How to choose the right toilet: what to look for before buying + review of manufacturers

Kinds

According to the method of installation, floor, wall (hinged) and mortise toilet bowls are distinguished. Among them there are varieties.

floor standing

These are products, the lower part of which rests on the floor, the old models require gouging holes (nests) in the floor, where the base of the product is recessed, followed by cementing. If the floor is wooden, the nest for the base is arranged above the floor surface, made of reinforced concrete or plywood.

The installation of such products is a troublesome and time-consuming process. Today, the sanitary ware market is predominantly represented by more advanced, simple and easy-to-install models with a pedestal attached to the floor with screws.

The main parts of the floor-standing toilet are the base, the bowl and the cistern. Depending on how the tank is located relative to the bowl, there are several varieties.

Compact

In models of this type, directly behind the bowl there is a shelf (solid or attached), on which the tank is installed, the drain holes of the tank and the body are hermetically joined.

Advantages:

• take up little space;
• do not make much noise when draining water;
• the easiest to install.

Compact toilets are the most common on the market today.

With separate tank

In these models, the tank is installed much higher than the bowl and is connected to it by a pipe.

The main advantage of such models is the creation of a strong water pressure due to the acceleration of the flow when falling from a height. Cons - they are more difficult to mount and they are noisier.

Today, products with a high suspension tank are produced in small quantities, they are sometimes called retro models, they are specially styled antique. These are quite expensive designer products for an amateur. Occasionally, you can also find Soviet-style budget models in stores, for the most part, they are characterized by low quality fittings and a tank.

Monolith

If toilet bowls with a separate tank are gradually becoming a thing of the past, then monoliths are the latest development, a novelty that is still not widely represented on the market. They combine the bowl and the tank, due to the low profile design, these models are the best solution for children and people with disabilities.

The advantages of monoliths also include:

• compact dimensions, minimum space occupied:
• ease of care due to the absence of joints, cracks, corners where dirt clogs;
• leakage protection due to the fact that there are no connections;
• reduction of water consumption (the possibility of using full or partial drain);
• the impossibility of overflowing the bowl.

The main disadvantage is that if any part is damaged, the entire toilet will have to be replaced.

Mounted

Mounted models do not have a base, the bowl is attached to the wall using a special installation system (rigid steel frame), and the entire drain system, together with the tank, is hidden in a false wall.

The cisterns of hanging toilet bowls are made of plastic, they are distinguished by their small width and depth, they are equipped with a push-button drain system, the panel with the button is brought out through a window in the false wall. In most models, you can dose the volume of drained water.

Advantages:

• take up little space, this is a particularly good solution if there is a niche in the wall;
• hard-to-reach places for cleaning are hidden;
• look as aesthetically pleasing as possible, do not spoil the design;
• draining water is accompanied by minimal noise;
• despite the apparent fragility, withstand significant loads.

The main disadvantage of mounted models is the complexity of installation, for its implementation it will almost certainly have to involve specialists.

There are also built-in (additional, wall-mounted) products, also with a hidden drain system, they can be either mounted or floor-mounted. Find out more about which wall-hung toilet with installation is best to choose.

Mortise

Mortise, or Turkish toilet bowls, they are Genoa bowls, are well known to any visitor to public toilets. They do not have a base, their bowl, usually of a large area, is mounted in an elevation above the floor.

For public places with high traffic, this is the best solution:

• bowls withstand a significant load;
• the most hygienic, because they do not sit down.

In apartments, such models are used extremely rarely, but in private houses sometimes smaller floor bowls are mounted than in public toilets. They are equipped for draining not with a tank, but with a large-diameter flush valve that creates significant water pressure.

What is the difference between women's toilets and models for men

The main difference between toilet bowls is their location. Men prefer to use wall-mounted toilets, while women prefer floor-mounted ones. Attached toilet bowls enjoy high strength, thanks to which space in the room is saved.

In some European countries, women use such toilets. For them, as for men, toilets are becoming more popular and more convenient than usual. The advantage of such toilets is the tank, which is built into the wall.

It is very important to make it really convenient and practical.

It is important to know the advice of a specialist on how to choose a toilet so that it lasts for many years. Suspended models are widely used in Russia

They practically do not take up space and it is easy to wipe under them.However, most buyers still prefer to opt for floor-standing toilets, which can be different in terms of bowl shapes.

