Choosing the right toilet involves more than just aesthetics. From functionality to construction, flushing methods, and water efficiency, each aspect plays a crucial role in performance and comfort. Here’s a breakdown of the essential factors to consider when selecting a toilet.
1. How a Toilet Works
A toilet operates using a cistern that releases water into the bowl via a lever or push-button mechanism. Standard models use 6–8 litres of water per flush, while water-saving models can use as little as 4/2.6 litres. This rapid water release creates a siphonic effect, efficiently flushing away waste.
2. Toilet Manufacturing Process
Toilets are crafted from a blend of clay, fillers, and fluxes, which are molded, dried, and fired at high temperatures. A durable glaze, either white or coloured, is then applied, chemically bonding to the ceramic surface. This process results in vitreous china—a highly durable, stain-resistant, and scratch-resistant material commonly used in modern toilets.
3. Toilet Types and Construction
Toilets come in several construction styles, each with unique advantages:
One-Piece Toilets – Sleek, space-saving design with fewer crevices, making cleaning easier. However, they are generally more expensive.
Two-Piece Toilets – A more affordable option consisting of a separate tank and bowl, making installation and transportation easier.
Wall-Mounted Toilets – Modern and minimalist, these toilets save floor space but require a concealed tank and professional installation.
Choosing the right type depends on factors such as space, budget, and maintenance preferences.
4. Toilet Seats: Comfort & Features
Most toilets come with a seat designed for that specific model, but upgrading can enhance comfort and functionality. Options include:
Heated Seats – Ideal for cold climates.
Bidet Seats – Integrated bidets provide added hygiene.
Soft-Close Seats – Prevents slamming and reduces noise.
5. Flushing Systems: Gravity vs. Pressure-Assisted
Toilets rely on different flushing mechanisms for waste removal:
Gravity-Flush Toilets – The most common type, using the force of gravity to move water and waste through the drain.
Dual-Flush Toilets – Offers two flush options: a low-flow flush for liquid waste and a stronger flush for solid waste, promoting water efficiency.
Pressure-Assisted Toilets – Utilizes air pressure to enhance the flush, making it ideal for high-traffic areas or commercial settings.
6. Water Efficiency: Reducing Consumption
Older toilets used up to 6 gallons per flush, leading to excessive water consumption. Modern toilets must comply with water conservation standards, typically using:
1.6 gallons per flush (GPF) – Standard for most modern toilets.
1.28 GPF or lower – High-efficiency toilets that minimize water waste.
For sustainable solutions, consider dual-flush and low-flow models that balance performance with conservation.
7. Toilet Height: Standard vs. Comfort Height
Toilet height plays a crucial role in comfort:
Standard Height (15 inches) – The traditional toilet height.
Chair/Comfort Height (17–19 inches) – Easier to use, especially for taller individuals and those with mobility challenges.
Selecting the right height depends on user needs and accessibility requirements.
8. Bowl Shape: Round vs. Elongated
The shape of the toilet bowl impacts both comfort and space efficiency:
Elongated Bowls – Provide extra seating comfort but require more space.
Round Bowls – Compact and ideal for small bathrooms.
For smaller bathrooms, round bowls are the better choice, while elongated bowls offer enhanced comfort in larger spaces.
1.Gravity-Flush Toilets for Bulk Supply & Large-Scale Projects
Ideal for: Contractors, wholesalers, and commercial projects requiring cost-effective and reliable toilet solutions.
Gravity-flush toilets remain one of the most widely used toilet types due to their cost efficiency, easy installation, and minimal maintenance requirements. These units are a preferred choice for residential developments, commercial buildings, and large-scale housing projects, offering a dependable flushing system that meets standard plumbing requirements.
How It Works:
Gravity-flush toilets operate through a simple yet effective mechanism. Water enters the tank via the fill valve and stops when the tank is full. Upon flushing, the flapper at the base of the tank opens, allowing water to rush into the bowl, utilizing gravitational force to clear waste efficiently. This proven system reduces the need for complex plumbing infrastructure, making it a practical choice for bulk buyers.
