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Toilet Buying Guide

A Guide to Finding the Right Toilet for Your Bathroom

Green bathroom with toilet, basin and bath.

Choosing a new toilet might seem simple, but there are a few important things to get right before you buy. The toilet needs to fit your space, work with your soil pipe, suit your bathroom style and feel comfortable to use every day.

This toilet buying guide covers the main toilet types, key measurements, plumbing compatibility, water-saving features, installation checks and maintenance tips, so you can choose the right option for your bathroom, cloakroom or en-suite.

Types of toilets

If this is your first time buying a toilet (or you just need a refresher), you’re in the right place. Let’s get into the basics: types of toilets, key considerations, and how to make sure your choice is both functional and stylish.

Toilets come in different styles and fitting types, from close coupled designs to wall hung and back-to-wall options. Here are the main types to compare:

Close Coupled Toilets

A close coupled toilet has the cistern fitted directly to the pan, making it a familiar and practical choice for many bathrooms. It’s usually straightforward to install, though the cistern and some pipework stay on show.

Back-to-Wall Toilets

Back-to-wall toilets keep the cistern hidden behind a wall or inside a WC unit, giving your bathroom a neater finish. They can help save space and make cleaning around the pan easier, but installation can be more involved. Check whether the concealed cistern, flush button and access panel are included, as these may be sold separately.

Wall Hung Toilets

Wall hung toilets are fixed to the wall, with the cistern hidden and the floor left clear underneath. They can work well in smaller bathrooms and are easier to clean around, but they need a strong support frame and usually cost more to fit. You’ll also need a compatible concealed cistern, support frame and flush plate.

High Level and Low Level Toilets

High level and low level toilets have a wall mounted cistern and a traditional flush pipe, often with a chain pull on high level designs. They can work well in period-style bathrooms, but high level toilets need more wall space.

Rimless Toilets

Rimless toilets don’t have the usual hidden rim inside the bowl, so there are fewer places for dirt to build up. This can make them easier to clean, though they can cost a little more than standard designs.

Corner Toilets

Corner toilets have a shaped cistern that fits neatly into the corner of the room, helping you make better use of floor space. They can work well in cloakrooms and compact bathrooms, though you may have fewer styles to choose from.

Comfort Height Toilets

Comfort height toilets sit a little higher than standard models, which can make sitting down and standing up easier for some users. They can be useful if you’re taller, older or have reduced mobility, though they can cost a bit more than regular toilets.

WC Units

WC units hide the cistern inside fitted furniture, giving your toilet area a more finished look. They can work well in both modern and traditional bathrooms, but fitting them can take a little more planning. Make sure the unit is compatible with your toilet pan, concealed cistern and flush button, and that there is access for future maintenance.

Cloakroom Toilets

Cloakroom toilets are compact designs made for cloakrooms, en-suites and tight bathrooms where every bit of room counts. They help keep the space usable, though the smaller size may not feel as comfortable for everyone.

Key measurements before you buy

Before choosing a toilet, measure the space carefully and check how it will connect to your existing plumbing.

Width and height: Check the total width and height of the toilet, especially if it needs to fit beside furniture, under a window or inside a cloakroom.
Projection: Projection is how far the toilet sticks out from the wall. Short projection toilets are useful in small spaces, while standard toilets usually offer more sitting room.
Soil pipe position: Check whether your soil pipe exits through the wall, floor, left or right side. Matching your new toilet to the existing waste position can make installation simpler.
Water inlet position: Check where the water supply enters the cistern, as this may affect whether pipework is visible or needs moving.
Clearance around the toilet: Leave enough space in front and to the sides so the toilet is comfortable to use and easy to clean.
Door and furniture clearance: Make sure the bathroom door, vanity drawers, shower screen or radiator will not clash with the toilet or toilet seat.
Concealed cistern depth: For back-to-wall and wall hung toilets, check that the wall, furniture unit or false wall has enough depth for the cistern and frame.

