Pros and Cons of Different Types of Toilets
Choosing the right toilet is more important than most people realise. A well-selected toilet design improves comfort and water efficiency and maintains hygiene in your bathroom. Whether renovating or upgrading your bathroom fixtures, understanding your options can make all the difference.
This guide explores 10 common toilet types, highlighting their pros and cons to help you make a smart decision. From classic close-coupled models to modern rimless and wall-hung designs, we’ll cover everything you need to know to ensure your bathroom renovation succeeds.
At Ross’s Discount Home Centre, we offer a wide range of high-quality toilets, including close-coupled, wall-faced, rimless models, and smart toilet seats designed for modern Perth homes. If you’re wondering how to choose a toilet or need insights into the different types of toilets in Australia, we’re here to make your decision easier with expert advice and top-notch products.
Understanding Toilet Types: A Comprehensive Overview
Choosing the right toilet can feel overwhelming, given the variety of toilet types available today. To streamline your decision-making, it helps to understand the main categories and what sets them apart. From traditional designs like close-coupled toilets to ultra-modern wall-hung options, there’s plenty to consider before making your choice.
When comparing the types of toilets in Australia, key factors like installation, maintenance, and cost should guide your decision. Some toilets require complex plumbing systems, while others are easier to install and maintain. Water consumption is another essential consideration, as toilets with high WELS ratings can significantly reduce utility bills over time. Always ensure safety and reliability if your chosen toilet meets Australian standards, such as AS 1172.1 and the Watermark certification. These certifications guarantee compliance with the Australian plumbing code while reinforcing the quality of the product.
By understanding these factors and exploring different toilet types, you’ll be better equipped to select a model that meets your functional needs and suits your style preferences. A bit of research now ensures you invest in a feature-packed, efficient toilet that will serve you well for years.
Wall-Faced Toilets
Wall-faced toilets, also known as back-to-wall toilets, sit flush against the wall, concealing plumbing while keeping the cistern visible for a sleek, seamless look. Their modern design makes them the most popular choice for Australian homes, fitting perfectly into any contemporary bathroom while saving space and adding style.
Pros
Wall-faced toilets offer several practical and aesthetic benefits. Their sleek, compact toilet design makes them an ideal option for small bathrooms or homeowners looking to maximise space. Thanks to their seamless structure, they’re one of the cleanest toilets to maintain, as dust and grime have fewer places to accumulate. Most models, including the range at Ross’s, use high-quality vitreous China and ceramic glazing, ensuring a durable yet polished finish.
We turned to Monica Schneiderwind, co-founder of AlpineKB, for her take on their appeal. She noted, “Wall-faced toilets are in high demand because they offer the perfect balance of design and practicality. Homeowners love them for their easy cleaning and seamless look.” This combination of functionality and style makes them an excellent investment for modern Australian bathrooms.
Cons
Despite their many advantages, these modern toilets tend to cost more than other types, such as close-coupled toilets. Their installation can also involve extra work to accommodate the hidden plumbing, requiring careful adjustments to the setup. However, the investment in both money and effort often pays off with their long-lasting style and convenience.
Wall-faced toilets are our best-selling toilet type at Ross’s Discount Home Centre, and for good reason. They combine form and function, making them the best type of toilet for many Perth homeowners. Our top models include the Luxury Extra Height Toilet Suite and the Charli Wall Faced Toilet Suite, both designed for durability, ease of use, and modern toilet design.
Wall-Hung Toilets
Wall-hung toilets are a sleek, innovative choice that is perfect for adding a touch of luxury and practicality to your bathroom. These toilets feature a floating toilet design with the pan mounted to the wall, leaving the floor clear. The cistern is cleverly hidden within a wall cavity, contributing to the seamless, ultra-modern look that appeals to many homeowners following modern bathroom trends.
Pros
Wall-hung toilets deliver several key benefits. Their floating design maximises floor space, making small bathrooms feel more open and airy. They’re also incredibly easy to clean, as lacking a base eliminates hard-to-reach areas where dust and grime usually gather. Combined with these functional advantages, an elegant aesthetic fits beautifully into contemporary homes. These toilets typically incorporate a concealed cistern and sleek flush plate, enhancing their clean, minimalist appearance.
From a practical standpoint, wall-hung toilets’ mounting brackets and wall anchors ensure secure installation. However, you’ll need a load-bearing wall or sufficient structural support, as the system relies on hidden reinforcements to securely hold the toilet.
Cons
Despite their modern appeal, wall-hung toilets come with some drawbacks. Installation can be complex, as it often requires modifications to the wall cavity for the concealed cistern and supports. This adds to both the cost and time needed for installation. Repairs to internal components, such as the cistern or service panel, are more challenging and may require cutting into the wall. These factors can make wall-hung toilets a less practical option for some homes.
In-Wall (Concealed Cistern) Toilets
An in-wall (concealed cistern) toilet is a stylish and space-saving solution that hides the cistern within the wall. Only the toilet bowl and flush plate are visible from the outside, creating a sleek, minimalist look. This type of toilet is increasingly popular among those designing modern bathrooms, as it offers a clean and seamless finish.