2.Pressure-Assisted Toilets for High-Performance Applications
Ideal for: Commercial buildings, high-traffic restrooms, and businesses seeking water-efficient, clog-resistant toilet solutions.
Pressure-assisted toilets are designed to deliver superior flushing performance by using a combination of compressed air and water. Often referred to as power flush toilets, these units feature a sealed pressure tank that enhances flushing force, making them an excellent choice for commercial properties, hotels, public restrooms, and multi-unit residential buildings where reliability and efficiency are crucial.
How It Works:
Unlike traditional gravity-flush toilets, pressure-assisted toilets compress air within a sealed tank as water fills. Upon flushing, this pressurized air forcefully pushes water into the bowl, ensuring a powerful, clog-resistant flush without increasing water usage. This system significantly reduces maintenance issues caused by frequent clogging, making it ideal for high-traffic environments.
3.One-Piece Toilets – Modern, Space-Saving, and Easy to Maintain
Ideal for: Luxury bathrooms, high-end residential projects, hotels, and commercial properties requiring a sleek, easy-to-clean toilet solution.
One-piece toilets provide a streamlined and modern alternative to traditional two-piece models. With a seamless design that integrates the bowl and tank into a single unit, these toilets not only enhance bathroom aesthetics but also offer superior ease of cleaning—an essential feature for hotels, resorts, and high-end residential projects where hygiene and maintenance efficiency are key.
Key Benefits:
Contemporary, Space-Saving Design – Sleek and compact for luxury and small-space bathrooms.
Easy to Clean – Fewer crevices reduce dust, dirt, and bacterial buildup.
Multiple Styles & Flushing Options – Available in various shapes and water-saving flushing systems.
Durable & Long-Lasting – High-quality ceramic construction ensures longevity.
Perfect for B2B Bulk Orders – Available for wholesale, OEM, and ODM customization to meet project requirements.
4.Two-Piece Toilets – Cost-Effective & Versatile for Residential and Commercial Use
Ideal for: Large-scale housing projects, budget-friendly renovations, hotels, and commercial restrooms.
Two-piece toilets remain the most widely used and cost-effective option for residential and commercial applications. Featuring a separate tank and bowl, these models offer easier handling during transport and installation, making them a preferred choice for large-scale construction projects, multi-unit housing developments, and budget-conscious renovations.
Key Benefits for Businesses:
✔ Cost-Effective – More affordable than one-piece or wall-mounted models, ideal for bulk purchases.
✔ Easy Installation & Replacement – The separate tank and bowl allow for simpler handling and transportation.
✔ Versatile Design Options – Available in round or elongated bowl designs to fit different space requirements.
✔ Standardized Parts – Easier maintenance and replacement compared to integrated designs.
✔ Ideal for Bulk Supply & Distribution – Available for wholesale, OEM, and ODM customization.
5.Wall-Hung Toilets – Space-Saving & Modern for High-End Projects
Ideal for: Luxury hotels, upscale residential developments, high-end commercial spaces, and space-constrained bathrooms.
Wall-hung toilets are a premium choice for modern bathrooms, offering a sleek, space-saving, and easy-to-maintain solution. By integrating the flushing mechanism and drainage within the wall, these toilets maximize floor space, making them an ideal option for compact bathrooms, en-suites, and contemporary interior designs.
Key Benefits for Businesses:
✔ Space Optimization – Ideal for small bathrooms, maximizes floor space for a spacious feel.
✔ Premium Aesthetic Appeal – Enhances modern, minimalist, and high-end bathroom designs.
✔ Easier Cleaning & Maintenance – With no base touching the floor, cleaning is more efficient.
✔ Customizable Installation – Adjustable height and concealed tank options available.
✔ Preferred for Commercial & Luxury Projects – Common in hotels, office buildings, and upscale residential properties.
6.Back-to-Wall Toilets for Commercial Spaces
Exploring the Concealed Cistern
Back-to-wall toilets are an excellent choice for commercial applications, combining the sleek design of wall-hung toilets with the practical functionality of concealed cisterns. These toilets help create a clean, modern, and professional appearance in any restroom, making them ideal for businesses seeking an aesthetically pleasing and efficient solution. The cistern is typically hidden within the wall or behind a cabinet, maintaining a streamlined look while preserving the space’s overall tidiness.
