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Key Considerations When Purchasing Toilets
Before diving into the details, here’s a quick reference guide to the most critical factors when selecting toilets for import or distribution:
critical factors when selecting toilets for import or distribution:
| Feature | Options | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Type | One-piece, Two-piece, Wall-hung, Floor-mounted, Smart | Affects price, installation, and market appeal |
| Bowl Shape | Round, Elongated, Square/Rectangular | Influences comfort, space requirements, and style |
| Height | Standard Height(14-16″), Comfort/Chair Height (17-19″), Custom | Impacts accessibility and comfort for different users |
| Rough-in | 7-1/5″, 10″, 12″ (standard) | Determines installation compatibility |
| Flush System | Gravity, Siphonic, Washdown, Single flush, Dual-flush, Tornado & Rimless flush | Affects water efficiency, noise level, and performance |
| Certification | CE, CUPC, WaterSense, Watermark, WELS, Saber, ISO | Ensures compliance with regional standards and regulations |
Now, let’s explore each aspect in detail to help you make informed decisions when sourcing toilets from manufacturers in China.
Types Of Toilets
The types of toilets can be categorized in several ways: by construction (one-piece vs. two-piece), installation method (floor-mounted vs. wall-mounted), or technology features (standard vs. smart). Understanding these classifications helps you in selecting the right product for specific market segments and installation requirements.
One-Piece Toilet
Key features:
- Tank and bowl integrated as a single unit,
- Sleek, seamless appearance,
- Typically easier to clean with fewer crevices,
- Generally more expensive than two-piece models,
- Heavier, which can increase shipping costs.
Distributor Tip: One-piece toilets command premium pricing in many markets and are popular in luxury bathrooms and high-end developments.
Two-Piece Toilets
Key features:
- Separate tank and bowl components,
- Most common and traditional design,
- More affordable than one-piece models,
- Easier to transport due to smaller, lighter components.
Distributor Tip: Two-piece toilets are ideal for budget-conscious projects and general housing developments.
Floor-Mounted Toilet
Floor-mounted toilets are the most traditional and widely used installation type around the world. These toilets rest directly on the bathroom floor and connect to a drain pipe through the floor or wall.
Base on the difference of the waste exits and looks, it can be categorize in to: back outlet toilet, bottom outlet toilet, skirted toilet and close-coupled toilet.
Key features:
- Universal compatibility: Works with most bathroom layouts.
- Easier installation: Requires less specialized knowledge to install.
- Self-supporting: Doesn’t require reinforced walls.
- Multiple styles: Available in both one-piece and two-piece designs.
- Widespread familiarity: Contractors and plumbers universally familiar with installation.
- Variety of price points: Available from economy to luxury models.
Importer Tip: Floor-mounted toilets represent the largest market segment globally. When sourcing from China, ensure you specify whether back-outlet or bottom-outlet models are needed for your target market.
Wall-Mounted Toilet
Key features:
- Tank concealed within the wall,
- Creates a modern, space-saving appearance,
- Easier floor cleaning beneath the fixture,
- Requires special in-wall frame and carrier system,
- Higher installation complexity and cost,
- Average price point: High-end market.
Installation components needed:
- In-wall carrier frame
- Flush actuator plate
- Bowl mounting hardware
- Access panel for maintenance
Distributor Tip: Wall-hung toilets are trending in modern design and small bathrooms where space optimization is crucial. For more details about the advantages of wall mounted toilet, please read our previous post. At the same time, it is advised that you can consider including the in-wall carrier frames and flush actuator plate products in your inventory. And you will require a professional plumber too.
Smart Toilets
Key features:
- Integrated bidet functions with adjustable water temperature and pressure,
- Heated seats with temperature control, which make you feel comfortable,
- Automatic flushing sensors,
- Self-cleaning technologies (UV sterilization, bowl misting, etc.)
- Remote control operation,
- LED night lights,
- Deodorizers and air purification,
- Average price point: Premium to luxury market.
Smart toilet components:
- Control panel or remote
- Bidet nozzle(s)
- Heating elements
- Motion sensors
- Specialized internal plumbing
- Electronic components and circuit boards
Market Insight: Smart toilets have seen exponential growth in North America and Europe after gaining popularity in Asian markets like Japan and South Korea. They represent a high-margin opportunity for distributors if you are willing to invest in staff training and customer education.
Toilet Bowl Shapes
Toilet bowl shapes refer to the geometric configuration of the seating surface and overall bowl design. The shape affects both the physical dimensions of the toilet and the user experience. Each shape has distinct characteristics that make it suitable for different applications and bathroom layouts.
Round Bowls
- Circular seating surface,
- Compact design, typically measures around 16-17 inches from mounting holes to the front edge,
- Traditional appearance common in residential settings.
Elongated Bowls
- Oval-shaped seating surface,
- Extended front portion, typically 18-19 inches from mounting holes to the bowl front edge,
- More common in newer residential and commercial installations.
