Toilet Buying Guide UK: Types, Sizes, Features & Bathroom Installation Tips

A toilet is a sanitary fixture designed for the safe and efficient disposal of human waste, typically comprising a ceramic bowl connected to a waste pipe and a cistern based flushing system that channels waste into the drainage network. 

Common across UK homes, commercial premises, and public facilities, toilets may be floor mounted or wall hung, with popular configurations such as close coupled, back to wall, and wall hung models tailored to suit various bathroom layouts and design preferences. 

Modern British toilets are engineered for optimal hygiene, comfort, and water efficiency, often featuring soft close seats, dual flush cisterns to reduce water usage, and rimless bowl designs that simplify cleaning and minimise bacterial buildup. An internal trap system creates a water seal that blocks unpleasant odours and harmful sewer gases, while WRAS approved flush mechanisms ensure reliable, regulation compliant performance. 

Whether you’re upgrading a family bathroom, refreshing a guest WC, or fitting out a new ensuite, today’s toilet designs combine practical innovation with aesthetic versatility, offering a wide choice of comfort heights, projections, and finishes to complement any interior scheme.

What Should You Consider Before Buying a Toilet?

Choosing the right toilet isn’t just about picking something that fits the space ,it’s about finding a model that aligns with your bathroom layout, plumbing setup, personal comfort, and long term value. 

With the wide range of styles, sizes, features, and installation types available on the UK market, taking a moment to consider a few essential factors will help ensure your new toilet delivers both functionality and lasting satisfaction.

Key Factors to Consider:

• Bathroom Size and Layout
  Measure carefully to determine the available space, especially for smaller bathrooms, cloakrooms, or en suites. Consider the toilet’s projection, cistern position, and access to other fixtures.
  
• Existing Plumbing and Outlet Position
  Check whether your current waste outlet is vertical (downwards) or horizontal (into the wall), and match this with a compatible S trap or P trap toilet to avoid expensive rerouting.
  
• Comfort and Accessibility Needs
  Look for comfort height toilets or ergonomic designs if mobility, accessibility, or everyday ease of use is a priority ,especially in multi generational homes.
  
• Preferred Style or Aesthetic
  Decide whether you prefer a modern minimalist look (e.g. wall hung or back to wall) or a more traditional design, ensuring it complements your overall bathroom decor.
  
• Budget and Total Cost of Ownership
  Factor in not just the upfront cost of the toilet, but also installation, potential plumbing modifications, accessories, and long term water usage.
  
• Compliance with UK Building Regulations
  Ensure your chosen toilet and cistern setup meets UK water efficiency and WRAS certification standards, particularly for new builds or extensive renovations.

What Are the Types of Toilets and Which One Is Best for Your Bathroom?

The main toilet types available in the UK include close coupled, back to wall, wall hung, one piece, high level, low level, cloakroom, corner, comfort height models, and WC units with fitted furniture ,each suited to different bathroom sizes, plumbing configurations, and style preferences.

Close Coupled Toilets

Close Coupled toilets are a popular choice in the UK, these feature the cistern mounted directly on the pan, forming a compact, all in one unit. They’re cost effective (£150–£600), easy to install with standard UK pipework, and ideal for both modern and traditional bathrooms.

Back to Wall Toilets

Back to Wall Toilets sit flush against the wall, with the cistern hidden in a unit or behind a false wall. Perfect for contemporary bathrooms, they offer a clean, minimalist look and are easier to clean around the base. Prices start from £300 excluding the concealed cistern frame.

Wall Hung Toilets

Wall Hung Toilets Mounted directly onto the wall with the cistern fully concealed, wall hung toilets float above the floor, creating a spacious and modern aesthetic. They’re ideal for small bathrooms or stylish ensuites but require professional installation and reinforced walls. Prices range from £400–£1,200.

Cloakroom and Corner Toilets

Cloakroom and Corner Toilets are designed for compact spaces,  cloakroom toilets have a shorter projection (typically under 600mm), while corner toilets use angled cisterns to fit snugly into awkward layouts. These are practical space saving solutions for downstairs WCs and tight ensuites.