Flush Options: Handle, Push Button, and Sensor Flush Kits
Back-to-wall toilets offer a range of flush options that can enhance the functionality of your commercial restroom. Traditional flush handles, modern push buttons, and touchless sensor flush kits are all available. Sensor flush kits, in particular, provide a hygienic, hands-free experience, which is perfect for high-traffic commercial environments where minimizing contact and improving sanitation is essential.
The Appeal of the Back-to-Wall Toilet Design for Commercial Settings
The back-to-wall toilet design is highly regarded for its contemporary, minimalist aesthetic. It is particularly well-suited for businesses and commercial spaces that prioritize cleanliness and a clutter-free atmosphere. With its concealed cistern and efficient flush options, this design can contribute to both the visual appeal and the functional performance of restrooms, making it a smart choice for commercial facilities looking to upgrade their restroom design while ensuring ease of maintenance.
7.Low-Flow Toilets – Efficient Water-Saving Solutions for Commercial & Residential Projects
Ideal for: Sustainable building projects, hotels, office buildings, and environmentally conscious residential developments.
Low-flow toilets are engineered to reduce water consumption without compromising flushing performance. By limiting the amount of water used per flush, these toilets help businesses and property owners lower water bills and comply with green building regulations.
Key Benefits for Businesses:
✔ Water Efficiency & Cost Savings – Uses significantly less water per flush, cutting operational expenses.
✔ Meets Environmental Standards – Compliant with LEED, EPA WaterSense, and other sustainability certifications.
✔ Ideal for Green Building Projects – Preferred choice for hotels, office buildings, and eco-conscious residential developments.
✔ Bulk Purchase & Customization – Available in various designs, flushing technologies, and installation options to meet project requirements.
✔ Government Incentives & Rebates – Qualifies for water conservation rebates in some regions.
8.Dual-Flush Toilets – Smart Water-Saving Solutions for Commercial & Residential Projects
Ideal for: Sustainable construction, hospitality, office buildings, and eco-friendly residential developments.
Dual-flush toilets are an efficient water-saving solution designed to offer customizable flush options, reducing overall water consumption while maintaining strong flushing performance. Equipped with two flush buttons, users can select a half flush for liquid waste or a full flush for solid waste, optimizing water usage per need.
Key Benefits for Businesses & Developers:
✔ Enhanced Water Efficiency – Lowers water consumption by up to 50%, reducing operational costs.
✔ Regulatory Compliance – Meets LEED, EPA WaterSense, and other sustainability certifications.
✔ Ideal for Large-Scale Installations – Suitable for hotels, office buildings, commercial properties, and green housing projects.
✔ Customizable Designs & Bulk Supply – Available in various styles, colors, and configurations to match project specifications.
✔ Incentives & Rebates – Qualifies for water conservation rebates in many regions.
9.Elongated Bowl Toilets – Ergonomic Comfort for Commercial & Residential Use
Ideal for: Hotels, office buildings, healthcare facilities, and premium residential projects.
Elongated bowl toilets are designed for enhanced comfort and ergonomic use, making them a preferred choice for commercial properties, luxury residential projects, and healthcare settings. These toilets feature a bowl length of approximately 18.5 inches, offering a more spacious seating area compared to round bowl models.
Key Benefits for Businesses & Developers:
✔ Superior Comfort & Accessibility – Ideal for high-traffic areas and ADA-compliant installations.
✔ Modern Aesthetic & Premium Appeal – Enhances bathroom design in upscale commercial and residential spaces.
✔ Improved Hygiene – The larger surface area reduces spills and improves overall sanitation.
✔ Versatile Installation Options – Available in gravity-flush, pressure-assisted, and dual-flush designs.
✔ High-Durability Construction – Engineered for long-term use in hotels, office spaces, and healthcare facilities.
