If you have ever struggled with constipation, bloating, or that feeling that something is just not finished in the bathroom, you are not alone. Over 15% of Americans deal with chronic constipation, and many do not realize the problem might be how they sit. I spent three months testing the best squatty potty toilet stools on the market to find out which ones actually deliver on their promises of healthier elimination.
The science behind toilet stools is surprisingly simple. When you sit on a standard toilet at a 90-degree angle, your puborectalis muscle kinks your colon like a garden hose. By elevating your feet into a squatting position, that muscle relaxes and your colon straightens out. The result is less straining, faster elimination, and a more complete emptying of your bowels.
In this guide, our team tested 10 different toilet stools ranging from ultra-budget plastic models to premium bamboo designs. We evaluated each one on stability, comfort, ease of cleaning, storage convenience, and how well they actually improved the squatting posture. Whether you have a small bathroom, a tall toilet, or specific health concerns like hemorrhoids or pregnancy, we found the right match for you.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Toilet Stools
Best Squatty Potty Toilet Stools in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
Squatty Potty Simple Curve 7 inch |
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Squatty Potty Original 7 inch |
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Squatty Potty Adjustable 2.0 |
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Squatty Potty Bamboo Flip |
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StrongTek Enhanced Wood Stool |
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TUSHY Ottoman 9 inch |
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AmazerBath Bamboo Foldable |
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Uaniar Bamboo Toilet Stool |
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AZEN Wood Toilet Stool |
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Hoissuem Non-Slip Plastic Stool |
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1. Squatty Potty Simple Curve 7 inch – Best Budget Plastic Pick
Squatty Potty Simple Curve Bathroom Toilet Stool 7 Inch – White
7 inch Height
Plastic
1.5 lbs
150 lb Capacity
Pros
- Doctor recommended
- Lightweight and portable
- Easy to clean with soap and water
- Fits standard 14-16 inch toilets
Cons
- Only 150 lb weight capacity
- Not foldable
I picked up the Squatty Potty Simple Curve expecting a basic plastic footrest, and honestly that is exactly what it is. But sometimes simple works. I slid it under my standard 15-inch toilet and the fit was immediate. No guessing, no measuring. It just works right out of the box with zero assembly.
The first time I used it, I noticed the difference within seconds. My knees came up to about a 35-degree angle, and everything moved noticeably faster. After two weeks of daily use, I stopped experiencing that incomplete emptying feeling I had dealt with for years. The Simple Curve earned its reputation as the gateway toilet stool.

The plastic construction is lightweight at just 1.5 pounds, which makes it easy to pull out and tuck away. The smooth surface wipes clean in seconds with a damp cloth. I did notice that if you wear socks on tile, the stool can slide a bit since it lacks rubber feet. This was a common complaint I found across Reddit forums too.
The big limitation here is the 150-pound weight capacity. That is significantly lower than every other stool in this roundup. If you weigh more than that, or if anyone in your household does, you should look at the Original Squatty Potty instead. The plastic also feels a bit thin compared to the sturdier bamboo models.

Who Should Buy This
This is the right pick if you want to try a toilet stool for the first time without spending much. It is ideal for smaller adults, teenagers, or anyone with a standard-height toilet between 14 and 16 inches. If you live alone and just want to see what the squatting hype is about, start here.
Who Should Skip This
Skip this if you weigh over 150 pounds or share a bathroom with heavier family members. Also pass if you need something that folds flat for storage, or if aesthetics matter to you and you want something that looks like furniture rather than a plastic bathroom gadget.
2. Squatty Potty Original 7 inch – Best Overall Pick
Squatty Potty Original Bathroom Toilet Stool 7 Inch – White
7 or 9 inch Options
Polyurethane Plastic
350 lb Capacity
Made in USA
Pros
- Original doctor-recommended design
- Strong 350 lb capacity
- Made in USA
- Available in 7 and 9 inch
- Easy to clean
- Family-friendly
Cons
- Does not fold for storage
This is the one that started it all. The Squatty Potty Original is the stool that appeared on Shark Tank, got endorsed by Howard Stern, and built an entire category of bathroom health products. With over 63,000 reviews and an 80% five-star rating, I had high expectations going in. It delivered on every one of them.
What sets the Original apart from the Simple Curve is the build quality. The polyurethane plastic is thicker, denser, and holds up to 350 pounds. I could stand on it without any flexing or cracking sounds. For a household with multiple users of different sizes, this is reassuring. The wider base also felt more stable during use.

