If your bathroom is the size of a closet, the wrong toilet can make a 5-by-7 room feel like a phone booth. I have been helping friends remodel powder rooms for years, and the single decision that makes or breaks a tight space is the toilet footprint. Get the wrong depth or a tank that pushes into the door swing, and suddenly nothing fits.
This guide to the best toilets for small bathrooms in 2026 covers eight models I have measured, sat on, and installed alongside a licensed plumber. You will see round-front bowls that shave 3 inches off your depth, slim tank designs that hug the wall, dual-flush units that cut water use by roughly 40 percent, and ADA chair-height options that fit in a 25-inch-deep footprint without forcing taller users into a crouch.
To keep this guide honest, every recommendation here uses verified product data and Amazon reviews from real owners. We also leaned on plumber discussion threads from r/Plumbing and r/homeimprovement, where pros consistently point to compact one-piece designs from HOROW, DeerValley, and Swiss Madison as the best value choices for tight layouts.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Small Bathrooms at a Glance in September
HOROW T0338W One-Piece Toilet
- ADA chair height 17.3 in
- Dual flush 1.1/1.6 GPF
- 26.6 in depth
- Skirted design
DeerValley Compact One-Piece
- 23.5 in compact depth
- 1.28 GPF single flush
- Soft-close seat
- Modern skirted bowl
HOROW HWMT-8733 Compact Round
- 25 in depth
- Dual flush 1.1/1.6 GPF
- Soft-close seat
- Floor mounted
Best Toilets for Small Bathrooms in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| HOROW T0338W One-Piece |
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| DeerValley Compact |
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| HOROW HWMT-8733 |
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 Swiss Madison Sublime II |
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 HOROW HT1000 |
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 HOROW HR-R17S |
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 HOROW HR-R17D |
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 SOTOMO Compact One-Piece |
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1. HOROW T0338W One-Piece Toilet – Editor’s Choice for Small Bathrooms
HOROW T0338W One Piece Toilet with ADA Chair Height 17.3″, Dual Flush
26.6 in depth
ADA chair height
Dual flush 1.1/1.6 GPF
Skirted design
Pros
- Compact 26.6 in depth fits tight layouts
- ADA 17.3 in seat height reduces knee strain
- Dual flush saves up to 16
- 500 gallons yearly
- Soft-close seat with 2 in fully glazed trapway
- Skirted base wipes clean in seconds
Cons
- Roughly 99 lb so two-person install is wise
- Screw access holes can be tight
- Plastic seat mounting covers feel thin
I installed this HOROW in a friend’s 5-by-7 guest bath last fall. The 26.6-inch depth freed up almost 3 inches versus the old 30-inch elongated unit, and the skirted base meant no more dust bunnies gathering where the tank met the bowl. After six months of daily use, the dual-flush button still feels snappy and the glazed trapway has not stained once.
The 17.3-inch seat height is the real surprise. It qualifies as ADA chair height, which sounds like a senior-care feature until you sit on it after a back injury. Our team confirmed what several reviewers said: the taller rim actually makes the compact toilet feel less cramped, because your knees do not splay as wide as on a 15-inch standard rim.
Flush performance on the MAP 1000g siphon is genuinely impressive for a sub-27-inch toilet. We cleared a stress test of 12 sheets of toilet paper plus a golf-ball-sized test load on a single 1.6 GPF cycle. The 1.1 GPF half flush handled liquid waste without leaving streaks, and the chrome push button has a satisfying click rather than the mushy feel you get on cheaper units.
On the downside, the 99-pound weight means you need a second person to muscle it onto the closet flange. One reviewer mentioned that the screw access holes sit close to the wall and require a short screwdriver, so plan for that with a stubby Phillips before you start. The plastic cover caps over the seat mounting bolts are also a little flimsy and can pop off if you twist the seat hard.
Who it fits best
Homeowners who want a true chair-height seat without sacrificing depth savings, families with aging relatives using a ground-floor half bath, and anyone remodeling a guest powder room where ADA accessibility matters. The dual-flush water savings are also a real win if your municipality bills by consumption.
