A small round toilet can be the perfect solution, offering a compact design without sacrificing comfort or performance. However, choosing the right one requires understanding how to balance efficiency, comfort, and functionality.
Whether you’re updating your current bathroom or designing a new one, this guide will help you make an informed decision when selecting the best small round toilet for your needs.
Why Choose a Small Round Toilet?
Small round toilets are designed specifically for smaller spaces. These toilets offer a compact design that can fit into tight areas, making them an ideal option for bathrooms where every inch of space matters. A small round toilet typically features a round bowl, which is smaller than the elongated version, saving valuable floor space.
However, a small round toilet doesn’t just benefit the design of your bathroom—it also offers excellent functionality. Despite its size, a round small toilet still delivers the same efficiency and comfort as larger models, with a modern look that fits well in a variety of bathroom styles.
But before purchasing, it’s essential to consider a few key factors to ensure the toilet you choose fits your needs in terms of space, comfort, and efficiency.
1. Size and Space Considerations
When it comes to small round toilets, the most obvious advantage is their compact size. Before deciding on a model, measure your available bathroom space. A small round toilet can save up to 2-3 inches compared to an elongated toilet, making it perfect for narrow or cramped bathrooms where space is at a premium.
In addition to measuring the available floor space, it’s important to consider the distance between the toilet and other fixtures. Ensure there is enough room for easy movement around the toilet, especially if your bathroom also includes a shower or bathtub.
A small round toilet can help you optimize the layout, but you’ll need to ensure it fits well with your bathroom’s overall design.
2. Comfort Features
Even though you’re opting for a compact round toilet, comfort should never be compromised. Look for features that enhance comfort without sacrificing space. Here are some considerations to keep in mind:
Small Round Toilet Seat
One of the most important elements of comfort in a small round toilet is the seat. A rounded toilet seat should be ergonomically designed to ensure a comfortable sitting experience.
Many modern small round toilet seats are designed with a soft-close mechanism, which helps avoid slamming and adds a touch of convenience. It’s worth checking for seats that offer easy cleaning as well, particularly those with smooth surfaces or antimicrobial coatings.
Height and Bowl Design
While a small round toilet saves space, it doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice the comfort of a standard-height toilet.
Many compact round toilet designs are now available in comfort heights (or “right height”), which are slightly taller than traditional toilets. This feature is beneficial for people with mobility issues, or those who prefer a higher seat for ease of sitting and standing.
Additionally, ensure the bowl design supports comfort. Look for toilets with a well-proportioned bowl, not too narrow or shallow, so you have enough room for a comfortable experience. The right size of the bowl can make a significant difference in your overall comfort, so even for a small round toilet, the design matters.
3. Water Efficiency
In today’s environmentally-conscious world, water efficiency is a key factor when choosing any toilet. A small round toilet should not only be space-saving but also efficient in terms of water usage.
Many modern toilets, including compact round toilets, come with dual flush technology that allows users to choose between a low-flush option for liquids and a higher flush for solids. This feature saves water while maintaining strong performance.
Look for toilets with the Water Sense label, which indicates that they meet high water-efficiency standards. These toilets typically use around 4.8 litres per flush (Lpf) or less, compared to older models that might use up to 6 litres or more per flush.
4. Flushing System
The flushing system is one of the most important factors when selecting a small round toilet. A powerful, efficient flush ensures the toilet performs well in terms of waste removal, despite its compact design.
Look for toilets with gravity-fed systems, which are reliable and require minimal maintenance, or pressure-assisted systems for more powerful flushing performance. For small bathrooms, it’s essential to choose a toilet that won’t get clogged easily.
The shape and design of the trapway (the path through which waste travels to the sewer) are crucial. Choose a round small toilet with a large trapway diameter, as this will help prevent blockages and allow for smooth flushing.
5. Style and Aesthetic
While function is crucial, style should also be a consideration, especially since a small round toilet can play a significant role in shaping your bathroom’s look. These toilets come in a variety of designs—from modern, minimalist styles to more traditional ones.
Whether you prefer a sleek, contemporary look or something more classic, there are options available to suit every taste.
Look for toilets with clean lines and a simple design. A compact round toilet with a smooth finish and hidden trapway can contribute to a more streamlined, modern aesthetic in your bathroom.
Many manufacturers now offer a variety of colours and finishes, such as white, black, or even custom colours, so you can easily match your toilet to your existing bathroom decor.
6. Ease of Installation
Installing a small round toilet should be relatively straightforward, but it’s still important to consider the ease of installation. Some models require more advanced plumbing or an adapter kit, so be sure to check if the model you’re considering is compatible with your bathroom’s plumbing system.
You can choose between a two-piece or one-piece toilet design. One-piece compact round toilets are often easier to install because they don’t require separate installation of the tank and bowl. Additionally, one-piece toilets tend to have fewer seams, making them easier to clean and maintain.
7. Budget Considerations
Budget is another crucial factor when choosing a small round toilet. Prices can vary significantly based on the brand, materials, features, and style.
In general, a good-quality small round toilet that combines efficiency, comfort, and durability will cost more upfront. However, you should also consider long-term savings, particularly in terms of water efficiency and maintenance.
When shopping for your compact round toilet, make sure to compare prices across different brands and models. Look for toilets that provide a good balance of quality and affordability. It’s worth investing in a more expensive model if it offers better performance, durability, and water savings over time.
8. Brands and Quality
When choosing a small round toilet, consider reputable brands known for their high-quality products. Many established brands offer compact round toilets with excellent reviews, ensuring that you get a durable and functional product.
Look for customer reviews and ratings to get an idea of the experiences of other users, particularly regarding long-term performance and ease of maintenance.
Conclusion
Choosing the right small round toilet for your bathroom requires careful consideration of several factors: size, comfort, water efficiency, and style. A small round toilet offers the perfect blend of space-saving design and modern functionality, making it an ideal choice for compact bathrooms.
With the right information and careful decision-making, you’ll be able to select a compact round toilet that fits your bathroom perfectly, offering efficiency, comfort, and long-lasting performance.
Whether you’re remodeling a small bathroom or designing a new one, a small round toilet can provide both the functionality and the style you need to create the perfect bathroom space.