Beautiful examples in the interior

A white toilet bowl with a Gzhel pattern will look great in a spacious bathroom with plain tiles. It is also worth complementing the interior with accessories in the same color scheme.

With the help of a colored toilet, you can zone the combined bathroom. By adding decorative materials to it, it will be possible to highlight a separate functional area.

A black wall-mounted toilet, complemented by the same black sink, will create a stylish and memorable space. For tiles it is worth using contrasting colors.

Swamp-colored plumbing fixtures in the shape of a frog will fit perfectly into a children's bathroom. Also, do not forget about the bright tiles with cartoon characters.

Colored seats and toilet lids will allow you to constantly experiment with the interior of the bathroom. A new style can always be supplemented with new accessories - a brush and a toilet paper stand.

Colored toilet bowls also look original. If you want to refresh the interior, you will simply need to replace the toilet bowl with a color-matched tile.

Pastel shades look good in small bathrooms. Bright colors like mint or turquoise are used to bring out the texture of every item in the room and create a cool atmosphere.

Ecostyle requires a hinged white toilet with a square bowl and light green "spots" on the walls. Do not forget about accessories made of natural wood and stones.

If you want to design a toilet according to Feng Shui, then you need to choose colors for the toilet that are combined with the element of water.For example, blue, white and green shades.

To optimize the small space of the toilet room, you can put a cabinet on high legs behind the toilet. It is recommended to store intimate items and cleaning products in it.

For information on how to choose the right toilet, see the following video.

How to choose a budget toilet: expert advice

An inexpensive option can also be of high quality and adequately serve its owner. The cost of equipment is often affected by where the toilet was produced and what customs duties had to be paid to its manufacturer on the way to the Russian counter.

The most budget options in stores are Russian

Experts advise when choosing inexpensive plumbing to pay attention to them. At a much lower price, Russian products are not inferior in quality to "foreigners"

A profitable purchase can be considered the acquisition of foreign plumbing, produced by a branch of the enterprise in Russia. Its price will also be democratic. As well as the products of Chinese manufacturers. With quite decent quality, it also does not greatly undermine the family budget.

Faucets Hansgrohe Germany

They are practically no different from their main competitors Grohe and are most often mentioned in pairs as a guarantee of reliable and trouble-free plumbing.

Hansgrohe faucets have a stylish minimalist design and look chic in both modern bathrooms and classic interiors. The brand's products are guaranteed for 5 years, but according to user reviews, with proper use and care, these faucets are practically "indestructible".

Hansgrohe faucets also feature the perfect combination of design, functionality and ergonomics. The company regularly pleases with innovations in the field of sanitary equipment, annually releases new models of faucets, including wall-mounted and with a hygienic shower.

HANSGROHE PuraVida 15081000 sink faucet. Cost — 250 USD.

Hansgrohe faucets are presented in a wide price range, the cheapest options can be purchased for 50 USD, but the elite models with maximum functionality and impeccable design cost around 1000 USD.

Other manufacturing materials

• Stainless steel is a durable material that is not afraid of moisture, characterized by reliability and durability. Due to these qualities, such plumbing is often installed in public toilets. However, metal toilets are cold and noisy, so they are not recommended for home use;
• Artificial stone and marble are elite materials that allow you to get models with an exquisite and unique design. At the same time, the products are hygienic and durable. In addition, they are economical in water consumption due to the smooth surface from which dirt and bacteria are washed off in a matter of seconds;
• Plastic or acrylic is used to make lightweight and short-lived toilet bowls. They are installed in a short time and without problems. This is a suitable solution for summer cottages or for temporary and auxiliary premises.

Types of toilet bowls and general selection rules

In stores you will find a wide selection of plumbing fixtures. Models differ in color, design, size and shape, installation method and other parameters.

When choosing, you need to pay attention to the following characteristics:

• The material of manufacture affects the quality, durability and appearance of the product. Today they produce metal, ceramic and plastic toilet bowls;
• The height of the product is an indicator that must be taken into account if there are children in the family. Small family members should be comfortable using the toilet;
• Type of drain tank. The tank can be built into the wall, block or stand alone. The choice depends on the dimensions of the toilet room and the specifics of the sewage system in the bathroom;
• Flushing water and draining the tank is also different. The water outlet can be with a horizontal straight, vertical or oblique descent;
• Construction type. Today you will find floor, suspended and compact models.