10.Round Bowl Toilets – Space-Saving & Cost-Effective Solutions for Commercial & Residential Use
Ideal for: Apartment buildings, hospitality projects, schools, and compact bathroom designs.
Round bowl toilets feature a compact design, with a bowl length of approximately 16.5 inches, making them a preferred choice for space-efficient bathrooms. They are commonly found in apartment complexes, hotel rooms, schools, and en-suites, where maximizing available space is a priority.
Key Benefits for Businesses & Contractors:
✔ Optimized for Small Spaces – Ideal for hotels, apartments, and commercial restrooms with limited space.
✔ Cost-Effective & Budget-Friendly – Lower upfront costs compared to elongated models, making them perfect for large-scale installations.
✔ Child-Friendly Design – A great choice for schools, daycare centers, and family-friendly facilities.
✔ Versatile Configuration Options – Available in one-piece, two-piece, and wall-hung models with various flushing technologies.
✔ Reliable Performance & Durability – Manufactured with high-quality ceramic and water-efficient mechanisms.
11.Rimless Toilets: Enhancing Hygiene and Efficiency for Businesses
Rimless toilets offer an advanced hygiene solution for businesses in the hospitality, healthcare, and commercial sectors. By eliminating the traditional rim inside the bowl, these toilets reduce bacterial buildup and simplify maintenance, ensuring a more sanitary restroom environment. Their streamlined design enhances cleaning efficiency, lowering labour costs and improving facility hygiene. While rimless toilets may have a higher initial cost, their long-term benefits in cleanliness and maintenance make them a valuable investment for businesses prioritising hygiene and operational efficiency.
12.Chair Height Toilets for Commercial Applications
Ideal for: Tall users, commercial restrooms, and individuals with mobility challenges.
A chair height toilet is designed with a seat height that exceeds that of standard toilets. While a standard toilet seat typically ranges from 14 to 15 inches, a chair height toilet features a seat height between 15 to 17 inches. This elevated height offers increased comfort for taller users and can also be beneficial for individuals with mobility issues, making it easier to sit down and stand up.
Often referred to as "comfort height toilets," these models are ideal for commercial spaces that require enhanced user accessibility and comfort. If your business or facility caters to taller adults or individuals with mobility difficulties, a chair height toilet is a suitable choice. However, if the restroom is primarily intended for children or the general population is shorter, a standard height toilet might be a more appropriate option.
13.High-Level and Low-Level Toilets for Commercial and Hospitality Spaces
Ideal for heritage hotels, boutique guesthouses, and upscale commercial spaces, high-level and low-level toilets bring a refined vintage aesthetic. Featuring cisterns mounted either high or low on the wall with a distinctive chain-pull flush, these models enhance the charm of period-style interiors. Their classic Victorian elegance makes them a preferred choice for establishments aiming to offer a traditional and luxurious restroom experience. However, high-level models require adequate wall space for proper installation, making them best suited for properties with spacious bathroom layouts.
14.Space-Saving Corner Toilets for Commercial Restrooms
Corner toilets are designed to optimise floor space in commercial restrooms, especially in areas with limited room or irregular layouts. Featuring a triangular cistern, these toilets seamlessly fit into corners, allowing businesses to maximise the available space. While they may offer fewer design options compared to standard toilet styles, corner toilets provide a practical solution for high-traffic environments that require efficient use of space.
Maximising Space Efficiency with Combination Units
Toilet and basin combination units are an ideal solution for commercial spaces where space is limited. These units integrate a toilet with a compact basin or sink, making them perfect for small bathrooms, restrooms, or cloakrooms in offices, retail stores, or other commercial establishments. By combining both essential bathroom fixtures into a single unit, they offer significant space savings without sacrificing functionality.
Seamless Integration of Toilet and Basin
Combination units creatively combine the toilet and basin into one cohesive unit. This innovative design not only saves valuable floor space but also enhances the overall visual appeal of the bathroom. The basin is typically placed above the toilet cistern, optimising water usage and reducing the need for additional plumbing installations, which can further streamline bathroom construction and renovation projects.
