Do They Make Toilets That Sit Closer to the Wall? An In-Depth Guide
As a home renovation specialist with over 10 years of experience, I‘m often asked if toilets can be installed closer to the wall to save space in small bathrooms. The answer is absolutely yes!
In this guide, I’ll share my insider knowledge on how to shop for and install a toilet designed for tight spaces. Read on to learn all about:
Plus plenty of photos, charts, and detailed explanations to help you upgrade your bathroom with a toilet positioned closer to the wall!
How Far Do Toilets Normally Sit from the Wall?
Let’s start by looking at the standard dimensions for a common toilet:
Tank height: 20 to 32 inches tall
Bowl width: 14 to 19 inches wide
Distance from wall: 12 to 15 inches
This 12-15 inch range is measured from the wall to the toilet‘s centerline, where the base connects to the drain pipe emerging from the wall.
The minimum clearance between a toilet and side wall is generally around 15 inches for residential bathrooms. This leaves space for opening and closing the seat/lid and allows comfortable sitting.
Here’s a quick reference table for standard toilet dimensions:
| Toilet Dimension | Typical Range |
| Tank Height | 20 – 32 inches |
| Bowl Width | 14 – 19 inches |
| Distance from Wall | 12 – 15 inches |
Now that you know typical toilet sizes, let’s look at models engineered for tighter spaces.
Toilets Designed to Sit Closer to the Wall
Although most residential toilets sit around 12 inches from the wall, many compact options are available that need as little as 8-10 inches of clearance.
These space-saving models use a few clever tricks:
Flush-to-Wall Toilets
Flush-to-wall toilets have a tank that is built into the wall rather than protruding out behind the bowl. This allows installing the toilet closer to the wall, reducing the distance needed by 3 inches or more.
The plumbing is neatly concealed inside the wall, creating a sleek, minimalist look. However, access to the tank hardware is more challenging with this style.
Minimum wall clearance: Around 9 inches
Short Projection Toilets
Short projection toilets have a bowl that extends less far from the wall. Combined with a narrow, low-profile tank, these toilets can sit just 8-9 inches from the wall.
This compact overall footprint makes them ideal for small, cramped bathrooms. They come in both contemporary and traditional designs.
Minimum wall clearance: Around 8 inches
Compact Toilet Designs
For additional space savings, choose a compact sized toilet with rounded bowl rather than elongated. Scaled-down compact toilets can comfortably fit in a 25 inch wide footprint.
Low-profile wall-hung compact toilets are extremely space efficient. The tank hardware is concealed and the sleek floating bowl takes up minimal space.
Minimum wall clearance: Varies, around 10-12 inches.
Corner Toilets
Corner mounted toilets wedge neatly into the corner of small bathrooms. The tank fits against one wall while the bowl extends diagonally.
While sacrifices some accessibility, this creative layout maximizes precious space.
Minimum wall clearance: Around 10 inches on diagonal.
Key Measurements for Shopping and Planning
When choosing a toilet that sits closer to the wall, accurate bathroom measurements are crucial.
Some distances you’ll want to measure:
- From wall to existing toilet or plumbing
- From wall to opposite obstruction like vanity
- From floor to existing plumbing stub out
- Clearance behind existing toilet
This will reveal exactly how much space you have to work with. Always confirm that the rough-in distance of any toilet matches your bathroom plumbing.
It‘s also wise to have a professional assess your situation if significant plumbing alterations are needed.
When planning renovations, be sure to check with your local building department regarding any permitting requirements too.
Installing Your Closer-to-Wall Toilet
Once you’ve selected the ideal toilet model for your tight space, it’s time for installation. Here are some best practices:
Use an Offset Flange if Needed
If your current flange position doesn’t allow the toilet to sit close enough to the wall, install an offset flange.
This adapter shifts the toilet position a few inches closer by extending the flange outward from the original plumbing:
Offset flanges come in increments of 1/2" to 6”. Just be sure to account for the thickness it adds behind the bowl.
Carefully Follow Installation Steps
Refer to the manufacturer‘s instructions to properly install your toilet. Key steps usually include:
- Removing old toilet and disconnecting plumbing
- Positioning toilet based on measurements
- Attaching the toilet flange
- Securing the bowl to the flange
- Connecting water supply line
- Applying caulk around base
- Turning on water and testing for leaks
Take time to get placement and angles just right. The toilet base should sit completely flush with no wobbling or gaps.
Caulk the Base for Waterproofing
Once secured, run a smooth bead of caulk around the entire base of the toilet. This seals any tiny gaps and prevents moisture damage.
Let the caulk fully cure for 24-48 hours before using the toilet.
The Result: A More Spacious Bathroom!
With some clever shopping and proper installation, you can install a toilet much closer to the wall, gaining several extra inches of space in your bathroom.
This allows for a more open, comfortable feel and flexibility in your layout and design choices. Just be sure to thoroughly measure your existing plumbing and space limitations.
I hope this guide gives you all the details on compact toilets plus the confidence to upgrade your bathroom with a space-saving model! Let me know if you have any other home renovation questions.