Comfort Height Toilets

Comfort Height Toilets are taller than standard models (460–480mm vs 400–410mm), comfort height toilets make sitting and standing easier for older users or those with mobility challenges. Many models meet Doc M compliance for accessible bathroom standards.

One Piece vs Two Piece Toilets

One piece models combine the pan and cistern into a seamless design, offering easier cleaning and sleek aesthetics. Two piece toilets have separate components, making transport and replacement more flexible. One piece models tend to be pricier but more hygienic in design.

High Level and Low Level Toilets

Best suited to period style bathrooms, high level toilets feature elevated cisterns and traditional pull chains, while low level versions offer a similar heritage look with a shorter flush pipe. Both are ideal for Victorian style renovations.

WC Units and Fitted Furniture

WC Units and fitted furniture integrate a back to wall toilet with furniture style cabinets that conceal the cistern and offer storage for bathroom essentials. Ideal for modern bathrooms, they combine form and function. Prices vary from £400–£1,500 depending on quality and features.

What Toilet Features Should You Look Out For?

When buying a toilet, it’s essential to evaluate features that influence performance, hygiene, comfort, installation compatibility, and long term durability. Choosing the right combination of specifications ensures your toilet not only fits your space but also meets your household’s day to day needs efficiently.

Flush Type: Dual Flush, Gravity, Pressure Assisted

Toilets come with different flush systems that affect water efficiency and power. Dual flush toilets let you choose between a light (around 3L) or full flush (around 6L), saving water without sacrificing performance. Gravity fed systems use the weight of the water for a quieter, low maintenance flush. Pressure assisted toilets force water out with air pressure for a powerful clean, ideal for high use bathrooms but often noisier and more expensive to maintain.

Trap Type: P Trap vs S Trap

Toilets are designed to connect to either a P trap (horizontal wall outlet) or S trap (vertical floor outlet). Most modern UK homes use P traps, while older properties ,particularly on ground floors ,may still rely on S traps. Matching the trap type to your existing waste system ensures a smoother installation and proper waste flow without costly plumbing changes.

Outlet Position: Horizontal vs Vertical

Outlet direction determines how the toilet connects to the soil pipe. Horizontal outlets (back to wall) are common in new builds and offer tidier installations. Vertical outlets (floor connection) are suited to traditional homes. Knowing your current outlet layout prevents fitting issues and supports easier servicing.

Toilet Projection and Bowl Depth

Toilet projection is the distance the pan extends from the wall. Short projection toilets (under 500mm) are ideal for cloakrooms or tight spaces. Standard projection (around 600–650mm) balances comfort and compactness. Deeper bowls offer more sitting area but need extra clearance in front, which may not suit small bathrooms.

Toilet Height: Standard vs Comfort Height

Standard toilets in the UK have a pan height of 400–410mm, suitable for most users. Comfort height toilets, measuring 460–480mm, are easier for elderly people, taller users, or those with mobility concerns. If the toilet will be used by children, a standard height may be more appropriate.

Rimless vs Traditional Rimmed Bowl

Rimless toilets provide better hygiene by removing the traditional inner rim where germs and limescale build up. Water flows evenly around the bowl, making cleaning simpler and more effective. Rimmed toilets are often more affordable but require more maintenance to stay sanitary.

Toilet Seat Features: Soft Close, Heated, Bidet

Soft close seats reduce noise and prevent damage from slamming. Heated seats add comfort during colder months, especially in bathrooms without central heating. Integrated bidet functions combine washing and drying in one compact unit, ideal for personal hygiene and space saving, though they often require an electrical connection.

Installation Type: Close Coupled, Back to Wall, Wall Hung

Close coupled toilets are the most common and simplest to install, with the cistern mounted directly behind the bowl. Back to wall toilets hide the cistern within a furniture unit or stud wall, offering a sleek look. Wall hung toilets create the illusion of more space and allow for easier floor cleaning, but require a concealed frame and are more complex to fit.

Build Material and Surface Finish

Most toilets are made from vitreous china, a glazed ceramic that is durable, smooth, and resistant to stains. Some premium models feature antibacterial coatings or easy clean glazes to reduce cleaning effort and improve hygiene. While white remains the standard, growing options in matt black and other finishes allow homeowners to match the toilet with their overall bathroom decor.

