When working with a small bathroom or powder room, every inch counts—especially when it comes to your toilet. Toilets take up more space than you might think—not just the footprint, but also the clearance needed in front and around them. In tight layouts, you’re often working around narrow walls, inward-swinging doors, or vanities/tubs just a few inches away. The right toilet can make all the difference between awkward and efficient.
The good news is, there are plenty of smartly designed, compact toilets that save space without sacrificing comfort—let’s explore the best options for small bathrooms and half baths.
I. What Size Toilet Is Best for a Small Bathroom?
Here’s what to look for in a compact toilet:
- Depth (front to back): 24″ to 27″ is ideal
- Width (side to side): ≤ 16″
- Height (floor to tank top): ≤ 30″
- Rough-in distance: Standard is 12″, but always measure yours before buying
And don’t forget about clearances:
- Leave at least 18″ in front of the toilet for knee room
- At least 15″ of space on each side from the centerline to the wall or obstacle
These aren’t just comfort guidelines—they’re also part of many building codes.
II. Best Toilet Types for Small Bathrooms
Let’s break down the best options to save space:
✅ 1. Round Bowl Toilets
Round-front toilets typically have a depth of around 26″ to 28″, making them about 1.5″–2″ shorter than most elongated models. That small difference can really matter in a powder room or half bath.
- Pros: Compact footprint, affordable, widely available
- Best for: Narrow or shallow spaces
✅ 2. Slim Tank Toilets
These are compact elongated toilets paired with narrow tanks(typically just 5″ to 7″ deep) for a low-profile look. Some are just as short as round bowl models—but keep their comfort.
- Pros: Sleek, modern, space-efficient
- Best for: Small bathrooms where comfort is still a priority
| For example, the Simple Project Ultra Compact One Piece Toilet features an ultra-slim 5″ tank and a total depth of just 23-3/5″—one of the shortest on the market. It retains a 17-1/2″ compact elongated bowl, offering a more ergonomic seating experience than most round models. Despite its small footprint, it still delivers the comfort of a full-size elongated toilet. Its 1.0/1.6 GPF dual flush system ensures water-efficient, reliable performance—making it a smart solution for tight spaces without compromise.
✅ 3. Corner Toilets
With a triangular tank that fits into a corner, this design maximizes floor space in tight layouts.
- Pros: Great for awkward layouts or unusually shaped rooms
- Best for: Guest baths, angled walls, or small additions
✅ 4. Wall-Hung Toilets
The ultimate space-saving solution. These mount directly to the wall and have hidden tanks inside the wall cavity.
- Pros: Floating design, adjustable height, easy to clean underneath
- Cons: Higher cost, requires in-wall support
- Best for: Ultra-modern remodels or serious space upgrades
III. Compact Toilet Style Comparison Table
| Type |
Space-Saving |
Comfort |
Best Use Case |
| Round Bowl |
★★★★☆ |
★★★☆☆ |
Tight powder rooms, half baths |
| Slim Tank |
★★★★★ |
★★★★★ |
Long/narrow bathrooms |
| Corner Toilet |
★★★★★ |
★★★★★ |
Angled layouts, tricky corners |
| Wall-Hung |
★★★★★ |
★★★★☆ |
Sleek remodels, max floor space |
IV. Bonus Tip: Test Before You Buy
If possible, sit on the floor models at a showroom or closely check dimensions online. Don’t just check total size—think about your space. Does the door swing into the toilet? Is the front edge too close to the sink?
For older adults or people with limited mobility, consider both height and bowl shape. Some compact toilets are also ADA-compliant.
Final Thoughts
Small bathrooms can be beautiful, efficient, and comfortable—with the right toilet. Round bowls, slim tanks, corner designs, and wall-hung toilets all have their strengths. The key is to match your bathroom layout with a toilet that maximizes room without compromising usability.
Start by measuring your space, then look for toilets with total depth under 27″. When done right, even the tiniest bathroom can feel open and comfortable.
FAQs
Q: What size toilet is best for a small bathroom?
Choose toilets under 27″ deep, 16″ wide, and 30″ high. Round bowl toilet, compact one-piece, corner, or wall-hung toilets work well.
Q: Is a round or elongated toilet better for a small bathroom?
Round toilets save space; elongated bowls are more comfortable but need about 2″ more depth.
Q: What size toilet fits best in a half bath?
Toilets with a depth of 24″–26″ are ideal. Slim tank, round bowk and corner models work especially well in compact layouts.
Q: Which toilet takes up the least space?
Slim-tank toilets with compact elongated or round bowls are the most space-efficient. Wall-hung models save floor space but require in-wall installation.
Q: Can I install an elongated toilet in a small bathroom?
Yes—choose a compact elongated model with a shorter tank for space savings.