When it comes to bathrooms, most people obsess over tiles, mirrors, and lighting—yet the unsung hero is the toilet fixing system. You don’t notice it when it’s working well, but the moment it fails, you realize just how important it is. Choosing the right fixing type isn’t just about stability—it affects cleaning, maintenance, installation, and even the look of your bathroom.
I’ve wrestled with wobbly toilets, cursed while cleaning those annoying corners behind them, and even had a plumber lecture me about the difference between wall-hung and floor-mounted models. So, if you’re curious about the different types of toilet fixing, buckle up—we’re going on a deep dive into this surprisingly overlooked topic.
1. Floor-Mounted Toilet Fixing
This is the classic fixing method you’ve likely seen in most homes. The toilet base is secured directly to the bathroom floor using bolts, screws, and sealing material.
The advantage? Stability and affordability. Floor-mounted toilets have been around for decades, and there’s a reason they’ve stuck around: they’re sturdy and simple.
But here’s the catch: cleaning around the base can be a nightmare. Dust, grime, and the occasional mysterious “what even is that?” residue tend to gather near the bolts. Still, most homeowners prefer this type because:
- Cost-effective: Installation costs are generally 20–30% cheaper than wall-hung models.
- Reliable: Once installed properly, you can expect decades of service.
- Easy to replace: If you ever need a new toilet, swapping out a floor-mounted model is straightforward.
Personal tip? If you’re renovating on a budget, floor-mounted is your safest bet. But keep a small brush handy—you’ll need it for those edges.
2. Wall-Hung Toilet Fixing
Wall-hung toilets are the sleek, modern cousin of floor-mounted ones. Instead of sitting on the floor, they’re mounted to the wall, with the cistern concealed inside.
These are the design darlings of luxury bathrooms. They float gracefully above the floor, making your bathroom feel larger and easier to clean. Imagine being able to mop under your toilet without awkward bending—that’s the dream!
Key benefits include:
- Space-saving: Perfect for small bathrooms or powder rooms.
- Stylish: Creates a minimal, hotel-like aesthetic.
- Easy cleaning: No base touching the floor = less grime.
But of course, nothing’s perfect. Wall-hung toilets are more expensive, both in terms of purchase and installation. The hidden frame and cistern require precise construction. According to bathroom fixture data, installation costs can be 40–60% higher than floor-mounted versions.
And here’s a story: a friend of mine installed one during a high-end bathroom remodel. It looked gorgeous, but six months later, a minor leak in the concealed cistern had plumbers opening up the wall. Not fun. Moral of the story: always invest in quality frames and professional installation if you go wall-hung.
3. Back-to-Wall Toilet Fixing
Back-to-wall toilets are a clever compromise between wall-hung and floor-mounted. The toilet sits on the floor like a traditional one, but the cistern is hidden inside the wall or a furniture unit.
Think of it as the illusionist of the bathroom world—giving you that modern, clean-lined look without the high maintenance of fully wall-hung systems.
Benefits?
- Cleaner appearance: No visible cistern.
- More affordable: Less costly than wall-hung but trendier than standard floor-mounted.
- Flexible: Works with bathroom furniture units, which can add storage.
However, they still require more effort during installation compared to basic toilets. If the concealed cistern fails, you’ll need to access it through a panel, so always make sure there’s proper access.
For small apartments where space and style matter, back-to-wall toilets strike the perfect balance.
4. Single-Piece Toilet Fixing
Now, let’s talk about one-piece toilets. Unlike the two-piece versions (where the tank and bowl are separate), this design merges them into a single, seamless structure.
Why does that matter? Less crevices = easier cleaning. I once had a two-piece toilet that constantly collected grime between the tank and the bowl. After switching to a one-piece, I realized how much time I’d wasted scrubbing in weird corners.
Advantages include:
- Durability: Fewer joints mean fewer leaks.
- Hygiene: Smooth edges are easier to wipe down.
- Modern look: One-piece toilets have a sleeker design.
The downside? They’re heavier and harder to install. Moving one into a second-floor bathroom requires more muscle. Also, they tend to be more expensive than two-piece models. Still, for homeowners who prioritize cleanliness and durability, a single-piece toilet fixing is worth the investment.
5. Two-Piece Toilet Fixing
The two-piece toilet is the old reliable. The bowl and cistern are separate pieces joined during installation. This design is still the most popular worldwide, especially in budget-friendly builds.
Pros include:
- Affordable: Usually cheaper than one-piece toilets.
- Easy to transport: Since the tank and bowl are separate, they’re easier to move upstairs.
- Widespread availability: Replacement parts are easy to find.
