Finding Your Throne: A Comprehensive Guide to Choosing the Perfect Toilet

Embarking on a bathroom renovation can feel like navigating a complex maze of choices, from tiles and tapware to shower screens and vanities. Yet, at the heart of this essential space lies a fixture often overlooked until the very moment of decision: the toilet. More than just a functional necessity, the right toilet can contribute significantly to your bathroom’s aesthetics, efficiency, and overall comfort.

At MyHomeware’s expansive bathroom showroom in Sydney, they understand that selecting the perfect toilet involves more than just picking the first one you see. It’s about considering your space, your needs, and your style. That’s why they’ve curated a diverse collection, ensuring you find the ideal “throne” to complement your home.

Decoding the Types: Finding the Right Fit for Your Space

The world of toilets has evolved far beyond the basic models of the past. Today, renovators are presented with a range of designs, each with its own set of advantages and installation considerations. Let’s explore some of the most popular types of toilets that are in use across Australia today.

Back to Wall Toilets: Sleek and minimalist, back to wall toilets offer a contemporary aesthetic by concealing the cistern within the wall cavity or a furniture unit. This not only creates a cleaner look but also frees up valuable floor space, making them a popular choice for modern bathrooms. Installation typically requires pre-planning to accommodate the concealed cistern, but the result is a seamless and stylish finish. These are particularly well-suited for residential bathrooms where a streamlined design is desired.

Floating Toilets (Wall-Hung): Taking the space-saving concept a step further, floating toilets, also known as wall-hung toilets, are mounted directly to the wall with the cistern concealed. This design creates an illusion of more space and makes cleaning the floor underneath incredibly easy. While installation requires a sturdy wall frame to support the weight, the visual impact and practicality make them a favourite in contemporary residential and even some commercial settings where hygiene and aesthetics are paramount.

Ambulant Toilets: Accessibility is a crucial consideration in any home, and ambulant toilets are designed to meet specific needs. These toilets often feature a higher seat, grab rails for support, and ample space around them for easier transfer. Whether for aging in place or accommodating individuals with mobility challenges, choosing an ambulant toilet ensures comfort and safety.

The Inner Workings: Understanding Toilet Components

Beyond the visible design, understanding the core components of a toilet is key to making an informed decision. The combination of the toilet bowl and cistern is what makes this essential fixture functional.

The toilet bowl and cistern can come as a close-coupled unit, where the cistern sits directly on top of the bowl, or as separate pieces connected by a flush pipe. Close-coupled toilets are generally easier to install and are a common choice for many homes.

The toilet flush mechanism is another critical aspect. Modern toilets often feature a toilet flush with dual flush options, allowing you to choose between a full flush for solid waste and a half flush for liquid waste. This simple yet effective feature can significantly reduce water consumption over time. Button flush mechanisms are the most common type in contemporary designs, offering ease of use and a sleek look. Rimless toilet designs are also gaining popularity for their hygienic benefits and efficient flushing action.

The Convenience of Choice: Toilet Suites vs Individual Units

When browsing our bathroom showroom in Sydney or our online store, you’ll encounter both toilet suites and individual units. A toilet suite typically includes the bowl and cistern as a pre-matched set, often simplifying the selection process and ensuring a cohesive design. This can be a convenient option for straightforward renovations or new builds.

However, purchasing separate parts offers greater flexibility. For instance, if you have specific design requirements or need to replace only the bowl or the cistern, buying individual units allows for a more tailored approach. Our knowledgeable team at MyHomeware can guide you through the pros and cons of each option based on your specific project.

Specialised Solutions: Urinals and Beyond

While toilets are the standard for most residential bathrooms, there are specialised options to consider for specific needs. Urinals, for example, are often found in commercial properties or in homes with a focus on gender-specific facilities. They are designed for efficient and water-conscious disposal of liquid waste.

As mentioned earlier, ambulant toilets cater to accessibility requirements, ensuring that everyone can use the bathroom comfortably and safely. These specialised options highlight the importance of considering the diverse needs of all users during a renovation.

Smart Savings: Exploring Toilet Clearance Events

Renovations can sometimes strain the budget, which is why MyHomeware regularly hosts toilet clearance events. These events provide an excellent opportunity to acquire high-quality toilets at significantly discounted prices. You might just find the perfect toilet for your project without breaking the bank!

