8 Best Toilet Flappers of 2023

Photo: levahnbros.com

The toilet flapper is a part of your toilet system that controls the flow of water from the tank into the bowl.

Therefore, if you want to diminish the water consumption of your toilet and save on water, you will have to use a more performing and efficient toilet flapper.

In addition, the factory-fitted flapper undergoes wear and tear every time you flush the toilet so over time it can get used up and start leaking. It will need replacement every few years.

If those 2 situations above apply to you, then welcome to this comprehensive toilet flapper review!

Below you will find an overview of a hand-picked selection of popular, efficient, and affordable toilet flappers that will give you immediate results.

8 Best Toilet Flappers – Review

IMAGE	PRODUCT	FEATURES
	1. Fluidmaster 502P21 (Best Overall)	Easy to adjust the water consumption Universal compatibility with all toilets The chain is resistant to corrosion You get a 5-year warranty
	2. Kohler GP85160 (Durable & Long-lasting)	Durable and long-lasting Compatible with all Kohler and Kallista toilets Perfect fit for compatible toilets
	3. Kohler GP1078441 (Efficient)	Efficient with many technologies inside It will level leak The stainless chain will not corrode
	4. Korky 3060BP (Genuine & High-quality)	Original and excellent quality part Universally compatible with all toilets Easy to install by beginners
	5. Fluidmaster 5403 (Highly Durable Silicone Seal)	The silicone seal is 10X more durable Designed to prevent leakages 10-year manufacturer warranty
	6. Essential Values Toto Replacement (Resistant to Chlorine & Hard Water)	Resistance to chlorine and hard water Easy to install with a perfect fit Good price
	7. Fluidmaster 500 (Excellent Price to Performance)	Excellent price to performance Superior build construction Prevent the growth of bacteria
	8. Briggs B351304 (Genuine Briggs Vacuity Flapper)	Genuine flapper for Briggs Vacuity toilets Durable and long-lasting Easy to install

1. Fluidmaster 502P21 – Best Overall Toilet Flapper

Photo: Fluidmaster

• Fits: 2 inches flush valve, Universal
• Material: Rubber

This Fluidmaster 502P21 has been designed in such a way so that it will fit almost any type of toilet that is equipped with a 2 inches flush about. It is made out of rubber for the flapper and hard plastic for top water consumption adjuster.

One of the best features of this toilet flapper is its ability to adjust the water consumption of the toilet. If you have a toilet that consumes a lot of water and wants to make some savings of this precious resource, the Fluidmaster is one of the best universal toilet flappers on the market.

The chain system that comes with this toilet flapper is also corrosion resistant, and so is the entire rubber body as well as the plastic top of this toilet flapper.

Another excellent addition to this unit is that it is protected by a 5-year manufacturer warranty. Therefore, you have absolutely nothing to lose by choosing with this flapper and nominate it the best overall flapper in terms of features and benefits.

The only problems with this model is that it is not very heavy-duty and not recommended for toilets that have water consumption of 1.6 GPM or more. It is also a bit more fragile because it is made from a thinner plastic.

However, it is still more than robust and should give you a long lifetime despite this.

Pros:

• Water consumption can easily be adjusted
• Universally compatible with almost any type of toilet regardless of manufacture year
• The chain is resistant to corrosion
• 5-year manufacturer warranty

Cons:

• Not recommended for a toilet with a water consumption of 1.6 GPM or more
• It could have been made from a thicker plastic

2. Kohler GP85160 – Durable and Long-lasting

Photo: Kohler

• Fits: 2 inches flush valve, Kohler and Kallista
• Material: Rubber

One of the most distinguishing factors of the Kohler GP85160 is definitely its excellent build construction. There is a high level of detail in this toilet flapper.

Moreover, this is one of the best toilet flapper systems that is compatible with a wide range of Kohler toilets as well as with a few Kallista toilets. Due to the design of this toilet flapper, it can also be used on Kallista toilets as well.

Also, this model can be used as a heavy-duty flapper as it is extremely durable and long-lasting. It can cope well with a high-capacity 1.6 GPM toilet with ease. Worth mentioning is that since this is a Kohler generally in part, it will have no difficulty fitting compatible toilets.

The only caveat with this toilet flapper is that it is more time-consuming to install when compared to other models. But, it is a very durable toilet flapper and should easily last several years before it needs replacement again.

The only issue with this model is that it is a bit more difficult to install.

