There is a lot to consider when remodeling a bathroom. Some of the elements should buy are: shower door, wall panels, flooring and new toilet. But which one will gain this battle: elongated vs round toilet?
The toilet is one of the most important elements in a bathroom. People use it often and you can hardly go without it, so it’s important to pick the right one.
Elongated vs Round Toilet
There are pros and cons for each type of toilet. We are going to explain these differences now. Which one is better for you, based on your needs? Let’s find out.
What is an elongated toilet?
What is an elongated toilet?
An elongated toilet is easy to recognize by the oval shape of its opening. To be sure, measure it from the center of the toilet seat bolt holes to the front edge. An elongated toilet measures 18.5 inches from the back to the front edge of the toilet bowl.
Elongated toilets are a newer addition to residential buildings. They are used to give a modern look to bathrooms.
Since they appeared, there is a huge dilemma on elongated vs round toilet.
Many users claim they come with significant advantages, too.
Why use an elongated toilet?
Why elongated toilet, you might ask. The fact that elongated toilets are becoming increasingly popular can be explained through the following benefits:
- More comfortable for adults
The shape of elongated toilets is better for men, who might need some extra space.
- Easier to keep clean
An elongated toilet is more likely to stay cleaner as the opening is larger. The sloped angle inside the bowl also helps prevent splashback and brown stains.
- Better looking
Some people prefer an elongated toilet when installing new toilet for aesthetical reasons. Choosing elongated over round is ultimately a matter of taste.
What is a round toilet?
What is round toilet? Aside from its round shape, a round toilet differs from an elongated one by its measurement. From back to the front edge, a round toilet measures 16.5 inches.
Round toilets have been around for longer than elongated ones. They have only recently started to be replaced by elongated models.
Reasons to use a round toilet
Round vs elongated toilet?
Here are some reasons why a round toilet could be a better option for your bathroom:
- Suits better a smaller bathroom
When you have to renovate a small bathroom, even a couple of inches can make the difference. Round toilets are two inches shorter than elongated ones, enabling you to move with more ease in a small space.
- Better for small children
Installing a round toilet in your children’s bathroom is a good idea. Elongated toilets are not suitable for children under five. They cannot sit all the way back and the waste tends to drop onto the front slope. In such conditions, you will have to clean the toilet after each use.
- Possibly flushing more efficiently
Some users have noticed that the round shape of the bowl helps them flush more efficiently. However, this has not been proven through testing yet.
What is the difference between a round and elongated toilet?
The difference between a round and an elongated toilet seat is easy to grasp. First, the shape is different. One is round, the other is oval.
If you are not sure about what you have in front of you, measure. A round toilet has a length of 18.5 inches, while a round one measures a rough 16.5 inches.
Is elongated toilet better than round?
Many homeowners ask: is elongated toilet better than round?
It can be, if adults and possibly men use it more frequently. Men enjoy the advantage of not touching their body parts against the toilet’s front edge.
Also, if you have plenty of space in your bathroom, elongated might be the way to go. An elongated toilet is more likely to impress, if you want to rent or sell a property.
Are elongated toilet seats universal?
No, elongated toilet seats are not universal. They only match elongated toilets. They will not fit perfectly on a round or special dimension toilet.
So, if you need to buy a new toilet seat, don’t just run into Home Depot and buy the first toilet seat that you like. Measure your toilet before purchasing a seat.
Can I install an elongated toilet seat on a round toilet?
It is possible to install an elongated seat on a round toilet, but it will not fit perfectly. The toilet will not be comfortable because the seat will overhang the toilet. If the rim of the toilet is visible, you may touch it when sitting on the toilet. This can be uncomfortable, especially for male users.
Can I Install a round toilet seat on an elongated toilet?
But can you do the other way around, install a round toilet seat on an elongated toilet? This solution is also not recommended. This type of seat will not cover completely the rim of an elongated toilet. The rim will be exposed, making the toilet look odd.
This demonstrates that measuring your toilet to determine its type is crucial. Before purchasing a toilet seat, you need to find out whether your toilet is elongated or round.
Tips for installing new toilet
Oscillating between elongated and round? Both toilet types are installed in similar fashions. Choosing an elongated toilet does not make installation harder or easier.
There are also other aspects to look at when choosing a toilet. One of the most modern options is represented by dual flush one-piece toilet.
Dual flush means you can choose between two different amounts of water depending on the type of waste. [1]
One piece toilet is a toilet including both the bowl and the water tank. They have a sleeker design, are easier to clean, and are more durable.