Many models have additional features that make it easier to use. So, some toilets are equipped with an anti-splash option. Let's take a closer look at which one is better to choose a toilet bowl, depending on the criteria listed.

bowl shape

• Funnel-shaped - a type of bowl in which the drain hole is located strictly in the center. This results in fast and efficient cleaning. With such a design, you don’t even need a brush. But the sudden movement of water often leads to the formation of splashes;
• The plate shape is a classic option that has been used for a very long time. It is not recommended as it requires a large volume and strong water pressure for rinsing. As a result, splashes appear, and an open bowl with a shelf spreads unpleasant toilet odors. In addition, this design increases water costs, especially if you have meters installed. However, this type of bowl remains quite in demand due to the availability and low price of the toilet bowl;
• The visor form assumes a smooth drainage of water at a slight angle.It effectively copes with flushing and unpleasant odors, does not form splashes.

We take into account additional functionality

With the development of technology and toilets are becoming more "smart". The most modern models are equipped with lighting, seat heating and even automatic water drain.

Another interesting solution that allows you to save money on buying a bidet is the so-called bidet cover. It is complete with injectors. The peculiarity of such an overlay is that it is enough to install it on the toilet bowl, and it will perform the function of a bidet, eliminating the need to waste time on hygiene procedures. Given that cleaning with water is much more hygienic than with paper, this model of toilet bowls is becoming increasingly popular.

Another popular know-how is the auto-flush system. This addition will appeal to forgetful people, those who are constantly in a hurry somewhere, or just people who want to keep the bathroom in perfect cleanliness.

Another option is the anti-splash system. It is intended to ensure that when flushing from the toilet there is no splash, and the rim remains dry. Such a system is implemented very simply. There is a special ledge in the toilet bowl. The drain hole is narrower and shifted back. The shape of the drain is funnel-shaped. Water washes away all impurities gently and almost silently.

How to choose a toilet

In choosing such a rather important and necessary thing, you need to take into account a lot. For example:

• Sewer connection. There are 3 ways to connect with a sewer pipe: vertically, obliquely, horizontally. Often there are inclined and horizontal connections. If you look behind the toilet, then in the back of it you will see how it needs to be connected.Some manufacturers produce toilet bowls with a universal connection, that is, it can be connected to any type of sewer. These models are more expensive, but there is less hassle with them.
• Room area. It depends on the area of ​​the bathroom what type and size of toilet bowl is right for you. If the bathroom is separate, small or combined with a bathtub, then you need to choose compact or suspended models.
• What are the mounting fixtures and toilet bowl made of. Faience and porcelain toilet bowls are considered to be of the highest quality; we do not recommend considering other materials. Is it only steel, but such toilets are suitable only for specific use outside the home. It’s good if metal fasteners are included in the set with the toilet, but it’s better to bypass plastic ones. Metal is more reliable, but the kit will cost more.
• Quality and material of fittings. Cheap models are often equipped with unreliable plastic fittings. Therefore, we do not recommend saving and buying such toilets, otherwise then it can often break down, and it’s a pity for the time and energy spent on all the tuning.

We will briefly list the following parameters, because their choice entirely depends on what you are used to and what you want.

• How is the water supply connected? Water supply is supplied in different ways - through the bottom connection, side connection, or you can connect an adapter, so there should not be any problems. There are models with a universal supply.
• What shape is the bowl, is there a shelf.
• Drain method, whether there is water saving.
• Additional parameters, for example, water disinfection, the presence of a bidet, etc.

Shelf - additional functionality

The shelf is the part of the compact model toilet to which the cistern is attached.In some models, such a shelf is made in a cast way, i.e. forms a monolithic connection with the toilet bowl. But sometimes the manufacturer offers not a cast, but a hinged shelf.

It is preferable to always choose a cast structure, since it is more convenient and reliable than the hinged version. To install a hinged shelf, you will have to perform additional work on its installation. Over time, the fasteners loosen under the weight of the toilet bowl full of water, they must be periodically tightened. If the shelf is made of plastic, it can collapse under the influence of external factors much faster than a ceramic toilet or cistern.

