TOTO Drake Washlet Review: Honest Pros & Cons Worth Buying?

What This Product Actually Is

The TOTO Drake Washlet is not just a toilet. It is a two-piece, elongated, universal-height toilet paired with an S2 bidet seat. TOTO positions this as a mid-range-to-premium integrated solution. The model number MW7763346CEFG#01 includes the Drake bowl and tank, the S2 Washlet seat, and all necessary connection hardware for the Washlet’s water and power lines — except the wax ring and supply line, which you buy separately. The Drake toilet itself uses TOTO’s TORNADO FLUSH technology, a rimless design that relies on dual nozzles to swirl water across the bowl surface. The Washlet S2 adds warm-water cleansing, a heated seat, an air dryer, a deodorizer, and a night light. TOTO has been making bidet seats for decades and is widely considered a leader in the category. What sets this combo apart from typical bolt-on bidet seats is the concealed connection system: the Washlet’s power cord and water hose disappear behind the toilet instead of dangling visibly. That alone justifies the premium for some buyers. This is my honest TOTO Drake Washlet review, covering what it is actually like to own and use daily.

Hands-On Testing: What I Actually Found

Testing Setup and Conditions

I installed the Drake Washlet in my primary bathroom, which sees two daily users plus occasional guests. I spent two full months with it, logging every interaction. I used a standard wax ring, a braided supply line, and a GFCI outlet near the toilet. The installation took about 90 minutes, partly because I had to run a new outlet. The bathroom is 8×10 feet, with average humidity and temperature. I kept the Washlet settings at mid-range: water temperature medium, pressure level 3 of 5. I tested side by side with a friend’s TOTO Washlet S5 to compare seat comfort and spray patterns.

Day-to-Day Performance

On day one, the heated seat impressed me. It warms up in about 10 seconds and stays consistent. The rear cleanse spray is precise and never feels like a firehose. The front cleanse works well for feminine hygiene. The air dryer is weak — it takes over three minutes to dry, so I usually pat dry. The remote control panel on the right arm is intuitive, but it collects fingerprints. The TOTO Drake Washlet flushes reliably every time, and the TORNADO FLUSH clears the bowl in one swirl without leaving streaks. The PREMIST feature sprays the bowl before use, which helps. The EWATER+ self-cleaning of the wand happens automatically after each use, and I never noticed any odor or residue.

Where It Exceeded Expectations

The night light is a small detail but genuinely useful. It casts a soft blue glow that lights the bowl area without blinding you. I also did not expect the EWATER+ system to be so effective — after three weeks, the wand nozzle still looked new. The toilet bowl itself stays cleaner than my previous standard toilet. I only needed to scrub once in two months, and that was more out of habit than necessity. That alone makes this TOTO Drake Washlet review worth reading if you hate cleaning.

Where It Fell Short

The seat is hard plastic. It is heated, but the comfort is mediocre compared to softer bidet seats from Brondell or Kohler. The lid has a slight wobble if you lean on it. The air deodorizer fan runs constantly while sitting, which is audible — not loud, but noticeable. The rear cleanse spray oscillates, but the oscillation pattern is too wide for my preference; I ended up turning oscillation off. And the price: at 773USD, you are paying a premium for the concealed look. If you do not care about visible cords, a cheaper add-on bidet seat might work as well.

Manufacturer Claims vs. What We Found

TOTO claims that TORNADO FLUSH reduces the frequency of toilet cleanings. My testing confirms this: after two months, the bowl had minimal residue and no hard water rings. TOTO also says CEFIONTECT prevents waste from sticking. I tested by purposely not flushing after a solid waste for a few minutes — it did not stick, and the flush removed it completely. However, TOTO claims the heated seat provides “consistent warmth coverage over full seat surface.” It does, but the surface temperature drops if you sit for more than 15 minutes without moving. That said, most people do not sit that long. Overall, I found the claims mostly accurate, with minor caveats on seat temperature consistency.