But the drawbacks are familiar: more cleaning headaches and potential leaks at the joint. According to a plumbing survey, two-piece toilets account for nearly 65% of household installations in North America, proving that cost-effectiveness often trumps aesthetics.
If you’re renting out a property or upgrading a secondary bathroom, this fixing type makes total sense.
6. Floor-Standing Toilet with Concealed Cistern
This option is often mistaken for back-to-wall toilets but deserves its own category. Here, the toilet bowl sits on the floor, but the cistern is hidden inside a wall or unit.
It gives you the aesthetic perks of a wall-hung system (clean lines, no visible tank) while still being structurally grounded on the floor.
Benefits:
- Easier installation than wall-hung: No need for heavy wall frames.
- Cleaner design than standard floor-mounted: The cistern is hidden away.
- Stability: Since it rests on the floor, there’s no concern about wall strength.
It’s an excellent middle-ground for people who want style but are hesitant about the complexity of wall-hung models.
7. Wall-Faced Toilet Fixing
Wall-faced toilets are sometimes called “European-style” toilets. The back of the toilet sits flush against the wall, leaving no gap behind it.
This might sound like a small detail, but if you’ve ever tried scrubbing the dusty crevice behind a standard toilet, you’ll appreciate the genius of this design.
Advantages:
- Super easy cleaning: No hard-to-reach spots behind the bowl.
- Modern appeal: Sleek and tidy against the wall.
- Variety: Available in both floor-mounted and wall-hung versions.
The only challenge? Installation can be a bit more complex, especially if the waste pipe alignment doesn’t match the wall-facing design. Still, it’s worth it for the cleaning ease alone.
8. Squat Toilet Fixing
Not all toilets involve sitting. In many parts of Asia and the Middle East, squat toilets are still common. These are fixed directly to the floor, requiring the user to squat instead of sit.
Though not everyone’s cup of tea, squat toilets have their advantages:
- Health benefits: Studies suggest squatting helps with more complete bowel movements, reducing constipation risks.
- Water-efficient: Many squat models use less water per flush.
- Durable: Fewer moving parts mean fewer breakdowns.
For Western homeowners, they’re less practical. But in regions where they’re the norm, squat toilet fixing is considered more hygienic because there’s no direct skin-to-porcelain contact.
9. Smart Toilet Fixing
Here’s where things get futuristic. Smart toilets combine advanced technology with clever fixing systems. Depending on the model, they can be wall-hung, floor-mounted, or one-piece, but what sets them apart is the integrated features: heated seats, automatic flushing, built-in bidets, and even self-cleaning functions.
According to market data, the global smart toilet market is expected to reach $10.5 billion by 2026, with demand driven by luxury hotels and tech-savvy homeowners.
But beware—the fixing system must handle electrical connections, plumbing, and additional weight. Installation costs can be double or triple a standard toilet.
If you love gadgets (and have the budget), a smart toilet can turn your bathroom into a spa-like retreat.
10. Corner Toilet Fixing
Yes, toilets can be fixed into corners too. Corner toilets are designed with triangular cisterns that neatly fit into bathroom corners.
These are space-saving heroes for small bathrooms, guest rooms, or powder rooms. They’re usually floor-mounted but can also come in wall-hung versions.
Benefits include:
- Maximizing space: Ideal for tight layouts.
- Efficient design: Uses otherwise wasted bathroom corners.
- Variety: Available in standard, back-to-wall, or even smart options.
The main limitation? Style variety. They tend to be more functional than fashionable. Still, when space is the issue, corner fixing can be a lifesaver.
Conclusion
Choosing the right toilet fixing isn’t just about plumbing—it’s about lifestyle, maintenance, design, and budget.
- If you want affordable and reliable, go floor-mounted or two-piece.
- If you want luxury and style, wall-hung or smart toilets are your friends.
- If you want easy cleaning, consider wall-faced or one-piece models.
- If you want space-saving magic, go corner or back-to-wall.
At the end of the day, your toilet is more than a seat—it’s a daily-use fixture that should work quietly in the background without causing you headaches. Pick wisely, and your bathroom will thank you for years.
FAQs
1. What is the most common toilet fixing type worldwide?
The two-piece floor-mounted toilet is the most widely used due to its affordability and availability.
2. Which toilet fixing is best for small bathrooms?
Wall-hung and corner toilets save the most space, making them ideal for compact bathrooms.
3. Are wall-hung toilets strong enough to support weight?
Yes, when installed with proper in-wall frames, they can support over 400 pounds safely.
4. Do smart toilets require special fixing systems?
Yes, they often need both plumbing and electrical connections, so professional installation is recommended.
5. Which toilet fixing is easiest to clean?
Wall-hung and wall-faced toilets are the easiest to clean since they eliminate hard-to-reach corners and floor contact.