A wall-mounted toilet is easier to clean and has a sleeker look because the cistern is neatly concealed within the wall. A floor-standing toilet is often simpler to install and usually requires less installation work, as no concealed cistern or false wall is needed.
The best choice depends on your wall, budget, available space, and desired aesthetic. In this article, we provide a clear overview of the differences, making it easier for you to determine which toilet best suits your bathroom or washroom.
Why is the choice between a wall-mounted and floor-standing toilet important?
A toilet lasts for years and is used daily. Therefore, it's important to consider not only the price but also ease of cleaning, comfort, appearance, and the technical possibilities of the space.
The choice between a wall-mounted and a floor-standing toilet also affects installation. A wall-mounted toilet requires a sturdy frame and a suitable concealed cistern, while a floor-standing toilet can usually be placed more easily on the existing connection.
What is a wall-mounted toilet?
A wall-mounted toilet, also known as a suspended toilet, is mounted to the wall. The flushing cistern is behind the wall or in a false wall, so only the toilet bowl and the control panel remain visible.
This provides a sleek and modern look. The floor also remains clear, allowing you to easily clean under the toilet. For this, also check out our range of wall-mounted toilets.
What is a floor-standing toilet?
A floor-standing toilet stands with its base on the floor. The cistern can be visible or connected separately, depending on the model and the existing situation in your bathroom or washroom.
Floor-standing toilets are often chosen for renovations where the existing connection is retained. Installation is usually simpler than with a wall-mounted toilet, and fewer structural modifications are needed. Check out our floor-standing toilets for this.
How do you choose between a wall-mounted and floor-standing toilet?
The right choice starts with the space itself. Check if the wall is suitable for a concealed cistern and if there is enough space for a frame or false wall. If not, a floor-standing toilet may be more practical.
Also consider your budget, desired aesthetic, and ease of cleaning. Those who want a modern and spacious washroom often choose a wall-mounted toilet. Those who primarily want a quick, simple, and affordable replacement often opt for a floor-standing toilet.
- Check if your wall is suitable for a concealed cistern.
- Determine your budget for purchase and installation.
- Consider ease of cleaning and hygiene.
- Look at the desired aesthetic of the space.
- Consider a complete toilet set for a well-coordinated look.
- Ask for advice if you are unsure about the installation or wall structure.
Cleaning and hygiene
A wall-mounted toilet hangs free from the floor. This allows for easy mopping underneath, and dirt accumulates less quickly around the base of the toilet. This makes a wall-mounted toilet practical for those who value hygiene and daily maintenance.
A floor-standing toilet has a base that connects to the floor. Dirt can accumulate more quickly around this connection, especially in smaller washrooms. This doesn't mean a floor-standing toilet is unhygienic, but it does require a little more attention during cleaning.
Space and appearance
A wall-mounted toilet looks lighter and more spacious because the floor remains visible and the cistern disappears from view. This fits well with modern bathrooms and washrooms where a calm, sleek finish is desired.
A floor-standing toilet has a more classic appearance and is more prominently present in the space. This can fit perfectly with a simple renovation, a traditional bathroom, or a situation where the existing connection must be retained.
Price and installation
A wall-mounted toilet is often more expensive to purchase and install. This is because, in addition to the toilet bowl, you also need a frame, concealed cistern, false wall, and flush plate. The installation work also requires more preparation.
A floor-standing toilet is usually more affordable and quicker to install, especially when the existing drain and water connection are already in place. For a simple replacement, this can therefore be a practical and budget-friendly choice.
Complete toilet set or separate components?
With a wall-mounted toilet, it's important that the toilet bowl, cistern, toilet seat, and flush plate are well-matched. Therefore, many customers choose a complete toilet set, where the main components are already coordinated.
A complete toilet set is particularly useful for a new washroom or a complete renovation. This prevents you from having to combine separate components afterwards or finding that colors, shapes, or connections don't fit together properly.
Choosing the right toilet seat
In addition to the choice between a wall-mounted and floor-standing toilet, the toilet seat plays an important role in comfort and hygiene. A soft-close toilet seat prevents slamming and feels more pleasant in daily use.
A quick-release toilet seat can be easily detached, allowing you to clean the toilet bowl and seat more thoroughly. View our toilet seats to choose a model that suits your toilet.
Common mistakes when choosing a toilet
A common mistake is choosing a wall-mounted toilet without first checking if the wall is suitable for a concealed cistern. In some situations, a sturdy false wall is needed, which can lead to higher costs and more work.
Also, the flush plate is often chosen at the very last moment. This is a shame, as the flush plate partly determines the look of the washroom. Therefore, consider the complete picture beforehand: toilet, cistern, seat, flush plate, and any tiles.
Conclusion: wall-mounted or floor-standing toilet?
Choose a wall-mounted toilet if you want a sleek, modern look and value ease of cleaning. The toilet hangs free from the floor, making the space appear calmer and easier to keep clean.
Choose a floor-standing toilet if you are primarily looking for a simple, affordable, and practical solution. This is often a good choice for renovations where you want to avoid major structural modifications.
Still in doubt? Then carefully consider your wall, budget, space, and desired aesthetic. This way, you choose a toilet that not only fits beautifully but also remains practical in daily use.
Frequently Asked Questions about wall-mounted and floor-standing toilets
What is cheaper: a wall-mounted or floor-standing toilet?
A floor-standing toilet is generally cheaper because no concealed cistern, frame, or false wall is needed. Installation is also often simpler, especially if the existing connection can be retained. A wall-mounted toilet usually requires more materials and installation work but offers a sleeker appearance and greater ease of cleaning in return.
Is a wall-mounted toilet more difficult to install?
Yes, a wall-mounted toilet is usually more difficult to install than a floor-standing toilet. A sturdy concealed cistern or frame is required that is properly placed in or in front of the wall. The wall finish must also be neatly executed so that the toilet is securely mounted and the space is finished cleanly.
Which toilet is more hygienic?
A wall-mounted toilet is often more hygienic in practice because the floor beneath the toilet remains clear. This makes it easier to mop, and less dirt accumulates around the base of the toilet. A floor-standing toilet can also be kept clean, but it requires a little more attention around the floor connection.
Can I install a wall-mounted toilet in any wall?
Not always. The wall must be suitable to support the frame and cistern securely, or a false wall must be installed. If in doubt, it is advisable to have it checked in advance whether the space is technically suitable for a wall-mounted toilet to avoid unexpected modifications.
What is better for a small washroom?
In a small washroom, a wall-mounted toilet can appear more spacious because the floor remains visible and the cistern is neatly concealed. However, a false wall can sometimes take up extra depth. Therefore, the best choice depends on the existing space, the position of the drain, and how much space you have available.
