Smallest Toilet Solutions: 5 Compact Picks: Real-world tips from a designer on choosing the smallest toilet for tight bathrooms

I once had a client who wanted a full powder room squeezed into what used to be a broom closet — I nearly said no, but that project taught me how the right tiny fixture can feel surprisingly luxurious. I started hunting compact toilet models compact toilet models and learned that the smallest toilet is not just about bowl width, but projection, cistern style, and how it sits in the room.

Small spaces spark big ideas, and over a decade of cramped-bathroom rescues taught me five practical inspirations you can use tomorrow. I’ll explain why each works, what to watch for, and quick budget notes from my own projects.

1. Corner wall-hung solution

Mounting a compact wall-hung toilet in a corner saves visual and floor space — I used this trick in a studio where every inch mattered. The toilet bowl projection is often under 540mm (21") so it frees up floor length and makes cleaning a breeze.

Advantages: feels airy, easier to mop, customizable height. Challenges: needs a carrier frame inside the wall and slightly higher install cost; plan plumbing access early.

save pin

2. Short projection floor-mounted bowl

Short projection toilets are my go-to when wall-hung isn’t an option. I installed one in a renovated Victorian where the load-bearing walls prevented in-wall tanks, and it fit without feeling cramped.

Advantages: lower cost than concealed tanks, simpler retrofit. Challenges: slightly less sleek than wall-hung and needs thoughtful placement so the door swing works.

save pin

3. Concealed cistern with slim pan

Hiding the cistern in a stud wall or shallow cabinet creates one of the smallest visible footprints. For a client who wanted a seamless look, a slim pan plus concealed cistern transformed a 1.2m-wide bathroom into a spa-like micro oasis. Designers often sketch this in a wall-hung toilet layout when planning the plumbing run and access panel.

Advantages: minimalist look, quiet flush, useful storage above the cistern area. Challenges: access for maintenance and slightly higher install complexity.

save pin

4. Compact one-piece rimless models

Rimless one-piece toilets combine a small footprint with hygienic performance — I’ve specified them for rentals and tiny condos because they’re robust and easy to clean. They often shave centimetres off the length and eliminate the crevice between tank and bowl.

Advantages: easy maintenance, modern look, fewer parts to worry about. Challenges: replacement costs can be higher than two-piece units if you pick premium brands.

save pin

5. Integrated cabinet or washlet combo

When floor space is nearly nonexistent, integrating the bowl into a shallow vanity or selecting a compact washlet with built-in controls can be a game-changer. I once designed a half-bath where the toilet sat beside a narrow sink-cabinet combo — it made the room feel intentional rather than squeezed.

Advantages: maximizes function in tiny footprints and hides plumbing; great for rental upgrades. Challenges: must manage ventilation and moisture near cabinetry. For quick planning, check curated space-saving bathroom ideas to visualize placement before buying.

save pin

FAQ

Q1: What is the smallest toilet size I can buy?

A: Smallest bowls often have a projection of about 500–540mm (20–21 inches) and a narrower seat width; measure door swings and clearance to ensure comfort.

Q2: Are wall-hung toilets worth the extra cost?

A: Yes if you value floor clearance and easy cleaning. Expect higher installation costs due to in-wall carriers and plumbing adjustments.

Q3: Can I retrofit a concealed cistern into an existing bathroom?

A: Often yes, but it depends on wall depth and access for maintenance. A false-wall or shallow cabinet can sometimes house the tank.

Q4: Are short-projection toilets comfortable for adults?

A: Most adults find them comfortable as long as seat height and clearance are right; test models in showrooms when possible.

Q5: Do compact toilets save water?

A: Not necessarily by size alone — look for dual-flush or low-flow certifications to save water regardless of footprint.

Q6: What clearance do I need in front of the toilet?

A: Building codes vary, but a typical recommended clearance is about 21–24 inches (530–610mm) in front of the bowl for comfort (International Plumbing Code, 2018).

Q7: Is a rimless toilet more hygienic?

A: Rimless designs reduce nooks where bacteria hide, making cleaning easier; they’re a good choice in small bathrooms where maintenance should be quick.

Q8: Where can I visualize layouts before buying?

A: Use simple room planners or bathroom tools to mock up placement and door swings so you avoid surprises during installation.

save pin