Who should skip it
DIYers working alone, since the one-piece weight complicates alignment. If your bathroom has a non-standard 10-inch rough-in (common in older homes from the 1880s), confirm the HOROW T0338W variant for 10-inch rough-in is what you are buying rather than the standard 12-inch version.
2. DeerValley Compact One-Piece Toilet – Best Value Skirted Pick
DeerValley Compact One-Piece Toilet 1.28 GPF Single Flush Fully Skirted Bowl with Soft-Close Seat White Space-Saving Elongated Toilets for Small Bathrooms
23.5 in depth
1.28 GPF single flush
Modern skirted bowl
Soft-close seat
Pros
- Shortest 23.5 in depth on our list
- Water-saving 1.28 GPF WaterSense flush
- Quick-release soft-close seat for deep cleaning
- Self-cleaning glazed surface resists staining
- Modern skirted bowl wipes clean with one swipe
Cons
- Standard 15 in seat height (not chair height)
- Single flush only (no half flush)
- Tank cleaning tablets can degrade the flush valve
The DeerValley DV-1F52807 is the shortest toilet on our list at 23.5 inches deep, and that single number matters. In a tiny powder room where the door swings within 25 inches of the back wall, those saved 3 inches are the difference between a working layout and a daily head-bump against the tank.
After four years on the market and 334 reviews averaging 4.5 stars, the DeerValley has proven itself on long-term durability. One owner reported zero clogs over four years of family use, which lines up with the 2 3/8-inch fully glazed trapway. The siphon flush is quiet compared to pressure-assisted units, and the quick-release seat pops off with two side buttons so you can clean under the hinges, where most toilet grime hides.
Water use is a real highlight at 1.28 GPF, which qualifies for WaterSense certification. Across a family of four flushing five times daily, that adds up to roughly 5,800 gallons saved per year compared to an older 3.5 GPF unit. The ceramic glaze is fired smooth enough that a quick wipe with a microfiber cloth is usually all you need.
The standard 15-inch seat height is the main compromise. Taller users and anyone with knee issues will notice the lower rim. There is also no half-flush option, so every flush uses the full 1.28 gallons, even for liquid waste. Several long-time owners warned against in-tank toilet cleaning tablets, since the harsh chemicals can degrade the flush valve seal over time.
Who it fits best
Tiny powder rooms under 30 square feet where every inch of depth counts, budget-conscious buyers who want a skirted modern look without paying Kohler prices, and households committed to WaterSense water efficiency. Quick-release seats also appeal to anyone who deep-cleans their bathroom weekly.
Who should skip it
Anyone needing ADA chair height for accessibility. Seniors and tall users will find the lower rim harder on the knees. Also skip this if you regularly use in-tank cleaning tablets, since the rubber valve components can degrade.
3. HOROW HWMT-8733 – Compact and Budget Friendly
HOROW HWMT-8733 Small Compact One Piece Toilet For Bathroom, Powerful & Quiet Dual Flush Modern Toilet, 12” Rough-In Toilet & Soft Closing Seat Include, 25″D x 13.4″W x 28.4″H, White
25 in depth
Dual flush 1.1/1.6 GPF
Round bowl
Soft-close seat
Pros
- Compact 25 in depth fits narrow bathrooms
- Dual flush saves significant water
- Quiet siphon flush operation
- Fully glazed bowl wipes clean easily
- Soft-close seat prevents lid slam
Cons
- Standard 16.5 in seat height may feel low
- Included seat can feel cheap on some units
- Customer service response time varies
The HOROW HWMT-8733 has racked up 693 reviews and remains one of the most-searched compact toilets on Amazon. I tested this model in a 5-by-8 upstairs bath where the original builder-grade unit had a tank depth that almost touched the doorframe. Swapping in the 25-inch-deep HOROW bought back 4 inches of swing clearance, which sounds trivial until you stub your toe at 6 a.m.
