How to Use a Toilet Stool with a High Toilet: Tips for Proper Positioning and Comfort

If you have a tall toilet—often called a comfort-height or ADA-compliant toilet—you may wonder if a toilet stool can still work for you. The answer is yes, but proper positioning is key. High toilets (typically 17 to 19 inches from floor to seat) change the angle of your hips, which can reduce the effectiveness of a standard squat. However, with the right stool and a few simple adjustments, you can still achieve the natural squat posture that promotes healthy elimination. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about using a toilet stool for high toilet setups, including stool height, foot placement, and product recommendations from Squatty Potty.

Why High Toilets Challenge Proper Squatting Posture

High toilets are popular for their ease of use, especially for taller individuals and seniors. However, they alter the angle between your thighs and torso. When you sit on a standard 15-inch toilet, your knees are naturally higher than your hips, mimicking a squat. With a taller toilet, your hips are already elevated, and your thighs may be nearly parallel to the floor—this reduces the beneficial kink in your colon that squatting provides. The result: you may still strain, even if you use a stool. Understanding this biomechanical difference is the first step in mastering high toilet stool use.

Key Factors for Toilet Stool Positioning on a High Toilet

1. Stool Height: Taller Is Better

Most standard toilet stools are about 7 to 9 inches high. For a high toilet (seat height 17–19 inches), you may need a taller stool—ideally 10 to 12 inches—to elevate your knees sufficiently above your hips. The Original 9" is a classic choice, but for high toilets, consider the Oslo Eucalyptus Folding Stool at 10 inches, which offers extra height and a folding design for easy storage. If your toilet is especially tall, you can also place a sturdy platform or stack two non-slip stools (always ensure stability).

2. Distance from the Toilet Base

Position the stool close enough that your feet rest flat, but not so close that your knees hit the toilet bowl. A good rule of thumb: the stool should sit directly in front of the toilet, with its back edge about 2–4 inches from the toilet base. This ensures your shins are vertical and your knees are bent at a comfortable angle. For smaller bathrooms, the Bamboo Flip is an excellent space-saving option—it flips up when not in use and provides a stable 7-inch height, though you may want to pair it with a riser for very tall toilets.

3. Foot Placement: Flat and Secure

Your feet should rest flat on the stool, with weight evenly distributed. If your stool is too low, you’ll be on your tiptoes, which defeats the purpose. Adjust the stool’s position slightly forward or backward until your entire foot connects. Non-slip surfaces are critical—look for stools with rubber grips or textured tops. The Oslo Eucalyptus Folding Stool has a natural wood surface that offers good traction, while the Bamboo Flip includes a non-slip base.

Step-by-Step Guide to Using a Toilet Stool with a Tall Toilet

1. Measure your toilet seat height. Use a tape measure from the floor to the top of the seat. Standard toilets are 14–16 inches; tall toilets are 17–19 inches.
2. Choose a stool that adds 6–10 inches of elevation. For a 17-inch toilet, a stool of 8–10 inches is ideal. For 19-inch toilets, aim for 10–12 inches.
3. Place the stool directly in front of the toilet. Adjust the distance so your shins are vertical when seated.
4. Sit down and rest your feet flat. Your knees should be slightly higher than your hips—this creates the desired squat angle.
5. Lean forward slightly (about 20 degrees) to further relax the puborectalis muscle and straighten the recto-anal angle.
6. Maintain the position for the duration of your visit. Don’t rush—let gravity and posture do the work.

If you have a very tall toilet (over 19 inches) and a standard stool isn’t enough, you can use the Essential Bundle, which includes the Original 9" stool along with a comfort-enhancing cushion that can slightly raise your seating position—or simply use two stools stacked securely.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

• Using a stool that is too short. This forces you to tiptoe, reducing stability and effectiveness. Always measure and choose accordingly.
• Placing the stool too far forward. Your knees will jut out, straining your lower back. Keep the stool close but not touching the toilet base.
• Skipping the lean-forward motion. Even with a perfect stool, leaning forward is essential to straighten the colon. Without it, you miss half the benefit.
• Ignoring non-slip features. A slippery stool can cause falls. Look for rubber feet or a textured surface.

Product Recommendations for High Toilet Users

For any setup, ensure the stool is placed on a clean, dry floor. If you have tile or hardwood, a rubber-backed mat under the stool can add extra grip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a regular squatting stool with a 19-inch toilet?

Yes, but you’ll likely need a stool that is 10–12 inches high. The Oslo Eucalyptus Folding Stool at 10 inches works well for most tall toilets. If you still don’t feel the squat, try adding a small, stable platform (like a 2-inch thick wooden board) under the stool.

What if I’m tall and have a high toilet?

Taller individuals often find high toilets comfortable, but the same principle applies: your knees should be above hip level. A 10-inch stool usually accommodates people up to 6’2”. If you’re taller, consider a custom stool or the Essential Bundle with added risers.

Will a folding stool work for a high toilet?

Absolutely. The Oslo Eucalyptus Folding Stool is designed for portability and stability, and its 10-inch height makes it ideal for tall toilets. Plus, it folds flat for travel or storage.

Conclusion: Achieve the Perfect Squat with the Right Setup

Using a toilet stool with a high toilet requires a bit of planning, but the benefits are well worth it. By choosing the correct stool height, positioning it properly, and incorporating a slight forward lean, you can enjoy the same digestive advantages as those with standard toilets. Squatty Potty’s range of products—from the compact Bamboo Flip to the taller Oslo Eucalyptus Folding Stool—offers solutions for every bathroom setup.

Ready to upgrade your bathroom routine? Explore the Oslo Eucalyptus Folding Stool—it’s the perfect choice for tall toilets, combining sustainability, style, and the right height for effective squatting. Find your ideal fit today!