Small Bathroom Solutions for Commercial Applications
For businesses with compact restroom spaces, toilet and basin combination units are a game-changer. They allow for the efficient use of space by integrating a sink and toilet into a single unit, eliminating the need for a separate vanity or additional sink. This solution is both practical and stylish, making it a perfect choice for commercial properties looking to maximise their bathroom layouts while maintaining a clean and modern aesthetic.
When purchasing toilets for commercial or industrial use, various factors must be considered to ensure functionality, compliance, and cost-efficiency. Below are critical aspects to evaluate before making a selection.
1. Aesthetic and Functional Design
Commercial restrooms should align with the overall design of the facility. Whether the objective is to create a modern, high-end experience or to maintain a traditional, practical setting, toilet design plays a vital role.
High-level toilets complement classic or heritage-inspired environments.
Wall-hung toilets offer a sleek, contemporary look while maximizing floor space for easy cleaning.
Back-to-wall toilets provide a concealed cistern for a minimalistic and professional appearance.
2. Toilet Bowl Design and Construction
Commercial toilets must be designed for durability, ease of cleaning, and user comfort.
Bowl Shape: Elongated bowls provide extra comfort and are commonly preferred for high-traffic restrooms, while round bowls save space in compact settings.
Material Quality: High-grade vitreous china or stainless steel options enhance longevity and resistance to damage.
3. Seat Height and Accessibility Compliance
Standard Height Toilets (15”-17”): Suitable for general applications.
ADA-Compliant/Comfort Height Toilets (17”-19”): Recommended for public facilities to accommodate users with mobility challenges.
4. Space Optimization and Layout Efficiency
Compact Designs: In high-density urban spaces, short-projection or wall-mounted toilets help maximize available square footage.
Corner Toilets: Ideal for irregularly shaped restrooms or areas with limited floor space.
Under-Window Installations: Useful in commercial renovations where space planning is constrained by existing architectural features.
5. Plumbing Compatibility and Installation Feasibility
Existing Plumbing Infrastructure: Aligning the toilet installation with current plumbing reduces costs and simplifies maintenance.
Outlet Type: Toilets come with different trapway designs (horizontal, vertical, left-facing, right-facing). Verifying compatibility is crucial.
Building Code Compliance: Ensuring adherence to local regulations for drainage, venting, and water conservation prevents future legal or operational issues.
6. Water Efficiency and Sustainability
Low-Flow Toilets: Models with reduced water usage (1.0 to 1.28 gallons per flush) contribute to sustainability initiatives and lower utility costs.
Dual-Flush Systems: Providing both light and full flush options (ranging from 0.8 to 1.6 gallons per flush) offers an eco-friendly solution for commercial facilities.
Waterless Urinals: In male restrooms, waterless urinals complement standard toilets to further reduce water consumption.
7. Toilet Trapway and Anti-Clog Features
Fully Glazed Trapways: Prevents clogging and enhances waste removal efficiency.
Concealed or Skirted Trapways: Provides a streamlined appearance and simplifies cleaning.
8. User Comfort and Hygiene Features
Smart Toilets: Increasingly used in high-end commercial settings, offering heated seats, automatic flushing, self-cleaning wands, and bidet functionality.
Hygienic Coatings: Antibacterial glazes and non-stick surfaces help prevent bacteria buildup and staining.
Sensor-Activated Flush Systems: Reduce touchpoints and enhance hygiene in high-traffic facilities.
9. Flush Mechanism Selection
Gravity Flush Toilets: Cost-effective and widely used in standard applications.
Pressure-Assisted Flush Toilets: Ideal for high-traffic restrooms, reducing clogging risks and ensuring efficient waste disposal.
Vacuum Flush Systems: Suitable for specialized commercial environments, such as airplanes, cruise ships, or remote locations.
10. Flush Handle and Activation Methods
Manual Flush Handles: Traditional and cost-effective but require more maintenance.
Push-Button Flush Systems: Modern and user-friendly, available in single- or dual-flush variations.
Touchless Sensor Flush Kits: Highly hygienic, recommended for public restrooms, airports, and healthcare settings.
