 ($799): Both identically priced. Toto has longer warranty (3 vs 2 years). Performance nearly identical—choose based on availability.
Rating Breakdown
Cleansing Performance
9.5/10
Comfort & Features
9.0/10
Durability & Warranty
9.0/10
Installation & Setup
Installation Steps (Estimated: 30-45 minutes)
- Turn off water supply - Locate shutoff valve behind/under toilet
- Flush to empty tank - Reduces water spillage
- Remove existing toilet seat - Unscrew bolts
- Install bidet seat mounting plate - Place plate and secure
- Attach water inlet adapter - Connect T-valve to water supply
- Connect water hose - Run hose from T-valve to bidet inlet
- Place bidet seat on mounting plate - Lower seat and secure
- Plug in power cord - Connect to nearby electrical outlet
- Turn water supply back on - Slowly reopen shutoff valve
- Test all functions - Run water and check for leaks
Important: If uncomfortable with installation, hire a plumber ($100-200) rather than risk water damage.
Maintenance & Care
Daily: No special maintenance needed. Self-cleaning nozzles handle most cleaning automatically.
Monthly: Check for water leaks. Clean exterior with damp cloth. Replace remote batteries if needed.
Annually: Descale the water heating tank if you have hard water. Clean the mesh filter inlet.
Final Verdict
4.8/5
The Toto S550e Washlet is the best-in-class premium bidet toilet seat. It delivers exceptional performance, premium build quality, and excellent features that justify the $799 price.
Best For: Luxury bathroom upgrades, those wanting the best bidet experience, priority on quality over cost.
Not Ideal For: Budget-conscious buyers, renters, homes without nearby electrical outlets.
Bottom Line: Worth the investment for years of comfort and performance.
FAQs About the Toto S550e
Is the Toto S550e worth $799?
▼
Yes, if you can afford it. Premium build quality, reliability, and features justify the price. The Brondell Swash 1400 ($599) offers 90% performance at lower cost if budget is tight.
Does it work with all toilet types?
▼
It works with most modern toilets (round and elongated bowls), but not all. Check compatibility before purchasing. Wall-mounted toilets may not be compatible.
How long does installation take?
▼
30-45 minutes for someone with plumbing experience. If you need an electrician for the outlet, add 1-2 hours. Consider hiring a plumber if unsure.
What happens if it breaks?
▼
Covered by 3-year warranty for manufacturing defects. Repairs are expensive ($300+). Most users report excellent reliability with proper maintenance.
How much electricity does it use?
▼
Approximately $30-50 per year. This is minimal compared to other bathroom appliances. Power-saving mode helps reduce consumption.
Can renters install this?
▼
Possible but risky. Requires landlord permission and you'd need to reinstall the original seat when moving. The Brondell Swash 300 attachment ($189) is better for renters.
Related Product Reviews
Where to Buy
The Toto S550e is available through multiple retailers:
- Amazon: Check current price and reviews - Usually has fast shipping
- Wayfair: Often has sales and promotions
- Home Depot: In-store availability for quick purchase
- Toto Official Site: Direct from manufacturer