Thinking about replacing your toilet or building a new bathroom? You’ve probably encountered the term “elongated toilet” and wondered what makes it different from a standard round bowl. Don’t worry – you’re not alone!
This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about elongated toilets, helping you make an informed decision for your home.
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What Makes a Toilet “Elongated”?
The difference is simpler than you might think. An elongated toilet bowl is oval-shaped and extends further forward than a traditional round toilet. While a standard round bowl measures approximately 16.5 inches from the wall to the front rim, an elongated bowl typically extends to about 18.5 inches. That extra two inches might not sound like much, but it makes a surprising difference in comfort and functionality.
Think of it like choosing between a compact car and a mid-size sedan – both get you where you need to go, but one offers notably more legroom and comfort for the journey.
Understanding the Elongated Toilet Design
The Basic Anatomy
Before we dive deeper, let’s understand what we’re working with. An elongated toilet consists of the same basic components as any toilet: the bowl, the tank (or a concealed flush system in wall-hung models), the seat, and the internal flushing mechanism. The distinguishing feature is purely the bowl shape – it’s stretched out to create an oval rather than a circular opening.
This elongated design isn’t just about aesthetics. The shape follows function, providing a larger water surface area and a more ergonomic seating position. When you sit on an elongated toilet, you’ll notice the bowl extends further between your legs, offering more space and reducing the likelihood of contact with the front of the bowl.
How Did Elongated Toilets Become Popular?
Interestingly, elongated toilets have been around for decades but were initially more common in commercial settings. Hotels, office buildings, and public restrooms often favored the elongated design because it was considered more comfortable for a diverse range of body types. Over time, homeowners began requesting the same comfort they experienced in commercial bathrooms, and manufacturers responded by making elongated toilets a standard residential option.
Today, elongated toilets are the dominant choice in new home construction and bathroom renovations, particularly in North America. According to industry data, elongated models now account for approximately 80% of residential toilet sales in the United States.
The Benefits of Elongated Toilets
Superior Comfort
Let’s start with the most obvious advantage: comfort. The extended bowl shape provides significantly more sitting space, which most adults find more comfortable for extended use. If you’ve ever felt cramped on a round toilet, you’ll immediately appreciate the difference an elongated model provides.
The extra room isn’t just about physical space – it’s about ergonomics. The elongated shape better accommodates the natural position of the human body when seated, reducing strain and providing a more relaxed experience. This is particularly beneficial for taller individuals or those with mobility issues who may spend more time seated.
Improved Hygiene
Here’s something people don’t always consider: hygiene. The elongated bowl design provides more space between you and the front rim of the toilet, significantly reducing the chance of contact. This is especially important for men and children, who are more likely to come into contact with the front of a round bowl.
The larger water surface area in elongated bowls also means better waste containment and fewer cleaning issues. When waste enters a larger water target, there’s less likelihood of bowl staining and splash-back. Many homeowners report that elongated toilets stay cleaner between deep-cleaning sessions.
Better Accessibility
For individuals with mobility challenges, disabilities, or elderly family members, elongated toilets often pair better with accessibility features. The ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act) specifies that accessible toilets should have an elongated bowl, recognizing that this design makes sitting down and standing up easier, especially when using grab bars or other assistive devices.
If you’re planning to age in place or accommodate family members with special needs, an elongated toilet is often the more practical choice. The additional bowl length provides more clearance for positioning assistive devices and makes transfers from wheelchairs or walkers more manageable.
Potential Drawbacks to Consider
Space Requirements
Now for the reality check: elongated toilets take up more space. That extra two inches can matter in a small bathroom, powder room, or compact apartment bathroom. Before falling in love with the idea of an elongated toilet, measure your bathroom carefully.
You’ll want to ensure you have adequate clearance in front of the toilet. Building codes typically require at least 21 inches of clear space in front of the toilet, but 24-30 inches is more comfortable. If installing an elongated toilet would reduce your clearance below comfortable levels or make your bathroom feel cramped, a round bowl might be the better choice.
Consider how the toilet relates to other fixtures too. Will the door swing properly? Can you comfortably stand at the sink? Will there be enough room to move around when someone’s using the toilet? These practical considerations matter more than you might initially think.