To replace a damaged hinged shelf, you will have to perform a number of time-consuming operations:

• dismantle the drain tank;
• remove fasteners;
• remove the shelf;
• install and secure a new shelf;
• reinstall the tank and connect it to the water supply.

If the buyer chooses a model with a hinged shelf, he must be aware of the problems that may arise in connection with its operation. There are times when, due to damage to the shelf, pieces from the toilet break off. Sharp edges are formed in places of chips. In no case should you leave the repair of such a breakdown “until later”, since the sharp edges of the chips can cause quite serious wounds to toilet visitors.

How to choose a budget and good smart toilet model

For the home, you can choose a product with a bidet function. Such “smart” plumbing will be indispensable for many years. For the home, you can choose a toilet that has a bidet function. The tank of such a product is larger than usual, and a special nozzle acts as a bidet.

As for the tank, it has an electronically controlled part. Thanks to this control, the water temperature is regulated and thus the main pressure can be adjusted.

You can separately select the necessary accessories for them.

Thanks to a wide range, you can choose a model that suits both retro style and high-tech style. "Smart" models are equipped with a wide range of functions that improve the quality of its use.

Types of tanks

Depending on the type of fastening, the following types of drain tanks are distinguished.

• Upper. They are located directly above the toilet. Typically, models that are designed for this type of installation have a special seat and mount for the tank.
• Side. They are located on the side or top of the toilet. The devices are connected by a pipe.
• Hidden. Built into the wall behind the plumbing or to the side of it. When using them, they are not visible at all, since they are hidden by the trim.

According to the type of drain, the tanks are divided into 4 types.

• Lever. The oldest type. Drainage is carried out using a lever. In order to wash off the water, it must be pulled up.
• Push-button. They have a button at the top. To flush, you need to click on it. Some models have 2 buttons at once - one for intensive draining, the other for weaker.
• With chain. This design is used for side mounting. Strictly speaking, tanks with a chain are also lever. After all, the chain is attached to the lever. This is done through a special guide. It facilitates the movement of the chain and prevents it from slipping.
• Touch. They have a photosensor. To flush, just put your hand on it. After that, the sensor will work and turn on the electric drive, which will open the reservoir valve.

Which drain tank is better

Drainage tanks differ in their design and installation location. Experts distinguish the following types:

• Compact is the most popular type of tank. Such a container is attached to the rear ledge of the toilet bowl through a rubber gasket with bolts. There are also models when the tank and the toilet are a cast structure;
• Separate - this type allows you to save space in the bathroom, since the toilet bowl does not have a protrusion at the back, which means that it can be pushed tightly against the wall. The tank is mounted on a wall or ceiling and connected to the toilet with pipes. With the help of such a device, a better flush is carried out, due to the fact that the water supplied from a height goes under great pressure;
• Installation system - such a tank is located inside a metal frame and is closed with a fake plasterboard wall or plastic panels. Only the flush button remains on the surface, which, if necessary, is taken along with the internal device of the tank.

According to the method of draining the tanks are divided into two groups:

1. Lever;
2. Push-button.

Modern lever drain system

The lever flush design is more common in older toilets. Draining is carried out using a special lever, when raised, the drain hole opens.

Button models are more popular today. With their help, the water from the tank can be washed off partially or completely. When you press one button, half the volume is drained, and when you press two, the entire volume of water is drained. This allows significant water savings.

In addition, the tanks differ in the way water is supplied to them, the water supply can be from below and from the side.It is more difficult to connect the water from below, but in this case the tank is filled more silently, and the appearance of such a connection is more aesthetic. If there is no desire to fiddle with the connection for a long time, then the best option would be to supply water from the side.

How to choose a non-splash toilet - anti-splash system, how to determine its presence when buying a toilet

The system is designed to compensate for splashes during toilet operation.

It should be noted that the markings of many toilet bowls indicate the presence of such an option, but in practice, you should not trust the advertising tricks of manufacturers. You can make the right choice yourself by studying how the system works and what it consists of. Some consultants in plumbing stores try to tell the client that the anti-splash is a sloping wall on the inside of the device, along which water slowly flows, thereby not creating splashes.

Such an explanation cannot be real and suggests that either the seller is illiterate, or is trying to sell a product that does not have an anti-splash system.

