Not everyone has the luxury of a large bathroom, and when space is a challenge, you come up with ingenious solutions.
Some of us have a smaller bathroom, and that’s where the best small toilets fit the bill.
We look at the best compact toilets for small bathrooms to see what your options are.
How Much Space Do You Need for a Toilet?
The first thing you should do when planning a toilet upgrade is to speak to your local authority and get the building code for your area. While there is standardization in many things, some regional variations occur.
The minimum space you need is as follows:
- Left to right distance should be a minimum of 30 inches.
- Front to back distance, including the length of your toilet, should be a minimum of 21 inches. However, 24 inches is the preferred measurement.
There are other considerations you should keep in mind. Where is the door, and which way does it open and close? Also, where is the sink in relation to the toilet, and how large is it? These are called clear zones. Small space configuration takes real skill and a keen eye.
4 Types of Space-Saving Toilets
What are your options when choosing the right style of toilet?
One-Piece Vs. Two-Piece
One-piece toilets are sometimes referred to as single-piece toilets and have the tank and bowl fused into one unit. This may be an advantage because the toilet benefits from a reduced height.
A two-piece toilet, sometimes referred to as a coupled toilet, has the tank and the bowl separated and joined by couplings. This type of commode may be advantageous because two-piece toilets are generally thinner and take up less length.
Tankless
A tankless toilet utilizes a supply line with enough pressure behind it to flush the bowl and remove the waste. It doesn’t rely on a tank to deliver the flush. The advantage of a tankless toilet is that you can get more compact models because you don’t have to accommodate the tank.
Often, you will see tankless toilets in small spaces like downstairs WCs.
Corner Model
This one is pretty self-explanatory. The clue is in the name. They fit into tight corners and have specially designed tanks that are angular. These are a great space-saving option for tiny bathrooms because they use up dead space.
One thing to factor in when buying a corner model is the cost. Generally, they can be more expensive because of their unusual design.
Wall-Mounted
Wall-mounted toilets are a bit like tankless models, except the tank and the plumbing are concealed behind a false wall and accessed via a flush panel, and the toilet sits flush against the wall. These are an excellent space-saving option because all of the bulky plumbing is concealed.
How Do I Choose a Compact Toilet?
Requirements will vary based on the size and configuration of the bathroom you have. Here are some simple rules to follow.
Be Kind to Your Wallet
Setting a budget gives you parameters to work within. Toilets vary in price so much that you can easily get carried away and blow the budget. Also, because you are buying a compact toilet, don’t think that it will be cheaper. This is rarely the case because these toilets are specialist purchases, designed to fill a niche market.
Be Kind to the Environment
There are various options to choose if you are worried about impacting the planet. You can buy toilets that have smaller amounts of water when you flush. Also, dual flush toilets allow you to select the flush based on the circumstance.
Choose a full flush for solids and half flush for liquids. Some toilets even have a hose attachment that connects to your sink so you can use gray water to flush the bowl.
Consider Your Space
The layout of your bathroom dictates the size and style of your toilet. Are you dealing with narrow gaps and slender spaces? Are you likely to feel like a squashed sardine when sitting on the loo?
It is a good idea to mark out your layout using tape on the floor, that way you can see if you have any pinch points or awkward angles. Don’t forget to measure your plumbing and pipework too.
Also, macerating toilets are a great option if you don’t have a gravity drain. Just make sure you can connect to an electrical supply.
Keep It Stylish
Remember that as functional as a toilet is, it also needs to look good. It is a permanent fitting in your home and something you will look at every day. Even toilets should have good aesthetics and design. If you like traditional bathrooms, a two-piece toilet is the better option because it fits the environment well.
For a sleek, modern design, a one-piece toilet is a better look to complement the clean lines. You could also try a wall-mounted toilet because they suit up to date styling too.
The Best Compact Toilets of 2020
Compact toilets vary in design, price and water efficiency, so selecting the best can be a challenge. We found 7 great compact toilets that we think are the pick of the bunch.
1. Galba Small Dual Flush Toilet
This Galba toilet has a dual flush feature, so you can cater your flush to deal with solids and liquids. The full flush uses 1.6 gallons of water, while the light flush option uses half that. This toilet also has a slimline tank, but there is no compromise on the bowl size.