Key considerations

Choosing the right toilet isn’t just about looks. You also need to think about practical factors like space, plumbing, and comfort. Before making your decision, ask yourself these questions:

Family use: For family bathrooms, look for practical features such as soft close seats, rimless bowls, dual flush systems and easy-clean designs.
Space: How much room do you have? For small bathrooms, opt for space-saving designs like short projection or wall hung toilets. These options help maximise floor space and make the room feel more open. If your bathroom is awkwardly shaped, consider corner toilets or positioning the toilet under a window (if dimensions allow).
Plumbing: Check whether your existing soil pipe and water inlet suit the new toilet. Toilets can have horizontal, vertical, left or right waste connections, and changing the toilet position may mean rerouting pipework. Keeping the toilet close to the existing soil pipe is usually simpler and more cost-effective.
Comfort: Comfort height toilets sit slightly higher than standard toilets, making them easier to use for taller people, older users or anyone with reduced mobility. Standard height toilets may be more comfortable for children or shorter users.
Style: Do you prefer a traditional look with visible cisterns or a sleek, minimalist design with hidden fixtures? Consider how your new toilet will fit into your bathroom’s overall aesthetic.
Projection: Check how far the toilet projects into the room. Compact or short projection toilets are useful for cloakrooms and narrow bathrooms, while larger pans can feel more comfortable in bigger spaces.

For any bathroom layout, make sure the toilet has enough clearance to be used comfortably and safely. If you’re moving the toilet, fitting a wall hung frame or installing a concealed cistern, it’s worth speaking to a qualified installer to make sure the layout, structure and plumbing are suitable.

Toilet seats and accessories

The right toilet seat and accessories can make your toilet more comfortable, easier to clean and simpler to maintain.

Toilet seats: Check whether the toilet seat is included with the toilet. Some toilets need a specific seat shape, so avoid assuming any replacement seat will fit.
Soft close seats: Soft close toilet seats help prevent slamming and trapped fingers, making them useful for family bathrooms.
Quick release seats: Quick release toilet seats can be removed more easily for cleaning around the pan.
Flush plates: For concealed cisterns, choose a flush plate that is compatible with the cistern and suits your bathroom finish.
Pan connectors: A pan connector links the toilet pan to the soil pipe. The right connector depends on the waste outlet and soil pipe position.
Toilet brushes and roll holders: These are small finishing touches, but matching them to your tap, flush plate and accessories can help the room feel more coordinated.

Money saving tips

We know that price is always an important factor when shopping for a new toilet, but value for money doesn’t just mean going for the cheapest option. Here’s how to ensure you get the most bang for your buck:

Keep the same position: Replacing a toilet like-for-like is usually cheaper than moving it. Changing the soil pipe, water inlet or wall structure can quickly increase installation costs.
Look for dual flush models: A dual flush toilet can help reduce water use, especially if you’re in an area where water metering is in place. Check the flush volumes before buying so you know how much water each flush uses.
Consider maintenance costs: Choose a toilet that is easy to clean and maintain. Rimless or skirted designs may cost more upfront, but they can be quicker to wipe down. Toilets with more exposed curves or edges can take longer to clean, so consider how easy the shape will be to look after. Soft close seats may also last longer if handled with care.
Check for warranties: Always check what the warranty covers and how long it lasts before you buy. This can help reduce unexpected repair or replacement costs later.
Bundle deals: When upgrading your bathroom, it can be more cost-effective to buy a toilet as part of a bundle. Look for bathroom packages that include a toilet, basin, and perhaps even a bath or shower, saving you money on individual items.
Check what’s included: A cheaper toilet may not include the seat, cistern, flush button, frame or fixings. Compare the full package, not just the pan price.

Technical details

Technical details can affect whether your toilet fits, flushes properly and works with your bathroom layout. Before buying, check the waste outlet, cistern type, flush volume and any compatibility requirements.