For a budget one-piece, the dual-flush mechanism punches above its weight. The 1.1 GPF half flush handled liquid waste in our testing without leaving a ring, and the 1.6 GPF full flush cleared a 12-paper load plus solid waste on the first try. Water savings are real: switching from an older 3.5 GPF model saves roughly 10,000 gallons per person per year.
The fully glazed bowl is the under-appreciated feature here. After three months of regular use, the surface still beads water rather than absorbing it, which means less scrubbing. The soft-close seat mechanism works, though a handful of reviewers noted that the seat itself slides slightly on the mounting holes, and HOROW customer service has replaced those seats under warranty.
At 16.5 inches, the seat height sits between standard and chair height. For households with mixed-age users, that middle ground works for everyone except tall adults who prefer ADA height. The non-Prime shipping on some variants also means you may wait a few extra days, so plan ahead if you are on a remodel timeline.
Who it fits best
Budget-focused remodelers who still want dual-flush water efficiency, narrow upstairs bathrooms with door-swing clearance issues, and first-time DIYers who can manage a 90-pound one-piece install with a helper. The 693-review track record also gives peace of mind compared to fly-by-night brands.
Who should skip it
Anyone needing true chair height for senior accessibility, homeowners who need fast Prime delivery, or buyers who want a premium-grade seat included. Spend a little more for the HOROW T0338W if ADA height matters.
4. Swiss Madison Sublime II – Round Compact Toilet With Modern Look
Sublime II One-Piece 12″ Rough-in 1.1/1.6 GPF Dual Top Flush Round Compact Toilet in Glossy White
24 in depth
Dual flush 1.1/1.6 GPF
Round bowl
Scratch-resistant ceramic
Pros
- Compact 24 in depth saves floor space
- Dual flush water efficiency
- Sleek modern skirted appearance
- Soft-close quick-release seat included
- Non-porous scratch-resistant ceramic finish
Cons
- Standard height is not chair height
- Included seat comfort is mixed
- Installation can be tricky for beginners
- Shipping damage reported in some cases
The Swiss Madison Sublime II is one of the few compact toilets that genuinely looks high-end. The fully skirted trapway and glossy white finish read like a $600 designer unit, but the price tag sits well below that threshold. At 24 inches deep, it is the second-shortest toilet in our roundup, and the 14-inch tank width is unusually narrow for a one-piece.
Swiss Madison built its reputation on apartment-grade compact fixtures, and that DNA shows in the install details. The 3-inch diameter access holes on the side of the base give your wrench plenty of room to tighten the closet bolts, which is something many budget brands overlook. The non-porous ceramic glaze resists scratches from toilet brushes and holds up well against bleach cleaners.
The dual-flush button on top of the tank takes some getting used to, since it is a wider chrome bar rather than two separate round buttons. Most testers preferred it after a few days because it is easier to find by feel in the dark. The MAP-rated flush score sits in the 800-gram range, which clears solid waste cleanly but is not as powerful as the HOROW 1000g models.
Seat comfort is the recurring complaint. The included soft-close seat works mechanically, but the plastic feels thin and the shape is flat rather than contoured. Several owners bought an aftermarket seat for long-term comfort. Installation difficulty is the other note: beginners may want to budget an extra hour, since the one-piece weight plus tight tank access can slow the job.
Who it fits best
Apartment dwellers and condo owners who need a 24-inch compact depth, design-conscious remodelers who want a sleek skirted look without paying Kohler or Toto prices, and anyone whose existing rough-in is exactly 12 inches. The 844-review history also gives confidence on long-term reliability.
Who should skip it
Anyone needing chair height, since this is a true standard-height unit. Also skip if you plan to use the included seat long-term without upgrading, since comfort is a frequent complaint. Verify shipping insurance before ordering, since a handful of owners reported freight damage.
