Which Toilet Is Better for My Bathroom – Elongated vs Round?
Choosing a bowl style is an important part of any bathroom remodel or refresh. One of the biggest questions you’ll face round vs. elongated toilet. Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered. Keep reading to settle the round vs. elongated debate and find out which one suits your bath space and style.
What is a Round Toilet? Best for Small Bathrooms
Round toilets feature a shorter, circular bowl, which saves space and works well in compact bathrooms, powder rooms, or apartments. Their smaller size is often easier for kids to use, and they fit seamlessly in traditional bathroom designs.
Why Choose a Round Toilet:
- Space-Saving Superhero: Round toilets take up less room, so they’re perfect for compact bathrooms.
- Kid-Friendly: If you’ve got little ones, the smaller seat is easier for them to handle.
- Classic Charm: Round toilets tend to work best in more traditional bathroom designs.
Drawbacks of Round Toilets:
- Less Comfort for Adults: The shorter seat may feel cramped to taller adults.
- Hygiene Concerns: The smaller bowl size can make cleanliness more challenging.
What is an Elongated Toilet? Ideal for Comfort and Hygiene
An elongated toilet has a longer, oval-shaped bowl, prioritizing comfort and ease of cleaning. This shape provides more sitting space, making it popular in master bathrooms or guest bathrooms. Elongated toilets bring a sleek, modern look that suits contemporary bathrooms.
Why Choose an Elongated Toilet:
- Enhanced Comfort: The longer seat offers extra legroom, a plus for adults.
- Cleaner and Hygienic: The larger surface area helps contain messes and keeps the bowl cleaner.
- Modern Look: Adds a contemporary touch to bathrooms.
Drawbacks of Elongated Toilets:
- Requires More Space: Takes up more room, making it less ideal for smaller bathrooms.
- Higher Cost: Often pricier than round models due to additional comfort features.
How to Decide: Key Considerations for Round vs. Elongated Toilets
- Prioritize Comfort
For adults prioritizing comfort, an elongated toilet is often preferable, providing better leg support. Round toilets work well for kids or anyone who prefers a compact seat. - Measure Your Bathroom Size
In small bathrooms or powder rooms, a round toilet’s compact 16.5-inch length fits best. In larger bathrooms, an elongated toilet, typically about 18.5 inches long, offers more space and comfort. - Consider Your Bathroom’s Style
Round toilets suit traditional, classic designs, while elongated bowls bring a modern, updated look. A sleek, contemporary bathroom often benefits from an elongated bowl, while vintage designs pair well with round toilets. - Ease of Cleaning
Elongated toilets are generally easier to clean due to their larger bowl area, which helps contain messes. Round toilets are still functional but may require more frequent cleaning.
Final Verdict: Which Toilet Bowl Shape is Right for You?
If you’re working with a limited space, a round toilet will fit comfortably without crowding the room, making it a good choice for powder rooms or small bathrooms. For those who prioritize comfort, cleanliness, and style, an elongated toilet provides a more spacious and modern experience.
Both options offer benefits, and there’s no wrong choice. Measure your space, consider your priorities — whether for space-saving or comfort — and pick the bowl shape that’s perfect for your bathroom setup.
If you have more questions about selecting the right toilet for your bathroom, check out our Toilet Buyer’s Guide.