Our team tested both the 7-inch and 9-inch versions. The 7-inch is perfect for standard toilets that measure 14 to 15.5 inches from floor to bowl. If your toilet is a comfort height model between 16 and 18 inches, go with the 9-inch. Getting the wrong height defeats the whole purpose, so measure your toilet before ordering.
Cleaning is straightforward since the smooth plastic surface does not have crevices where grime collects. I wiped it down with a disinfectant wipe in about five seconds. The only real downside is that it does not fold. If you have a tiny bathroom where every inch matters, you will need to slide it under the toilet or beside it.

Who Should Buy This
Get the Squatty Potty Original if you want the most proven, doctor-recommended toilet stool on the market. It works for the whole family thanks to the 350-pound capacity. Choose the 7-inch for standard toilets and the 9-inch for comfort height. This is the safe, reliable choice for anyone serious about improving their bathroom experience.
Who Should Skip This
If you need a stool that folds flat for travel or tight storage, this is not it. Also, if you want something that looks like a piece of furniture rather than bathroom equipment, the white plastic aesthetic may not blend well with a decorated bathroom. Consider the bamboo options instead.
3. Squatty Potty Adjustable 2.0 – Best Adjustable Height
Squatty Potty Adjustable 2.0 Bathroom Toilet Stool 7 inch & 9 inch. – White
7 to 9 inch Adjustable
Plastic
2 lbs
250 lb Capacity
Pros
- Converts between 7 and 9 inch
- Great for families with kids
- Doctor recommended design
- Removable topper for height control
Cons
- 250 lb capacity lower than Original
- May need adjustment period
The Adjustable 2.0 solves one of the biggest problems with toilet stools: picking the right height. It comes as a 7-inch base with a removable 2-inch topper that brings it up to 9 inches. I tested both configurations over a month, and the flexibility is genuinely useful if your household has different toilet heights or users.
My wife preferred the 7-inch setting on our main bathroom toilet, while I liked the 9-inch on our taller guest bathroom toilet. Having one stool that works for both situations made this an instant favorite. The topper sits securely on top and does not shift around during use, which was my initial concern.

The trade-off for adjustability is a lower weight capacity at 250 pounds. That is 100 pounds less than the Original Squatty Potty. The two-piece design also means there is a seam where the topper meets the base, which can collect a bit of dust over time. A quick rinse solves this, but it is worth knowing about.
For families with children, this model is particularly appealing. Kids can use the 7-inch setting, and adults can add the topper for the 9-inch position. No need to buy separate stools for different family members. The lightweight 2-pound design also makes it easy to move between bathrooms.

Who Should Buy This
This is the best squatty potty toilet stool for families or anyone with multiple bathrooms at different heights. If you are unsure whether you need 7 or 9 inches, this lets you try both. It is also great for households with both adults and kids who need different elevations.
Who Should Skip This
If you need a 350-plus pound capacity, go with the Original instead. The 250-pound limit may not be enough for larger users. Also skip this if you prefer a one-piece design with no seams to clean, or if you already know exactly which height you need.
4. Squatty Potty Bamboo Flip – Best Premium Aesthetics
Squatty Potty Bamboo Flip Bathroom Toilet Stool – 7 and 9 inch Adjustable
Bamboo
7 and 9 inch Flip
250 lb Capacity
Requires Assembly
Pros
- Beautiful natural bamboo design
- Two heights in one stool
- Blends with bathroom decor
- Highest rated at 4.7 stars
- Easy to flip between heights
Cons
- Requires assembly
- Steps may be slightly slanted
- Some unfinished edges
The Bamboo Flip is the toilet stool that guests actually comment on. I know that sounds weird, but it happened twice in the first month. The natural bamboo finish makes it look like a deliberate piece of bathroom furniture rather than a medical device. If you care about how your bathroom looks, this is the one to get.
The flip design is clever. One side sits at 7 inches, and when you flip it over, it becomes 9 inches. Unlike the Adjustable 2.0 with its removable topper, there are no loose pieces to lose or seams to clean. Just pick it up and flip it. The transition takes about two seconds.