By carefully considering these features ,from flushing technology and outlet position to seat upgrades and installation requirements ,you’ll be equipped to choose a toilet that balances style, comfort, and long term performance perfectly suited to your home.

What Toilet Size Should You Choose for Your Space?

Choosing the right toilet size is essential to ensure comfort, accessibility, and optimal use of space, especially in UK bathrooms where room dimensions can vary dramatically between homes. 

Whether you’re fitting a cloakroom WC, a main family bathroom, or a luxurious en suite, your toilet should suit the proportions of the room while complying with practical clearances and plumbing standards.

What Is the Standard Toilet Size in the UK?

Most UK toilets fall within these standard size ranges:

• Height (floor to seat): 400–410mm is standard, while comfort height models range from 440–480mm for improved accessibility.
  
• Width (across the bowl): Typically between 350–380mm.
  
• Projection (depth from wall to front): Standard models measure 600–650mm, while short projection toilets (ideal for small bathrooms or cloakrooms) range from 480–580mm.
  

These dimensions apply to close coupled and back to wall toilets. Wall hung toilets may have slightly more flexible heights depending on how the frame is mounted. Always factor in the additional space for the cistern (if visible), flush plate, and any clearance required around the unit.

How to Measure Your Bathroom for the Right Toilet Size

Before purchasing a toilet, accurate measurements of your bathroom are essential to ensure a proper fit and comfortable layout:

• Measure the available projection space: From the wall (or back panel) to the furthest point the toilet can extend without obstructing doors, sinks, or movement. Aim for at least 600mm front clearance to allow comfortable access.
  
• Check width and side clearance: Ensure there is at least 200mm of space on either side of the toilet for ease of use and cleaning. Tight layouts may require narrower or slimline toilet models.
  
• Measure the soil pipe position: Check whether your waste outlet is horizontal (P trap) or vertical (S trap), and measure the distance from the wall to the centre of the waste pipe to determine compatible pan styles.
  
• Account for cistern or frame space: For back to wall or wall hung toilets, allow room behind the toilet for a concealed cistern or mounting frame ,usually 150–250mm depending on the brand.
  
• Confirm door swing and walking paths: Make sure the toilet won’t block the bathroom door or restrict circulation space. In smaller bathrooms, short projection or corner toilets can help avoid awkward layouts.

How Much Does a Toilet Cost?

Toilet prices in the UK vary based on design, quality, features, and installation complexity. On average, you can expect to spend:

• Budget range: £150–£300 for basic models
  
• Mid range: £300–£800 for higher quality or concealed designs
  
• Premium/luxury: £800–£4,000+ for advanced or smart toilets
  

Installation typically adds £200–£800, depending on labour rates and whether plumbing alterations are required.

Average Price Ranges by Toilet Type

Close Coupled Toilets

• Budget: £150–£250 – Basic white ceramic with standard seat and flush
  
• Mid range: £300–£500 – Soft close seat, rimless bowl, water saving flush
  
• Premium: £600–£900 – Designer styling, improved ergonomics, advanced coating.  A versatile and affordable choice for most UK bathrooms, ideal for straightforward replacements.
  

Back to Wall Toilets

• Budget: £300–£400 – Slimline designs with standard fittings
  
• Mid range: £450–£650 – Sleeker profiles, soft close, rimless bowl
  
• Premium: £700–£1,000 – Premium ceramics, ultra quiet flush, compact projections Offers a minimalist finish with concealed cisterns, ideal for contemporary spaces.
  

Wall Hung Toilets

• Budget: £400–£600 – Basic wall mounted with simple flush plates
  
• Mid range: £700–£1,000 – High strength frames, rimless, designer shapes
  
• Premium: £1,200+ – Ultra slim pans, quick release seats, high tech glazing
  Requires structural support and concealed cistern but delivers sleek, floating aesthetics.

Smart Toilets

• Entry level: £1,500–£2,000 – Heated seat, basic wash/dry, remote control
  
• Mid range: £2,500–£3,500 – Adjustable spray patterns, deodoriser, night light
  
• Luxury: £4,000+ – App integration, auto lid, music, health monitoring
  The top tier of comfort and hygiene, but requires electrical installation and maintenance.