Pros:

• Durable and long-lasting
• Compatible with a wide range of Kohler as well as Kallista toilets
• A genuine part that has a perfect fit for compatible toilets

Cons:

• Not easy to install by beginners

3. Kohler GP1078441 – Efficient Toilet Flapper

Photo: Kohler

• Fits: 3-1/4 inches flush valve, Kohler Memoirs
• Material: Rubber

If you own a 2-piece Kohler Memoirs toilet then this toilet flapper is the ideal replacement for it. This is a high-grade toilet flapper that despite its simple look has many technologies working under the hood that makes it an extremely efficient toilet flapper.

This model will prevent leaking and since this is a genuine product, it has a perfect fit as long as your toilet you are installing it on is compatible. You get a stainless-steel chain with this purchase that will not corrode even when immersed in hard water.

When it comes to the build construction of this toilet flapper, it is simply superb as it is made from a high-grade rubber that is very heavy-duty. It will easily last 5 years or more even with regular flushing.

But best, this toilet flapper has been designed in such a way that it will inhibit the growth of mold, mildew, and bacteria making it more hygienic inside the toilet water tank.

All in all, as long as you have a compatible Kohler Memoirs toilet, this model is the best toilet flapper for hard water currently on the market.

The only problem here is that the manufacturer states that it is compatible with Devonshire toilets when it is not. If you own a Devonshire toilet then do not get this flapper!

Pros:

• Efficient toilet flapper with many technologies working under the hood
• A perfect fit on compatible toilets. Does not leak
• Genuine Kohler part. Will replace your old toilet flapper perfectly
• The stainless steel chain will not corrode

Cons:

• Will not fit Devonshire toilets

4. Korky 3060BP – Genuine and High-quality

Photo: Korky

• Fits: 3 inches flush valve, Universal
• Material: Rubber

The Korky 3060BP is an original flapper part that is made in the USA. It uses premium grade materials in its build construction which makes it very, efficient, durable and long-lasting.

Moreover, this model is universally compatible with almost any toilet flapper on the market. At least, as long as it has a 3 inches flush valve. The model really doesn’t matter with this toilet flapper.

Another good thing is that it comes in a wide range of sizes which makes it quite flexible. You can even purchase it as a 2 inches or 3 inches model depending on your toilet. 

The caveats we note is that this product is a little more expensive when compared to other models. In addition, it also does not have an adjustment to regulate the water consumption of the toilet.

But other than that, this model from Korky is one of the best toilet flappers for the money because it has an excellent build construction, easy to install, as well as is universally compatible with almost any toilet.

Pros:

• Genuine and excellent quality. Made from a high-grade rubber
• Universally compatible with almost all toilets on the market
• Easy to install by beginners
• Flexible. Comes in different sizes and can be bought in packs

Cons:

• A little bit more expensive when compared to the competition
• The water consumption cannot be adjusted with this flapper

5. Fluidmaster 5403 – Highly Durable Silicone Seal

Photo: Fluidmaster

• Fits: 3 inches flush valve, Universal
• Material: Plastic

What we also like about this model is that the underside has a silicone seal that is very durable and will prevent any leak from happening.

In fact, the manufacturer says that this silicone seal is 10X more durable when compared to the silicone seal that comes in your factory-fitted toilet flapper.

Another distinctive feature of the Fluidmaster 5403 is its universal compatibility with almost any type of toilet, as long as that toilet is equipped with a 3 inches flush valve.

What’s more interesting is that this toilet flapper uses plastic as its build construction rather than a flexible rubber that you find in most other models.

But what we appreciate the most is that this toilet flapper has a very long warranty of 10 years for peace of mind. Clearly, this model is definitely one of the best replacement toilet flappers that you can buy.

The only problems with it is that ironically the topside plastic is a bit fragile. Moreover, you need a little experience to install this flapper as the installation process is a bit more difficult.

Pros:

• Universally compatible with most 3 inches valve toilets
• Silicone seal is 10X more durable when compared to a traditional seal
• Designed in such a way to prevent any leaking from happening
• The long warranty period of 10 years

Cons:

• The topside plastic of this flapper is not the most durable
• May be difficult to install by beginners

6. Essential Values Toto Replacement – Resistant to Chlorine and Hard Water

Photo: Essential Values

• Fits: 3 inches flush valve, Toto Power Gravity
• Material: Rubber

The Essential Values is made from a rubber material that is treated in a special way so that it is resistant to chlorine, hard water, and will inhibit the growth of bacteria.

Also, you will not need any tool to install this toilet flapper as all you have to do is simply remove your old one and push the Essential Values toilet flapper in position.

