Bathrooms in small apartments often feel tight, and one of the biggest challenges is fitting in a toilet that’s both comfortable and functional without making the space feel cramped. Luckily, there are plenty of space-saving toilet ideas that work for renters and small apartment owners. With the right design, you can create a bathroom that’s efficient, stylish, and practical.
This guide explores the best toilet styles, clever space hacks, renter-friendly upgrades, and design tips to make even the tiniest bathroom feel more spacious.
Why Choosing the Right Toilet Matters in Small Apartments
- Maximizes floor space: Compact toilets open up room for storage or movement.
- Improves comfort: Even small toilets can be ergonomic if chosen wisely.
- Boosts style: Modern designs make a bathroom look more luxurious.
- Supports functionality: Toilets with dual-flush or slim tanks save water and space.
- Renter-friendly upgrades: Seat swaps, storage add-ons, and décor hacks can improve existing setups without renovation.
Space-Saving Toilet Styles for Apartments
1. Compact Toilets
Smaller than standard models, compact toilets are designed for tight bathrooms.
- Features: Slim tank, shorter projection from the wall.
- Best For: Studio or one-bedroom apartments.
- Pros: Saves floor space, modern look.
- Cons: Slightly smaller bowl size.
2. Wall-Mounted Toilets
Wall-mounted toilets attach directly to the wall, with the tank concealed inside.
- Features: Floating design, adjustable height.
- Best For: Sleek, modern apartment bathrooms.
- Pros: Saves floor space, easy to clean.
- Cons: Installation not renter-friendly.
3. Corner Toilets
These are designed to fit snugly into bathroom corners.
- Features: Triangular tank, compact footprint.
- Best For: Bathrooms with awkward layouts.
- Pros: Great for very small spaces.
- Cons: Limited design styles available.
4. Dual-Flush Toilets
Dual-flush toilets save water and are available in compact designs.
- Features: Two flush options (light/heavy).
- Best For: Eco-friendly apartment living.
- Pros: Saves water, modern design.
- Cons: Slightly higher upfront cost.
5. Smart Toilets (Compact Versions)
High-tech toilets with bidet functions, heated seats, and touchless flush.
- Features: Built-in bidet, space-saving tankless design.
- Best For: Luxury apartment upgrades.
- Pros: Comfortable, stylish, multi-functional.
- Cons: Expensive, usually not renter-friendly.
Table: Comparing Toilet Styles for Small Apartments
| Toilet Type | Space-Saving | Style | Renter-Friendly? | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Compact Toilet | Yes | Modern | Yes | Studios, small baths |
| Wall-Mounted | Yes | Sleek | No | Owners, remodels |
| Corner Toilet | High | Limited | Yes | Awkward layouts |
| Dual-Flush | Moderate | Modern | Yes | Eco-conscious renters |
| Smart Toilet | Moderate | Luxury | No | High-end apartments |
Renter-Friendly Toilet Upgrades
If you can’t replace the toilet, there are still ways to make your bathroom more comfortable and stylish.
- Toilet seat swap: Replace with padded, wooden, or slow-close seats.
- Over-the-toilet storage: Shelves and cabinets maximize vertical space.
- Decorative covers: Add soft, washable covers to seats or lids.
- Toilet-side caddies: Store paper, magazines, or cleaning supplies neatly.
- Slim storage carts: Slide between toilet and wall for hidden storage.
Smart Storage Around the Toilet
Ideas:
- Floating shelves above the toilet for décor and storage.
- Baskets or bins for toilet paper and towels.
- Ladder shelves leaning against the wall for vertical space.
Table: Toilet Storage Solutions
| Storage Idea | Cost Range | Renter-Friendly? | Best Use |
|---|---|---|---|
| Over-the-toilet unit | $20–$60 | Yes | Towels, décor |
| Floating shelves | $15–$40 | Yes | Toiletries, plants |
| Slim cart | $20–$50 | Yes | Cleaning supplies |
| Ladder shelf | $30–$70 | Yes | Towels, baskets |
Décor Tips for Making Toilets Look Stylish
- Add plants: A small snake plant or pothos on a shelf above the toilet adds greenery.
- Use matching accessories: Toilet brush, holder, and trash bin in coordinated colors.
- Incorporate art: Hang framed prints or quotes above the toilet.
- Upgrade hardware: Change flush handles or add gold/black details.
- Keep it minimal: A clutter-free toilet area always feels more upscale.
Real-Life Small Apartment Toilet Setups
Example 1: Studio Bathroom
- Compact dual-flush toilet
- Overhead floating shelf with rolled towels
- Small potted plant on the tank
Example 2: Family Apartment
- Standard toilet with slow-close padded seat upgrade
- Over-the-toilet shelving unit for baskets and décor
- Slim rolling cart for cleaning supplies
Example 3: Luxury Apartment
- Smart toilet with bidet
- Minimalist floating shelf with candles
- Coordinated gold accessories (toilet brush, bin, and towel hook)
Tips for Choosing the Best Toilet in Small Apartments
- Measure carefully before buying—depth and width matter in tiny bathrooms.
- Opt for light-colored toilets to make spaces feel more open.
- Pick designs with slim tanks to free up wall space.
- If you’re renting, focus on upgrades and accessories instead of replacements.
- Always balance function and comfort—style is important, but daily use matters most.
