Corner toilets are unique and they serve a wonderful purpose in our bathrooms. They give us more space by utilizing that empty space in the corner!
Have you ever noticed that corners are underutilized in a bathroom (in any room for that matter)? Other than a desk, plant, or lamp, there isn’t much that fits in a corner.
You might be surprised to learn that corner toilets exist. The only thing that differentiates them from regular toilets is the shape of the tank – the bowl is actually the same as other toilets.
Although there aren’t a lot of options for corner toilets, there are a few popular options. American Standard is a long-standing American Company that manufactures one and Renovator’s Supply specializes in compact corner toilets.
In this article I’ll share my top picks and a few tips about buying a corner toilet. If you’re remodeling your bathroom you might have to adjust the location of your plumbing. If your plumbing is already set up for a corner toilet, you’ll still need to measure the “rough-in” size a particular way to make sure you find a toilet that fits!
The Corner Toilet – A Unique Option For Small Spaces
In most cases, we want our toilet to go unnoticed. It’s an essential item in our bathroom, however, it’s rarely the centerpiece. We’d prefer people to notice the tile, shower, or sink.
But there are only a few places to put the toilet. A common place is next to the sink and another place is beside the shower. If only it could take up less space and be out-of-the-way.
Believe it or not, corner toilets have been around for quite a while. I remember occasionally seeing them when I was growing up and I always thought they were such a great idea. I’d walk the plumbing aisle at the hardware store and I’d see plenty of regular toilets but I never saw those built for a corner.
Were they special-ordered?
With the growth of the Internet, more toilet brands suddenly had an opportunity to share more specialized options. These days you can find all kinds of models on Amazon, from your standard toilet to a designer wall-hung toilet to a corner commode.
When you find a toilet you like on Amazon, they will also offer to install it for you for a decent price, although it’s not difficult to install yourself if you’re handy.
Corner Toilet Dimensions
Okay, let’s get one thing clear. You don’t need to remember your high school geometry class to figure out the dimensions of a corner toilet. But you will have to take 2 measurements (regular toilets you only need 1 measurement for the “rough-in”).
If you’re not sure what a “rough-in” is you can read my other article that has photos. In summary, a corner rough-in is not measured from the corner. Instead, it’s measured from each side of the wall, to the center of the pipe (the middle of the pipe!).
In most cases you will have a 12” rough-in – this is all you really need to know when you’re looking for your new throne.
The bowl will actually be the same size as a standard toilet. The only difference in the bowl will be your choice of “round” or “elongated”. Round is a smaller bowl, perfect for small spaces and elongated bowls are better for taller people (only a few inches larger).
The tank is the part of the toilet that differs from other toilets. It will come in a triangle shape and it will fit snuggly in the corner of the wall. Depending on the style you choose, the tank dimensions will vary. Some will be thinner and taller while others will be shorter and wider (check the details of the toilet you prefer).
The Best Compact Corner Toilet
Renovator’s Supply – Corner Toilet Dual Flush (Round, Space Saving)
You may not be familiar with Renovator’s Supply, but don’t worry, they make quality toilets and this is our top corner toilet.
This dual flush toilet is made to maximize space in your bathroom. It does so by using a round bowl which provides 2-4 of space that you can use for other uses. It’s size doesn’t take away from premium features either.
Highlights:
- Measures 29” x 17 ¼” x 30”
- White porcelain
- Dual flush
- Slow close seat
- 2-piece
I really like that it comes with a seat. Most brands make you purchase the seat separately and it sets you back another $50. The seat is a slow close option so there won’t be slamming when the seat goes up or down.
Renovator’s Supply follows regulations and has a 1.6 gallons per flush limit. The dual flush option allows users to save even more water and money (urine flush .8 gallons).
One thing I don’t like about this toilet is that it doesn’t come with bolts or with bolt covers (you’ll be able to use the bolts from your old toilets but probably not the same covers).
It comes at a bargain price and the majority of comments mention that it’s perfect for small bathrooms. Time and time again, the corner toilet works in small spaces.
American Standard Cadet 3 Round 2-Piece Toilet
American Standard toilets are commonplace in bathrooms all across America. The toilets can last up to 30 years and they come with a multiyear warranty.
American Standard focuses on functionality so you won’t find fancy toilets under their name. They do, however, make a compact corner toilet called the Cadet 3. The Cadet 3 is also offered in non-corner options.
This toilet is a 2-piece, single flush, with a round bowl. The round bowl will help with tight spaces. It’s made for a 12” rough-in which is likely what you’ll need.
It uses a traditional look with an easy-to-clean vitreous china. It’s finished with their proprietary “Ever Clean” which is antimicrobial.
Highlights:
- 2-piece
- White
- Single flush (1.28 gallons per flush)
- 12” rough-in
- 32” x 19.2” x 31.5”
- 59 lbs
Reviews are solid for this toilet. I know the brand is quality, so people are getting a product that will last. I’ve read plenty of comments that mention it’s perfect for small spaces.
One thing I don’t like is it doesn’t come with a seat (but that’s to be expected with most toilets). Expect to spend a few more bucks on a decent toilet seat (check out my article on the best toilet seats).
Renovator’s Supply – Round Corner Toilet, Space Saving Dual Flush
Renovator’s Supply is mentioned number of times on our list because they have a few different styles of corner toilets.
This option is white, but it has a nicely designed trim on the tank lid and on the base of the bowl. If you’re looking for a compact, yet classy-looking toilet, this would be a good choice.
Similar to the first RS toilet, this one has the dual flush (.8/1.28) and fits with a standard 12” rough-in.