Thanks to the Vortex Vormax flush, it generates plenty of power to remove waste material. This toilet is a one-piece design, so it should blend well with bathrooms with modern decor, and the sturdy plastic is coated in a self-cleaning glaze that won’t scratch or stain.
The height of the toilet stands at 16.5 inches, so it would be a great option if you have elderly or mobility-challenged relatives.
Why We Love It
Powerful Flushing Action
This Galba toilet utilizes Vortex Vormax flushing power to remove any waste material from the bowl safely. It enables the toilet to function efficiently even with a slimline tank.
Very Shallow Profile
This toilet has a depth of 24.5 inches, allowing you to claim an extra inch of space compared to other toilets in the same class.
Soft Close Toilet Seat
It might not be a deal-breaker to some, but a soft close toilet seat is a useful thing to have, especially if you have young ones who can be a little heavy-handed.
Keep In Mind
Watch Out for the Price
This toilet is a quality product, and Galba knows it because they charge a premium for this toilet compared to the competition. You’d better start saving now!
Issues With the Flush Mechanism
There is a small spring located in the flush mechanism that is prone to popping out. It easily slots back in, but when you are paying a King’s ransom for your slimline loo, it isn’t ideal.
Check the Rough-Ins
This toilet comes with 12-inch rough-ins. If you get it wrong, you will have to pay to return the unit and a 10 percent restocking fee.
Additional Specs
| Weight (pounds) | 90 |
| Dimensions (inches) | 24.5 x 14 x 27 |
| Comfort height (inches) | 16.5 |
| Type of flush | Dual |
| Style | One-piece |
| Price | $$$ |
| Warranty | 1-year |
2. Kohler K-3999-0 Highline Comfort Height Toilet
Imagine if sitting on a toilet was as easy as sitting in a standard chair. This Kohler Highline does exactly that. The comfort height improves the toilet experience for those who have mobility issues, especially the elderly. The height of the seat is 17 inches.
Kohler also guarantees that blockages are a thing of the past with their unique canister flush valve that packs a punch and never wastes water. The other good news is this uses 20 percent less water compared to 1.6-gallon flush toilets. So, it matches the American Standard for the flush amount and water efficiency.
Why We Love It
Cutting Edge Technology
Wave goodbye to blockages with the canister flush valve. Throw away that toilet plunger and relax.
Be Nice to the Planet
It uses 20 percent less water compared to larger, 1.6-gallon flush toilets. Using less water is eco-friendly and saves you money.
Comfort Height
This toilet has a 17-inch high seat to match the height of a standard chair. It helps the less mobile get on and off the toilet independently.
Keep In Mind
12-Inch Rough-Ins
Measure twice and fit once. Make sure the toilet is positioned so that the rough-ins fit. 12 inches is not a lot of wiggle room if you get it wrong.
Prepare to Spend Big
Although they are cheaper than the Galba, Kohler toilets are still on the expensive side. It costs more than most compact toilets in its class.
Additional Specs
| Weight (pounds) | 93 |
| Dimensions (inches) | 29.5 x 18 x 31.25 |
| Comfort height (inches) | 17 |
| Type of flush | Dual |
| Style | Two-piece |
| Price | $$$ |
| Warranty | 1-year limited |
3. WoodridgeT-0019 Cotton White Toilet
This Woodridge could so easily have won the style award. It is a one-piece and has clean and sleek contours. It has a dual flush system similar to the Galba. Full flush delivers 1.6 gallons of water, and the lighter option uses 1-gallon. This toilet was awarded the Water-Sense certificate, meeting and exceeding all US and Canadian standards.
What sets this toilet apart is the quality, with stainless-steel seat hinges, enclosed tramways for easier cleaning, and the comfort height for adults to sit down and stand up.
It also comes with a soft-close seat, which is an excellent addition if you have kids and forgetful relatives. The other feature to shout about is the super-quiet flush, which is guaranteed not to clog or leak.
Why We Love It
Stunning Sleek Lines
There is no denying that this toilet oozes good looks. It is sleek, modern and minimalist, making it the ideal choice for modern decors.
Dual Flush Feature
When it comes to saving water, you should look at getting a dual flush toilet. This uses 1.6 gallons on full and 1-gallon on light flush. Why waste water needlessly?
