We take a look at the recommended toilet dimensions so that you can plan a bathroom or cloakroom that is not only stylish, but also practical
(Image credit: Sanctuary Bathrooms)
It might not be a glamorous topic, but the issue of toilet dimensions is an important one nonetheless. If you are designing a new bathroom, or cloakroom, you may well be wondering if it will be big enough for your needs.
This is often a particular concern amongst those trying to squeeze in a downstairs WC or an ensuite. While extra bathrooms are undoubtedly useful, sometimes there just isn’t enough space for them to be usable.
If you are mulling over bathroom design ideas and are unsure whether you have enough floor area to fit one in, our guide to toilet dimensions covers everything from standard sanitaryware sizes to the minimum clearance spaces required around toilets and sinks to help you get an idea of whether you can turn your dream of an extra bathroom into reality.
What Toilet Dimensions Do Experts Recommend?
This very much depends on the type of space you are hoping to create. If it is simply a cloakroom you are after, containing just a toilet and basin, the minimum size requirements will be very different to those required for a family or master bathroom. A minimum space for a cloakroom is 800 x 1,400mm (around 1.12m2).
You will also need to plan what items you want in your new bathroom design apart from the standard toilet and basin — bath, shower enclosure, storage furniture and so on.
The Harbour Serenity Rimless Wall Hung Toilet from Tap Warehouse has a 510mm projection and is 365mm wide. (Image credit: Tap Warehouse)
What is The Minimum Size a Cloakroom Can Be?
When it comes to the minimum size of a cloakroom, it is not recommended you go any smaller than 700mm wide x 1,300mm long. That said, when thinking about your downstairs toilet ideas, do bear in mind that a far more comfortable space would measure 800mm x 1,400mm at the very least.
The average size of a cloakroom, according to Victoria Plum, is 1200mm x 1200mm.
Is There a Minimum Bathroom Size?
While there are no set rules or regulations to state how small you can go with your bathroom design, there are a few factors to bear in mind.
A standard size bath, for example, measures 1,700mm in length — so if you want to incorporate one, you will need at least one wall to be at least this long. Of course, if you plan on fitting a shower enclosure instead, you can go a little smaller than this.
You will still need to bear in mind the sanitaryware clearance guidelines though to ensure you can use the space comfortably — plus if it is family bathroom ideas that are on your mind you will want to ensure you have as much clear floorspace as you can get.
There are no minimum set sizes for bathrooms — those with small bathrooms should find a good range of more compact sanitaryware to fit in with their needs.(Image credit: Mereway Kitchens & Bathrooms)
What is The Standard Size of a Toilet?
There is not a standard size of toilet as such, given the range of designs now on offer, from compact wall-hung designs to more traditional high-level cisterns.
When it comes to the popular close-coupled toilet design, however, most tend to have a similar height of between 380mm to 460mm. In terms of depth, anything from 400m to 750mm can be expected, with widths ranging from around 350mm up to 500mm.
More important than standard toilet sizes, however, is the clearance space around them.
What is The Minimum Space For Toilet?
It is important that you make yourself aware of the minimum clearance space required around a toilet before you can begin planning a bathroom.
The required space in front of a toilet is 510mm — although experts at Victoria Plum suggest that a space of 760mm is more desirable.
The required unobstructed span for a toilet is 760mm.
How Much Space Do Baths and Basins Require?
Of course toilets are not the only sanitaryware item you will need to take account of when considering your bathroom layout.
Bathroom basins need at least 510mm of space in front of them, although 760mm is better. A clear distance, from left to right, of at least 760mm is a requirement too.
When it comes to baths, you are required to leave at least 530mm of space to the side.
Make sure your bathroom is a pleasure to use by paying attention to the minimum clearance spaces required around various sanitaryware items. (Image credit: Duravit)
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Natasha was Homebuilding & Renovating’s Associate Content Editor and was a member of the Homebuilding team for over two decades. In her role on Homebuilding & Renovating she imparted her knowledge on a wide range of renovation topics, from window condensation to renovating bathrooms, to removing walls and adding an extension. She continues to write for Homebuilding on these topics, and more. An experienced journalist and renovation expert, she also writes for a number of other homes titles, including Homes & Gardens and Ideal Homes. Over the years Natasha has renovated and carried out a side extension to a Victorian terrace. She is currently living in the rural Edwardian cottage she renovated and extended on a largely DIY basis, living on site for the duration of the project.