The Tangible Difference: Why Visit a Bathroom Showroom in Sydney?

In the age of online shopping, visiting a physical bathroom showroom in Sydney like MyHomeware offers invaluable benefits. Firstly, you can physically touch and feel the products. Seeing the scale, the finish, and the overall quality firsthand can make a significant difference in your decision-making process.

Secondly, their showroom provides access to expert advice. Their experienced team is on hand to answer your questions, discuss your project requirements, and offer tailored recommendations based on your space, budget, and aesthetic preferences. We understand the nuances of different toilet types and can guide you towards the best solution for your needs.

Finally, visiting our showroom might unveil exclusive in-store deals and promotions that you won’t find online. It’s an opportunity to experience the products up close and benefit from personalized service. Their 5,000sqm warehouse/showroom in North Rocks boasts one of the widest selections of toilets and bathroom products in Australia, all in stock for fast pickup or delivery. MyHomeware pride ourselves on excellent service, extended returns, and a price-beat policy, ensuring a confident and satisfying shopping experience.

Making the Right Choice: Deeper Insights into Selecting Your Toilet

Choosing the right toilet involves a thoughtful consideration of several factors, going beyond just the basic dimensions and price tag. Here’s a more in-depth look at what you should consider:

• Bathroom Space: Beyond the Measurements: While knowing the length and width your new toilet can occupy is crucial, also think about the rough-in distance – the space between the wall and the centre of the toilet’s waste outlet. This measurement is critical for ensuring compatibility with your existing plumbing. Consider the door swing to ensure it doesn’t clash with the toilet, and allow ample clearance around the toilet for comfortable movement. Think about the placement of toilet roll holders and towel rails in relation to the toilet’s position. In smaller bathrooms, a floating toilet can create a sense of spaciousness by revealing more floor area, while a compact back to wall toilet can offer a streamlined profile.
• Budget: Long-Term Value Over Initial Cost: While it’s important to set a budget, consider the long-term costs associated with your toilet choice. A more expensive model might boast a more efficient toilet flush system, leading to lower water bills over time. Features like a high-quality seat with soft-close hinges can enhance comfort and prevent wear and tear, potentially saving you replacement costs down the line. Explore the warranty offered by different manufacturers, as a longer warranty can indicate better build quality and reliability. Remember to factor in installation costs if you’re not a seasoned DIYer. Our team at MyHomeware can provide guidance on toilets that offer the best value for money in the long run.
• Aesthetic: Harmonising with Your Bathroom’s Soul: Your toilet should be more than just a functional item; it should contribute to the overall aesthetic of your bathroom. Consider the shape of the bowl (round vs. elongated – elongated bowls often offer more comfort), the style of the cistern (exposed, concealed, or integrated), and the finish (standard white, or perhaps a more contemporary matte or coloured option). Think about the design lines of your other fixtures – are they angular and modern, or more curved and traditional? Matching these elements will create a cohesive and visually appealing space. Visiting our bathroom showroom Sydney allows you to see and compare various designs side-by-side, helping you visualise the perfect fit for your style.
• User Needs: Comfort and Accessibility for Everyone: Consider who will be using the toilet most frequently. For taller individuals or those with mobility issues, a comfort-height toilet (also known as right-height) with a higher seat can make a significant difference in ease of use. If you’re planning for aging in place or have family members with specific needs, an ambulant toilet with grab rail provisions might be a wise investment. Even seemingly small details like the shape and material of the seat can impact comfort.
• Matching Other Fixtures: Creating a Unified Design Language: Aim for a sense of unity in your bathroom design by coordinating the style and finish of your toilet with your sink, shower or bath, and even your accessories. For example, if you’ve chosen sleek, modern tapware with sharp lines, a similarly styled toilet will enhance the contemporary feel. If your other fixtures have softer, more traditional curves, a toilet with a complementary design will create a more harmonious space. Consider the colour palette as well – while white is a classic and versatile choice, you might opt for a different shade to complement your tiles or vanity unit.

By delving deeper into these considerations and exploring the diverse range of toilets available at MyHomeware, you’ll be well-equipped to make a truly informed decision and select the perfect toilet that meets your functional needs and enhances your bathroom’s overall design.

Ready to find your perfect throne? Visit our extensive toilet collection online or come and experience the possibilities firsthand at MyHomeware’s Sydney bathroom showroom.