Choosing the perfect toilet for your bathroom involves far more than just picking the cheapest or prettiest option. At British Building Supplies, our extensive bathroom collection offers everything from traditional close-coupled models to sleek wall-hung designs and modern rimless toilets. To ensure you make a fully informed decision that balances style, functionality, and value, here are the 7 critical factors you must consider before purchasing your next toilet.
1. Choose the Right Type for Your Space & Style
The first decision shapes your entire bathroom aesthetic and installation requirements.
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Close-Coupled Toilets: The most popular UK choice, with the cistern directly atop the pan. Affordable, easy to install, and versatile for any bathroom. Perfect for traditional or standard layouts.
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Back-to-Wall Toilets: Modern, minimalist design with the pan flush to the wall and cistern hidden (either in a furniture unit or behind the wall). Creates a sleek, uncluttered look—ideal for contemporary bathrooms.
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Wall-Hung Toilets: The ultimate in modern design, with the bowl mounted to the wall and cistern completely concealed. Makes small spaces appear larger and simplifies floor cleaning. Requires sturdy wall installation.
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Short-Projection Toilets: Compact design (typically under 650mm projection) specifically for cloakrooms, en-suites, or small bathrooms where space is limited.
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Rimless Toilets: Hygienic, easy-to-clean design without a traditional rim. Water washes the entire pan surface, reducing bacteria buildup—available across multiple styles.
2. Measure Precisely: Rough-In & Space Clearance
Never skip measurements—this prevents costly fitting mistakes.
- Rough-In (Soil Pipe Position): Measure from the wall to the center of your soil pipe. Standard UK rough-in is 110mm (4 inches). Ensure your chosen toilet matches this; adapters are limited.
- Projection (Depth): Standard toilets project 600–700mm. For small spaces, select short-projection models (under 600mm).
- Clearances: Leave minimum 600mm in front of the toilet and 200mm on both sides for comfortable use and cleaning.
- Door Swing: Ensure the bathroom door fully opens without hitting the toilet.
3. Flush Performance & Water Efficiency
Performance and sustainability go hand-in-hand.
- Dual-Flush Systems: All modern BBS toilets feature dual flush (typically 4/6 litre or 3/5 litre), letting you choose a partial flush for liquid waste and full for solid—saves water and reduces bills.
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Flush Type:
- Gravity-Fed: Quiet, reliable, affordable (standard on most close-coupled models).
- Pressure-Assist: Powerful flush, fewer clogs (ideal for busy family bathrooms).
- Rimless / Tornado Flush: 360° cleaning, superior hygiene, less streaking.
- WaterSense Label: Look for high-efficiency models meeting strict water-saving standards without compromising performance.
4. Comfort Height Matters
Toilet height directly impacts daily comfort, especially for family members of all ages.
- Standard Height: 400–430mm — traditional, suitable for children and average-height users.
- Comfort/Chair Height: 450–480mm — easier to sit/stand, perfect for taller adults, elderly, or those with mobility issues.
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Bowl Shape:
- Round: Compact, saves space (ideal for small bathrooms).
- Elongated: More comfortable for adults (18.5 inches), preferred for main bathrooms.
5. One-Piece vs. Two-Piece Construction
Impacts aesthetics, cleaning, and budget.
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Two-Piece (Separate Tank & Bowl):
- Pros: Budget-friendly, easier transport/installation, simpler repairs, widely available.
- Cons: Seam between tank and bowl can trap dirt; more traditional look.
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One-Piece (Single Unit):
- Pros: Sleek, modern, seamless design—easy to clean with no crevices.
- Cons: Higher price, heavier to install.
6. Material, Quality & Durability
Invest in longevity.
- Vitreous China: Standard for high-quality toilets—glossy, durable, easy to clean, stain-resistant. All BBS toilets use premium vitreous china.
- Warranty: Check coverage—top brands offer 5–25 year warranties. BBS provides comprehensive manufacturer warranties for reliability.
- Brand Reliability: Our collection includes trusted UK and European brands known for consistent quality and long service life.
- Finish: Smooth, non-porous glaze prevents bacteria growth and simplifies maintenance.
7. Budget Wisely: Total Cost Considerations
Beyond the ticket price.
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Price Ranges at BBS:
- Budget: £50–£150 — reliable close-coupled, basic dual-flush.
- Mid-Range: £150–£300 — rimless, back-to-wall, comfort height, premium finishes.
- Luxury: £300+ — wall-hung, designer styles, advanced flushing, smart features.
- Installation Costs: Factor in fitting (DIY or professional). Wall-hung/back-to-wall models cost more to install than close-coupled.
- Long-Term Value: Spending more upfront for quality reduces maintenance/replacement costs over time.
- Extras: Include soft-close seat (standard on most modern models), fixings, and any necessary adapters.
Final Tips Before You Buy
- Match Your Soil Pipe: Confirm horizontal/vertical outlet alignment—critical for proper fit.
- Check What's Included: Ensure the seat, fixings, and necessary connectors come with the toilet.
- Style Cohesion: Choose a design that complements your bathroom suite (basin, bath, tiles) for a unified look.
- Read Reviews: BBS customer reviews highlight real-world performance, ease of installation, and durability.
Ready to Shop?
Explore British Building Supplies' full Bathroom Toilets Collection to find the perfect model matching your space, style, and budget. Our range includes all types, sizes, and designs—from practical budget options to luxurious statement pieces—all backed by quality guarantees and expert support.
Whether you're renovating a small cloakroom or designing a luxury master bathroom, these 7 essential considerations will guide you to a toilet that delivers comfort, performance, and lasting value for years to come.