Installation and Plumbing Costs

Basic replacement: £200–£400 – Like for like toilet swap using existing connections

Mid complexity fitting: £400–£600 – Includes concealed cisterns or new fixings

Advanced installation: £700–£1,000+ – Wall reinforcement, drainage changes, smart wiring Labour varies by region, but most plumbers charge £40–£70 per hour or offer flat installation quotes.

Cost Saving Tips

Choose dual flush systems: Save water and reduce bills by up to £100/year in large households

Buy in bathroom bundles: Purchasing toilets with matching basins or furniture can reduce overall spend by 10–25%

Look for extended warranties: Especially with wall hung or smart models, covering parts and servicing

Shop during sales periods:  Major discounts available in January, summer, and holiday events

Consider safe DIY removal:  Taking out the old unit can reduce time and cost on installation day.

What Toilet Colours Are Available in the UK Market and How to Choose the Right One?

Popular Toilet Colors in 2025

• White: Remains the most popular choice due to its clean appearance and versatility across various bathroom styles.
  
• Beige and Cream: Offer warmth and a softer alternative to stark white, blending well with neutral palettes.
  
• Black and Charcoal: Provide a bold, modern look, often used in contemporary or industrial designs.
  
• Pastels (e.g., Pink, Mint, Powder Blue): Introduce a touch of color without overwhelming the space, suitable for vintage or eclectic themes.
  
• Earthy Tones (e.g., Terracotta, Sage Green): Reflect a connection to nature, aligning with the trend towards organic and calming bathroom environments.

Choosing the Right Toilet Color

• Bathroom Size and Lighting: In smaller or dimly lit bathrooms, lighter colors like white or cream can make the space feel larger and brighter. Darker colors may add depth but can also make a small space feel more confined.
  
• Existing Color Scheme: Consider the colors of your walls, tiles, and fixtures. A toilet color should complement these elements to create a cohesive look.
  
• Maintenance: Lighter colors may show stains more easily but are also easier to inspect for cleanliness. Darker toilets can conceal stains but may show soap or mineral deposits more prominently.
  
• Style Preferences: For a classic look, white or beige is timeless. For a modern or bold statement, black or colored toilets can serve as focal points.

What Are the Best Toilets for Small Bathrooms?

The best toilets for small bathrooms are compact in projection, efficient in layout, and optimised to maximise floor space without compromising comfort or performance. Key options include short projection, corner, wall hung, and compact back to wall toilets, each suited to different space constraints and design goals.

• Short Projection Toilets (480–580mm depth)
  Designed to minimise front to back size, these are ideal for cloakrooms or tight en suites. Despite their reduced projection, they maintain full seating comfort and effective flushing. Prices typically range from £200–£600.
  
• Corner Toilets
  These fit diagonally into bathroom corners using triangular cisterns, making use of awkward or square layouts. They free up central floor space and work well in irregular shaped rooms. Expect costs of £300–£800.
  
• Wall Hung Toilets (360–480mm depth)
  Mounted off the floor with a concealed cistern, wall hung toilets enhance the sense of space and simplify cleaning. Their floating design creates a visually open layout. Total cost with installation is around £600–£1,500.
  
• Compact Back to Wall Toilets (520–600mm depth)
  These sit flush against the wall and hide the cistern inside furniture or stud walls, offering a neat and space saving alternative to standard floor standing units. Quality options cost £350–£900, excluding the cistern unit.

What Are the Best Toilets for Large Bathrooms?

In large bathrooms, the best toilets are those that offer enhanced comfort, premium aesthetics, and multifunctional design features. With more available space, homeowners can choose high performance toilets that balance practicality with visual appeal, such as full sized close coupled toilets, luxury smart toilets, high tank traditional WCs, and designer wall hung units with furniture integration.

• Full Size Close Coupled Toilets
  These are a staple in UK homes, ideal for larger bathrooms where space isn’t restricted. Attributes like a standard 650–700mm projection, dual flush cisterns, and rimless bowls enhance comfort and hygiene. Premium models offer soft close seats, ergonomic pan shapes, and advanced glaze coatings. Prices range from £300–£900 depending on design and material quality.
  