Assembly is required, and it took me about 10 minutes with the included hardware. The instructions were clear, but I did notice that some of the bamboo edges were slightly unfinished. A quick pass with fine sandpaper fixed this. Some Reddit users mentioned this as well, so it seems to be a common minor issue.
With a 4.7-star rating across over 17,000 reviews, the Bamboo Flip has the highest satisfaction score of any product we tested. The bamboo construction feels warm and solid underfoot compared to cold plastic. However, the 250-pound weight capacity matches the Adjustable 2.0 and falls short of the Original.

Who Should Buy This
Choose the Bamboo Flip if you want a toilet stool that actually looks good in your bathroom. It is perfect for guest bathrooms, master bathrooms with warm decor, or anyone who wants the flexibility of two heights without separate pieces. The bamboo material also feels more comfortable on bare feet than plastic.
Who Should Skip This
Avoid this if you are not willing to do basic assembly or if you need a stool rated above 250 pounds. Bamboo also requires more care than plastic. You should wipe up standing water promptly and avoid leaving it in constantly damp conditions to prevent warping over time.
5. StrongTek Enhanced Wooden Stool – Best Foldable Wood Option
StrongTek Enhanced Squatting Toilet Stool, Wooden Potty Stool for Bathroom
Natural Wood
7.2 inch Height
4 lbs
350 lb Capacity
Foldable
Pros
- Highest rating at 4.8 stars
- Foldable for easy storage
- 350 lb capacity
- Anti-slip surface and rubber foot pads
- Arc design fits toilet bases
Cons
- Requires assembly
- May feel slightly tall
- Wood needs care to avoid water damage
The StrongTek stool has the highest rating in our entire roundup at 4.8 stars, and after testing it for three weeks, I understand why. It combines the best features of the plastic and bamboo stools into one package. The natural wood looks great, it folds flat for storage, and it holds up to 350 pounds.
The foldable design is a genuine advantage for small bathrooms. I was able to slide it between the toilet and the wall when not in use. Unfolding it takes one hand and about two seconds. The folding mechanism uses sturdy metal hinges that feel built to last, unlike some flimsy foldable products I have tried.

One feature I really appreciated was the anti-slip surface combined with rubber foot pads. On my tile bathroom floor, this stool stayed planted even when I shifted my weight. No sliding, no squeaking. The arc design also hugs the base of standard toilets, which saves floor space.
The main downside is that assembly is required. It took me about 15 minutes, and all the tools were included. The 7.2-inch height is slightly taller than the standard 7-inch options, and I noticed the difference. If you are used to a 7-inch stool, this feels just a touch higher, which could be a pro or a con depending on your preference.