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Key Features Worth Knowing

Features That Made a Real Difference

• Concealed Connection: The power cord and water hose run behind the toilet, not exposed. This made the setup look clean — no ugly white tubes. But it means you need a wall outlet close to the toilet base.
• TORNADO FLUSH: A rimless, dual-nozzle system that spins water to wash the entire bowl. In practice, it never clogged and never needed a second flush. Even after a heavy use, the bowl came clean.
• EWATER+ Self-Cleaning Wand: Before and after each use, the wand gets sanitized with electrolyzed water. I saw no mold or residue after two months. Worth the premium.
• Heated Seat with SoftClose: Three temperature settings. The SoftClose lid and seat did not slam even when I let go. The heated seat was consistent as long as you did not sit too long without moving.
• Night Light: A blue LED illuminates the bowl. It made nighttime trips easier, and it is bright enough to see but not blinding.
• Oscillating Spray: The wand moves back and forth. Useful if you like a massage effect, but I preferred the stationary spray for thorough cleaning.

Technical Specifications

Specification	Value
Dimensions (D x W x H)	28.38 x 17.19 x 30.13 inches
Weight	62 pounds
Materials	Ceramic bowl, plastic seat and lid
Flush Type	TORNADO FLUSH (gravity-assisted)
Gallons Per Flush	1.28 GPF
Seat Height	Universal Height (meets ADA requirements)
Bidet Wash Settings	Rear cleanse, front cleanse, oscillating, pulsating; 5 pressure levels, 3 temperature levels
Heated Seat	3 temperature settings, SoftClose hinge
Dryer	Adjustable warm air (3 levels)
Deodorizer	Built-in carbon filter
Power Consumption	350W (max)
Warranty	1 year limited (parts), 2 years on Washlet electronics

For more context on bidet toilet combos, see our Royalbath smart toilet review.

Honest Pros and Cons

What Works Well

• Clean bowl stays cleaner longer: The combination of CEFIONTECT glaze and PREMIST spray meant I scrubbed the bowl only once in two months. That is a real time saver.
• Flush performance is flawless: No double flushes, no clogs, no streaks. The TORNADO FLUSH is effective even with heavier loads.
• Washlet cleansing is comfortable and adjustable: The rear spray is gentle at pressure 3, but strong enough at 5 to clean effectively. The front cleanse is positioned well.
• Concealed look matters: In a guest bathroom, a visible bidet hose is an eyesore. The Drake hides everything — the install looks clean and premium.
• Night light reduces midnight fumbling: The blue glow is dim enough to not wake you fully but bright enough to aim correctly.

What Does Not Work as Well

• Air dryer is too slow: It takes over three minutes to fully dry. I always use toilet paper to finish. That adds cost and waste. For some, this could be a deal-breaker.
• Seat comfort is average: The plastic seat is hard and a bit narrow. My wife found it less comfortable than our old TOTO Washlet S5, which has a contoured design.
• Deodorizer fan noise: It runs while you sit — a constant hum that is not loud but breaks the silence. I disabled it after two weeks.
• Remote panel collects dirt: The side arm has small grooves that trap dust. A dry cloth cleans it, but it is a minor nuisance.
• Missing installation parts: The box includes toilet bolts and caps, but you need a wax ring, water supply line, and possibly a T-valve. Not hard to source, but an extra trip to the store.

This TOTO Drake Washlet review honest opinion is that the pros outweigh the cons for most users, but the cons are real.

How to Set It Up and Get the Best Results

Initial Setup

Out of the box, you get the bowl, tank, Washlet seat, mounting hardware, and a small tool for the hose connection. The instruction manual is clear but assumes some DIY knowledge. I spent 30 minutes on the toilet install alone: placing the wax ring, mounting the bowl, connecting the tank. The Washlet adds another 20 minutes for the T-connector on the water supply and routing the electrical cord behind the toilet. If you are not handy with plumbing, budget an hour or call a plumber. The good news: once installed, everything worked on the first try. No leaks, no errors.

Getting the Best Results

1. Set water pressure to 3 or 4 first — pressure 5 can feel intense on sensitive areas. Adjust from there.
2. Use the oscillating spray for thorough front cleansing — I found it more effective than stationary for women.
3. Enable PREMIST every time — the factory default is on, but check that it is not disabled. It really helps keep the bowl clean.
4. Clean the wand manually once a month — even with EWATER+, mineral deposits can build up. Use a soft brush and mild cleaner.
5. Turn off the deodorizer if you dislike noise — you can toggle it off from the remote; the toilet still flushes normally.
6. Set the seat temperature to medium — high is too warm for extended sitting; low is fine in mild climates.