• Luxury Smart Toilets
  Perfect for master bathrooms or en suites, smart toilets incorporate bidet functions, heated seats, automated flushing, and touchless controls. These advanced systems cater to luxury and accessibility needs. Most models require electrical installation and cost £1,500–£4,000+, depending on features and brand.
  
• Traditional High Level or Low Level Toilets
  For period homes or Victorian style bathrooms, high tank WCs add heritage character. Attributes include ceramic pull chain cisterns, chrome flush pipes, and ornate pans, ideal for classic bathroom schemes. These models typically measure 700–750mm in projection and range from £400–£800.
  
• Wall Hung Toilets with Furniture
  In large bathrooms, wall hung WCs can be paired with bespoke cistern units, vanity furniture, or tiled stud walls to create seamless, spa style layouts. With hidden pipework, minimalist design, and floor clearance for easy cleaning, these models combine performance with style. Expect to pay £600–£1,500 including concealed systems.
  

Which Toilets Are Best for Accessibility and Comfort?

The best toilets for accessibility and comfort are specifically designed to support ease of use for people with mobility limitations, elderly individuals, and anyone requiring ergonomic support. These toilets feature higher pan heights, supportive grab rail compatibility, easy flush mechanisms, and spacious layouts. 

Key options include comfort height toilets, wall hung units at custom heights, and fully accessible toilets compliant with UK Part M or Doc M standards.

Comfort Height Toilets

• Pan height: 460–480mm (vs. standard 400–410mm)
  Comfort height toilets reduce strain on knees and hips by raising the seat closer to standing height. This makes sitting down and standing up easier for users with limited mobility, arthritis, or post surgical recovery.
  Many comfort height WCs also feature elongated bowls, soft close seats, and dual flush controls for added ease and hygiene. These models suit both residential and commercial use and typically cost £250–£600 depending on styling and build quality.
  

Wall Hung Toilets at Adjustable Heights

• Custom mounting height: typically 450–500mmWall hung toilets allow for precise height customisation, ideal for users with specific mobility needs. By pairing with a reinforced frame and flush plate system, they offer both comfort and space optimisation, especially in accessible wet rooms or level access shower spaces.
  The floating design allows for wheelchair transfer clearance and easier cleaning. Prices including frame range from £600–£1,200 installed.
  

Doc M & Part M Compliant Toilets

• Fully accessible pack: Includes raised height toilet, grab rails, lever flush, backrest Doc M toilet packs are designed to meet UK Building Regulations for disabled access in both public and residential settings. These setups ensure clear transfer space, high contrast components for visibility, and stable support for independent use. They are essential for care homes, hospitals, and inclusive public facilities. Expect to pay £500–£1,000+ for full compliant packs with basin, rails, and accessories.
  

Smart Toilets with Integrated Comfort Features

• Bidet wash, air dry, heated seat, touch free operation
  Smart toilets offer luxury level comfort with features that support hygiene and independence. Ideal for people with limited dexterity, they reduce the need for manual cleaning and allow for easier, more dignified toileting. While expensive (£1,500–£4,000+), they provide an excellent long term solution for accessible and age in place bathrooms.

What Are the Best Toilets for Families with Young Children?

The best toilets for families with young children combine safety, comfort, and easy maintenance. Close coupled toilets with a standard seat height (400–410mm) are most suitable, offering a stable base and familiar design. Soft close seats are essential for preventing accidental slams and trapped fingers, while rimless bowls simplify cleaning and improve hygiene ,a must in busy family bathrooms. 

Choose a dual flush system to promote eco conscious habits early on, and consider child specific accessories like integrated toddler seats or detachable training inserts. Look for models with durable materials and easy to replace seats so the toilet can adapt as your child grows.

Crucial Things to Know Before Installing a Toilet

Installing a toilet requires more than just swapping units ,it’s about choosing the right model for your space, plumbing setup, and long term needs. From flush type and trap configuration to installation style and user comfort, every detail matters when fitting a new toilet in a UK bathroom.

Key Pre Installation Considerations

• Toilet Size & Projection
  Always check the toilet’s depth from wall to front edge. For compact bathrooms, short projection models (typically 480–580mm) offer vital space savings. In standard or large bathrooms, full size toilets (around 650–700mm) provide enhanced comfort.
  