It’s important to understand the difference between in-wall toilets and wall-hung toilets, as the terms are often used interchangeably. An in-wall toilet refers specifically to the cistern being hidden inside the wall—this system can work with either wall-hung bowls (which float above the floor) or floor-mounted bowls (which sit directly on the ground, such as an S trap toilet). The primary feature of in-wall systems is the concealed cistern, while the bowl mounting style is a separate consideration.
By contrast, a wall-hung toilet always includes a floating bowl and a concealed cistern mounted with a specialised in-wall system for structural support. The floating design is its defining characteristic.
Pros
The benefits of in-wall toilets are undeniable. They are a true space-saving toilet option, ideal for small bathrooms or individuals preferring an uncluttered design. The hidden cistern and flush plate enhance the ultra-modern appearance, giving any bathroom a high-end look. Cleaning becomes effortless because there are fewer visible surfaces to gather dust or dirt.
Cons
That said, in-wall toilets can be pricey to install and maintain. Incorporating the hidden cistern toilet system requires cavity wall installation, increasing the overall renovation cost. Additionally, as Aaron Hughes, Director and Qualified Plumber at Local Plumbing & Gas Co., points out, “In-wall toilets look great but can be a nightmare to repair. If a leak occurs, fixing the concealed plumbing can be costly and complicated.” Repairs often involve accessing hidden components, which may require breaking into the wall and redoing the finish.
By balancing their functional advantages with potential challenges, in-wall toilets remain popular among homeowners looking to combine function and style.
Rimless Toilets
Rimless toilets are a cutting-edge advancement in bathroom technology, designed with no rim around the inside edge of the bowl. Traditional toilets often have a rim where dirt and bacteria can build up, but rimless models eliminate this entirely, making them the cleanest toilet option on the market. With an innovative rimless flush system, water flows evenly around the bowl, ensuring thorough cleaning every time. This sleek, sanitary design has quickly become a preferred choice for homeowners who value both style and functionality.
Pros
Rimless toilets offer several standout benefits. First and foremost, they rank among the best type of toilet for hygiene. By removing the rim, they leave no hidden spots for germs to collect, meeting modern hygiene standards effortlessly. Cleaning these toilets is easier and faster, making them a true easy-clean toilet.
Their hygienic toilet design isn’t just about practicality—rimless toilets also deliver a sleek, modern aesthetic. They pair beautifully with contemporary bathrooms and come equipped with advanced flushing systems. Many models boast better water efficiency and performance, providing a powerful, even-clean system with minimal water usage.
Cons
The primary downside is the cost. Rimless toilets are generally slightly more expensive than standard toilets. However, the long-term benefits of easier cleaning and bacteria prevention justify the investment for many.
If you’re after a rimless toilet in Perth, you can’t go wrong with our Daytona Tornado Rimless Toilet Suite and the Montana Rimless Toilet Suite. Both are designed for a cleaner bathroom experience.
Read our articles Everything You Need to Know About Revolutionary Rimless Toilets and FAQS About Rimless Toilets to learn more.
One-Piece Toilets
One-piece toilets are popular for homeowners seeking a sleek and modern toilet design. Unlike traditional two-piece toilets, these toilets feature a seamless toilet construction, where the bowl and integrated tank form a single unit. This compact toilet design is practical and stylish, offering a clean look that works well in any bathroom.
Pros
The benefits of one-piece toilets are easy to see. Their skirted design eliminates hard-to-reach crevices, making them easier to clean and ideal for maintaining hygiene. They offer a minimalist look that complements contemporary bathroom aesthetics. With the cistern built into the unit, these toilets are quicker to install than assembling separate pieces.
The ceramic construction and porcelain finish add to their durability and premium appearance. Since they come as a single unit, the risk of leaks between the bowl and cistern—common in two-piece models—significantly decreases.
Cons
However, one-piece toilets come with their challenges. Their solid, single-unit design makes them heavier than two-piece toilets, complicating transportation and installation. They also tend to be more expensive than other toilet bowl types, which might not suit every renovation budget.
For anyone wanting a combination of function and style, one-piece toilets remain an excellent choice among the different types of toilets. Their seamless toilet design and practical features make them a standout option for any modern home upgrade.
Two-Piece Toilets
Two-piece toilets are a reliable choice and continue to be the most commonly used standard toilet in homes. With a separate tank and bowl, this traditional toilet design has endured due to its practicality and affordability. These versatile toilets are available in various styles to suit various bathroom designs.
Pros
The biggest advantage of two-piece toilets is their cost. They are a budget-friendly toilet option, making them ideal for anyone looking to save money during a renovation. They are also simple to install, which is great if you plan to tackle a DIY project or keep labour costs to a minimum. Repairs are straightforward, too, as the separate tank allows easy access to the toilet’s components.
Cons
One drawback is their bulkier design. Compared to more streamlined toilet types, two-piece toilets take up more space, which isn’t ideal in smaller bathrooms. Cleaning can also be slightly more tedious because of the crevice between the tank and bowl, where dust and grime often collect.