In addition, this model is compatible with all Toto Power Gravity toilets. This is an original part that will offer a perfect fit and prevent your toilet from leaking. Additionally, it is made from a high-density and highly elastic rubber that will not break easily and offer a long lifetime.

Best, you also get a solid warranty just in case you face any problem down the line. If you own any Toto Power Gravity toilet then this is an excellent replacement part that is either as good as the genuine part or superior in terms of build quality.

The only caveat here is that the rubber seal at the base could have been thicker and better designed. This flapper sometimes suffers from water leakages.

Pros:

• Made from a special rubber that is resistant to chlorine, bacteria and hard water
• Perfect fit. Not difficult to install as it does not need any tools
• Competitively priced

Cons:

• The seal is flimsy and thin

7. Fluidmaster 500 – Excellent Price to Performance

Photo: Fluidmaster

• Fits: 2 inches flush valve, pre-1994 Universal
• Material: Plastic

In terms of price to performance ratio, the Fluidmaster 500 is a toilet flapper that is pretty much unbeatable. Indeed, this model is one of the best toilet flapper systems that you can buy if you have a toilet made before 1994.

Surprisingly, this toilet flapper is universally compatible with almost all toilets build before the year 1994 as they normally use a special clipping system for holding the toilet flapper in position. Installation of the Fluidmaster 500 is not very difficult, but it will require a few minutes to perform nonetheless.

Additionally, this product has an excellent build construction and is manufactured in Mexico. Despite being made from plastic and not rubber as we normally see in classic toilet flappers, this model has a durable build construction that will not corrode or break down in your toilet water tank.

The only issue here is that this flapper is that the plastic clasp may get stuck when you flush too hard. This can quickly be fixed by pressing on the flush handle a couple of times to close the clasp again.

Pros:

• Good price to performance ratio. Value for money
• Special micro ban surface will prevent bacteria from growing
• Excellent build construction. Durable and long-lasting

Cons:

• The plastic clasp sometimes gets stuck when you flush

8. Briggs B351304 – Genuine Briggs Vacuity Flapper

Photo: Briggs

• Fits: Briggs
• Material: Rubber

If you are the proud owner of a Briggs Vacuity toilet, then you know how difficult it is to obtain a genuine spare part for this special type of toilet. Especially when it comes to the toilet flapper. This is why the Briggs B351304 was made.

This toilet flapper is a genuine spare part that will replace your old toilet flapper and will offer you a perfect fit with absolutely no leaking. The rubber build construction of this toilet flapper is also excellent as it is quite durable and can withstand heavy-duty usage.

The chain that comes with this toilet flapper is made from stainless steel and will not corrode easily. All in all, if you own a Briggs vacuity then this model is definitely the best toilet flapper for the money. Get it right now while you still can!

However, keep in mind that if you press on the flush lever too hard it may break the side clipping holes. Also, this model is compatible only with Briggs Vacuity toilets and nothing else.

Pros:

• Genuine Briggs Vacuity toilet flapper. Will replace your old flapper with a perfect fit
• Durable and long-lasting. Made from a high-grade rubber
• Easy to install by beginners

Cons:

• Fits only the Briggs Vacuity
• The side clipping holes may break if the flush lever is pushed too hard

How to Buy the Best Toilet Flapper

1. Fits

The fitment is the most important aspect to consider when buying a toilet flapper. This is because every toilet has its own type of flapper with a specific shape.

Therefore, you need to make sure that the flapper model you are purchasing is compatible with your toilet. The manufacturer specs should clearly list if your chosen toilet flapper is compatible or not.

With that said, you cannot go wrong with models like the Fluidmaster 502P21 because it is universally compatible with any toilet on the market.

2. Adjustable or Non-adjustable Flapper

Toilet flappers come into the tie. Adjustable and non-adjustable. The adjustable type is generally a universal toilet flapper that will be able to fit in a wide range of toilet models.

This type of toilet flapper is normally made out of plastic and has a size indicator on top as well as a spindle that you can rotate for it to snap correctly in position and replace your old toilet flapper.

On the other hand, the non-adjustable type is made for a specific type of toilet model. We recommend that you go with a non-adjustable flapper as this is the best replacement toilet flapper for a toilet model as it is pretty much a spare part that is identical to the part you’re trying to replace.

If you cannot find a non-adjustable flapper then an adjustable or universal toilet flapper is the next best thing.

3. Flexible or Solid Frame

Most of the time, a flexible toilet flapper is easier to install as it is made from rubber. It provides better efficiency since it is more malleable and will not break easily even if you press very hard on the flush handle.