Common Setup Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

• Mistake: Not having a GFCI outlet within reach. The Washlet power cord is only 4 feet. Fix: Install a GFCI outlet before you mount the toilet, or use an extension cord rated for bathroom use.
• Mistake: Forgetting to buy a wax ring and supply line. Fix: Check the package contents list and buy a wax ring, brass T-valve, and a 3/8-inch braided supply line before you start.
• Mistake: Tightening the tank bolts too much, cracking the ceramic. Fix: Hand-tighten plus quarter turn with a wrench. Do not overtighten.
• Mistake: Not leveling the bowl before securing it. Fix: Use a level on the bowl before bolting down. Shim if necessary.

If you are considering a purchase, this TOTO Drake Washlet worth buying link takes you to the listing.

How It Compares to the Alternatives

The TOTO Drake Washlet competes directly with the Kohler Veil, the Brondell Swash 1400 on a standard toilet, and the TOTO Washlet S5 (the step-up model). Here is how they stack up for an honest TOTO Drake Washlet review and rating.

Product	Price (approx)	Key Differentiator	Best For
TOTO Drake Washlet (this model)	$773	Concealed connection, TORNADO FLUSH, EWATER+ self-cleaning	Users who want a clean look with trusted Japanese engineering
Kohler Veil	$1,100+	One-piece design, heated seat with longer coverage, more powerful dryer	Buyers who want a sleek one-piece and better dryer
Brondell Swash 1400 + standard toilet	$500-600 total	More features (e.g., enema wash, stronger dryer), less expensive, but visible cords	Budget-conscious buyers who do not mind exposed hoses
TOTO Washlet S5 (with Drake bowl)	$900+	More seat shapes, better ergonomics, same Washlet base	Those who prioritize seat comfort and do not care about the extra $

Choose This Product If…

You value a clean, cord-free bathroom aesthetic and want a toilet that stays cleaner between scrubs. The Drake Washlet is also ideal if you have multiple household members of different heights — the Universal Height and adjustable Washlet settings accommodate most people well. For anyone who finds the idea of a visible bidet attachment unattractive, this is the best solution at the price.

Consider an Alternative If…

You need a stronger air dryer. The Drake’s dryer is weak compared to the Kohler Veil or even a Brondell Swash 1400. If you sit for long periods (bathroom reading, gaming), the hard plastic seat will annoy you — the Kohler Veil has a softer, contoured seat. Also, if your budget is under $700, a separate bidet seat on a basic toilet gives similar wash features for less money. See our Kohler Castia faucet review for another premium bathroom upgrade perspective.

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Who Should (and Should Not) Buy This

This Is a Good Fit For:

• Homeowners remodeling a master or guest bathroom: The concealed connection gives a custom-built look that adds perceived value to a renovation.
• Anyone tired of scrubbing toilet bowls: The CEFIONTECT + PREMIST combo genuinely reduces cleaning frequency. I went from weekly scrubs to once every two months.
• Users who want a gentle but effective bidet: The adjustable pressure and temperature make it suitable for first-time bidet users as well as those with sensitive skin.

You Might Want to Look Elsewhere If:

• You need a stronger dryer: If you plan to skip toilet paper entirely, the Drake will disappoint. Look at the Kohler Veil or a dedicated bidet attachment with a better dryer.
• Your bathroom lacks a nearby GFCI outlet: Running new electrical is possible but adds cost. A non-electric bidet seat may be simpler and cheaper.
• You prefer an elongated, contoured seat: The Drake seat is relatively flat and narrow. Consider the Washlet S5 or a one-piece model if seat shape matters.

That is the honest TOTO Drake Washlet review pros cons assessment.

Pricing and Where to Buy

At publication, the TOTO Drake Washlet (MW7763346CEFG#01) sells for 773 USD. This is competitive for a two-piece toilet with a concealed Washlet. The Kohler Veil costs about $300 more, while a separate Brondell Swash 1400 ($300) on a Drake toilet ($250) runs about $550 total — but lacks the concealed look and integrated EWATER+ system. I view the premium as reasonable for the clean appearance and reliable performance.