11. Customization Options and Color Selection
Standard White Toilets: Most commonly used due to their versatility and ease of maintenance.
Custom Color Options: Available for upscale commercial projects seeking unique aesthetics.
Branding Considerations: Some businesses opt for customized designs to align with corporate identity.
12. Durability and Maintenance Considerations
Two-Piece vs. One-Piece Toilets: One-piece designs are easier to clean and maintain, while two-piece models are more cost-effective for bulk installations.
Anti-Vandalism Features: Public restrooms require tamper-resistant components and reinforced materials.
Maintenance Accessibility: Concealed cisterns and internal plumbing should allow for easy servicing.
13. Projection and Space Planning
Standard Projection: Around 800mm or less; suitable for most commercial applications.
Short-Projection Toilets: Beneficial for compact restroom layouts.
14. Regulatory Compliance and Building Standards
ADA Compliance: Essential for public and commercial facilities to meet accessibility requirements.
Minimum Clearance Standards: Toilets should be positioned at least 15 inches from walls and fixtures.
Waste Pipe Distance: Toilets must be installed within six meters of the main soil pipe for optimal performance.
Selecting the right commercial toilet involves balancing aesthetics, functionality, efficiency, and compliance. Businesses should consider factors such as plumbing infrastructure, space constraints, durability, and water conservation to make cost-effective, long-term investments. Partnering with reliable suppliers ensures access to high-quality products that meet regulatory standards while enhancing user experience.
Choosing the right toilet for your bathroom can be challenging, especially when faced with technical terms and industry jargon. To help you make an informed decision, we’ve put together a simple guide to common toilet-related phrases you might encounter while shopping.
1. Close-Coupled Toilet
One of the most popular toilet styles, a close-coupled toilet features a cistern directly attached to the pan. Available in both modern and traditional designs, this type of toilet is easy to install and maintain.
2. Water-Saving Toilet
An eco-friendly option, water-saving toilets feature a dual-flush cistern, allowing users to choose between a full flush (approximately 6 litres) and a reduced flush (around 3 litres). These toilets help conserve water without compromising flushing efficiency.
3. Concealed Cistern
A concealed cistern is built into a wall or a WC unit, making it hidden from view. This type of cistern is commonly used with back-to-wall and wall-hung toilets, ensuring a sleek, modern finish. It can be accessed via a flush panel or a removable countertop section for maintenance.
4. Reduced Projection Toilet
Also known as a short projection toilet, this design features a shallower depth than standard toilets, meaning it doesn’t protrude as far into the bathroom. Ideal for small bathrooms and cloakroom suites, it helps maximize floor space without compromising comfort.
5. Soft-Closing Seat
A soft-closing toilet seat is designed with slow-closing hinges that prevent sudden slams. This feature not only reduces noise but also minimizes wear and tear on the seat and toilet bowl.
6. WC Unit
A WC unit is specifically designed for use with back-to-wall toilets and concealed cisterns. It hides the cistern and pipework, ensuring a streamlined, tidy bathroom aesthetic. The cistern remains accessible via a discreet panel for easy maintenance.
1.Which Type of Toilet is Best for Commercial Use?
The ideal toilet for a commercial setting depends on several factors, including user demographics (such as height and mobility needs), available bathroom space, aesthetic preferences, and flushing performance. It's essential to assess these factors when selecting a toilet that best suits the needs of the facility.
2.What is the Latest Toilet Technology?
Toilet technology has evolved significantly over the years, incorporating innovations that improve functionality, hygiene, and user experience. New advancements include self-cleaning toilets, touchless flush systems, detachable bidets, and in-bowl lighting for easier navigation at night.
3.Which Type of Toilet is the Most Common and Affordable?
The most common and budget-friendly toilet type in commercial settings is the standard height, two-piece, gravity flush toilet. These models are widely used for their reliability and cost-effectiveness, although prices can vary depending on brand and supplier.
4.What’s the Most Eco-friendly Toilet?
A dual-flush toilet is the most eco-friendly option, allowing you to conserve water by choosing between two flush volumes — a light flush for liquids and a full flush for solids.