Conversely, a solid frame is more versatile as it can be adjusted to fit a wide range of toilet models. However, since the solid frame uses a fixed position to pivot, it is more fragile and can snap over time.

4. Easy to install

The toilet flapper is perhaps the easiest part to install in the toilet. It is very beginner-friendly, and you can do it in a matter of seconds.

Check out for words like “easy” or “tool-free” on the product description to see if the manufacturer makes any mention on how easy their product is to install.

However, most manufacturers do not ship a toilet flapper with instructions as it is assumed that you already know what to do. Don’t worry, it is extremely easy to replace by yourself.

5. Flush adjustment

A few toilet flappers come with a flush adjustment that will allow you to quickly and easily adjust the flush performance (gallons per flush) of the toilet. If you require such type of adjustment, then it is usually best to go with a toilet flapper that has this setting.

6. Valve Size

The valve is exactly where the water enters from the tank into the toilet bowl. The bigger the valve, the higher performance, and greater GPM the toilet will have.

The toilet flapper is not a one size fit all accessory so you need to make sure that the flapper model you are getting will fit the valve size of your toilet. Usually, the valve size will either be 2 inches or 3 inches are those are industry standard dimensions.

How to Install a Toilet Flapper

Replacing the toilet flapper is extremely easy. Here is how to proceed in a stepwise manner:

Step 1 – Open the Water Tank

The toilet flapper is located inside the water tank. Therefore, remove the top cover to get access to the inner part of the tank.

Once you have removed the top cover, you will see the toilet flapper inside, which is usually deeply colored and made from either rubber or plastic.

Step 2 – Remove the Toilet Flapper

Simply press in the center of the toilet flapper with your thumb and lift it with your index finger to remove the toilet flapper from the seal.

Under the toilet flapper, you will also see a rubber gasket or seal that will equally require replacement. Remove it as well.

Step 3 – Clean or Replace the Rubber Seal

If your toilet flapper manufacturer ships the flapper with a rubber or silicone seal, use it to replace your old seal.

If not, you can clean your old rubber seal with some dry piece of cloth. Then place it back in position on top of the valve.

Step 4 – Insert the Toilet Flapper

Once you have replaced or cleaned your rubber seal, put your new toilet flapper on top of the seal and press down so that it snaps in position. Your toilet flapper is not installed. But we’re not finished yet!

Step 5 – Test for Leakages

With the new toilet flapper in place, flush the toilet a few times to see if the flapper is working properly.

Additionally, once the tank has filled up, look inside the toilet bowl for signs of leakage.

If the toilet flapper is not working properly, you will immediately see drops of water leaking into the bowl. If not, your toilet flapper is working properly.

There you have it. Installing the toilet flapper is extremely easy and you do not need any experience to do it.

FAQs

1. How Long Does the Toilet Flapper Last?

In terms of build construction, a top-rated toilet flapper should, in reality, last a long time since it is generally built out of a high-grade rubber or plastic which does not corrode.

However, since it moves every time you flush the toilet, it suffers from wear and tear and therefore it will degrade over time.

Usually, the toilet flapper should be replaced every 5 years to prevent potential risk of leakage.

2. Why Does the Toilet Flapper Leak?

The toilet flapper leaks because the rubber seals under the flapper get corroded or eroded over time. You can generally tell that a toilet flapper needs replacing if you see drops of water leaking in the toilet bowl. 

3. How Does the Toilet Flapper Work?

The toilet flapper is a very simple device that prevents the water inside the tank from flowing into the toilet bowl all at once. In short, it controls the flow of water from the tank into the toilet bowl.

Every time you press the flush on your toilet, an arm mechanism inside the water tank lifts the toilet flapper so that water from the tank and enters the valve and flushes the toilet bowl.

4. Do You Need to Replace the Seal?

The toilet flapper sits on top of a rubber seal that in turn sits on top of the valve. Similar to the toilet flapper, this seal undergoes wear and tear and will need replacement in around the same time that you replace the toilet flapper.

Conclusion

If you have an old and worn flapper in your toilet tank that is leaking, then you must absolutely replace it with a new one.

It will immediately help you save a lot of water, both in the short terms and in the long term as it prevents water from leaking from the tank into the bowl.

If you’re not sure which model to choose, then flappers like the Fluidmaster 502P21 have an excellent feature set and compatible with universally any type of toilet out there.

Sources

1. How to Replace a Toilet Flapper – TheSpruce
2. How to Replace a Toilet Flapper – WikiHow
3. How does a Toilet Flapper Work? – HomeSteady