Installation Considerations
If you’re replacing an existing round toilet with an elongated model, installation can get tricky. The toilet flange (the pipe fitting in your floor that connects to the sewer line) will be positioned for your old toilet’s size. When you extend the bowl forward, you might need to reposition supply lines, adjust the placement of mounting bolts, or even make modifications to surrounding fixtures.
This doesn’t mean you can’t make the switch – many people successfully replace round toilets with elongated ones every day. Just be aware that your plumber might need extra time, and you may incur additional costs beyond a simple toilet swap. If you’re handy with DIY projects, this is definitely manageable, but plan for a few potential complications.
Cost Differences
Generally speaking, elongated toilets cost slightly more than comparable round models. The price difference isn’t dramatic – usually between $20 to $50 for similar quality levels – but it’s worth factoring into your budget. Elongated toilet seats also tend to be a few dollars more expensive when you need replacements.
The installation cost differential can be more significant if you’re converting from a round toilet and need plumbing modifications. Budget an extra $50-150 for professional installation if modifications are needed, though many replacements won’t require this.
Elongated vs. Round: Making Your Decision
When to Choose Elongated
Opt for an elongated toilet if you have adequate bathroom space and want maximum comfort. They’re ideal for master bathrooms, family bathrooms, and any full-size bathroom where space isn’t severely limited. If any household members are taller than average, have mobility challenges, or simply value comfort, elongated is likely your best bet.
Elongated toilets are also the smart choice if you’re building new or completely renovating a bathroom. Since you’re starting with a clean slate, you can design around the elongated toilet’s dimensions from the beginning, ensuring proper clearances and optimal layout.
When Round Makes Sense
Round toilets aren’t obsolete – they’re perfect for compact spaces. Powder rooms, small half-baths, vintage bathrooms with limited floor space, and children’s bathrooms are all great candidates for round toilets. The space savings might seem minimal on paper, but in a tight bathroom, those two inches can make the difference between comfortable and cramped.
Round toilets are also worth considering if you’re working with a strict budget or want to maintain consistency with an existing bathroom style. Some vintage and period-style bathrooms look more authentic with round toilets, particularly when paired with traditional pedestal designs.
Shopping for an Elongated Toilet: What to Look For
Flushing Technology
Modern elongated toilets come with various flushing systems, and this matters more than you might think. Gravity-flush toilets are the traditional standard – they use water weight to create flushing pressure. They’re reliable, relatively quiet, and easy to repair.
Pressure-assisted toilets use compressed air to force water into the bowl more powerfully. They’re incredibly effective at preventing clogs and cleaning the bowl thoroughly, but they’re noticeably louder. If you have young children who are light sleepers or your bathroom is adjacent to bedrooms, the noise level might be a concern.
Dual-flush systems offer two flush options: a lower-volume flush for liquid waste and a higher-volume flush for solid waste. They’re excellent for water conservation and can significantly reduce your water bill over time. Look for models certified by WaterSense, an EPA program that identifies water-efficient fixtures.
Water Efficiency
Speaking of water use, this is crucial. Older toilets can use 3.5 to 7 gallons per flush, while modern high-efficiency toilets (HETs) use 1.28 gallons or less. Over a year, a family of four can save more than 16,000 gallons of water by switching from an old 3.5-gallon toilet to a 1.28-gallon HET.
Check the toilet’s MaP (Maximum Performance) score, which rates how many grams of solid waste the toilet can flush in a single flush. A score of 350 or higher is considered good; 400 or above is excellent. This matters because a water-efficient toilet that requires multiple flushes defeats the purpose of saving water.
Height Options
Standard toilets sit 15-16 inches from floor to seat, but “comfort height” or “right height” toilets sit at 17-19 inches – roughly the same height as a standard chair. For most adults, comfort height toilets are easier to sit down on and stand up from, reducing strain on knees and back.
The ADA specifies that accessible toilets should be 17-19 inches high, making comfort height the standard for universal design. If you’re choosing a toilet for long-term use or accommodating older adults, comfort height is worth the slight additional cost. However, families with young children might prefer standard height, as it’s easier for little ones to use independently.
