Buyer’s Guide
The toilet is your throne, so you must ensure you get the best one even if you have a smaller space.
Here are the most important things to consider when shopping for the best toilet for small bathrooms:
Type
There are several types of toilets available, but the most common are one-piece and two-piece toilets.
One-piece toilets feature a built-in tank and bowl. They are typically heavier and easier to clean because they have no seams. However, they are also often more expensive.
Meanwhile, two-piece toilets have separate tanks and bowls. They are more customizable in style and height and are more affordable than their one-piece counterparts.
That said, keep in mind that two-piece toilets require more complex installation, have a higher tendency to leak, and are less durable.
Besides one-piece and two-piece toilets, wall-mounted toilets have also become popular in the past few years. They are loved for their striking, sleek, and modern look.
Wall-hung toilets are easy to clean, and because you mount them to the wall, they are very space-efficient.
However, wall-mounted models are expensive and difficult to install and repair if they break. Lastly, these toilets often have weight limits.
Size
Before buying a toilet, you need to know its dimensions; otherwise, you can end up with one you can’t install or serve you as you wish.
Knowing the size is especially important if you have a small bathroom.
A standard toilet has a depth of 27 to 30 inches, a height of 27 to 32 inches, a rough-in of 12 inches, and a width of 20 inches.
The rough-in is the distance between the wall behind the toilet and the center of the drainpipe.
If you are replacing your toilet, it is important to measure the rough-in before you remove the old toilet.
Flushing Technology
After settling on the size, shape, and style, it is time to check the features.
Firstly, look for a toilet that flushes efficiently. Here are some of the most common toilet flushing systems you’ll find in modern toilets today:
Traditional flush systems use the weight of the water itself to create flushing pressure. They are one of the oldest flushing mechanisms for toilets and one of the quietest.
You might consider getting a dual-flush toilet if you prefer one with a more eco-friendly flushing system.
This design allows you to use more or less water, depending on what you need to flush.
For example, if you’re flushing liquid waste, you can do a “partial flush.” For flushing solid waste, opt for a “full flush.”
A toilet with dual-flush technology is a smart choice for homeowners who want to conserve water and reduce their water bills.
Some models feature a double cyclone (tornado flush), which releases water into the bowl using two large nozzles.
It creates a centrifugal rinsing action to eliminate waste efficiently while conserving water.
Pressure-assisted toilets work similarly to gravity flush models. However, they feature another mechanism to force water into the bowl even harder.
These toilets have an air-filled balloon in the plastic tank, promoting a higher flow rate while consuming less water.
Comfort
Of course, you want to be comfortable while you do your business.
Traditional toilet seats are typically 15 inches high.
However, you will also find “comfort height toilets” with higher seats than traditional toilets, typically between 17 and 19 inches.
Generally, a taller toilet makes it easier to sit down and stand up. It’s especially beneficial for older adults, taller people, or those with mobility issues.
That said, comfort height toilets aren’t for everyone.
Consider who else is using the toilet to determine the ideal height for your bathroom.
Ease of Cleaning
Another thing to consider when choosing a toilet is how easy it is to clean.
As mentioned, one-piece and wall-mounted toilets are generally easier to clean because of their seamless design.
However, that’s not all you need to take into account. The toilet’s material is also an essential factor.
Porcelain and ceramic toilets have smooth surfaces resistant to stains, which is why they are very popular.
Moreover, models with a fully skirted design and glossy finish will also ensure easy cleaning.
Design
Since it’s a major fixture, you want to make sure you choose a well-designed toilet that enhances the beauty of your bathroom.
Toilets are available in traditional and contemporary designs.
Modern toilets have become more stylish and eco-friendly. They are no longer for nature calls only.
Instead, they are designed to impress and add beauty to bathroom interiors.
Plumbing
In case you don’t know, the existing plumbing setup will determine the size and type of toilet you can use.
If you want to change the plumbing to suit the toilet you want, consult with a plumber to assess the complexity and cost of the new setup.
However, if you are building a bathroom from scratch, you can choose the style and design of the toilet you want.
Toilet for Small Bathroom FAQs
1. Are space-saving toilets easy to clean?
No. The best space-saving toilets feature a seamless design, making them incredibly easy to clean.
One-piece and wall-mounted models are the easiest to clean because they incorporate a sleeker profile. They also have fewer crevices than traditional toilets.
2. Do compact toilets function the same way as regular toilets?
Yes, they function the same way; their only difference is the size.
A small toilet is more suitable for smaller bathrooms. However, even though they are small, they meet conventional toilet requirements.
When choosing a toilet for your bathroom, check the material, design, and dimensions so it fits the available space.
3. What is the most comfortable toilet shape?
The best toilet shape is more of a personal preference. That said, elongated toilets are usually considered more comfortable.
Round toilets are smaller and generally more suitable for bathrooms with very tight spaces or those dedicated to children.
4. Is a tall or short toilet better?
As with the shape, the best toilet height depends on who will use it.
Standard-height toilets measure 14.5 to 16 inches from the ground, while comfort-height toilets are 17 to 19 inches from the ground.
Shorter toilets are suitable for children and petite users, while taller toilets are perfect for taller people and the elderly.
5. How often should toilets be replaced?
On average, most toilets can last for 10 to 15 years with regular use.
However, the lifespan will vary depending on the toilet and the wear and tear it has gone through over the years.
Below are the signs you may need to replace your toilet:
- You have to call a plumber repeatedly to repair your toilet.
- The toilet bowl or tank cracks.
- It isn’t flushing correctly, or it experiences overflows and frequent clogs.
- Your toilet begins to wobble or has become unstable.
Which Compact Toilet Tops the List?
We give the top spot to the Swiss Madison St. Tropez One-Piece Toilet for its amazing quality, design, and build.
It also packs a punch when it comes to comfort, aesthetics, and water efficiency.
However, if you want something unique and incredibly space-saving, we suggest you try the Swiss Madison Wall-Hung Toilet.
It’s a statement piece that will elevate the look of your bathroom.