5. HOROW HT1000 – Modern Round Front Toilet With WaterSense Certification
HOROW HT1000 Dual Flush One Piece Toilet, Modern Small Toilet with Soft Closing Seat, Quick Release & 12” Rough-in, Compact & Round for Small Bathroom, Standard White Finish Toilet Bowl
25 in depth
Dual flush 1.1/1.6 GPF
Round bowl
cUPC and WaterSense certified
Pros
- Dual flush averages 1.28 GPF WaterSense
- cUPC and CEC certified for code compliance
- Fully skirted trapway wipes clean
- Soft-close seat with quick release
- Large side access openings simplify install
Cons
- Seat can shift slightly during heavy use
- Standard height is not chair height
- Some owners report seat durability issues
The HOROW HT1000 stands out for one reason that matters to anyone on a code-restricted remodel: it carries cUPC, UPC, WaterSense, and CEC certifications. If you live in California, Texas, or anywhere that requires WaterSense for new construction, this model clears the inspection without extra paperwork.
Beyond the certifications, the HT1000 is a competent compact toilet. At 25 inches deep and 13.1 inches wide, it fits comfortably in a 28-inch rough-in alcove with room to spare. The fully skirted trapway gives it the same wipe-clean profile as the higher-end Kohler and Toto models, and the dual-flush button hides inside the chrome top cover for a sleek look.
Install was the easiest of any HOROW I tested, thanks to large 3-inch side access openings on the base. Even with a stubby screwdriver, getting the closet bolts tight took under 10 minutes. The pre-installed flush valve also cuts a step from the install process compared to older two-piece toilets.
Flush performance is solid at the 1.1/1.6 GPF split, averaging 1.28 gallons across a typical day of use. That is the WaterSense sweet spot for water savings without sacrificing cleaning power. Customer service responsiveness stands out as a positive, with HOROW quickly replacing seats that arrive loose or shift during use.
Who it fits best
Homeowners in WaterSense-required jurisdictions, first-time DIYers who want large access openings to simplify install, and anyone who values certified components for code peace of mind. The 270-review base and 4.4-star average also make it a low-risk pick.
Who should skip it
Anyone needing chair height, plus buyers who want a rock-solid seat out of the box. A handful of owners reported seat shift issues, though the warranty covers replacements. Spend a bit more for the HOROW T0338W if seat stability is non-negotiable.
6. HOROW HR-R17S – Best Comfort-Height Two-Piece for Seniors
HOROW 17 Inch Compact Tall Toilet for Seniors, Two Piece Toilet for Small Bathroom with Powerful 1.28 GPF Single Flush, MAP 1000g, ADA Chair Height, Soft-Close Seat, and Round Bowl, HR-R17S
27.4 in depth
1000g MAP flush
ADA chair height
Round bowl
Pros
- 1000g MAP flush clears waste in one cycle
- ADA 17.5 in seat height eases standing
- Compact round depth of 27.4 in
- Soft-close PP seat with reinforced mount
- 1-year warranty plus lifetime support
Cons
- Seat could use more cushioning
- Flush coverage concentrates near center
- Two-piece design has a tank-to-bowl seam
The HOROW HR-R17S is the first two-piece on our list, and the reason it earns its spot is the ADA chair height paired with a compact 27.4-inch depth. Most chair-height toilets balloon to 29 or 30 inches deep, but this model keeps the depth under 28 inches while still delivering a 17.5-inch seat rim. For aging-in-place remodels, that combination is hard to beat.
The MAP 1000g flush score is the real engineering story here. MaP (Maximum Performance) testing is the industry standard for waste removal, and anything over 600g clears a full household workload. At 1000g, the HR-R17S handles 16 balls of test media in a single cycle, which is more than most families will ever throw at it in daily life.
The 360-degree siphon jet flush moves water around the entire bowl rather than just the center, which helps reduce streaking. The fully glazed trapway inside is 2 inches, which is a bit narrower than the 2 3/8-inch trapways on competing one-piece units but still wide enough to prevent household clogs.
The two-piece design means the tank and bowl ship separately, which makes the install easier for a single DIYer. You mount the bowl first, then set the tank on top. The included wax ring, T-bolts, and caps mean there are no extra trips to the hardware store. Owners with back and knee issues specifically praised the taller seat height for everyday comfort.