Porcelain Construction
Unlike the Galba, which is plastic, this Woodbridge is porcelain, which is hard-wearing, scratch-resistant and easy to clean. It also feels like it’s better quality.
American Made
This isn’t a deal-breaker, but some people like to shop patriotically. Supporting American brands is important to them. Woodbridge is all American.
Keep In Mind
Beware the Weak Flush
Some customers have complained that the flush is weak compared to others in its class. This especially applies to the full flush, when you need a strong jet of water to remove solids and clean the bowl.
Check Local Plumbing Codes
The inspectors told one customer that the toilet did not meet the codes for Massachusetts. Check before you buy it.
Weighs a Ton
Porcelain is quality and robust, but boy does this toilet weigh a ton. It tips the scales at 152 pounds. That is over 3 times the weight of the Galba.
Additional Specs
| Weight (pounds) | 152 |
| Dimensions (inches) | 31 x 18 x 28 |
| Comfort height (inches) | 16.5 |
| Type of flush | Dual |
| Style | One-piece |
| Price | $$ |
| Warranty | 5-year porcelain and 1-year flush and seat |
4. American Standard H2Option Two-Piece Toilet
Like the Woodbridge, this American Standard toilet is Water-Sense certified. It has a dual flush mechanism that produces 1.28 gallons per high flush and 0.92 gallons on the lighter option. The bowl is cleaned via siphons and American Standards PowerWash rim. It ensures that the toilet stays clean and deals with the solids effectively.
It looks good too, with a chrome-plated actuator located on the top of the tank, and color-matched bolt caps. The height stands at 16.5 inches for adult comfort, and the toilet is coated in American Standard’s EverClean glaze at no extra cost.
The only cloud in the sky is the toilet seat, which is sold separately! This seems a bit odd, especially as you need a toilet seat to use it sitting down. It’s a bit like buying a car and being told that the front wheels cost extra.
Why We Love It
Economical With Water
Both flush options use such a small amount of water, and yet they keep the bowl clean. The full flush uses 1.28 gallons, and the lighter flush uses 0.92 gallons.
Comfort Height
As you age, getting on and off a toilet can be a challenge. Comfort height resolves that problem by raising the height of the toilet for added convenience.
EverClean Surface
EverClean coats the surface of the china and ensures that mold, mildew and staining are never an issue. It also makes it easier to clean and maintain.
Keep In Mind
Made In Mexico
Nothing screams American more than calling your brand American Standard, yet these toilets are manufactured in Mexico, where the labor is cheaper.
Seat Sold Separately
Why would you sell a toilet where the seat costs extra? It doesn’t make sense. Every toilet needs a seat.
Additional Specs
| Weight (pounds) | 58 |
| Dimensions (inches) | 15 x 27.5 x 30 |
| Comfort height (inches) | 16.5 |
| Type of flush | Dual |
| Style | Two-piece |
| Price | $$ |
| Warranty | Limited lifetime on chinaware and 5-year on mechanical parts |
5. Saniflo 023 Sanicompact Self-Contained Toilet
What makes this Saniflo toilet unique is that it fits into spaces that you couldn’t plumb other toilets. It needs a water supply and an electrical supply, but it creates the opportunity of fitting it into rooms when you need toilet options. We are thinking mainly about the elderly and the less mobile.
The Saniflo is self-contained and can pump waste up to 9 feet below the sewer line and 120 feet away from any soil stack. It even connects to your sink to use gray water. The flush uses 1-gallon, so it is economical too.
They’ve even thought about the comfort height, with a toilet seat that stands at 18.5 inches, so if you have an elderly relative, they will find this convenient to use.
Why We Love It
Versatile
The clever people at Saniflo have thought of everything. Because this is likely to end up in a bedroom as a part bathroom, it can pump waste 9 feet below the sewer line and along a track 120 feet from a soil stack.
All Hail the Macerator
Because it macerates the solids, it moves the waste along thinner pipes than standard plumbing. It makes fitting it an easier option, and the plumbing is less intrusive.
Easy Off and On
The seat measures 18.5 inches in height, so it should make using the toilet a lot more comfortable. Saniflo has thought about its potential audience here and who is likely to use the toilet.
Keep In Mind
Not a Standard Toilet
Unlike gravity flush toilets, this model employs macerators and pumps. It means the chances of mechanical failure are greater. This could lead to extra costs in maintenance further down the line.
