Choosing the right toilet might not be the most glamorous task, but it’s an essential one. With various styles, features, and designs available, finding the perfect fit for your bathroom can feel overwhelming. Whether it’s a sleek close-coupled model or a high-tech smart toilet, the options are more diverse than ever.
A good toilet isn’t just about looks; it’s about functionality, water efficiency, and comfort. From compact spaces to spacious bathrooms, selecting the right type can make all the difference. This guide will help you navigate the key considerations, ensuring your choice suits your needs, style, and budget.
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Key Takeaways
- Choosing the right toilet balances functionality, design, and space requirements to suit your bathroom’s needs.
- Various types, such as close coupled, wall hung, and comfort height toilets, cater to different preferences and layouts.
- Key features like dual flush systems, soft-close seats, and water-efficient designs enhance comfort, hygiene, and sustainability.
- Accurate measurements and understanding plumbing compatibility ensure a seamless installation process.
- Modern vs traditional styles should align with the overall aesthetic of your bathroom for a cohesive look.
- Regular maintenance, such as cleaning and checking for leaks, prolongs the toilet’s lifespan and performance.
Types Of Toilets
Understanding the available toilet designs helps in choosing the ideal option for functionality and aesthetics. This toilets buying guide explores popular styles tailored to fit various preferences and spaces.
Close Coupled Toilets
Close coupled toilets feature a cistern directly above the pan, forming an L-shape. These toilets are common due to their straightforward installation and compact design, suitable for most bathrooms. Variants include open-back models for easy pipework access and closed-back styles for a seamless look.
Wall Hung Toilets
Wall hung toilets are mounted on walls with a concealed cistern, creating a minimalist design. They leave floor space visible, enhancing the room’s appearance and simplifying cleaning. Adjustable heights make them suitable for customised comfort and usability in contemporary bathrooms.
Back To Wall Toilets
Back to wall toilets have the pan flush against the wall while concealing the cistern within a partition or furniture unit. These toilets combine a neat aesthetic with efficient use of space, making them ideal for compact or modern bathrooms.
Rimless Toilets
Rimless toilets use innovative flushing mechanisms, eliminating hidden rims. This design prevents bacteria build-up, improving hygiene and making cleaning quicker. They are suitable for those prioritising cleanliness and modern functionality in their bathrooms.
Comfort Height Toilets
Comfort height toilets are elevated slightly higher than standard models, reducing strain during use. These toilets are well-suited for individuals with mobility challenges and provide added convenience for taller users.
Low and High-Level Toilets
Low-level toilets feature a short connection pipe between the cistern and pan. High-level toilets, typically with a longer pipe, are fixed higher up, creating a traditional appearance. Both styles suit period-inspired or vintage bathroom designs.
Corner and Short Projection Toilets
Corner toilets fit into bathroom corners, making them practical for small or awkward spaces. Short projection toilets minimise the pan’s extension into the room, ideal for bathrooms with limited floor space. Both optimise functionality without sacrificing style.
Key Features To Consider
When following a toilets buying guide, evaluating specific features ensures the chosen model meets personal preferences, space constraints, and functional needs.
Flush Types And Mechanisms
Dual flush systems provide options for liquid and solid waste, with water usage of 3 and 6 litres respectively. Compact flush mechanisms enhance water efficiency, especially in small bathrooms. Ensure compatibility with existing plumbing for smooth installation.
Toilet Seat Design And Features
Soft-close seats minimise noise and prevent accidental lid slamming. Wrap-over designs offer a streamlined appearance, while antibacterial coated seats enhance hygiene. Variants include slimline and standard sizes, catering to aesthetic and functional preferences.
Shape And Size Of The Toilet
Short projection toilets save space in compact areas. D-shaped and square models provide modern options, while corner toilets fit well in awkward layouts. Consider the overall size to ensure comfort without overcrowding the room.
Water-Saving And Eco-Friendly Options
Water-efficient toilets reduce consumption to as little as 2.6 litres per flush. Dual flush cisterns allow eco-conscious households to conserve water without affecting functionality. Opt for high-efficiency models to maximise these benefits.
Smart Toilet Features
Heated seats, bidet functions, and drying technology improve comfort and hygiene. Remote controls add convenience by offering custom adjustments. Such advanced features integrate seamlessly into modern bathrooms, enhancing the overall experience.
How To Choose The Right Toilet
Selecting a toilet requires balancing functionality, design, and practicality. A comprehensive toilets buying guide ensures the choice fits both your bathroom’s aesthetic and operational needs.
Bathroom Space And Layout
Small bathrooms benefit from compact options like short-projection or corner toilets. For larger spaces, standard models or statement designs work well. Ensure the toilet’s size complements the room’s proportions to avoid a crowded appearance.
Positioning And Plumbing Considerations
A toilet’s placement depends on soil pipe positioning and plumbing compatibility. Horizontal, vertical, or angled outlets must align with existing connections to minimise renovation. Keep the toilet within 6 metres of the main soil pipe for optimal functionality.