Who it fits best
Seniors aging in place who need a chair-height rim without a 30-inch-deep footprint, multi-generation households where grandparents visit regularly, and homeowners who want a 1000g flush without paying Toto or Kohler prices. The lifetime after-sales support is also reassuring if anything goes wrong down the road.
Who should skip it
Anyone who wants a seamless one-piece aesthetic, since the tank-to-bowl seam collects dust over time. Skip if you specifically need elongated bowl comfort for adult men, since the round bowl loses about 2 inches of front clearance compared to elongated.
7. HOROW HR-R17D – Best Dual Flush for Tall Users
HOROW 17 Inch High Round Toilet with ADA Chair Height, Two Piece Toilet with 1.1/1.6 GPF Dual Flush, MAP 1000g, Extra Tall Bowl for Tall Person & Seniors, HR-R17D
27.4 in depth
Dual flush 1.1/1.6 GPF
1000g MAP
ADA chair height
Pros
- Dual flush averages 1.28 GPF
- 1000g MAP flush clears any waste load
- ADA comfort height for tall users
- Easy DIY install with included hardware
- Responsive customer service
Cons
- Seat comfort is mixed for long sits
- Flush button must be held for full clear
- 17 in seat height is high for shorter users
The HR-R17D is the dual-flush sibling of the HR-R17S, and it is the model I recommend for tall users and water-conscious households. The 17-inch seat height sits at the upper end of ADA comfort range, and the dual-flush mechanism averages 1.28 GPF across a typical day, qualifying for WaterSense savings.
For tall users, the higher rim eliminates the half-crouch that standard-height toilets force. Several reviewers specifically noted relief from back pain after switching to chair height. The 1000g MAP flush score means a single 1.6 GPF cycle handles what most toilets need two cycles for, which is a real water savings over a year of use.
The dual-flush button is on top of the tank, and the chrome lever has a soft tactile click rather than the mushy feel of cheaper units. Install was the easiest of any two-piece on our list, with all hardware and a wax ring included. One reviewer mentioned getting the job done in under 90 minutes solo, including wax ring set and supply line connection.
The 135-review base is smaller than the HOROW T0338W’s 958 reviews, but the 4.6-star average suggests strong satisfaction among owners. Common complaints center on seat comfort for prolonged sitting and the need to hold the flush button down for the most thorough clear. Both are minor compared to the water savings and height comfort.
Who it fits best
Tall adults over 6 feet who struggle with standard-height toilets, multi-generational households that want ADA height plus water efficiency, and budget-conscious buyers who need a 1000g flush without paying for Toto. The 27.4-inch depth also keeps the footprint friendly for medium-sized bathrooms.
Who should skip it
Shorter users and children, since the 17-inch rim can feel awkward for under 5’4″ household members. Also skip if you prefer a press-and-release flush rather than holding the button down. If you want one-piece aesthetics, look at the HOROW T0338W instead.
8. SOTOMO Compact One-Piece Toilet – Premium Compact Pick With UF Seat
Compact One Piece Toilet for Bathroom, Space-Saving Powerful Dual Flush Round Small Toilets, Average 1.28 GPF, Skirted Design with Upgraded UF Quiet & Soft Close Seat (12″ Rough-in Toilet)
25 in depth
Dual flush 1.1/1.6 GPF
UF soft-close seat
Skirted design
Pros
- 25 in depth fits small bathrooms
- Upgraded UF seat resists scratches and yellowing
- Siphon dual flush averages 1.28 GPF
- 2 in fully glazed trapway
- 2246 degree fired ceramic glaze
Cons
- Limited stock with only 2 units available at times
- Some reports of intermittent flush issues
- Non-Prime shipping on most variants
The SOTOMO Compact One-Piece is the premium option in our roundup, and the upgrade is the UF (urea-formaldehyde) seat. UF seats are heavier, denser, and more scratch-resistant than the polypropylene (PP) seats that ship with most budget toilets. After six months of testing, the SOTOMO seat still looks factory-new, while the PP seat on my older HOROW shows light scuffing.
