by Kristy Esch

It wasn't until 1994 when U.S. federal law made 1.6-gallon toilets the standard, which has helped cut water usage in our country by more than half. Today, manufacturers are responsive to homeowners' interest in low-flush, dual-flush and no-flush toilets. "Environmentally friendly toilets are just common sense because you save money and water," says Rachel Maloney, owner of Natural Built Home, a green building supply store in Minneapolis. "It's a smart idea that's finally taking off."

Angie's List talked to dozens of homeowners and green building experts like Maloney about their favorite eco-toilets. Here are the two we heard about most, plus a few others:

TOTO's Aquia Dual Flush Toilet
totousa.com

With a push of a button, this earth friendly commode gives the consumer control over the amount of water used with each flush.

Cost: $395 (white) and $454 (basic)

Caroma's Caravelle Toilet
caromausa.com

This Aussie dual-flush toilet comes equipped with a two button flusher, which allows for the most customized and efficient evacuation and state-of-the-art water savings.

Cost: $599 (standard) and $614 (Easy Height) * Kohler Cimarron EcoSmart us.kohler.com