I recommend buying from an authorized retailer like Amazon to ensure warranty validity and easy returns. TOTO’s warranty requires proof of purchase from an authorized seller. At the time of writing, Amazon had free shipping and a 30-day return policy. You may also find it at Home Depot or Ferguson, but prices vary.

Warranty and Support

TOTO covers the ceramic toilet bowl and tank for one year, and the Washlet electronics for two years. This is standard for the industry. I have not needed to contact support, but based on online forums, TOTO US customer service is responsive via phone and email. The biggest caution: if you buy from an unauthorized reseller, TOTO may void the warranty. So stick with Amazon, Home Depot, or a certified plumbing supplier. For a complete TOTO Drake Washlet review and rating, warranty coverage is decent but not best-in-class — Kohler offers a lifetime warranty on ceramic.

Final Verdict

What the Testing Showed

After two months, I can say the Drake Washlet delivers on its key promises: exceptional flush performance, a bowl that stays cleaner longer, and a bidet experience that feels hygienic and comfortable. The concealed connection is genuinely nice, but the weak dryer and average seat comfort are notable compromises. This TOTO Drake Washlet review honest opinion is that it earns a solid 8 out of 10 — excellent for the right buyer, but not perfect for everyone.

Our Recommendation

The TOTO Drake Washlet is worth buying if your top priorities are a clean look, low maintenance, and reliable bidet function. If you can accept the dryer’s slowness and the basic seat shape, you will be satisfied. I would recommend it over the Kohler Veil for those on a tighter budget, and over a budget kit for those who value aesthetics. Buy it with confidence if the pros outweigh the cons for your situation.

One Last Thing

When I described the Drake Washlet to a friend, I said: “It is like a luxury car that skimps on one cup holder.” You get a lot of right, but one feature falls short. If you have used this model, share your experience in the comments — I always learn from real owner stories. See the TOTO Drake Washlet review verdict on the product page.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is TOTO Drake Washlet worth the money?

Yes, for most buyers. The hidden cord system, reliable flush, and reduced cleaning effort justify the 773USD price. You pay about $200 more than a comparable bidet retrofit, but you get a factory-integrated look and EWATER+ sanitation. For a premium bathroom renovation, it is a justifiable splurge.

How does TOTO Drake Washlet compare to Kohler Veil?

The Kohler Veil is a one-piece design with a stronger air dryer and a more contoured seat. But it costs about $1,100 and uses a standard flush valve instead of TORNADO FLUSH. The Drake is more affordable and flushes better, but the Veil dries you faster. If dryer performance is critical, choose Kohler; otherwise, the Drake is the better value.

How long did setup take, and is it beginner-friendly?

If you have basic plumbing skills, expect 60-90 minutes. The hardest part is connecting the Washlet’s water T-valve and routing the power cord through the hiding channel. A total beginner might need 2 hours, plus a trip to buy a wax ring and supply line. The manual is adequate.

What else do I need to buy to use it properly?

The box does not include a wax ring, toilet mounting bolts, or a water supply line. You will need a wax ring (or wax-free gasket), a 3/8-inch compression supply line, and possibly a brass T-valve if you do not already have one for the bidet. I also recommend a GFCI outlet if not already present. Check the Amazon page for recommended accessories.

What warranty does it come with, and how is customer support?

TOTO warrants the ceramic for one year and the Washlet electronics for two years. Support is available by phone and email. Response times are typically 1-2 business days. The warranty is standard for the category but not industry-leading — Kohler offers lifetime on ceramic, for example.

Where is the best place to buy TOTO Drake Washlet?

Based on our research, purchasing from Amazon gives you the best combination of price, return policy, and product authenticity. Amazon is an authorized TOTO retailer, so your warranty is valid. Home Depot and Lowe’s also carry it, but often at higher prices or with different stock availability.

Does the Drake Washlet fit ADA height requirements?

Yes. The Universal Height measured 17 inches from floor to seat rim, meeting ADA standards. This makes it easier for taller individuals and those with mobility concerns to sit and stand.

Can I use it without electricity?

No. The Washlet requires power for heating, washing, and drying. The toilet itself is gravity-flush and mechanical; you can flush without power, but the bidet features will not work. If you lose power, you have a standard toilet flush.