A two-piece toilet is an excellent choice for those looking at different types of toilets and prioritising affordability and practicality. While it may lack the sleekness of modern alternatives, its reliable design and low cost make it a staple in households across Western Australia.
Close-Coupled Toilets
A close-coupled toilet is one of Australia’s most popular toilet types, known for its simple design and practicality. The cistern sits directly on the pan, creating a space-efficient unit that fits well in most bathrooms. Installing a close-coupled toilet is straightforward, making it a great choice for homeowners seeking convenience and functionality.
Pros
Close-coupled toilets tick many boxes for homeowners. They are affordable, easy to maintain, and widely available in various designs. These toilets also suit most bathroom layouts, thanks to their standard toilet height and compact build. With options like dual flush technology, close-coupled toilets contribute to water savings by providing a choice between a full or half flush volume.
Cons
On the downside, close-coupled toilets can look bulkier compared to sleeker, in-wall models. While their design is functional, it may not appeal to homeowners wanting a modern, minimalist look. This is often due to the visible cistern and plumbing components like the pan connector, flush valve, and flush pipe.
At Ross’s Discount Home Centre, we stock the Space Solution Skew Close Coupled Suite, which is an excellent choice for compact bathrooms. Its practical design combines affordability, functionality, and style, making it one of the best types of toilets to buy for small spaces. If you’re searching for the best toilet to suit your needs, our range of close-coupled toilets has you covered!
Smart Toilets (Bidet Toilets)
Smart toilets take bathroom comfort to the next level. These bidet toilets have advanced features like heated toilet seats, water temperature control, and even an air dryer for a luxurious experience. Many models also include a touchless flush, a deodoriser, and an automatic lid, making them some of the cleanest toilets available today.
Pros
The primary advantage of a smart toilet is its enhanced comfort and hygiene. Bidet functions provide superior cleanliness compared to traditional toilet paper, while additional features like heated toilet seats ensure a cosy experience—even on chilly mornings. Their touchless flushing and deodorising capabilities are a win for those prioritising hygiene. They are also eco-friendly, reducing paper waste and offering water-efficient functions.
Cons
However, these benefits come at a cost. Smart toilets are generally more expensive than other toilet types, requiring an electrical connection for their advanced features. This means installation costs may be higher, and you’ll need to check if your bathroom can accommodate the necessary wiring to supply power to the seat.
At Ross’s Discount Home Centre, while we don’t stock smart toilets, we do offer the Luxury Smart Toilet Seat and Prestige Smart Toilet Seat. These seats offer bidet toilet seat features such as water temperature control, heated seats, and air drying, all at a fraction of the price of a full smart toilet. Plus, they’re compatible with our Charli, Everest, Montana, Cube Curved & Denali toilet suites.
Composting Toilets
Composting toilets are a unique and eco-friendly alternative to traditional toilet types, offering a practical solution for those wanting to reduce their environmental impact. These waterless toilets use natural decomposition to break down waste, eliminating the need for plumbing or sewage systems. Perfect for off-grid homes or areas with limited water access, they provide a sustainable design that aligns with modern environmental values.
Pros
The primary advantage of composting toilets is their sustainability. They operate without water, reducing usage and making them an excellent example of waterless operation. This feature particularly benefits drought-prone areas or properties with restricted water supply. Because they don’t require standard plumbing, they can be installed almost anywhere, making them ideal for rural or off-grid homes.
Additionally, their composting chambers produce natural fertiliser, which can often be used in gardens (pending council approval and environmental regulations). For environmentally conscious homeowners, this factor makes them a top pick among the types of toilets Australia offers.
Cons
Despite these benefits, composting toilets require commitment. Regular maintenance is necessary to manage waste, balance decomposition, and control odours. Their design may also appear less conventional in urban areas, where plumbing-based toilets are the norm. Installing a composting toilet in a city home might require navigating local council approvals or dealing with specific environmental regulations, which can complicate the process.
A waterless toilet like this is a smart choice for homeowners dedicated to sustainability and reducing water use. However, they may better suit rural or environmentally driven projects than mainstream urban homes. If you’re exploring all the types of toilets Australia has to offer, this eco toilet is one to consider for its long-term environmental benefits seriously.
Final Thoughts: Choosing the Best Toilet for Your Home
Choosing the best type of toilet to buy ultimately depends on your budget, bathroom space, and personal needs. Each toilet style has its unique benefits, whether it’s the affordability of a two-piece toilet, the water efficiency of a rimless design, or the sustainable design of a composting model. It’s also important to consider additional factors like flush performance, ease of cleaning, and your bathroom’s aesthetic.
When learning how to select a toilet, consider the installation costs and long-term expenses. Some modern toilets, like one-piece models, may cost more upfront but reduce maintenance concerns later. Checking compliance with Australian standards also ensures quality and reliability. And for peace of mind, always investigate warranty terms—a solid warranty guarantees your investment is protected.
At Ross’s Discount Home Centre, we offer a wide range of close-coupled, wall-faced, rimless toilets and smart toilet seats—helping you find the perfect match for your bathroom. Plus, all our toilet suites have a 5-year warranty for added confidence. Whatever your choice, we’re here to help you make the right decision for your home.
