Making the Most of Small Bathrooms With Round Toilets

Having a small bathroom can present some challenges when it comes to layout and space planning. With limited square footage, every inch counts, so choosing the right fixtures and amenities requires careful consideration. One great space-saving option to consider for a petite powder room is installing a round toilet.

Round bowl toilets take up less floor area than elongated bowls, providing you with more room to move around in a cramped bathroom. And contrary to popular belief, round toilets can offer just as much comfort and functionality as elongated versions. Keep reading to learn why round toilets are ideal for small bathrooms and how to shop for and install the perfect compact commode.

Benefits of Round Toilets for Small Bathrooms

Here are some of the biggest advantages round toilets offer for tiny bathrooms:

• Save Precious Floor Space - With a smaller footprint, round toilets maximize every square inch.
• Allow For Easier Movement and Access - Their compact shape leaves more open floor space to enter and exit the room.
• Provide a Sleek, Modern Look - Curved bowls have a streamlined, contemporary aesthetic that complements modern small bathrooms.
• Easier to Clean Than Elongated Toilets - Fewer corners and a smooth bowl mean simpler cleaning with less nooks for grime.

In addition to space-saving perks, round toilets tend to be more affordable than elongated options, making them a budget-friendly pick. Their low-profile, compact design can also be ideal for smaller adults and children who don't require as much seat space. With the right model, a round toilet can offer just as much comfort and quality as a larger elongated version while taking up a fraction of the precious real estate.

Other Benefits of Round Toilets

Round toilets offer other bonuses beyond just saving space:

• Traditional stylistic look - Round toilets evoke a classic, timeless aesthetic.
• ADA compliant options - Many compact round toilets meet ADA height requirements.
• Lower water usage - Round bowls often require less water per flush, conserving resources.
• Wide range of sizes - Ranging from 16-28 inches, there are many round toilet sizes to choose from.

Design Considerations for Round Toilets

If you've decided that a round toilet is right for your petite powder room, keep these key factors in mind while shopping and selecting the perfect model:

Toilet Dimensions

Focus your search on toilets with a smaller bowl diameter, ranging from 16 to 28 inches. Dimensions like 16-18 inches are best for truly tiny spaces. Measure your bathroom to ensure there is adequate floor space for the toilet's diameter and for traffic flow around it.

Toilet Height and Seat Height

Look for a round toilet with a comfortable seat height around 15 to 17 inches. Chair-height models around 17 inches don't sacrifice comfort. Standard height units around 15 inches are compact while providing the traditional look. Lower toilets can be ideal for small children as well.

Color and Material

White porcelain is a classic, timeless choice, but round toilets come in a range of colors. Select a neutral tone like black, biscuit, or linen to match your space. Or make a statement with a bold shade - options like pink, teal, and bronze can add modern flair.

Additional Features

Consider useful extras like dual flush capabilities to conserve water, soft-close lids for quiet and controlled closing, antimicrobial glazes for added hygiene, and touchscreen buttons for easy flushing. But avoid overloading on fancy features that drive up cost.

Shopping Tips for Round Toilets

Follow this advice to choose the ideal round toilet model for your small bathroom on a budget:

• Compare brands like Toto, Kohler, American Standard and more to find one with top ratings and reviews.
• Focus your search on compact, space-saving one-piece round toilets.
• Check the rough-in size required to ensure the toilet will fit the existing plumbing.
• Consider your budget and pricing to find an affordable option with the must-have features.
• Research the warranty and return policy in case any defects arise.
• Double check dimensions - both width and height are important.
• If possible, see a floor model in person before purchasing.

Shopping at home improvement stores or online can allow you to see a variety of round toilet models and compare before you buy. Be sure to measure twice to ensure the toilet will fit!

Save Money With Round Toilets

Here are some tips to get a great deal on a compact round toilet and save money for your small bathroom makeover project:

• Consider lesser-known but quality brands to avoid paying for prestige labels.
• Purchase a reliable used or vintage round toilet from a salvage store.
• Time your purchase with seasonal sales events, holidays, and clearance discounts.
• Opt for a model with fewer fancy features to reduce costs.
• Negotiate with plumbing supply retailers to inquire about price matching or bundles.

Installing and Maintaining Round Toilets

Once you've purchased the perfect petite round toilet, it's time to tackle installation. Here are some tips for a smooth installation process:

Professional Installation Recommendations

Consider hiring a licensed, insured, and experienced plumber for toilet installation. This ensures proper drainage and water supply line connections. Professionals can also handle any unexpected issues that arise during the install process with expertise.

DIY Installation Tips and Guidelines

If installing the toilet yourself, be sure to carefully follow all manufacturer instructions. Check that the existing bathroom plumbing, including the floor flange and water supply line, are compatible with the new toilet. Tighten all connections securely to prevent leaks. Caulk around the base for a cleaner finish.

Cleaning and Maintenance Best Practices

Maintain the round toilet with regular cleaning using a soft toilet brush and mild, non-abrasive cleaner to prevent mineral buildup and stains in the bowl. Check for leaks underneath periodically and tighten connections if needed. Use a toilet-safe disinfecting cleaner inside the tank and bowl to kill germs.

Troubleshooting Common Toilet Problems

Issues like leaks between the tank and bowl, clogs, constantly running water, flushing problems, and bowl stains can arise. Know how to troubleshoot minor repairs yourself or when to call a plumber for major issues. Replacing flappers, adjusting fill valves, and using a plunger for clogs are basic DIY fixes. Catching and addressing problems early is key.

Here are some great ways to incorporate a round toilet into your petite powder room's design:

• Pair with a small pedestal sink or wall-hung vanity to save floor space.
• Install the toilet in a corner to open up the room.
• Add a space-saving shower enclosure rather than a bathtub.
• Include glass doors on the shower and natural light from a window.
• Opt for wall-mounted faucets and towel bars.
• Install shelving for folded towels and toiletries.
• Choose light, neutral colors for walls, floors, and the toilet.
• Decorate with wall art, greenery, and personal accessories.

Get creative with storage solutions like over-the-toilet shelving and organizational baskets. The compact footprint of a round toilet makes it easy to design an efficient, functional small bathroom.