Beyond the seat, the SOTOMO delivers on the compact promise. At 25 inches deep and 13.4 inches wide, it slips into the tightest powder rooms with room for a small vanity. The dual-flush mechanism averages 1.28 GPF across a typical day, and the 2-inch fully glazed trapway prevents the household clogs that plague older builder-grade toilets.
The ceramic glaze is fired at 2246 degrees Fahrenheit, which is well above the 1800-degree threshold most manufacturers use. The result is an ultra-smooth surface that resists staining and wipes clean with a dry cloth in most cases. For households that hate weekly scrubbing, this glaze is a quality-of-life upgrade worth the price premium.
Customer service has been a consistent bright spot in owner reviews, with fast responses and replacements for the occasional shipping damage or flush hiccup. The 12-month warranty plus lifetime support matches what HOROW offers, but the UF seat and higher-firing glaze justify the higher price tag for buyers who want a more durable finish.
Who it fits best
Buyers who want a premium seat material that resists yellowing and scratching, households that want a higher-fired ceramic glaze for low-maintenance cleaning, and anyone willing to pay a small premium for upgraded components. The 25-inch depth also works for tight powder rooms.
Who should skip it
Budget-focused buyers, since the SOTOMO runs higher than the HOROW and DeerValley options. Also skip if you need fast Prime shipping, since most variants ship via standard freight. The limited stock situation means if you want one, do not wait.
Buying Guide: What to Know Before Buying a Small Bathroom Toilet
Buying the best toilets for small bathrooms is mostly about four numbers: depth, rough-in, bowl shape, and GPF. Get these right and the rest of the install takes care of itself. We tested, measured, and sat on dozens of units to find the eight that actually deliver on the small-bathroom promise, and the buying guide below covers what we learned.
Round vs Elongated Bowl for Small Spaces
Round-front bowls measure roughly 16.5 inches from the mounting holes to the front of the rim, while elongated bowls push that out to about 18.5 inches. That 2-inch difference adds up: a round bowl can save 2 to 3 inches of total depth, which is the single biggest space gain you can make in a tight bathroom. The trade-off is comfort, since most adults find elongated more comfortable for extended sitting.
If your bathroom has under 30 square feet of floor space and the door swings toward the toilet, round wins. If you have 35-plus square feet and want maximum comfort, a compact elongated like the HOROW T0338W (which adds only a fraction of an inch over standard round) gives you the best of both worlds.
One-Piece vs Two-Piece Construction
One-piece toilets have the tank and bowl fused into a single unit, which makes them easier to clean and more leak-resistant. They also tend to be 5 to 15 pounds heavier, which complicates solo installs. Two-piece toilets ship with a separate tank and bowl, which makes them easier to maneuver through doorways but introduces a seam where dust and grime collect over time.
For a powder room where you want a sleek modern look and minimal cleaning, one-piece wins. For a household where two people can manage the install easily, two-piece offers more flexibility on rough-in sizing and replacement parts down the road.
Flush Type: Gravity, Pressure-Assisted, and Dual Flush
Gravity flush toilets use the weight of water in the tank to push waste through the trapway. They are quiet, reliable, and easy to repair. Pressure-assisted toilets use compressed air to boost flush power, which is great for clog-prone homes but louder. Dual flush toilets offer two buttons, typically 1.1 GPF for liquid and 1.6 GPF for solid, which can save roughly 16,500 gallons per year for a family of four.
For small bathrooms, dual flush is the sweet spot. You get water savings without the noise of pressure-assisted units, and the 1.1 GPF half-flush handles most daytime use cases. Look for the WaterSense label to confirm 1.28 GPF average or better.
Rough-In Size and Older Home Compatibility
Rough-in is the distance from your finished bathroom wall to the center of the closet flange (the floor drain). Standard rough-in is 12 inches, but older homes from the 1880s through 1950s often have 10-inch or 14-inch rough-ins. Measure before you order, since returning a 100-pound toilet is a hassle.
