When planning a new bathroom, choosing the right toilet is just as important as selecting the basin, taps and shower. It is something you use every day, so it should be comfortable, easy to clean and suitable for the space you have.
One decision that often comes up is whether to choose a wall hung toilet or a floor mounted toilet. At first, the difference may seem quite simple. One is fixed to the wall, while the other stands on the floor. But there is more to consider when choosing between the two. Their installation, cleaning, appearance and space requirements are quite different.
So, which one should you choose?
The answer depends on your bathroom layout, budget and personal preference. Let's look at both options and understand what makes each one suitable for different homes.
Table of Contents
- Understanding Wall Hung And Floor Mounted Toilets
- Wall Hung Toilets: A Clean And Modern Look
- Floor Mounted Toilets: A Familiar And Practical Choice
- Are Wall Hung Toilets Strong Enough For Everyday Use?
- Is A Wall Hung Toilet Easier To Clean?
- Do Wall Hung Toilets Need A Concealed Cistern?
- Which Toilet Is Better For A Small Bathroom?
- Things To Check Before Buying A New Toilet
- Conclusion
- Frequently Asked Questions
Understanding Wall Hung And Floor Mounted Toilets
Before comparing the two, it helps to understand how they are designed. A Wall Hung WC is attached to a strong support frame fitted inside or behind the wall. The toilet bowl stays above the floor, leaving an open space underneath. The cistern is usually hidden behind the wall, and only the flush plate remains visible.
A Floor Mounted Toilet, on the other hand, stands directly on the bathroom floor. It is fixed in place and connected to the waste pipe and water supply. Depending on the design, the cistern may be visible or concealed behind a wall.
Wall Hung Toilets: A Clean And Modern Look
One of the first things you notice about a wall hung toilet is that it does not touch the floor. This small difference can change the appearance of the entire bathroom. Since the floor underneath remains visible, the room can feel more open and less crowded.
Most wall hung toilets also come with a Concealed Cistern. This means the water tank stays hidden behind the wall, leaving only the flush plate visible.
People often choose wall hung toilets because they:
- Give the bathroom a clean and modern appearance.
- Leave the floor underneath free for cleaning.
- Work well in compact bathrooms.
- Allow the installation height to be planned for comfort.
However, installation needs proper planning. The wall must have a suitable support frame, and the plumbing needs to be arranged before the wall is finished.
Floor Mounted Toilets: A Familiar And Practical Choice
Floor mounted toilets have been used in homes for many years, and they remain a popular option.
They are fitted directly onto the floor and do not usually require the same concealed support frame as a wall hung design. They are also available in different shapes and styles. You can choose a traditional design or a modern close-coupled toilet with a neat appearance.
Another advantage is that repairs and maintenance are generally easier to access, depending on the model.
Floor mounted toilets can be a good choice because they:
- Are generally easier to install.
- Work well with many existing bathroom layouts.
- Come in a wide range of designs.
- Usually require less structural preparation.
The only drawback is that the toilet sits on the floor, so cleaning around its base may take a little more effort.
Are Wall Hung Toilets Strong Enough For Everyday Use?
This is one of the most common concerns people have before choosing a wall hung toilet. Since the toilet does not touch the floor, some homeowners worry about whether it can support their weight during everyday use. The good news is that a properly installed wall hung toilet is designed to handle regular use.
Before choosing one, make sure:
- The support frame is designed for the selected toilet.
- The frame is fixed securely to the building structure.
- The wall and floor can support the installation system.
- A qualified installer follows the manufacturer's guidelines.
Never assume that simply fixing the toilet to a tiled wall will be enough. The correct support system makes all the difference.
Is A Wall Hung Toilet Easier To Clean?
If cleaning is an important part of your decision, wall hung toilets have a useful advantage.
Since the bowl is raised above the floor, you can easily clean underneath it. There is no toilet base touching the floor, which means fewer difficult areas to reach. This is especially helpful in smaller bathrooms where cleaning around fittings can sometimes be uncomfortable.
For easier bathroom cleaning, consider:
- Choosing a smooth toilet design with fewer corners.
- Cleaning underneath wall hung toilets regularly.
- Wiping around the base of floor mounted models.
- Using suitable bathroom cleaning products.
Neither type is completely maintenance-free, but wall hung designs make floor cleaning a little easier.
Do Wall Hung Toilets Need A Concealed Cistern?
Yes, most wall hung toilets are installed with a concealed cistern.
A Concealed Cistern is a water tank fitted behind the wall or inside a suitable installation unit. Since the tank is hidden, the bathroom looks less crowded. However, the cistern still needs to be accessible for maintenance. Most systems allow access through the flush plate opening, which can be removed when servicing is required.
A few things to remember:
- Choose a cistern designed for your wall hung toilet.
- Make sure the installation frame is suitable for the wall.
- Check how the cistern can be accessed for repairs.
- Follow the manufacturer's installation instructions.
Which Toilet Is Better For A Small Bathroom?
If you have a compact bathroom, a wall hung toilet is often worth considering.
Since it leaves the floor visible underneath, it can make the room feel more open. The concealed cistern also removes the need for a visible water tank, which helps keep the overall design simple.
Before choosing, measure the available space carefully. Check the distance between the toilet, basin, door and other fittings.
A few things worth considering:
- Wall hung toilets can make the floor area look more open.
- Compact floor mounted models can suit smaller layouts.
- Check the projection of the toilet before buying.
- Leave enough space for comfortable everyday use.
The best option is the one that fits your bathroom without making movement difficult.
Things To Check Before Buying A New Toilet
Once you have decided between wall hung and floor mounted designs, there are a few other details worth checking.
Start with the available space and the position of your existing plumbing. If you are replacing an old toilet, check whether the new model will work with the existing waste connection.
For a wall hung toilet, installation planning is particularly important. You need the right support frame, cistern and plumbing arrangement.
Before making your final decision:
- Measure the available bathroom space.
- Check the waste outlet and water connection.
- Compare the installation requirements and overall cost.
- Look at the cleaning, maintenance and warranty details.
Taking a little extra time before buying can help you avoid unnecessary changes during installation.
Conclusion
Both wall hung and floor mounted toilets have their own advantages. Wall hung designs are a good choice if you want a modern bathroom with an open floor area and easier cleaning. Floor mounted toilets are suitable if you prefer a familiar design, simpler installation and easier access to plumbing.
The right choice depends on your bathroom size, installation requirements and the comfort you expect from your everyday fittings.
Jaquar offers a range of bathroom solutions designed to suit different spaces and styles, making it easier to plan a bathroom that looks good and works well for everyday use. Whether you prefer a wall hung or floor mounted design, choose a toilet that offers lasting comfort, quality and ease of maintenance.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the difference between a wall hung and a floor mounted toilet?
A wall hung toilet is fixed to a support frame inside the wall, leaving the floor underneath free, while a floor mounted toilet is fitted directly onto the bathroom floor.
2. Are wall hung toilets strong enough for everyday use?
Yes, wall hung toilets are designed for everyday use when installed correctly with a suitable support frame that is securely fixed to the building structure.
3. Is a wall hung toilet easier to clean?
Yes, a wall hung toilet makes floor cleaning easier because there is no toilet base touching the floor, leaving fewer difficult areas to reach.
4. Do wall hung toilets need a concealed cistern?
Yes, most wall hung toilets use a concealed cistern fitted behind the wall or inside an installation unit, with only the flush plate visible.
5. Which toilet is better for a small bathroom?
A wall hung toilet is often a good choice for small bathrooms because it leaves the floor visible and creates a more open appearance, although compact floor mounted models can also work well.