The Difference Between Round And Elongated Toilets, And Which Is Right For You

Most homeowners probably don't pay much attention to their toilet until it's time to replace it or change the seat, so you might not know that there are different types of toilets. There are actually two main types of toilet bowls for your sitting pleasure — round and elongated. The overall appearance and concept might seem minor at first — round toilets are round, and elongated toilets are oval-shaped. However, there are more differences between these two toilet bowls than meets the eye.

A fact you should know before buying a new toilet for your bathroom is that the shape of your toilet bowl can significantly impact your overall comfort, the space in your restroom, and even ease of cleaning. When deciding between a round and an elongated toilet, it's best to consider your personal preference and the overall dimensions of your bathroom. Ultimately, choosing the right toilet bowl shape can make your trip to the throne a comfortable one, so it's best to give it some thought before installing one.

Both round and elongated toilets get the overall job done, but they each offer advantages and disadvantages that can influence how much you enjoy your trip to the loo. For starters, round toilets tend to be less expensive than elongated toilets, thanks to their simpler design and smaller amount of materials needed to manufacture them. Elongated toilets are typically more expensive, but the added benefits in terms of comfort and modern appeal often justify the higher investment to homeowners.

Round toilets are approximately 2 inches smaller than elongated options, making them a preferred choice for small bathrooms. These toilets are often what people find in traditional bathrooms — they have a simple appearance and are the most commonly found option. These toilet bowls are generally found to be more comfortable for children and shorter adults, since they are easier to sit on and get off of. Taller adults might find round toilets less pleasant because of the shorter bowl, which can feel cramped and offer less support. 

Elongated toilets offer more comfort and often provide improved flushing performance compared to round toilets. Since these are around 18 to 19 inches in length, they are ideal for taller adults and those with mobility issues since the longer bowl provides more sitting surface and support. This also makes it easier to stand up and sit down, and taller adults will really appreciate the extra legroom. As a final note, while bidet toilet seats are available for both round and elongated toilets, you'll find more advanced options available with elongated bidet seats.