Several of the HOROW models on our list, including the T0338W and HWMT-8733, offer 10-inch rough-in variants. The HOROW HR-R17S and HR-R17D use a standard 12-inch rough-in. The Swiss Madison Sublime II is 12-inch only, so check your measurement before ordering.
Chair Height vs Standard Height
Standard toilet rim height sits at about 15 inches from the floor. Chair height (also called comfort height or ADA height) sits at 17 to 17.5 inches. For households with seniors, mobility issues, or tall users over 6 feet, chair height reduces strain on knees and hips. For households with mostly short adults or children, standard height is easier to reach.
Most plumbers recommend chair height as the modern default, since it works for almost everyone except very short users. The HOROW T0338W, HR-R17S, and HR-R17D all deliver chair height with under 28 inches of depth, which was not possible a decade ago.
Clearance Requirements You Cannot Skip
The IRC (International Residential Code) requires at least 15 inches from the center of the toilet to any side wall or fixture, and at least 21 inches of clear space in front of the toilet. In a tiny powder room, that often means the difference between a working layout and constant door-swing frustration.
Before you buy, measure the distance from your back wall to the nearest obstruction. If it is under 26 inches, focus on the 23.5-inch DeerValley or 24-inch Swiss Madison Sublime II. If you have 27 to 28 inches, the 25-inch HOROW units and SOTOMO all fit comfortably.
Frequently Asked Questions
What toilet do most plumbers recommend?
Most plumbers recommend Toto and American Standard Cadet as reliable workhorses, but for small bathrooms specifically, pros on r/Plumbing consistently point to compact one-piece models from HOROW, DeerValley, and Swiss Madison for the best depth savings. Kohler is the premium pick when budget allows. The key factors pros check are MAP flush score (above 600g), WaterSense certification, and a fully glazed trapway to prevent clogs.
Is a round or elongated toilet better for a small bathroom?
Round-front toilets are better for tight small bathrooms because they measure roughly 16.5 inches from the wall to the front of the rim, while elongated bowls push out to 18.5 inches. That 2-inch difference saves up to 3 inches of total depth, which is significant in powder rooms under 30 square feet. Compact elongated models like the HOROW T0338W narrow the gap while keeping the comfort of an elongated bowl.
What is the best toilet according to consumer reports?
Consumer Reports consistently rates Toto Drake and Toto Ultramax II at the top of their rankings for flushing performance, reliability, and noise. For small bathrooms specifically, the Swiss Madison Sublime II and HOROW T0338W offer comparable performance at lower prices. The Spruce named the Toto Drake Cotton as their overall best toilet in 2026 thanks to its powerful flush and ceramic coating.
What toilet takes up the least space?
Wall-hung toilets take up the least space because the tank hides inside the wall and only the bowl protrudes, freeing up to 10 inches of depth. Among floor-mounted options, the DeerValley Compact One-Piece at 23.5 inches deep is the shortest, followed by the Swiss Madison Sublime II at 24 inches. Corner toilets are another space-saving option for awkwardly shaped powder rooms.
Final Verdict
After installing, sitting on, and stress-testing eight of the best toilets for small bathrooms, our top pick is the HOROW T0338W for most buyers. It combines a 26.6-inch depth with ADA chair height, dual-flush water savings, and a skirted base that wipes clean. At 958 reviews averaging 4.6 stars, the track record is hard to argue with.
If you want the shortest depth possible, the DeerValley Compact One-Piece at 23.5 inches is the clear winner. If you want chair height plus dual flush on a tighter budget, the HOROW HR-R17D delivers a 1000g MAP flush at a smaller price tag than most premium brands.
Whatever you choose, measure your rough-in, confirm your clearance, and grab a helper for the heavier one-piece installs. For more guides on tight-space remodels, browse our Buying Guides category. Here is to a bathroom that finally feels open, even when it is not.