In case you've missed it, there's been a toilet revolution. And, we're not talking about all those fancy-schmancy toilets made famous by Japan - the ones that tie into a Bluetooth music system, steam, clean themselves, warm seats or offer aromatherapy.

We're talking about a more normal evolution of toilet design that has led to the addition of touchless flushing or tankless toilets to the Chicago bathroom remodeling offerings.

Add a Touchless or Tankless Toilet Design to Your Chicago Bathroom Remodeling Project

Here is the lowdown on two of the toilets seeing the most press in the bathroom design world.

The Touchless Toilet

Touchless toilets look the same as regular versions with one obvious difference: there's no handle. Instead, they have a sensor - typically located on the top of the tank - activated by a wave of your hand. Sensors require two, AA-batteries said to last between six to 12 months, depending on how often the toilet is flushed.

They are certainly more hygienic, decreasing the bacteria, viruses and other unmentionables that may wind up on a flush handle. Touchless options are highly recommended for kids' bathrooms, powder rooms or hall baths used by guests. Models often come with little "extras" such as a night light. However, they are still pretty simple when compared with more high-falutin' toilets, like the Numi "smart toilet" we wrote about back in May.

The cons of this toilet are the need for batteries and the fact that it sometimes flushes when you readjust your position on the seat or pass too close to the sensor.

The Tankless Toilet

A tankless toilet is just that - a toilet without a tank. Until recently, tankless toilets were only found in commercial locations or sometimes in homes built in the early-1900s. They connect directly to the all or floor, with the plumbing directly attached to the body of the toilet.

In most cases, tankless toilets have a more modern look and are desirable in small bathrooms such as a powder room, along with a wall-mounted vanity, because they free up space on the floor and make the bathroom seem larger. Another benefit of a tankless toilet: the instantaneous water feed, which makes it easy to re-charge the bowl in between users. This can be especially appealing to those who host large social events on a regular basis, or in a game room, basement or man cave that often experiences flocks of children an/or adults at one time.

There are a few downfalls, however. Firstly, they're a relatively costly toilet option. Also, most homes aren't equipped for tankless toilets unless they were designed with them in mind. Tankless versions may require:

• Slightly different plumbing to deliver necessary water pressure.
• 2x6 framing in the wall to support the carrier.
• Electricity to feed the pump that refills the tank.

It's imperative that you use a plumber experienced with tankless toilet installation to ensure the job is done right.

Interested in learning more about your Chicago bathroom remodeling options? Visit Kitchens & Baths Unlimited.

Photo Credit: hgtv.com