Square/Rectangular Bowls
- Angular seating surface with straight edges,
- Contemporary design element, features clean lines and geometric appearance,
- Similar depth to elongated bowls (approximately 18-19 inches), precise dimensions vary by manufacturer and model.
Toilet Heights
What is Toilet Height?
Toilet height refers to the vertical measurement from the finished floor to the top of the toilet seat. This dimension significantly impacts user comfort and accessibility. The right height depends on the users’ physical needs, regional standards, and specific applications (residential vs. commercial). Toilet height is measured with the seat installed, not just to the rim of the bowl.
Different height options serve various user needs:
Standard Height
Measures approximately 14-16 inches from floor to seat, it's a traditional sizing in many residents, better suitable for shorter adults and youngsters.
Chair Height / ADA Toilet Height
It's also call comfort height. Measures 17-19 inches from floor to seat, complies with accessibility standards (ADA in the US), it's easier to use for taller, elderly or those with mobility limitations.
Flushing Systems
The flushing mechanism impacts performance, water efficiency, and user satisfaction. Various flushing technologies offer different benefits and functionality. Here are the main systems to consider: gravity-fed flushing, siphonic vs washdown flushing, rimless flushing, tornado flushing, single flush vs dual flush.
Siphonic flushing is a kind of more efficiency gravity-fed toilet. Besides uses the weight of water and gravity to create flushing pressure, it also utilizes the toilet trayway designs to creates a siphoning action that pulls waste and water down the drain.
Benefits:
- Strong flushing power,
- Larger water surface in the bowl,
- Minimal odor escape,
- Common in North American markets.
Washdown flushing uses the force of falling water to push waste directly through a larger trapway. Water enters the bowl with enough force to wash waste down the relatively short, straight and wide trapway.
Benefits:
- Simpler trapway design less prone to clogging,
- Uses less water per flush,
- Common in European markets.
Gravity-fed flushing uses the weight of water and gravity to create flushing pressure. When the flush lever is activated, the flapper valve opens, allowing water from the tank to flow into the bowl, creating pressure that pushes waste through the trapway.
Benefits:
- Simple, reliable mechanism,
- Quieter operation,
- Fewer moving parts for easier maintenance.
Rimless flushing is a new flushing systerm. Water is directed through an open rim design rather than hidden rim holes, delivering water directly to the bowl surface without a traditional enclosed rim.
Benefits:
- Easier to clean without hidden areas for bacteria growth,
- More hygienic design,
- More efficient, requiring less water to achieve a thorough clean.
Tornado flushing is a innovative design, which uses multiple water jets positioned around the rim to create a swirling, cyclonic water flow pattern that thoroughly cleanses the entire bowl surface.
Benefits:
- Superior cleaning performance,
- Reduced water consumption,
- Minimizes bacteria accumulation,
- More effective rinsing of the entire bowl.
Single flush means each flush delivers a consistent volume of water, typically between 1.28 and 1.6 gallons per flush (GPF) in modern toilets.
Benefits:
- Simple operation for users,
- Consistent performance,
- Straightforward mechanism.
Dual flush provides two flushing options: a reduced volume flush for liquid waste (typically 0.8-1.1 GPF) and a full volume flush for solid waste (usually 1.28-1.6 GPF).
Benefits:
- Water conservation,
- Customized flush volume for different needs, which can reduced water bills,
- Environmentally friendly option.
Toilet Rough-In Dimensions
The rough-in dimension is the distance from the finished wall or floor to the center of the waste outlet or flange. For example, The rough-in size of the S trap is the distance from the wall to the center of the waste outlet (usually 12 inch ), while P trap is the distance from the ground to the center of the drainer outlet (usually 7-1/5 inch and 10 inch). This measurement is critical for proper installation:
Standard 12 Inch Rough-In
- Most common in most Asia and North American markets,
- Widest product selection available,
- Standard in most new construction.
10 Inch Rough-In
- Found in older homes or specific regions, such as Middle east and Africa markets,
- More limited product selection if in 10″ rough-in siphonic toilet, may require special ordering.
7-1/5 Inch Rough-In
- Most common in Australia and European markets.
Importer Tip: When sourcing from China, make sure that rough-in measurements match your market standards. Some international standards differ, and retrofitting can be expensive or impossible.
Toilet Trapway
The trapway is the curved channel inside the toilet through which waste passes. Its design affects performance, installation requirements, and plumbing compatibility. There are two main types of trapways in toilet design:
S-Trap
Most common in most parts of Asia, North American and South American markets.
It's compatible with most modern plumbing systems. Typically requires a standard toilet flange.
P-Trap
More common in Africa, Australia and European markets.
Popular in the regions with traditional plumbing standards.
Being phased out in some regions due to updated plumbing codes.
May require special adapters for modern plumbing systems.
Toilet Seats
Materials Of Toilet Seat
Durable plastic material that resists staining and scratching. Lightweight, easy to clean, and available in various colors. Budget-friendly option with good longevity.