Large Price Tag
Saniflo is banking on a captive audience. This means if you can standard plumb in a toilet and save money, you will, but with no alternatives, you turn to Saniflo and spend big.
Additional Specs
| Weight (pounds) | 62.2 |
| Dimensions (inches) | 18.25 x 14.5 x 15.75 |
| Comfort height (inches) | 18.5 |
| Type of flush | Single (dual is an option) |
| Style | Tankless |
| Price | $$$$ |
| Warranty | 2-year limited |
6. Troyt Corner 2-Piece Toilet
Okay, so now we are squarely in the niche end of the market. Corner toilets are unique because they utilize the space in the bathroom that other fittings can’t. Imagine having a small space and not making use of every inch. A corner toilet does just that.
This model is a two-piece, is Water-Sense compliant and has a high and low flush button. This toilet could save you up to 25,000 gallons of water each year thanks to the 0.8-gallon small flush facility.
Like many toilets, make sure the rough-ins have been checked because you only get 12 inches to play with. This toilet is constructed from porcelain and is stain and scratch-resistant.
Why We Love It
Opens Up Options
Squeeze the maximum out of your space and install this toilet. Corner toilets are ingenious and unique, and a real bonus to those who need clever solutions.
Heavy-Duty Porcelain
You cannot deny that heavy-duty porcelain toilets are robust and easier to maintain. Imagine a toilet with no stains and scratches.
Eco-Friendly
Saving water saves the planet. The amount of water toilets waste is incredible, so making small changes to the way we flush is crucial to helping the environment.
Keep In Mind
Limited Styling
You are going to struggle a little if you want to match this corner toilet to your decor. It is limited in styling and might not suit your bathroom style.
Does Not Include the Fixings
If you want the wax ring, the floor bolts and the bolt covers, you’ll need to put your hand in your pocket and pay extra. Unlike some toilets, this does not come supplied with all the attachments you need.
Additional Specs
| Weight (pounds) | 38.6 |
| Dimensions (inches) | 29 x 17.25 x 30 |
| Comfort height (inches) | Not stated |
| Type of flush | Dual |
| Style | two-piece |
| Price | $$$ |
| Warranty | 1-year |
7. Swiss Madison Forever SM-1T257 Sublime One-Piece Toilet
This Swiss Madison toilet is the latest in style and clean lines. It is a seamless one-piece that is easy to clean and has a robust porcelain body. It has a gravity-fed dual flush feature that uses 0.8 gallons on the light function and 1.28 gallons on the full flush.
Its compact bowl and slimline width make it a stylish yet functional toilet, ideal for tight spaces. It has a soft close seat with a quick-release feature so it can be removed in double-quick time with no tools and minimum fuss.
If you want a compact toilet that has the wow factor, this could be the ideal choice.
Why We Love It
Great Design
While some toilets on the market look old and show their age, this Swiss Madison is timeless and yet so simple. The sleek lines and the generous curves make it an appealing toilet for the style-conscious.
Saving Water and the Planet
This is a low-impact toilet when it comes to water usage. The light flush uses just 0.8 gallons of water. That’s about 20 percent less compared to toilets with 1 and 1.6-gallon flushes.
Heavy-Duty Porcelain
Porcelain is the go-to material for the hardest wearing toilets. It stays clean, rarely scratches and stains can be removed with ease.
Keep In Mind
Looks Aren’t Everything
It seems the comfort of the user has been overlooked in favor of the sleek design. Many complain that the seat is uncomfortable and that most adult males would find it difficult to use sitting down.
Tricky to Install
Some of the professional installers have said that this toilet suits the European market better, and they are difficult to install in American homes. They also cite poor build quality as a factor.