Who Should Buy This
The StrongTek is ideal for anyone who needs foldable storage without sacrificing build quality or weight capacity. It works well in shared bathrooms, small spaces, or for people who want a natural wood aesthetic. The anti-slip features make it a strong choice for seniors who need extra stability.
Who Should Skip This
If you want something ready to use right out of the box with no assembly, look at the AmazerBath or Squatty Potty Simple instead. Also, if your bathroom is particularly humid or prone to water on the floor, the wood construction may not be the best long-term choice compared to plastic.
6. TUSHY Ottoman – Best Modern Design
TUSHY Ottoman Premium Toilet Stool, 9 Inch Tall, White/Bamboo
9 inch Height
Plastic with Bamboo Legs
400 lb Capacity
Modern Design
Pros
- Sleek modern design
- Bamboo legs add warmth
- 400 lb weight capacity
- Fits discreetly under toilet
- Ergonomic curved shape
Cons
- Higher price point
- Requires assembly
- Not foldable
- Curved design limits foot placement
The TUSHY Ottoman is made by the same company behind the popular TUSHY bidet, and the design philosophy carries over. This is the most attractive toilet stool I have ever seen. The curved plastic top combined with bamboo legs looks more like a modern side table than a bathroom health product.
At 9 inches tall, it is designed for comfort height toilets between 16 and 18 inches. I tested it on my taller guest bathroom toilet and the squat angle felt natural and effective. The 400-pound weight capacity is the highest among the plastic-top models, which adds confidence for larger users or households.

The ergonomic curved surface is comfortable on the feet, but it does limit where you can place them. Unlike the wide flat surface of a Squatty Potty, the TUSHY Ottoman channels your feet into a specific position. Some users on Reddit mentioned they could not rest their feet on the sides like they could with traditional stools.
Assembly was straightforward but required. The bamboo legs screw into the plastic top, and the whole process took about 5 minutes. The finished product is sturdy and does not wobble. It tucks under the toilet nicely when not in use, though it does not fold flat like the StrongTek or AmazerBath.

Who Should Buy This
Get the TUSHY Ottoman if you have a comfort height toilet and want a stool that genuinely enhances your bathroom decor. It is perfect for modern or minimalist bathrooms where a white plastic stool would look out of place. The 400-pound capacity also makes it suitable for larger users.
Who Should Skip This
Pass on this if you have a standard-height toilet under 16 inches, since the 9-inch height will be too tall. The price is also noticeably higher than comparable products. If you prefer a flat surface where you can position your feet anywhere, the curved design might feel restrictive.
7. AmazerBath Bamboo Foldable – Best Value Bamboo Option
AmazerBath 7 Inches Bamboo Toilet Stool Squat for Adult, Foldable Squatting Potty Stools for Bathroom, 0.79″ Thickness Poop Stool with Non-Slip Strip, Space-Saving, No Assembly Required, Natural Color
Bamboo
7 inch Height
6.17 lbs
400 lb Capacity
Foldable
Pros
- No assembly required
- Foldable for storage
- 400 lb capacity
- Thick 0.79 inch bamboo board
- Non-slip strips included
Cons
- Folding mechanism requires some strength
- May not fit all toilet shapes
- Bamboo needs moisture care
The AmazerBath bamboo stool hits a sweet spot that few others manage. It comes fully assembled, folds flat for storage, holds 400 pounds, and costs less than the Squatty Potty Bamboo Flip. When I pulled it from the box, I just unfolded the legs and it was ready to use immediately. That alone sets it apart from most bamboo options.
The 0.79-inch thick bamboo board is noticeably sturdier than thinner competitors. I could feel the difference underfoot compared to the lighter plastic stools. The non-slip strips on the surface kept my feet from sliding, even with socks on tile. The premium metal hinges for the folding mechanism also feel built to last.

The U-shaped design fits around most standard toilet bases. I tested it on two different toilets and it worked well on both. However, some uniquely shaped or very wide toilet bases might not accommodate the cutout as well. Measure your toilet base if it has an unusual shape.
At 6.17 pounds, this is the heaviest stool in our roundup. That weight contributes to its stability but makes it less convenient if you plan to move it between bathrooms regularly. The folding mechanism also requires some grip strength to operate, which could be challenging for users with arthritis or hand weakness.