Waste outlet: Toilets can connect to the soil pipe in different ways, including horizontal, vertical, left or right-facing outlets. Check your existing soil pipe before buying.
Cistern type: Close coupled toilets include a visible cistern, while back-to-wall and wall hung toilets usually need a concealed cistern or frame.
Flush volume: Dual flush toilets usually offer two flush options to help reduce water use. Common options include a lower flush for liquid waste and a larger flush for solid waste.
Rimless design: Rimless toilets have fewer hidden areas inside the bowl, making them easier to clean.
Seat compatibility: Some toilet pans need a specific seat shape or fitting, so check whether the seat is included.
Flush plate compatibility: Concealed cisterns and frames need a compatible flush plate or button.

Installation tips

Once you’ve chosen a toilet, check how it will be fitted. Some toilet types are easier to replace like-for-like, while others need more planning around pipework, walls or support frames.

Pipe connections: Make sure your new toilet’s outlet matches the location of your existing soil pipe. This ensures proper drainage and avoids any potential plumbing headaches down the road. If the waste outlet does not match, you may need a different pan connector or plumbing work.
Mounting: Close coupled toilets are usually the simplest to replace like-for-like. Back-to-wall toilets need a suitable WC unit or false wall, while wall hung toilets need a strong frame fixed securely to the floor and/or wall.
Consult a plumber: If you’re moving the toilet, fitting a concealed cistern, installing a wall hung frame or changing the soil pipe, use a qualified plumber or bathroom installer.
Plan access: Concealed cisterns should have access through a flush plate, removable panel or service opening so internal parts can be repaired later.
Check levels and stability: The pan should sit level and feel stable once fitted. Any movement can damage seals or cause leaks.

Maintenance tips

A little regular care can help keep your toilet working properly and looking clean. Here’s what you should do:

Check for leaks: Inspect the base and back of the toilet regularly to catch leaks early and reduce the risk of water damage.
Regular cleaning: Use toilet-safe cleaners to help reduce limescale build-up, but avoid harsh chemicals that could damage the ceramic or plastic components.
Soft close seats: If you’ve chosen a soft close toilet seat, avoid forcing it shut or slamming it, as this can damage the dampers over time.
Avoid blockages: Don’t flush anything other than toilet paper and human waste down the toilet. Items like wipes, sanitary products or cotton pads can cause blockages and damage your plumbing.

FAQs

Still got questions? Here are the quick answers to the things people usually want to know before buying a new toilet.

A short projection, wall hung, back-to-wall or corner toilet can work well in a small bathroom. These designs help save floor space and can make a cloakroom or en-suite feel less cramped.

A dual flush or low-flush toilet is usually the best choice for reducing water use. Look for models with lower flush volumes and reliable flushing performance.

Not always. A concealed cistern needs enough wall, furniture or void space, plus access for future maintenance. Wall hung toilets also need a suitable support frame and strong installation surface.

Not always. Some toilets include a seat, while others require you to buy one separately. Always check the product details and make sure the seat matches the pan shape.

When budgeting for a new toilet, consider more than just the purchase price. Basic models start under £100, while luxury options, like wall-hung toilets, can reach up to £6,000. Installation costs range from £100 to £400, depending on the complexity of the job and any plumbing adjustments needed. Be prepared for extra expenses if existing plumbing needs modification. The total cost will depend on the toilet type, your plumbing setup, and any necessary structural changes.

Toilet installation typically costs between £330 and £360, but this may increase depending on the complexity of the job, the type of toilet you choose, and your geographical location. Installation usually takes 2 to 3 hours, but unforeseen complications could extend the time or raise the cost.

Final thoughts

Choosing the right toilet comes down to space, comfort, plumbing compatibility and installation type. Start by checking your measurements, soil pipe position and what parts are included, then choose the style that suits your bathroom.

From compact cloakroom toilets to wall hung designs, rimless pans and traditional high level toilets, the best option is one that fits properly, flushes efficiently and works for your household day-to-day. Explore our full range of toilets to find the right fit for your bathroom.

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