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Toilet and basin suite buying guide
Buying guides

Toilet and basin suite buying guide

Posted by Adam Chard in Buying guides | 2 years ago 3 min read

If you’re looking for a coordinated toilet and basin suite, but aren’t sure where to begin, this expert buying guide is your perfect starting point.

In this article, we'll show you the different types of toilet and basin suites that we have available at Victoria Plum, so that you can decide which is best for your bathroom. From simple pedestal basin and close coupled toilet combinations to combined toilet and sink furniture units, there is a wide range of options available. So, no matter how small or large your space may be, we'll guide you through your choices and help you find the right size and style for your unique circumstances.

One thing to note: Many people use the terms "basins" and "sinks" interchangeably, and there really is no difference between the two. However, for simplicity, we will mostly refer to "basins" throughout this guide.


Should my basin and toilet match?

Your basin and toilet doesn’t have to match, but if you really want a consistent theme to run throughout your bathroom then it’s important that you buy a toilet and basin from the same bathroom suite collection. To make this easy for you, at Victoria Plum, we pair matching toilets and basins in one handy suite, which is even cheaper than buying the products separately.

Clarity close coupled toilet suite with full pedestal basin 540mm

A matching toilet and basin suite, like this one from the Clarity collection, brings a more cohesive, coordinated look to your bathroom

Handy Hint: Check out our latest toilet and basin suite ideas for inspiration


Different types of toilet explained

In this section, we'll explain the main toilet choices available to you. For a more in-depth look at this product category, why not read our toilet buying guide?

Close coupled toilet

This is the most popular toilet design and comes in many styles. The cistern is mounted above the toilet bowl, but it is one complete unit. This means that all the pipes are concealed, giving the toilet a neat look. Close couple toilets are very easy to clean, as the exterior is streamlined rather than having to work around lots of piping.

Back to wall toilet

With this structure, the toilet bowl is separate from the cistern. The cistern in a back to wall toilet is then concealed either within a wall (creating a minimalist look, and saving space) or within a unit. The benefit of having a unit is that it creates an opportunity for additional storage space, as well as a handy shelf. It also provides a more contemporary, designer look.

Wall hung toilet

Hanging your toilet from the wall saves the most space in your bathroom and creates a minimal, sleek look, ideal for a contemporary space. Wall hung toilets also free up the floor space underneath to allow for easy cleaning.

Mode Tate cloakroom suite with contemporary wall hung basin 550mm

A wall hung toilet and sink suite, like this one from the Mode Bathrooms Tate collection, is neat, easy to clean and highly contemporary in style


What different types of basin are available, and what’s right for me?

In this section, we'll explain the main options available to you when it comes to choosing a bathroom sink to go with your toilet. Of course, if you'd like to find out more about this product category, read our more in-depth basins buying guide.

Full pedestal

Full pedestal is one of the most popular designs, and is a great choice for most bathrooms. The pedestal reaches down to the floor, hiding all the pipework, and the basin is placed above it.

Orchard Winchester complete cloakroom suite with black seat and full pedestal basin 600mm

A full pedestal basin, like this traditional style design from the Orchard Bathrooms Winchester collection, is ideal for concealing unsightly pipework

Semi pedestal

Semi pedestal basins are perfect for smaller spaces, and for creating a more contemporary look. The pedestal is much shorter, leaving the floor space underneath it clear. This is an ideal choice if you have a smaller bathroom.

Wall mounted

The wall mounted basin is simply the basin itself with the pipework on show. It’s a very contemporary look that will add a striking feature to any bathroom or ensuite.


Should I choose a wall hung unit?

If you decide to purchase a wall hung toilet or basin, please check your walls to make sure that they have the strength to support them. It's always worth asking an experienced and qualified trade professional to come and survey your bathroom walls before attempting to fit anything like this.


What about vanity units or combination toilet and sink units?

These days, more and more homeowners are turning to vanity units, rather than standalone basins, to provide them with extra storage space—often vitally important in modern homes. And, yes, here at Victoria Plum, we've already thought of this with a huge selection of coordinated vanity unit and toilet suites to suit your exact needs.

Orchard Eden close coupled toilet and white vanity unit suite 550mm

Increase your storage space with a toilet and vanity unit suite, like this one from the Orchard Bathrooms Eden collection

Another great way to make the best use of space is to swap your toilet and basin for an all-in-one toilet and sink unit. These cleverly designed furniture items combine a back to wall toilet unit, compact basin and storage cupboard—all contained within a very small footprint. Find out more about our fabulous toilet and sink units from the MySpace furniture range (pictured below) or read our comprehensive toilet and basin unit buying guide.

Orchard MySpace slate matt grey left handed combination with contemporary back to wall toilet

This combination toilet sink unit from the Orchard Bathrooms MySpace range is a great solution for small bathrooms


Making the most of your space with corner toilets and basins

We have some toilets and basins that fit snugly into the corner of your bathroom. These are perfect for very small spaces as they open up the centre of the room.

Orchard Derwent round compact corner close coupled toilet with slimline soft close toilet seat

The Derwent round compact corner close coupled toilet from Orchard Bathrooms makes great use of space


Shop toilet and basin suites

Now you have a much better understanding of the different types of toilet and sink suite available, perhaps you're in the mood to buy? There is a great selection of toilet and basin suites at Victoria Plum and buying them as a bundle will save you money. It also ensures a coordinated look in your bathroom, as both units will be from the same collection. However, you can mix and match toilets and basins to get the exact type and style that you’re looking for, and that best fit your space. To browse our full range, click on the image below.

Shop toilet and basin suites

Author, Adam Chard

Posted by Adam Chard in Buying guides | 2 years ago

A born & raised West Countryman, now living on the Yorkshire Coast, for over 10 years Adam has been bringing home interior ideas to life at Victoria Plum. Adam’s favourite interior styles have been shaped by both urban and natural influences.

Sales Line 0344 264 4141 Track order Design Service Trade account

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