Bowl Design and Coating
Beyond the elongated shape, pay attention to bowl design details. A smooth, glazed surface is easier to clean and resists staining better than rough or poorly finished porcelain. Some manufacturers offer special coatings that repel waste and reduce bacterial growth.
Look for toilets with a concealed trapway (the curved channel that carries waste away). Exposed trapways have ridges and crevices that collect dust and are harder to clean. Concealed trapways create a smooth exterior surface that you can wipe clean in seconds.
Top Elongated Toilet Brands and Models
Premium Options
TOTO is widely regarded as the gold standard in toilet manufacturing. Their elongated models feature exceptional flush technology, superior bowl glazing, and impressive build quality. The TOTO Drake II is a perennial favorite, offering powerful flushing, quiet operation, and a clean-looking design. Expect to pay $300-500 for TOTO’s mid-range elongated toilets, with premium models reaching $800 or more.
Kohler offers a vast range of elongated toilets across various price points. Their Highline and Wellworth series provide excellent performance and durability at reasonable prices ($250-400). For something special, look at Kohler’s Veil intelligent toilet with integrated bidet functions and automated features – though you’ll pay $4,000+ for this luxury.
American Standard strikes a nice balance between quality and value. Their Champion 4 elongated toilet is legendary for its clog-free performance and powerful flush. American Standard toilets typically range from $200-450, making them accessible for most budgets while delivering reliable performance.
Budget-Friendly Choices
Don’t assume you need to spend a fortune. Glacier Bay (Home Depot’s house brand) and AquaSource (Lowe’s house brand) offer elongated toilets starting around $100-150. While they may lack premium features like special bowl coatings or the quietest flush, they’re perfectly functional for basic needs.
Mansfield and Gerber also manufacture solid mid-range elongated toilets in the $150-250 range. They might not have the brand prestige of TOTO or Kohler, but many plumbers will tell you they’re workhorses that provide years of trouble-free service.
Smart Toilets and High-Tech Features
If you’re ready to embrace bathroom technology, elongated smart toilets offer features like heated seats, automatic lids, integrated bidets, air dryers, and even ambient lighting. TOTO Washlet systems can be added to standard toilets, or you can opt for fully integrated smart toilets from TOTO, Kohler, or Bio Bidet.
These high-tech toilets come with premium price tags ($1,000-5,000+), but they deliver unmatched comfort and hygiene. If you have the budget and appreciate innovation, they’re worth considering – particularly for master bathroom remodels.
Installation Tips and Considerations
DIY Installation
Installing a toilet isn’t beyond the skills of a determined DIYer, but it requires careful attention to detail. You’ll need basic tools: an adjustable wrench, screwdrivers, a level, a putty knife, and a hacksaw for cutting bolts. Don’t forget supplies like a new wax ring, toilet bolts, and plumber’s putty or silicone caulk.
The process involves removing your old toilet (if replacing), preparing the flange, positioning the new wax ring, carefully lowering the toilet into place, securing it with bolts, connecting the water supply, and testing for leaks. Take your time with alignment – once that wax ring compresses, you can’t readjust without replacing it.
Important tip: Never overtighten the toilet bolts. Porcelain cracks easily, and a cracked toilet base means replacing the entire fixture. Tighten bolts evenly, alternating sides, until the toilet is secure but with minimal pressure. Some wobbling can be fixed with toilet shims rather than overtightening.
If you’re handy and have successfully completed plumbing projects before, installing an elongated toilet is manageable. However, if you’re uncertain or encounter complications like a damaged flange or misaligned plumbing, calling a professional plumber is wise. A botched installation can lead to leaks, water damage, and expensive repairs that far exceed professional installation costs.
Professional Installation
Most plumbers charge $150-300 for basic toilet installation, though prices vary by region and job complexity. This fee typically includes removing your old toilet, installing the new one, hauling away the old fixture, and testing everything thoroughly. If modifications are needed – like replacing a flange, adjusting supply lines, or addressing subfloor issues – costs increase accordingly.
Professional installation brings peace of mind. Licensed plumbers have the experience to handle unexpected problems, properly seal connections to prevent leaks, and ensure your toilet meets local building codes. They’ll also warranty their work, so if issues arise shortly after installation, they’ll return to fix them.