Highlights:
- 31” x 18.5” x 32.5”
- Curved with added lines
- Scratch proof China finish
- Affordable price
- Bolts and bolt covers not included
- Seat included
Virtually all reviews appreciate the design and the size. They say it works good. A number of customers also agree that the included seat is low-quality and it’s wise to find and install a different toilet seat.
Renovator’s Supply – Elongated, Space Saving Corner Toilet
For tall individuals, I always recommend an elongated toilet. These toilets have a slightly larger bowl that is oblong (not round). It provides a little more space for maneuvering while on the pot.
The rest of the toilet will be the same (tank, rough-in etc) but you’ll need to get a matching elongated toilet seat (Renovator’s Supply comes with a seat).
Highlights:
- Elongated for taller people
- Measures 32 ¼” x 19” x 33 ¾”
- White
- Optional installation (Amazon)
- China finish
- 12” rough-in
Elongated toilets are very common in the U.S. and there’s a good chance you already have one in your house. As a corner toilet, it’s important to understand that the bowl will stick out a 2-3 more inches than a round toilet. For instances where space matters, your best bet may be a round toilet.
Reviews are excellent for this commode. Customers like the dual flush option – you’ll notice the water and money savings immediately if you’re upgrading from a 3.5 or 5 gallon toilet.
Saving space by utilizing the corner might allow you to use this elongated bowl. It looks good and works well!
Renovator’s Supply – Black, Elongated Corner Toilet
Like the previous toilet but want to add some color? A black toilet works well in a designer bathroom, and it will attract attention and comments. One of the questions we always get is “why are toilets always white”. The color white is actually easier to keep clean than a black toilet, but they sure don’t look as cool!
The black color is sleek and fashionable. If you’re tired of being ordinary, take a chance with a black toilet (read my article on black toilets and style). It costs a little more than a white toilet but it will still save you money on your water bill because it has the dual flush!
American Standard Cadet 3 – Corner Toilet – Tank Only
Do you have an American Standard Cadet 3 toilet that doesn’t fit in a corner? It’s possible that all you need is the tank, not the bowl.
Take a look at your toilet and look at the bolt measurements for the tank. It could save you time and money! Remember it doesn’t matter if your current toilet is round or elongated, the tank will attach to the back with 2 bolts.
If you’re a budget minded shopper like me, I’d check to see if the tank is all you need. You might be in luck.
Will My New Toilet Come With A Seat
One of my biggest disappointments with new toilets is that most don’t come with a seat. Some of the budget options include a seat, however, they aren’t great quality. The luxury toilets also come with custom bidet seats which are fun.
But what about regular toilets? It seems like a way for toilet companies to make more money by selling the seat separately.
In some instances, it might be a good thing beause there are so many options for seats including:
- Plastic
- Wooden
- Slow close
- Heated
- Child Training
- Bidet
>> read my article on the many toilet seat options
How Much Space Can You Save By Using a Corner Toilet
Utilizing that lonely corner in a bathroom can seem like a significant amount of space, and it is. Realistically, it’s a matter of inches, but if you have a small bathroom then those extra inches are precious.
In addition to the measurement, it gives us a better visual as well. Simply put, it’s more aesthetically pleasing to see a tank that fits snuggly in a corner, much like a custom built bookshelf in a corner.
If you really want to get creative, you can try a corner sink as well, or a toilet-sink combination (there is such a thing).
Need more space by the door? Try using a pocket door instead of a standard door, then you won’t need clearance space to open and close the bathroom door.
Corner toilet paper holder
Most people don’t think of it, but hanging a toilet holder on the wall is tricky for a corner toilet. It requires the user to turn a little more than usual because of the angle.
For corner toilets, I always recommend a stand that rests on the floor, rather than a holder that is wall hung.
My Pick For Best Compact Corner Toilet
I like all the toilets on this list but I prefer sticking to brands with a long history and solid warranty. For this reason the American Standard Cadet 3 is my pick.
It has the compact features that the Renovator’s Supply has, however, there’s only one option and it doesn’t have a dual flush (what’s up with that?).
The prices on all these toilets is similar so that doesn’t influence my decision much. I’d go with American Standard for it’s good reviews, unmatched reputation. It’s the best overall corner toilet.
American Standard also has you covered if you need the corner toilet tank only. In many cases, you should be able to attach the tank to your existing bowl (for 2-piece toilets).
Before moving forward with the tank only option, make sure the bolt measurement for the tank-bowl is the same as your existing bowl. The tank-only could save a lot of money.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a corner toilet you likely lack space in your bathroom. You’ve spent hours standing (and sitting) in your bathroom looking at ways to maximize the little space you have.
If a corner toilet crossed your mind, you’re on the right track to properly utilize that otherwise useless corner space. Corners don’t get much love and the certainly aren’t a place we spend much time.
Other than a bookshelf, trashcan, or lamp, the corner is usually left empty.
Not anymore!
There aren’t a lot of corner toilets on the market but there doesn’t need to be. The available options look great and they are compact. They are also easy to measure in a similar way as a standard toilet (measure the rough-in from the side walls, not the corner).
Once you know the rough-in size, you’re ready to go shopping. American Standard and Renovator’s Supply have toilets that should meet your criteria. Whether you want dual flush, water-efficiency, compact, elongated or round, or a black color, the toilets I mentioned should provide you what you’re looking for.
Let us know in the comments which toilet you like and be sure to check out other articles about toilets. Don’t forget to consider installing your toilet as a DIY project – it’s not difficult and you’ll learn something new. Thanks for reading.