Keep on reading to discover our top choices for round vs elongated toilets. We have selected three items for each type of product: premium, budget, and best value for money.
Elongated toilets – 3 options for everyone
Best Value for Money: TOTO AQUIA IV
One of the best overall models from Toto, the Toto AQUIA IV is advertised as the ‘culmination of enhanced design and functionality’. Benefits of this product include:
- Less toilet cleaning
The CEFIONTECT and DYNAMAX TORNADO FLUSH systems minimize the usage of water and cleaning chemicals.
- Easy to update
You can add an electronic bidet seat to make your Toto toilet a true luxury.
- Longevity
This elongated toilet is manufactured with high quality materials so you can use it for a very long period of time.
- No waste on the toilet
The toilet’s DYNAMAX TORNADO FLUSH system sends 100% of water through the rim so the bowl remains as clean as possible.
- Saving money on water bills
This is an efficient toilet that reduces water consumption by approximately 40%.
Premium :Toto MS604114CEFG
This toilet made from plastic comes at a more affordable price and a smaller weight. Advantages of purchasing this budget yet high-quality product include:
Excellent aesthetics
You don’t have to slim down your wallet to have an elegant bathroom. This toilet has a classical, atemporal look that will match any bathroom style.
Easy to clean
This is a one-piece design toilet, which makes it easier to clean. No hiding places for dirt!
Efficient flushing
The Toto UltraMax II is equipped with a Tornado Flush system like all Toto toilets. It uses a centrifugal washing action in order to rinse the toilet more efficiently.
No particles adhering to the bowl
The CEFIONTECT smooth glaze layer prevents dirt and waste from adhering to the toilet.
Budget option : TOTO CST744SL
What makes this toilet different from others is coming in multiple color schemes: bone, colonial white, cotton white, and ebony. The TOTO CST744SL#01 Drake 2-Piece Ada Toilet promises to optimize the bathroom experience for the entire family by:
- Offering excellent flushing technology;
- Being easy to upgrade with the Toto electronic bidet seat;
- Serving people of every age and capability.
Round toilets
Premium option:KOHLER K-4007-95
The KOHLER K-4007-95 San Souci Round-Front promises an easy to clean experience as it is a one-piece toilet. This product is recommended for smaller bathrooms and powder rooms but provides the same effectiveness as an elongated toilet:
Powerful and complete flush
The AquaPiston canister allows water to flow into the bowl from all sides for excellent cleaning.
Integrating tank and bowl
There are fewer spaces where dirt and germs can hide in a one-piece toilet.
One of the smallest toilets on the market
Yet it ensures perfect comfort for a wide range of users and exceptional performance.
No headaches
It features a quiet close lid and seat, quick attach system, and quick-release hinges for regular cleaning.
Budget option: TOTO CST243EF
This round toilet from Toto offers an optimal price-quality ratio and comes with pretty every much feature you would expect in a toilet:
Efficient flushing
The Entrada model uses TOTO’s E-max flushing system, including a 3” wide flush valve, extra-large siphon jet, and a large trap way. Modern flushing systems decrease the frequency of toilet cleanings, enabling you to save time and money.
Low water consumption
Just 1.28 gallons of water are used in a flush and yet the toilet bowl remains clean and sanitized.
Recognized product quality
Toto has more than 90 years of experience in toilet development and manufacturing. Toto products are of the highest quality due to the company’s attention to detail and continuous improvement.
Best Value for Money :TOTO MS853113
The Toto Eco Ultramax is a high-profile, affordable toilet providing the following advantages:
Low water consumption
This helps you save money while protecting the environment at the same time. It flushes 1.28 gallons of water at a time and cleans the bowl thoroughly.
Silent flushing
The 28 GPF E-Max flushing system lives up to your performance expectations without being noisy.
Soft-close system
Both the seat and the lid use a soft-close system to prevent finger injuries and noise. This feature also prolongs the usage life of the product by minimizing wear and tear.
Resilient seat
The toilet seat included in the package is made of solid, high-impact plastic. It is also resistant to chemicals and cleaning agents. Both the toilet and the seat are products offering excellent return on investment.
Conclusion
Installing a new toilet seat should be done according to the type of toilet you have in your bathroom. Now that you know what is the difference between a round and elongated toilet, it’s time to research. Look at different models to select the one that suits you best.
Choosing between elongated vs round toilet can be quite a challenge, but you can solve the dilemma fast. Consider aspects such as bathroom space, budget, the size and gender of users, and preferences. Once you know what kind of toilet you need, start shopping.