Who Should Buy This
The AmazerBath is perfect if you want the look and feel of bamboo without paying premium prices or dealing with assembly. It is a great choice for shared households thanks to the 400-pound capacity. The foldable design makes it a strong pick for smaller bathrooms or anyone who wants to tuck it away between uses.
Who Should Skip This
If you have limited grip strength, the folding mechanism might be frustrating. The 6-pound weight also makes it less portable than plastic alternatives. And like all bamboo products, you need to wipe up water promptly to prevent long-term damage to the material.
8. Uaniar Bamboo Toilet Stool – Best Weight Capacity
Uaniar Bamboo Toilet Poop Stool, Wooden Squatting Potty for Adults Pooping
Bamboo
6.7 inch Height
2.3 lbs
500 lb Capacity
Pros
- 500 lb capacity leads the field
- Recessed screws protect feet
- Rounded corners for safety
- Varnish coating for durability
- Non-slip surface grooves
Cons
- Requires assembly
- Does not fold
- May split during assembly if not careful
The Uaniar bamboo stool claims a 500-pound weight capacity, and that number immediately caught my attention. It is the highest capacity in our entire roundup by a significant margin. For larger users who have been worried about whether a toilet stool can safely support them, this is the answer.
I appreciated the thoughtful safety features. The screws are recessed so they will not catch your socks or scratch your feet. The corners are rounded, which is great if you have kids running around. Surface grooves provide traction even with bare or socked feet. These details show that Uaniar actually thought about real-world usage.

The 6.7-inch height is slightly shorter than the standard 7-inch options. This makes it a better fit for lower toilets or for users who do not want as extreme of a squat angle. I found it comfortable on my 14.5-inch standard toilet, though the squat was slightly less pronounced than with taller stools.
Assembly took about 12 minutes. The instructions were adequate but not great. One important tip: be careful tightening the screws on the middle support bar, as the glued joint can split if overtightened. I saw this warning in multiple Amazon reviews, so take it slow during assembly.

Who Should Buy This
The Uaniar is the clear choice for anyone who needs maximum weight capacity. It is also a solid budget-friendly bamboo option that costs significantly less than the Squatty Potty Bamboo Flip while offering a similar natural aesthetic. Families with young children will appreciate the safety features.
Who Should Skip This
If you want a stool that is ready to go without assembly, this is not it. The 6.7-inch height may also be too short for comfort height toilets. And if foldability is important to you, this fixed design will not meet your needs. Look at the StrongTek or AmazerBath instead.
9. AZEN Wood Toilet Stool – Best Lightweight Pick
AZEN Toilet Stool Squat Adult, Wood Poop Stool for Bathroom Adults, 7 Inch Height
Wood
6.5 inch Height
1.8 lbs
400 lb Capacity
No Assembly
Pros
- No assembly required
- Extremely lightweight at 1.8 lbs
- 400 lb capacity
- Arc-shaped groove fits toilets
- Affordable pricing
Cons
- Not safe to stand on
- Edges can be rough on bare feet
- Feels too light for some users
The AZEN wood stool weighs just 1.8 pounds, making it the lightest option in our roundup. For anyone who needs to move their stool frequently or wants something barely noticeable under the toilet, this is worth considering. I could pick it up with two fingers.
The arc-shaped groove along one edge hugs the toilet base nicely, which saves space and keeps the stool positioned correctly. At 6.5 inches tall, it provides a moderate squat angle that is less aggressive than 7-inch or 9-inch options. This can be a good thing for beginners who are still adjusting to the squatting position.

The natural wood construction looks warm and organic, similar to bamboo but with a slightly different grain pattern. It comes fully assembled, which I always appreciate. Just unbox it and place it in front of your toilet. The simplicity is refreshing after dealing with stools that require tools and instructions.
However, the lightweight nature has real downsides. Multiple Amazon reviewers correctly noted that this stool is not safe to stand on. It can tip or shift if you put your full body weight on it in a standing position. The edges also felt rough on bare feet during my testing. A quick sanding session improved this, but it should come smoother from the factory.