Permits and Building Codes
Most simple toilet replacements don’t require permits, but check your local building department to be sure. If you’re adding a new bathroom or moving plumbing fixtures, permits are almost certainly required. Building codes also specify requirements for toilet placement, clearances, and installation methods.
The International Plumbing Code provides baseline standards that most localities adopt with minor modifications. Key requirements include minimum clearances (15 inches from the toilet centerline to any side wall or fixture, 21 inches in front), proper venting of drain lines, and appropriate water supply sizing.
Maintaining Your Elongated Toilet
Regular Cleaning
Elongated toilets are easy to maintain with regular cleaning. Use a toilet bowl cleaner weekly, scrubbing under the rim and throughout the bowl with a toilet brush. Clean the exterior with a bathroom cleaner or a mixture of vinegar and water. Don’t forget the often-overlooked spots: the base where the toilet meets the floor, the bolt caps, and the area behind the tank.
Avoid abrasive cleaners or tools that can scratch the porcelain glaze. Once that protective glaze is damaged, the toilet becomes much harder to clean and will stain more easily. Stick with cleaners specifically formulated for toilets, and use soft cloths or sponges on exterior surfaces.
Preventing Common Problems
Most toilet problems are preventable with mindful use. Never flush anything except toilet paper and human waste. “Flushable” wipes are notorious for causing clogs despite their marketing claims. Cotton swabs, dental floss, feminine hygiene products, and paper towels don’t belong in your toilet.
Hard water can cause mineral buildup in the rim jets (the holes under the rim that release water during flushing). If you have hard water, periodically clean these jets with a small brush or wire, or use a specialized hard water cleaner. Keeping jets clear ensures strong, effective flushing.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Running toilet: Usually caused by a worn flapper valve or fill valve problems. These are inexpensive parts ($10-20) that you can replace yourself with minimal tools. A running toilet wastes enormous amounts of water – fixing it immediately can save 200 gallons per day.
Weak flush: Check for clogged rim jets, low water level in the tank, or a partially closed shutoff valve. Sometimes the flapper isn’t opening fully, restricting water flow. These issues are usually quick fixes that don’t require professional help.
Rocking toilet: Indicates loose bolts, damaged flange, or uneven floor. Tighten bolts carefully, but if the toilet continues rocking, you might need to add shims or have a plumber inspect the flange. Never ignore a rocking toilet – it can break the wax seal and cause leaks.
Condensation: In humid climates, cold water in the tank can cause exterior condensation that drips onto your floor. Installing a toilet tank insulation kit or mixing valve that adds warm water to the tank can solve this problem. Improving bathroom ventilation also helps.
Environmental Impact and Water Savings
The Conservation Angle
Toilets account for nearly 30% of household water use, making them prime targets for conservation efforts. Replacing a single old 3.5-gallon toilet with a modern 1.28-gallon WaterSense certified elongated toilet saves approximately 13,000 gallons of water annually for a family of four. Multiply that by millions of households, and the impact is substantial.
Beyond water savings, reduced toilet water use means lower energy consumption at water treatment facilities and reduced wastewater processing. Some municipalities offer rebates for replacing old toilets with high-efficiency models – check with your local water utility to see if programs exist in your area.
Choosing Sustainable Options
When shopping for an elongated toilet, look for the WaterSense label, which certifies that the toilet uses 20% less water than standard 1.6-gallon models while maintaining excellent performance. The EPA’s WaterSense program has prevented billions of gallons of water waste since its inception.
Consider the manufacturing practices of the company you’re buying from as well. Some manufacturers have implemented sustainable production methods, reduced packaging waste, and offset their carbon emissions. While the toilet itself matters most, supporting companies committed to environmental responsibility amplifies your positive impact.
Special Considerations for Different Households
Families with Children
If you have young children, you’ll want an elongated toilet with a smooth, easy-to-clean surface and reliable flushing power. Kids are notoriously creative about what they’ll try to flush, so a toilet with good clog resistance is essential. Some families prefer standard height toilets for children’s bathrooms, as the lower seat makes it easier for little ones to use independently.
