So, you’re looking to remodel your guest bathroom. You’ve probably envisioned the tile, or you have an idea of what you’re looking for with regards to the sink, but now you have to address one of the most important questions: what to do about the toilet.
This may seem like a silly question. Yet, while so much time is spent thinking about the décor for other parts of the bathroom, most of the time that you spend in the bathroom is going to be on this porcelain throne. It is, for better or worse, the things that guests are looking at the most and the part of the bathroom likely to get the most use.
Luckily, it’s not the most complex decision. Toilets do not come with that many options. But there are still considerations to be made.
One or Two Piece Construction
One of the most likely considerations you’ll need to make is between a one piece or a two piece toilet. Most toilets are two piece. These toilets tend to be less expensive and more widely available. Go to any hardware store, and you’ll find dozens of two piece toilets but maybe only one or two one piece toilets.
There is, functionally, no real difference between the two. One piece toilets have a more modern look that many love, fewer crevice’s (making them easier to clean), and they take up a little less space. They can also be more expensive – not just to buy, but also to repair, simply because there aren’t any extra pieces.
Two piece toilets tend to be cheaper, easier to install, and have more options. But the look is very different, and they can be harder to clean. In the end, this is mostly a budget/preference question, and not something that has a specific answer.
Common Features of Toilets Installed in Guest Bathrooms
Moving on, however, we do tend to see trends in toilets. While preferences vary based on layout, budget, and overall design goals, the following characteristics tend to be most commonly selected for guest bathrooms:
- Chair Height (ADA/Universal Height) – A slightly taller toilet height (usually 17 to 19 inches from floor to seat) offers added comfort for a range of guests without significantly affecting appearance.
- Elongated Bowl – Though round bowls are slightly more compact, elongated bowls are more popular due to their improved comfort and wider availability. Many homeowners choose an elongated bowl even in smaller bathrooms.
- 1.28 GPF (Gallons Per Flush) – High-efficiency toilets with a 1.28 GPF rating meet EPA WaterSense standards and are widely used in new installations. They reduce water usage without sacrificing performance.
- Basic Skirted or Semi-Skirted Design – A smoother base makes cleaning easier and provides a slightly more modern look without the complexity or cost of fully concealed trapways.
These features combine to offer reliability, cleanliness, and guest accessibility, making them well-suited for bathrooms that are used occasionally but still reflect the homeowner’s attention to detail.
Why Homeowners Tend to Avoid Upgrades in Guest Bathrooms
In most cases, guest bathrooms do not require specialized features such as bidet attachments, pressure-assisted flushing, or high-end smart toilets. These systems are more common in primary bathrooms, where the user experience justifies the additional cost and maintenance.
For guest spaces, homeowners typically prioritize:
- Cost-effective, durable fixtures
- A neutral appearance that complements most design styles
- Easy maintenance and access to replacement parts
- Standard dimensions that fit into smaller footprints
Although aesthetics are still important – especially for resale value – the focus tends to be on clean lines and consistency with the rest of the bathroom rather than advanced functionality. If you want to “go cheaper” on a guest bathroom, you are more welcome to, and it is unlikely to affect property value provided your design is still higher end.
Choosing a Guest Bathroom Toilet
If you’re renovating or building a guest bathroom, the most popular toilet choice will likely be one that balances efficiency, comfort, and simplicity. A two-piece, elongated, chair-height toilet with a standard flush mechanism typically meets the needs of most guest spaces, but a one piece is fine too.
Still, you don’t need anything fancy, and can probably avoid attachments like bidets or any special features. Look for what is going to be most comfortable with guests and you’re probably going to be happy with your decision.