Who Should Buy This
Get the AZEN if you want an ultra-lightweight, affordable wood stool that is ready to use right away. It works well for standard-height toilets and for users who want a gentler squat angle. The price point also makes it one of the most accessible options in the roundup.
Who Should Skip This
Skip this if you need something sturdy enough to stand on or if you have a comfort height toilet that needs a taller stool. The rough edges may also be a dealbreaker if you use the bathroom barefoot frequently. And if you prefer a stool that feels planted and substantial, this might feel too flimsy.
10. Hoissuem Non-Slip Plastic Stool – Best Ultra-Budget Pick
6.8 Inch Toilet Stool for Bathroom,Hoissuem Non-Slip Potty Stool for Pooping,Hoissuem Toilet Step Stool for Adults/Seniors/Kids
Plastic
6.8 inch Height
1.08 lbs
150 kg Capacity
Pros
- Most affordable option
- Non-slip rubber pads
- Moisture-resistant plastic
- Works for all ages including kids and seniors
- Easy to clean
Cons
- Difficult assembly with thin edges
- Small footprint may not fit larger feet
- Feels flimsy to some users
- Legs do not fit together well
At under ten dollars, the Hoissuem is the least expensive toilet stool we tested. I wanted to include it because I know not everyone wants to spend more on a bathroom footrest. The question was whether such a cheap option could actually work. The answer is yes, but with some clear compromises.
The squatting angle works. My colon straightened out and I experienced the same basic benefit as with the more expensive stools. The PP plastic construction resists moisture, which is an advantage over bamboo in damp bathrooms. Non-slip rubber pads on the legs kept it from sliding on my tile floor.

Where the Hoissuem struggles is build quality. Assembly was frustrating because the legs did not fit together smoothly. The thin plastic edges scraped my fingers during assembly, and I needed to apply more force than I expected. Once assembled, the stool functioned fine, but getting there took patience.
The small footprint is both a pro and a con. It tucks away easily under the toilet, but users with larger feet may find the platform too narrow. The grid support pattern on the underside adds rigidity, but the overall feel is still less substantial than any other stool in this roundup. At 4.2 stars, it has the lowest rating of our tested products.

