Why Comfort Height Toilets are the Smart Choice for Modern Bathrooms

Designing a bathroom takes a fair bit of planning. You'll think about fixtures like taps and showers, the tiling on the walls and floor, and, of course, the type of toilet. While standard models are a common sight, comfort-height toilets are a standout choice when comfort and ergonomics come into play. Perhaps you’re not quite familiar with this term, so let's delve into what makes these toilets increasingly popular.

Understanding Comfort Height Toilets

So, what exactly is a comfort-height toilet? Commonly referred to as "right-height" toilets, the defining feature is, predictably, their height. These units are designed to be slightly taller than the typical toilet; the seat height usually ranges from 17 to 19 inches (around 43 to 48 centimetres from floor to seat), compared to the standard 15 inches. This increased height has the potential to make a world of difference in usability, which we'll explore in depth.

The Benefits of Choosing a Comfort-Height Toilet

There are numerous reasons why you might opt for a comfort-height toilet. The most important is ease of mobility. For the elderly or anyone with mobility challenges, the reduced strain of sitting down or standing up can transform a daily discomfort into a non-issue. This ease of access not only enhances comfort but also helps in preventing potential injuries.

But it's not just about practicality. These taller toilets are also a style statement. There's a comfort-height toilet to fit any bathroom aesthetic, from sleek wall-hung models to traditional close-coupled toilets, available in various designs.

Comparing Comfort and Standard-Height Toilets

When we consider standard toilets, the seat height is typically around 15 inches from the ground. The comfort height's extra two inches may not seem much, but for many, it's a game changer—especially for taller individuals or those who find the lower height uncomfortable.

A Range of Styles to Suit Every Bathroom

Comfort-height toilets come in several designs:

Back-to-Wall Toilets: Ideal for small spaces, these models have the cistern hidden behind the bathroom wall, which not only saves space but also contributes to a minimalist and tidy bathroom appearance.
Close-Coupled Toilets: This classic design includes a visible cistern that is attached directly to the toilet bowl. Brands like RAK Ceramics and Ideal Standard offer numerous stylish options that blend functionality with aesthetic appeal.
Wall-Hung Toilets: These are mounted directly onto the wall, with the plumbing concealed within the wall, resulting in a floating effect that can make small spaces appear larger and simplifies cleaning.

Considerations for Installing a Comfort-Height Toilet

Choosing the right model requires considering both function and design. It’s important to pick a style that not only fits the space but also complements the overall bathroom design. You should also consider the different features offered by various brands to find the best fit for your needs.

For those outfitting a commercial space or purchasing multiple units, looking into trade accounts with manufacturers can lead to significant savings. Additionally, if you’re designing for taller individuals or those with additional mobility needs, ensure the space around the toilet is sufficient to accommodate them comfortably.

Potential Drawbacks

While there are many advantages to comfort-height toilets, they're not for everyone. Shorter adults and children might find them less comfortable, as their feet may not fully touch the floor. Additionally, the unnatural elevation might affect some people’s bowel movements, leading to discomfort or health issues like constipation or circulation problems.

A Thoughtful Addition to Any Bathroom

Comfort-height toilets offer a mix of aesthetic flexibility and practical benefits, making them a worthwhile consideration for any bathroom redesign. Whether it's enhancing the comfort of elderly family members or adding a touch of modernity to your space, these toilets can meet a diverse range of needs. Before making a decision, it's wise to evaluate all aspects to ensure it's the right fit for your home or commercial setting.

Best Brands In This Space

Ideal Standard and Laufen are two prominent names in the bathroom fixtures market, particularly known for their high-quality comfort-height toilets. Each brand offers a unique blend of style, functionality, and ergonomic benefits suitable for modern bathroom environments.

Ideal Standard's comfort-height toilets are part of their i.life A range, which is highly praised for its sleek, modern designs. The i.life A models stand out with their minimalist aesthetic, developed by the renowned Palomba Serafini Associati design studio. These toilets are designed to offer greater ease and comfort, especially for those with mobility issues, standing taller than standard toilets to ease the strain of sitting down and standing up.

The i.life A series includes a variety of models, such as close-coupled, back-to-wall, and wall-mounted units, all of which feature the innovative RimLS+ technology. This technology ensures a rimless bowl, which enhances hygiene and cleaning efficiency while providing superior flush coverage. The toilets are crafted from high-quality vitreous china, offering durability and a pristine finish that complements any contemporary bathroom.

A specific model from this range, the Ideal Standard i.life A Close Coupled Comfort Height Toilet, includes features like a dual flush cistern allowing for water-saving options between a 4-litre or 6-litre flush, as well as a soft-close seat that prevents slamming and allows for easy cleaning. The products in this range are designed with user convenience in mind, providing features like quick-release seat covers and water efficiency.

Laufen

Laufen is renowned for its sophisticated and functional bathroom designs, and their comfort-height toilets are no exception, offering enhanced comfort and accessibility. Among their offerings, the Laufen PRO series stands out, especially designed to accommodate the needs of individuals who benefit from a raised toilet height.

The Laufen PRO Comfort Height toilets are designed with user accessibility in mind. These toilets have a raised height of approximately 450 mm from floor to rim, which is higher than standard toilets that typically measure around 400 mm. This additional height makes it easier for the elderly, the disabled, or those of taller stature to use the toilet without straining their knees or back.

Several models within the Laufen PRO line include:

Wall-hung and floorstanding options: These models provide flexibility in bathroom design, allowing for easier cleaning and maintenance. The wall-hung model notably includes the EasyFit system, which simplifies the installation process.

Close-coupled, back-to-wall designs: These are ideal for sleek modern bathrooms where space efficiency and clean lines are prioritised. The close-coupled, back-to-wall model combines the tank and bowl into a single, streamlined unit, enhancing both aesthetics and function.

In terms of technology and features, Laufen's comfort-height toilets are equipped with modern flushing systems that are effective and water-efficient. The toilets also feature options like dual flush mechanisms, which provide a choice between a full or reduced flush to conserve water, aligning with contemporary environmental considerations.

For those considering an upgrade or installation, Laufen’s comfort height toilets represent a blend of style, functionality, and ergonomic design, making them a worthy addition to any bathroom aimed at comfort and accessibility.