Some consultants in plumbing stores try to tell the customer that the anti-splash is a sloping wall on the inside of the device, on which water slowly flows, thereby not creating splashes. Such an explanation cannot be real and suggests that either the seller is illiterate or is trying to sell a product that does not have an anti-splash system.

The anti-splash in the toilet bowl is a drain hole made in a special geometric shape, which is narrowed as much as possible and recessed into the lower part of the toilet bowl. In addition, the hole is shifted relative to the axis of symmetry to one of the sides, and the level of the water column in the hole is significantly reduced.In addition, a circular rim is designed along its contour, which performs additional compensation functions.

Looking closely and correcting for optical distortions caused by water in the photo, you can determine that the drain hole is very narrow, and the water level is unusually low.

How to calculate the height of the water column in the drain hole while in the store

When considering a purchase option, it is necessary to determine the water level in an unconnected product, which, as you know, should be the lowest. This skill is useful for choosing a quality toilet bowl with anti-splash system.

It is known from the course of physics that, according to the law of communicating vessels, the level in the toilet bowl will be determined by the lower point of the outlet located on the back side.

To determine the water level, it is enough to mentally draw a line parallel to the floor through the lower point of the outlet channel of the toilet bowl and, by the level of this line, determine the column of water in the drain hole.

Anti-splash criteria for any shape, size, color of the toilet is the same. Taking them as a basis, you can be sure that the selected toilet will meet your desires and bring only pleasure.

Fastening

The type of fasteners matters when it comes to the footage of the room. With the help of fasteners, you can save space if necessary.

Floor

The traditional way of installation is to mount to the floor. To do this, use bolts and nuts, which are hidden using decorative additional techniques.

Compact

This option implies the presence of two separate parts: a bowl and a water tank. The design type allows one of the parts to be replaced independently of the other. The weak link of the compact kits are the tanks. They are prone to leakage with installation errors.

Monoblock

The standard monoblock is a single structure that is attached to the floor. The complexity of use lies in the fact that if the bowl or tank breaks, you have to change the entire toilet bowl. Monoblocks are cheaper than compact kits.

Attached

Attached toilet is attached to one of the walls. It stands on the floor, but the bulk of the fixtures are hidden behind plaster or decorative wall panels. This is convenient only when a special niche is made in the wall, but the design loses its practical significance if a false wall is specially built for it, increasing the space around the toilet bowl.

Suspended structures are securely fixed in the space of the wall niche. The water tank is built into the wall. The main part of the bowl is suspended above the floor. Such designs are modern models that can fit into any interior. The complexity is the process of installation and replacement if necessary.

Decide on the type of tank and bowl

The toilet bowls themselves may be different. The complexity of product care and the efficiency of draining depend on their choice.

in the form of a funnel

This bowl is located in the center of the toilet. Its main advantage is that all waste is immediately washed off, so a brush is not needed for cleaning. In addition, in such toilets there is practically no splash when flushing, which makes them especially popular. The advantage is that they save money on toilet bowl cleaning fluids.

Poppet

In such toilets, the drain hole is shifted forward. In addition, there is a recess in which all impurities fall, only then they are washed out of the plate-shaped hole under a huge pressure of water.The downside of this design is a huge amount of splashing when flushing. In addition, moisture accumulates on its walls, which leads to the formation of rust.

Kozyrkovaya

The drain hole in the visor bowls of the toilet is also shifted slightly forward. But if there is a recess in the dish-shaped bowl, then here it is replaced by a slight bend. In addition, such models are distinguished by the fact that when flushed, they retain splashes. Experts also say that this is the best option for those who are worried about bad smells in the bathroom.

Another important point is the choice of a drain tank. They are:

• connected to the toilet. This design has its advantages: they are easier to mount, clean, repair. Yes, they look more modern.
• Separate. The tank can be mounted closer to the ceiling, above the toilet. This is a typical version of the old post-Soviet buildings. Or the model can be supplemented with a tank, which is built into the wall. This is very convenient, with the exception of one minus - in the event of a breakdown, it will be difficult to get to the tank.

The volume of tanks is from 4 to 6 liters. The higher this indicator, the more water will be spent during flushing. To save on water bills, it is better to buy a toilet bowl supplemented with two-button fittings. In this case, only half of the water from the tank is consumed. And although such models are more expensive, buying them will be beneficial for those who have meters installed in their house or apartment.