Thermoset material that provides excellent durability and a solid feel. Resistant to chemicals and scratches with a smooth, non-porous surface that’s easy to clean. The color and finish looks very similar as the ceramic toilet bowl.
Usually made from molded wood composition with a coating. Offers a warmer feel in cold environments and a more traditional or premium appearance. Heavier than plastic options with a substantial feel.
Toilet Seat Shape Compatibility
- Must match the bowl shape (round, elongated, square)
Are Toilet Tanks Universal?
The answer is no. Because of the bolt pattern and connection points between tanks and bowls vary by manufacturer and model. What’s more, Different toilets use various flush mechanisms that are designed to work with specific tank dimensions and configurations. Toilet tanks are not universal and cannot be interchanged freely between different toilet models or brands.
When replacing a tank, it’s essential to use the exact replacement part specified by the manufacturer. For distributors and importers, this means carrying complete toilet sets rather than interchangeable components, and maintaining proper inventory of replacement tanks for the specific models you sell.
Colors and Surface Finishes
While white remains the most popular color, other options and surface treatments can provide market differentiation:
Color Options
- White: Classic, most popular (approximately 85% of market),
- Beige/Bone: Soft off-white, second most popular,
- Black or Grey: Growing trend in modern bathrooms,
- Colored: blue, green, brown, and other custom colors.
Surface Treatments
- Standard Glaze:
- Gloss Finish: Shiny, reflective surface that’s easy to clean and provides a bright, polished appearance. Traditional choice for most installations.
- Matte Finish: Non-reflective surface with a softer appearance. Growing in popularity for contemporary bathroom designs.
- Electroplated Surface:
- Golden Finish: Metallic gold coating applied through electroplating process. Creates a luxurious, high-end appearance popular in premium and designer bathrooms.
- Silver Finish: Metallic silver or chrome-like coating that provides a modern, sleek appearance. Complements contemporary bathroom fixtures and fittings.
- Water Transfer Printing Process:
- Marble Look: Decorative technique that creates realistic marble patterns on ceramic surfaces. Achieves the luxury appearance of natural stone without the weight or cost. Each piece has subtle variations for a truly unique appearance.
Product Certifications
Certifications ensure compliance with regional standards and regulations. Key certifications to consider include:
North American Market
- CUPC (Uniform Plumbing Code): Required in Canada and many US states.
- WaterSense: EPA program certifying water efficiency.
- ADA Compliance: Ensures accessibility standards.
- ASME A112.19.2: Performance standards for vitreous china fixtures.
European Market
- CE Marking: Indicates compliance with EU health, safety, and environmental standards.
- EN 997: European standard for WC pans and WC suites with integral trap.
Australian/New Zealand Market
- Watermark: Required certification for plumbing products.
- WELS (Water Efficiency Labelling Scheme): Water efficiency rating.
International Standards
- ISO 9001: Quality management systems.
- ISO 14001: Environmental management standards.
Critical Import Tip: Always verify that the toilets you source from China have the appropriate certifications for your target market. Certification testing is expensive and time-consuming, so confirm documentation before placing large orders.
Toilet Buying Checklist
Use this checklist when sourcing toilets from manufacturers in China:
- Types of Toilet: Determine which toilet type best suits your market needs.
- Bowl Shape: Verify compatibility with target bathroom spaces.
- Toilet Heights: Confirm appropriate height for target users.
- Rough-in Size: Ensure compatibility with standard installations in your market.
- Flush System: Select based on water efficiency requirements and performance expectations.
- Water Usage: Verify compliance with regional water conservation regulations. Especially in Australia, New Zealand and North America areas have strict requirements in this regard.
- Certifications: Confirm all necessary certifications for your target market.
- Warranty Terms: Understand the manufacturer’s warranty policy.
- Spare Parts Availability: Ensure critical replacement parts will be available.
- Packaging: Verify adequate protection for international shipping, from cartons to palletization.
- Installation Instructions: Confirm instructions are clear and in appropriate languages.
- Sample Testing: Always test samples before placing bulk orders.
Why Choose Foshan Seletti for Your Toilet Supply Needs
As a leading sanitary ware supplier in China, Foshan Seletti offers comprehensive solutions for importers and distributors worldwide:
- Quality Assurance: All products undergo rigorous testing and quality control,
- Certification Compliance: Products available with CUPC, CE, Watermark, and other regional certifications,
- Custom Solutions: Ability to customize designs and features to meet specific market needs,
- One-Stop Service: From product selection to shipping logistics, we handle every aspect,
- Reliable Support: Expert guidance throughout the sourcing and importing process.
Finally, selecting the right toilets for import requires a thorough understanding of various features, specifications, and market requirements. By considering the factors outlined in this guide, you can make informed decisions that satisfy your customers’ needs while ensuring regulatory compliance.
For more information about sourcing high-quality toilets from China, contact Foshan Seletti today. Our team of experts is ready to assist you with all your sanitary ware needs.
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