Consider a toilet with a slower-closing seat to prevent pinched fingers and loud slams. Many manufacturers offer “quiet close” or “soft close” seat options that gently lower rather than dropping quickly. These cost slightly more but provide both safety and peace of mind.
Aging in Place
For households with elderly members or those planning to age in place, the combination of an elongated bowl and comfort height makes bathroom use safer and easier. Pair your elongated comfort height toilet with grab bars mounted according to ADA guidelines, and you’ll have a much more accessible bathroom.
Some seniors benefit from toilets with a slightly higher seat height (19 inches) or even elevated toilet seats that add additional inches. The elongated bowl design gives more clearance for positioning grab bars and assistive devices, making transfers safer and more comfortable.
Rental Properties
Landlords face unique considerations when choosing toilets for rental properties. Durability and reliability matter most – you want a toilet that will function for years with minimal maintenance. Elongated toilets are generally preferred by tenants, potentially making your property more attractive to renters.
Opt for mid-range models from reliable manufacturers rather than the cheapest available options. The additional $50-100 investment in quality pays for itself through reduced maintenance calls and longer service life. Water-efficient toilets also keep utility costs lower if you include water in the rent.
The Future of Toilet Design
Emerging Technologies
Toilet technology continues advancing in surprising ways. Touchless flushing, self-cleaning systems, health monitoring capabilities, and even more water-efficient designs are becoming increasingly common. Some smart toilets now analyze waste for health indicators, potentially providing early warning of medical conditions.
Hybrid flushing systems that adapt flush volume based on bowl contents are in development, promising even greater water savings. Improved bowl coatings that nearly eliminate bacterial adhesion could revolutionize toilet hygiene. The bathroom fixture we often take for granted is quietly becoming more sophisticated.
Sustainability Innovations
Future toilets may use dramatically less water or even no water at all. Vacuum-assist toilets, common in aircraft, are being adapted for residential use. Composting toilets are becoming more refined and less intimidating for mainstream adoption. These innovations could transform the environmental impact of household sanitation.
Some municipalities are already piloting graywater systems that use sink and shower water for toilet flushing, reducing freshwater consumption. While these systems require careful design and installation, they represent the future of sustainable water use in homes.
Making Your Final Decision
Choosing an elongated toilet doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Start by measuring your space to ensure adequate clearances. Then, decide on your budget and prioritize features that matter most to you. Is it flushing power? Water efficiency? Comfort height? Easy cleaning? Knowing your priorities helps narrow the overwhelming array of options.
Read reviews from actual owners, not just professional reviewers. Real-world experiences reveal how toilets perform over months and years of daily use. Look for comments about flush effectiveness, cleaning ease, and long-term reliability. Pay attention to complaints – consistent issues reported across multiple reviews are red flags to avoid.
Visit showrooms to see toilets in person when possible. Sit on display models if they’ll let you (many showrooms expect this). Check how the bowl looks, how the seat fits, and whether the design appeals to you. Photos online can’t fully convey the size, finish quality, or comfort level of an actual toilet.
Need More Help?
If you’re still uncertain after your research, consult with a licensed plumber who can assess your specific bathroom, recommend appropriate models, and provide realistic installation cost estimates. Most plumbers are happy to offer advice, especially if you’ll be hiring them for the installation.
For additional information about toilet standards and water efficiency, visit EPA WaterSense for comprehensive resources. The International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials also offers useful information about plumbing standards and best practices.
Final Thoughts
Elongated toilets represent a simple but meaningful upgrade to your home’s comfort and functionality. The additional space, improved hygiene, and enhanced comfort they provide make them the preferred choice for most modern bathrooms. While they’re not perfect for every situation – particularly very small spaces – their benefits typically outweigh the minimal drawbacks.
Whether you’re building new, renovating, or simply replacing a failing toilet, taking time to choose the right elongated model will pay dividends in daily comfort and long-term satisfaction. It’s not the most glamorous home improvement decision you’ll make, but it’s one you’ll interact with multiple times daily for years to come. Choose wisely, install properly, and enjoy the comfort of a quality elongated toilet! 🛠️
Pro Tip: When shopping, remember that the most expensive toilet isn’t always the best choice for your needs. Focus on finding the right balance of features, quality, and value for your specific situation.