Types of toilets for choosing

Toilets for the home can be divided into floor and hanging. The floor standing toilet is a classic design that will work for most projects except for very small spaces.It is a bowl on a leg, there are options with an attached decorative skirt that covers the base of the toilet bowl on the floor.

In addition to conventional toilets for the home, you can find corner ones on sale, which will save space in a small bathroom.

The hanging toilet is attached directly to the wall, as there is no leg. An excellent choice for a small bathroom in the house, in addition, the floor in the toilet can be easily cleaned, which will make life easier for the hostess. In addition to the floor and hanging toilet, there is a hybrid model - side-mounted. In this case, the base is attached to the floor, and the tank is installed in the wall.

How to choose a toilet bowl

When choosing a toilet bowl for your home, keep in mind that it can be of three different shapes:

• funnel-shaped;
• plate-shaped;
• visor.

The funnel-shaped one is different in that the hole is in the very center and the waste products immediately fall into the drain. These toilets work without unnecessary splashes and allow you to use the brush less.

AT bowl bowl toilet the drain hole is shifted forward, as a result, sewage falls into a special recess, after which it is washed out by the pressure of water. The peculiarity of the models is that it may be necessary to adjust the water pressure. If the water pressure is too strong, splashes are inevitable.

The hole in the visor is shifted forward, but above it there is no recess and no bend. As a result, most of the waste products fall into the drain along the wall of the bowl, the rest is washed off by the pressure of water. As with the funnel-shaped model, there is almost no splashing of water.

What are toilet flush systems?

With the right choice of toilet bowl, it should be borne in mind that flushing can be carried out in two ways:

• straight;
• back circular.

Direct flushing has been familiar to most since the days of Soviet toilets, there were simply no other options in those days. Its peculiarity is that the stream is quite strong and washes away all impurities at a time, but some internal parts still need to be cleaned with a brush.

The flush of the second type is different in that the water pressure is distributed throughout the inside of the bowl. This flush is quieter and cleans the entire surface evenly.

Circular flush toilets are more expensive and it is important to thoroughly clean the gutter under the rim so that the drain holes do not clog.

What are toilets made from?

The most common and cheapest toilet material is faience. This is a special ceramic, covered with enamel. Inexpensive and practical material lasts at least 15 years, then requires replacement.

Porcelain is more expensive, but has more wear-resistant characteristics. It costs more than a faience counterpart, but it also lasts twice as long, which can play a decisive role in choosing.

Watch the video: How to choose a toilet? Which one is better to buy?

Stainless steel toilets are durable and easy to handle, commonly found in public restrooms. Cast iron is rarely found as a toilet bowl material for the home, and is very impractical in terms of maintenance and durability.

The most expensive models are made of marble or artificial stone. They are highly hygienic and have a long service life. The only downside is the price. Acrylic toilet bowls are inexpensive, but do not have high strength. Such a toilet is only suitable for a summer house or cottage.

The modern world of plumbing can be confusing to the buyer, it is important to slowly explore all the options, and then you will know how to choose the right toilet for your home.You can do repairs in the apartment with your own hands if you apply useful tips

Grohe Germany Faucets

Traditionally considered the most durable mixers. It is not without reason that the guarantee for the company's products is 10 years, and in most cases the product serves faithfully much longer. When asked about the best bathroom faucet, any plumbing expert will give you an unequivocal answer: Grohe.

GROHE Eurosmart 32467002 basin faucet. Cost — 50 USD.

Grohe faucets are always the most stylish design combined with maximum functionality, the widest range to meet any custom needs and different bathroom styles, this is a guarantee that there will be no problems with sanitary equipment and that the original appearance will be maintained for many years.

Every year, the developers of Grohe mixers introduce new technologies into their products and present new design solutions. Smooth movement of the lever, the most accurate temperature control, ease of installation, saving water consumption - all these are the main characteristics of Grohe faucets. Each mixer of this company is tested for strength and durability before it hits the store shelves.

Of course, the characteristics of Grohe bath faucets also affect the cost of production. Elite models of mixers cost about 1000-1500 USD. However, the company also has a fairly large number of budget options, the cost of which is 50-80 dollars.