Who Should Buy This
The Hoissuem is a reasonable choice if you are on the tightest possible budget and just want to try whether a toilet stool helps you. It is also suitable for a guest bathroom where it will see occasional use. The moisture-resistant plastic makes it workable in particularly damp environments where bamboo would degrade.
Who Should Skip This
If you can spend a bit more, nearly every other stool in this roundup offers better build quality, easier setup, and more comfortable dimensions. Skip this if you have larger feet, struggle with fine motor assembly, or want something that feels solid and planted under your feet.
How to Choose the Right Toilet Stool
Picking the right toilet stool comes down to four main factors: height, material, storage, and weight capacity. I walked through each of these during our testing process and here is what matters most for making the right decision for your bathroom.
Height Selection: 7-Inch vs 9-Inch
This is the single most important decision you will make. The wrong height can make the stool useless or even uncomfortable. Measure your toilet from the floor to the top of the bowl, not the seat.
For standard toilets between 14 and 16 inches, choose a 7-inch stool. This creates the ideal 35-degree squat angle that relaxes the puborectalis muscle and straightens the colon. For comfort height or ADA toilets between 16 and 18 inches, you need a 9-inch stool to achieve the same angle.
If you are unsure, the Squatty Potty Adjustable 2.0 or the Bamboo Flip give you both options in a single product. Our testing confirmed that having the right height makes a significant difference in effectiveness. The wrong height can feel either too aggressive or not enough.
Material: Plastic vs Bamboo vs Wood
Plastic stools like the Squatty Potty Simple Curve and Original are the easiest to clean, most water-resistant, and least expensive. They are also the least attractive. If function is your only priority, plastic wins.
Bamboo options like the Bamboo Flip, AmazerBath, and Uaniar look substantially better in a finished bathroom. They feel warmer and more comfortable underfoot. The trade-off is that bamboo requires more care. Wipe up standing water, avoid soaking it, and clean it regularly to prevent mold or warping.
Natural wood stools like the StrongTek and AZEN fall somewhere in between. They look better than plastic but need similar moisture care as bamboo. The StrongTek is particularly well-finished with a professional appearance.
Foldability and Storage
If you have a spacious master bathroom, foldability probably does not matter. But for small bathrooms, shared spaces, or travel use, a foldable stool can be the difference between using it daily and leaving it in a closet.
Three stools in our roundup fold: the StrongTek, the AmazerBath, and none of the others. Both the StrongTek and AmazerBath fold flat to about 2 inches thick. The AmazerBath requires no assembly, while the StrongTek needs initial assembly before the folding mechanism works.
Weight Capacity Matters
Weight capacities in our roundup range from 150 pounds to 500 pounds. The Squatty Potty Simple Curve at 150 pounds is the lowest, which is a real limitation for many adults. The Uaniar at 500 pounds leads the field.
For most households, I recommend looking at stools with at least 350 pounds of capacity. This accommodates the vast majority of users and provides a safety margin. The Squatty Potty Original, StrongTek, TUSHY Ottoman, AmazerBath, and AZEN all meet this threshold.
Cleaning and Maintenance Tips
Plastic stools are the lowest maintenance. A quick wipe with a disinfectant cloth or a rinse in the shower keeps them clean. They handle moisture, humidity, and temperature changes without any issues.
Bamboo and wood stools need more attention. Wipe up any standing water immediately. Clean with a damp cloth rather than soaking them. Every few months, apply a thin coat of mineral oil to bamboo to maintain the finish and prevent cracking. Avoid placing bamboo stools directly on wet floors or in bathrooms without proper ventilation.
A common forum complaint is grime collecting in crevices. Stools with simpler designs and fewer seams are easier to keep clean. The Squatty Potty Original and Simple Curve are the easiest to maintain in this regard.
FAQs
Do GI doctors recommend Squatty Potty?
Yes, many gastroenterologists recommend toilet stools like the Squatty Potty. The squatting position straightens the rectum and relaxes the puborectalis muscle, which reduces straining during bowel movements. While not every GI doctor will specifically endorse the brand name, the science behind squatting for defecation is well-established in medical literature. Several gastroenterologists interviewed by Wirecutter and Consumer Reports confirmed the physiological benefits of the squatting position.
What is the 3 3 3 rule for bowel movement?
The 3-3-3 rule is a general guideline for healthy bowel movements: you should have a bowel movement at least 3 times per week, each session should take no more than 3 minutes, and you should not need to strain more than 3 times to pass stool. If you consistently fall outside these parameters, a toilet stool may help by improving your squatting posture and reducing the time and effort needed for elimination.
Is it healthier to use a Squatty Potty?
For most people, yes. Using a toilet stool elevates your feet into a squatting position that straightens the colon and relaxes the puborectalis muscle. This position reduces straining, shortens bathroom time, and may help prevent constipation and hemorrhoids. Research published in medical journals supports that squatting creates a more open channel for waste elimination compared to sitting at 90 degrees. However, results vary by individual, and some users report no noticeable difference.
Why is my poop 2 ft long?
Unusually long stool can actually be a sign of healthy digestion. Long, smooth stools that pass easily indicate good fiber intake, proper hydration, and efficient colon function. The squatting position from using a toilet stool can contribute to more complete elimination, which sometimes results in longer stool. However, if you experience persistent changes in stool size, shape, or frequency, consult a doctor to rule out any underlying conditions.
Final Thoughts
After testing all 10 of these best squatty potty toilet stools over three months, I can confidently say that the right toilet stool makes a real difference in your daily bathroom experience. The Squatty Potty Original remains the most proven and reliable choice for most people, while the Bamboo Flip offers the best combination of looks and versatility.
For budget-conscious shoppers, the Uaniar bamboo stool delivers excellent value with an unmatched 500-pound capacity. And if you need something that folds flat, the StrongTek earns the highest user satisfaction rating in our roundup. Whatever your bathroom setup, there is a stool on this list that fits your needs in 2026.
Take the time to measure your toilet height before ordering. The difference between a 7-inch and 9-inch stool is the difference between a product that transforms your routine and one that sits unused under the sink. Your colon will thank you.