• Outlet Configuration
  UK homes usually have either horizontal (P trap) or vertical (S trap) waste outlets. Matching your new toilet to the existing soil pipe layout helps avoid expensive rework. Measure the distance from the wall to the centre of the outlet to confirm compatibility.
  
• Water Inlet Position
  Toilets come with either side or bottom inlet connections for the cistern. Make sure the new unit aligns with your water supply and includes an accessible isolation valve for future maintenance. A flexible hose can ease the connection process in tight spaces.
  
• Comfort & Accessibility
  For improved ergonomics, consider comfort height toilets (typically 460–480mm from floor to seat) which are easier to use for elderly users or anyone with mobility issues. Pair them with soft close, ergonomically contoured seats for a quieter and safer experience.
  
• Flush Type
  Most modern toilets feature dual flush mechanisms (e.g. 3L/6L) for water efficiency. Some high end or accessible models include lever flush or sensor activated flush systems for hands free hygiene ,ideal in inclusive bathrooms or for users with reduced dexterity.
  
• Wall or Floor Mounting
  Wall hung toilets offer a minimalist look and clear floor space, but they require reinforced walls and concealed frames. Floor mounted close coupled or back to wall toilets are easier to install and suit traditional bathrooms or quick refurbishments.
  
• Accessibility Compliance
  If you’re creating a mobility friendly bathroom, consider a Doc M compliant toilet setup ,featuring a raised height pan, grab rails, backrest, and lever flush. These ensure safe, independent use and comply with UK Building Regulations for disabled access.
  

How to Install a Toilet: Step by Step Tips for a Smooth Fit

1. Shut off water and drain the old unit
   
2. Remove the toilet and clean connection points
   
3. Check alignment with the soil pipe and water inlet
   
4. Fix the new toilet pan to the floor or frame
   
5. Attach the cistern or flush plate and connect water supply
   
6. Seal base with silicone and fit the toilet seat
   
7. Restore water flow, test the flush, and check for leaks

What Are the Toilet Rules and Regulations in the UK?

Toilet regulations in the UK are guided by national building standards and health and safety laws, ensuring that all facilities are safe, accessible, and fit for purpose across homes, workplaces, and public spaces.

• Building Regulations – Approved Documents M & T
  Document M sets out requirements for accessible toilets in new buildings, including dimensions, grab rails, and turning space for wheelchair users. Document T outlines how many toilets are required in public and commercial buildings based on usage and occupancy levels.
  
• BS 8300 and Changing Places Standards
  The BS 8300 2:2018 standard provides detailed guidance on the design of inclusive and accessible toilets. For those with profound disabilities, Changing Places Toilets must include specialist equipment such as hoists and adult sized changing benches in addition to standard accessible features.
  
• Workplace Health & Safety Regulations
  Employers must comply with the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992, which mandate sufficient sanitary facilities for staff, including minimum ratios of toilets per employee and provisions for both genders.
  
• BS 6465 4:2010 for Public Toilets
  This code of practice recommends best practices for designing and maintaining public toilet facilities, covering hygiene, layout, signage, and access considerations.

What Are the Most Common Toilet Materials and Finishes?

Toilets in the UK are primarily made from hard wearing materials that balance hygiene, durability, and design appeal. The chosen material and surface finish significantly impact the toilet’s ease of cleaning, scratch resistance, and how well it fits into modern or traditional bathroom interiors.

Most Common Toilet Materials

• Vitreous China (Glazed Ceramic)
  The standard material for UK toilets, vitreous china is a porcelain base coated in a high gloss enamel. It’s highly resistant to stains, scratches, and bacteria ,making it ideal for everyday use. Its smooth, non porous surface simplifies cleaning and supports both rimless bowl designs and dual flush systems.
  
• Fireclay
  A dense ceramic used in more premium toilets, fireclay offers similar hygiene benefits but with extra strength and impact resistance. It’s commonly chosen for designer bathrooms or luxury settings where durability and refined aesthetics are key.
  
• Thermoset Plastic (Seats & Internal Parts)
  Though not used for pans, thermoset plastics like polypropylene are popular for soft close toilet seats and concealed cisterns. These materials are water resistant, lightweight, and available in matte or gloss finishes to match ceramic fixtures.
  
