How to Choose the Right Toilet Bowl in Singapore

American Standard CL20075-6DASGCBT one piece water closet in white with a slim seat and cover, shown from the side on a white background

Choosing a toilet bowl is a crucial step in ensuring optimal hygiene and functionality in your bathroom. With many available options, homeowners may be unsure which type they need and where to buy a toilet bowl in Singapore. Here are the key factors to consider when choosing a toilet bowl in Singapore.

Start with Your Bathroom Layout and Space

In Singapore homes, the compact layout of Housing and Development Board (HDB) Built-to-Order (BTO) homes is an important consideration when choosing a toilet bowl. Make sure your bowl allows at least 30 cm of side clearance on each side for comfortable movement, especially if you have cabinets or shower screens. Ideally, leave 60 to 90 cm of open space in front of the toilet bowl for comfortable legroom and clearance to swing the bathroom door.

For instance, round toilet bowls may suit more confined cubicles, while elongated bowls may offer ergonomic benefits, such as being better suited to smaller bodies and tighter spaces, but may require deeper projection space.

For proper drainage and installation, your toilet bowl must also match your bathroom’s existing outlet. Most HDB bathrooms also work well with floor-mounted (S-trap) bowl designs due to fixed drainage pipes, while condominiums often allow wall-hung or floor-mounted (P-trap) options. Smaller bathrooms may also benefit from D-shaped or wall-hung models with concealed cisterns to save floor area.

Match the Toilet Bowl to Your Lifestyle Needs

Next, make sure the toilet bowl you choose suits your lifestyle needs. If your home is mostly occupied by adults, bowls with a standard seating height of approximately 43 cm may be sufficient. However, chair-height toilet bowls of approximately 48 cm may suit elderly family members. If you have younger children at home, smaller round-shaped bowls may be more suitable. You may also want to install a grab bar beside the toilet for extra support.

For busy households, ease of cleaning can be another deciding factor. Toilet bowls with smooth surfaces and rimless designs help reduce the buildup of dirt and bacteria in hard-to-reach areas, which can reduce cleaning time.

With the growing popularity of smart homes, you can also consider modern toilet bowls with features such as bidet attachments, heated seats, and automatic lid openers. These features are increasingly popular with households that value hygiene and comfort, and they can help future-proof your bathroom.

Flushing System, Material, and Water Efficiency

Aside from your bathroom layout and lifestyle needs, other factors such as flushing system, material, and water efficiency also affect your toilet bowl’s long-term performance and maintenance costs.

A reliable flushing system reduces the risk of clogging. A toilet bowl with a dual flushing option is popular in Singapore homes. It improves water efficiency by letting you choose a partial or full flush.

On the other hand, a pressure-assisted flushing system improves efficiency differently by using pressurised air, so you use less water with every flush. However, it is not common in Singapore households because of the loud operation. For a more sustainable choice, look for models with a higher MWELS rating. These options minimise water usage while still delivering reliable performance.

Material is another factor to consider when choosing a toilet bowl. Two popular material choices in Singapore are porcelain and ceramic. Porcelain is highly durable and can withstand cracks and chips. However, they tend to cost more than other materials. A ceramic toilet bowl may be a better option if you want a more affordable choice that still offers functionality and moderate durability. Keep in mind that it may require more rigorous maintenance, as it is more prone to staining and wear.

Factor in Installation and After-Sales Support

Before choosing a toilet bowl for your bathroom, factor in installation and after-sales support. Homeowners may consider a two-piece toilet bowl, especially for budget-friendly bathroom renovations. This type of toilet bowl is easy to install and repair. Because it has a two-piece structure, you can repair individual parts without replacing the entire system if something malfunctions. In contrast, wall-hung toilets have a sleek, sophisticated design, but their more complex installation tends to cost more.

Finally, make sure you buy your toilet bowl from a shop that provides reliable after-sales support. This ensures that you can get assistance if there are any unexpected leaks or damage. Also, check whether your purchase comes with a warranty for repairs or part replacements.

Where to Buy Toilet Bowls in Singapore

If you are looking for toilet bowls for your Singapore home, Sims Lighting Gallery is a one-stop solution that you can trust. Our experienced team can help you choose from a wide range of toilet bowl options based on your aesthetic and lifestyle preferences. We also provide professional installation and after-sales services for a hassle-free setup. Explore our catalogue and upgrade your bathroom today.