Wall-Mounted Vs Floor-Mounted Toilets
Wall-mounted toilets save space, creating a streamlined look ideal for modernised bathrooms. Floor-mounted models offer stability and classic charm. The choice will often depend on the bathroom’s layout and weight-bearing considerations.
Style: Modern Vs Traditional Toilets
Modern toilets feature minimalistic lines and advanced features like rimless designs. Traditional toilets, with high-level or close-coupled designs, add character to period properties. Match styles with other fixtures to ensure cohesion.
Budget Preferences
Toilet options range in price based on material, functionality, and features. High-tech toilets with advanced functions are more expensive, while simpler models offer affordability. Ensure the choice provides the desired features within budget constraints.
Measuring For A New Toilet
Accurate measurements are essential when selecting a new toilet. They ensure a proper fit and compatibility with your bathroom layout and existing plumbing.
Measuring Space And Rough-In Dimensions
Measure the available space starting from the wall to ensure a proper fit. Determine the rough-in distance by measuring from the wall to the centre of the drainpipe or floor bolts, typically 30 cm in standard UK homes. For depth, measure from the wall to the front edge of the toilet pan.
Considerations For Wall-Hung And Close Coupled Models
Wall-hung toilets save floor space but require sturdy walls for installation due to their mounting. Close coupled models are easier to install and sit directly on the floor, offering stability and compatibility with most plumbing setups. Choose based on space, style, and structural requirements.
Installation And Maintenance
Proper installation and regular maintenance are essential for ensuring a toilet’s performance and longevity. Following a systematic approach simplifies the process and helps avoid unnecessary issues.
Connecting To Existing Plumbing
Aligning the toilet with the existing soil pipe connection ensures efficiency during installation. Check the rough-in distance, typically around 30 cm in most UK homes, before positioning the toilet. For models like wall-hung or back-to-wall options, verify wall strength or concealed cistern access.
Cleaning And Maintaining Your Toilet
Use toilet-safe cleaners to prevent limescale build-up while avoiding harsh chemicals that could damage ceramic surfaces or plastic parts. Regularly inspect the base for leaks to catch water damage early. Prioritise soft cleaning tools to maintain finishes without abrasion.
Avoiding Common Issues
Ensure all bolts and seals are properly tightened to prevent leaks from installation errors. Avoid overusing chemical cleaners that can degrade materials over time. Monitor flushing mechanisms for consistent operation, addressing any misalignments promptly.
Conclusion
Choosing the perfect toilet requires careful consideration of functionality, style, and practicality. With a wide range of designs and features available, it’s essential to evaluate your bathroom’s layout, plumbing setup, and personal preferences. Prioritising water efficiency, comfort, and ease of maintenance will ensure your investment meets both current needs and long-term expectations.
By understanding the options and features that suit your space and lifestyle, you can confidently select a toilet that enhances your bathroom’s functionality and aesthetic appeal. A well-chosen toilet not only improves daily convenience but also adds value to your home.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do I choose the best toilet for my bathroom?
Consider the size, design, and layout of your bathroom. Small bathrooms benefit from short projection or corner toilets, while larger spaces can accommodate standard models. Factor in plumbing setup, comfort, and features like water efficiency or soft-close seats to match your needs and style.
What are the most water-efficient toilets?
Dual flush toilets and high-efficiency models are the most water-efficient, helping reduce water consumption. These toilets offer separate flush options for liquid and solid waste, saving significant water in everyday use.
Are wall-hung toilets better than floor-mounted ones?
Wall-hung toilets save floor space and offer a sleek, modern look, ideal for smaller bathrooms. However, they require solid wall structures and more complex installation. Floor-mounted toilets are more stable and easier to install.
Can I install a new toilet in the same spot as the old one?
Yes, but ensure the new toilet is compatible with the existing plumbing and rough-in distance. Measure accurately to confirm it aligns with your drainpipe and fixings.
What is a rimless toilet, and should I consider one?
A rimless toilet has no rim around the bowl, offering better hygiene and easier cleaning because there are no hard-to-reach areas. They are an excellent choice for maintaining a cleaner bathroom.
Is a comfort height toilet worth it?
Comfort height toilets are taller, making them more comfortable and accessible, especially for the elderly or those with mobility issues. They are worth considering if ease of use is a priority.
What are the latest smart toilet features?
Smart toilets include features like heated seats, bidet functionality, self-cleaning mechanisms, and motion sensor flushing. These enhance convenience, comfort, and hygiene in modern bathrooms.
What is the standard rough-in distance for toilets in the UK?
The standard rough-in distance for toilets in the UK is typically 30 cm (12 inches) from the wall to the centre of the drainpipe or floor bolts.
What factors affect toilet prices?
Prices vary based on brand, materials, features, and design. A basic model is budget-friendly, while advanced options with smart features are more expensive. Choose a toilet that balances your budget and desired functionality.
How do I maintain my toilet for longevity?
Regularly clean with toilet-safe products to prevent limescale build-up. Check for leaks, tighten bolts and seals, and ensure smooth operation of the flushing mechanism to avoid long-term issues.