• Stainless Steel (Commercial Use)
  Found mostly in public or high traffic areas, stainless steel is robust, vandal resistant, and easy to sanitise. While practical, it lacks the warmth and decorative versatility needed in home bathrooms.
  

Most Popular Toilet Finishes

• Gloss White
  The go to finish for UK bathrooms, gloss white reflects light, resists stains, and suits all bathroom styles ,from traditional to ultra modern. It’s easy to maintain and widely available across all toilet types, including close coupled, back to wall, and wall hung models.
  
• Matte Ceramic Finishes
  Growing in popularity for modern bathrooms, matte finishes in black, grey, or taupe offer a soft, contemporary look. While stylish, they may show water spots more easily and require gentle, non abrasive cleaning.
  
• Coloured Glazes
  For a more design led bathroom, coloured toilets are now offered in muted tones like sage green, sand beige, and pastel blue. These finishes allow better coordination with tiles, brassware, and basins ,adding warmth and individuality to the space.
  
• Textured & Metallic Effects
  Available through specialist brands, metallic or textured glazes in bronze, gunmetal, or brushed finishes provide a premium look but come at a higher price and require more careful upkeep.
  

When choosing a toilet, opt for materials that are easy to clean, hygienic, and durable under daily use. Vitreous china with a white gloss finish remains the most reliable choice for UK homes, while matte and coloured ceramics add style in more curated spaces. Ensure your finish harmonises with nearby basins, tiles, and brassware for a cohesive look that balances practicality with visual appeal.

How to Maintain a Toilet

Regular toilet maintenance keeps your bathroom hygienic, prevents costly repairs, and extends the life of your fixtures.

• Weekly Cleaning: Use non abrasive cleaners and a toilet brush to scrub the bowl, focusing under the rim. Avoid bleach heavy products that can damage seals.
  
• Descale Monthly: In hard water areas, use limescale remover or white vinegar to prevent mineral build up in the bowl and cistern.
  
• Check for Leaks: Listen for running water or inspect damp spots. Faulty flush valves or worn seals may need replacing.
  
• Clean Exterior Surfaces: Wipe the seat, handle, and base with antibacterial spray. Use a microfibre cloth to avoid damaging finishes.
  
• Flush Mechanism Care: Open the cistern periodically to clean and inspect parts. Replace stiff or worn buttons, washers, and valves.
  
• Prevent Blockages: Only flush toilet paper. Keep a plunger handy and use a toilet safe pipe cleaner monthly.
  
• Replace Seat if Worn: Swap out cracked, stained, or wobbly seats. Soft close or quick release models offer convenience and safety.
  
• Concealed Cisterns: For wall hung toilets, access the cistern via the flush plate. Check frame stability and internal moisture.

Buy Your Perfect Toilet with Bathroom Mountain

Ready to upgrade your bathroom with the perfect toilet? At Bathroom Mountain, we make it easy to shop with confidence ,whether you’re buying online or visiting us in person. Explore our full range of toilets online where you’ll find everything from compact cloakroom options to luxury smart toilets, all backed by expert advice and fast UK delivery.

Or you can visit our Bathroom Mountain showrooms, where our friendly team can guide you through the latest designs, help you match fixtures, and answer all your technical questions face to face. If you’re planning a quick refresh or a full renovation, we’re here to help you make the right choice with style, substance, and great value.

Summing Up

Buying a toilet might seem straightforward, but as you’ve seen, the right choice involves far more than appearance alone. Every detail ,from plumbing configuration and bathroom layout to flush efficiency, bowl shape, and seat height ,plays a vital role in delivering long term comfort, hygiene, and practicality.

Whether you’re designing a compact cloakroom, a high traffic family bathroom, or a premium en suite, the goal is to strike the right balance between space, performance, style, and budget. Consider who will be using the toilet, how much room you have to work with, and the level of maintenance you’re comfortable managing. Details like outlet type, water saving technology, and cleaning ease may seem minor ,but they make a big difference over time.

In the end, the best toilet is one that fits your lifestyle, complements your bathroom’s aesthetic, and performs reliably day in and day out. With thoughtful planning, your choice will serve your home ,and everyone in it ,beautifully for years to come.