Additional Specs
| Weight (pounds) | 89 |
| Dimensions (inches) | 24 x 13.75 x 28.5 |
| Comfort height (inches) | 17 |
| Type of flush | Dual |
| Style | One-piece |
| Price | $$ |
| Warranty | 1-year |
| Product | Best | Weight | Dimensions | Comfort height | Type of flush | Style | Warranty |
| Galba Small Dual Flush Toilet | Dual-Flush | 90 lbs | 24.5 x 14 x 27″ | 17″ | Dual | One-piece | 1-year |
| Kohler K-3999-0 Highline Toilet | Comfort Height | 93 lbs | 29.5 x 18 x 31.25″ | 17″ | Dual | Two-piece | 1-year limited |
| WoodridgeT-0019 Cotton White Toilet | One-Piece | 152 lbs | 31 x 18 x 28″ | 16.5″ | Dual | One-piece | 5-year |
| American Standard H2Option Toilet | Two-Piece | 58 lbs | 15 x 27.5 x 30″ | 17″ | Dual | Two-piece | Limited lifetime |
| Saniflo 023 Sanicompact Toilet | Self-Contained | 62 lbs | 18.25 x 14.5 x 15.75″ | 19″ | Single/Dual | Tankless | 2-year limited |
| Troyt Corner 2-Piece Toilet | Corner Toilet | 38.6 lbs | 29 x 17.25 x 30″ | N/A | Dual | Two-piece | 1-year |
| Swiss Madison Forever Sublime Toilet | Stylish | 89 lbs | 24 x 13.75 x 28.5″ | 17″ | Dual | One-piece | 1-year |
Space-Saving Tips for Small Bathrooms
Getting inventive with your space is half the fun of planning a small space. Some of the best designs have come from necessity. Think about boats and RVs and how they utilize every inch of space, and you get the picture about how clever you need to be with your small bathroom.
So here are some handy tips.
Fit a Corner Sink
If you can get corner toilets, you can also get corner sinks. If you have a space beside your conventional sink that is too tight, consider swapping the sink for a corner version.
Trade the Bathtub for a Shower
The bathtub is the largest item in your bathroom, and yet, bath usage has declined as the shower has become more popular. Aside from the one weekly candles and soft music bathtime treat each week, it rarely gets used. And think of the water you will save!
Showers use a fraction of the water, so you will be sticking to your eco-friendly ideals by helping the planet.
Install Shelves
Shelving always increases your storage options. If you fit them at head height above the sink, not only do you have a handy place to store towels, but you also avoid banging your head.
Get Rid of the Swinging Shower Door
Swinging shower doors open outwards and take up a lot of space in the bathroom. Swap it for a sliding option, and you will gain so much more floor space.
Choose a Folding Bathroom Door
If your bathroom is so small that you struggle to keep a decent clear zone, swap the traditional bathroom door for a folding wooden type. Because it folds in two, it takes up half the space compared to standard doors.
Get a Vanity Stand
You can either purchase a new bathroom sink with a built-in vanity unit or buy one to fit under your sink. Either way, it increases your storage options without taking up more floor space.
Swap the Mirror for a Bathroom Cabinet
A mirrored bathroom cabinet is the answer to many small space storage problems. Get a lockable one, and you can secure all your medicines and razors from little hands.
Door-Mounted Towel Racks
By hanging the towels off the door, when it is open, they are hidden away, and when the door is closed, they are accessible without impacting the floor space. You can also hang bathrobes on the back of the door.
Compact Toilet FAQs
What Is a Comfort Height Toilet?
Comfort height toilets are raised to make them more comfortable for the user. They are particularly helpful to the elderly and those with mobility issues. They are easier to get on and off thanks to their 17 to 19-inch height.
Do Corner Toilets Save Space?
Corner toilets use up dead space that can’t accommodate any other fittings. They increase the usability of the bathroom without impacting on the clear zones. Thanks to their unique design, they fit snugly in corners that would otherwise be redundant.
Is a One-Piece Toilet Better Than a Two-Piece?
It depends on what you want. A one-piece looks more modern and uses less height, but may be fatter than a two-piece. A two-piece toilet has a greater height, but may be better suited to narrow gaps. If you were going for the traditional look to your bathroom, you would probably choose a two-piece toilet.
The design of your bathroom and your decor tastes dictate which is best.
How Much Space Do You Need Between the Toilet and the Shower?
You need a minimum of 15 to 18 inches between the shower and the center of the toilet bowl. The toilet needs 30 inches around it measured from the center of the bowl.
Let’s Hear It for the Compact Toilet
If you have a small bathroom, you don’t have the luxury of choosing a full-size toilet. You have to turn to the compact market to fulfill your needs. Compact toilets are stylish, functional, and on the whole, as good as their fatter and fuller cousins.
If you’ve got a small bathroom, get a compact toilet.
