On the one hand, what new things can you come up with in the toilet? It seems that everything was already invented before us, well, hanging ones appeared (together with installation), that is, not only floor options, but that was a long time ago. But no, it turns out there are new products - now more and more manufacturers are switching to so-called rimless designs. I've had one for a couple of years now, I've gained a lot of experience. And today I want to tell you about the pros and cons of this model. Leave your review + at the end of the article, as usual, video version...
At the very beginning, I want to say why manufacturers didn’t come up with them earlier, because rimless toilets are really cool. They have a huge number of positive aspects, and practically no disadvantages.
Device Features
The rimless toilet looks practically no different from the standard version. The peculiarity is hidden in a small design change that affects the flow of water when the tank is drained. The absence of a rim, which, as planned, distributes liquid along the perimeter of the entire internal space of the toilet, completely washing its surface. However, this element, in addition to its purpose, has a negative effect - dirt accumulates on it and bacteria multiply.
This feature can be compensated for only through careful care , which takes time and effort; this must be done regularly. The rimless design solves this problem in a radical way - by changing the structure of the toilet. But this is not the only solution; you can consider another option - glazing.
Facts from history
These toilets appeared on the plumbing market not so long ago. The first models were manufactured and presented in Japan in 2002. The developer was . The first European manufacturer is considered to be British. In 2007, the manufacturer began producing toilets for medical institutions (as tests show, such a device accumulates less bacteria on the surface). In 2012, a technology for the production of rimless toilets was created and patented for universal use.
Since 2014, such models have become widely sold and are represented by a huge number of brands. This is a rimless toilet from Roca, RAK Ceramics, Laufen, Zersanite, Gustavsberg.
Glazing of hard-to-reach areas
One of the early methods of solving the problem is to cover the problem areas with a special compound to which dirt does not stick and on which bacteria do not multiply. The glazed surface actually copes with this task, but over time it is destroyed under the influence of cleaning agents and brushes, which makes this technique extremely short-lived. As a result, the toilet with a special coating turns into a classic version and all the problems return. Which leaves the owners of this type of plumbing with the choice of either cleaning the toilet without detergent, or losing its main advantage after a few months.
With microlift
A monoblock toilet equipped with a seat cover with a microlift is a very convenient plumbing fixture to use. The principle of operation of such a product is to automatically raise and lower the lid. This happens using the door method with finishing, only in this case the microlift system is more miniature. This purchase will be appreciated by both ladies and men.
The advantage of this innovation is that this particular device prevents a strong and sharp impact of the lid on the toilet rim. Thus, it protects the candy bar seat from mechanical damage and does not produce loud sounds when the lid is lowered.
Rimless toilet: advantages
- Hygiene. Rimless toilets are easier to keep clean. Standard models have protrusions under which dangerous bacteria multiply. The new generation toilets are a monolithic structure without hard-to-reach places.
- Economical. A vertical circular flush in older models uses up to 10 liters of water at a time, while a directional flush in a rimless toilet requires only 2–6 liters.
- Aesthetics. The streamlined shape of the bowl looks sleeker and makes the bathroom interior more modern.
Differences from traditional plumbing fixtures
One glance at a cross-section of a classically designed toilet is enough to understand how flushing occurs. As soon as the shut-off valve of the flush tank opens, a stream of water washes the back of the bowl and at the same time rushes along the rim. In this case, the latter is used as a guide along which the liquid reaches the front and side surfaces of the device.
The rim of a standard toilet bowl plays an important role - it serves to direct the flow of water and prevent it from splashing outside the bowl
It would seem that the design, perfect from the point of view of engineering and hydraulics, has one significant drawback. The presence of a rim complicates cleaning and cleaning, which is why dirt is deposited on the walls of hard-to-reach areas and rusty stains appear. In addition, the area hidden from view is a haven for numerous colonies of microorganisms, which in no way contribute to the hygiene of the device and cause an unpleasant odor in the bathroom.
Hard-to-reach places under the toilet rim require increased attention during cleaning, otherwise dirt and bacteria will quickly lead to a terrible state of plumbing
Many plumbing companies saw the solution to the problem in applying a layer of additional, smoother glaze, as well as using stain-resistant coatings. However, the first option only partially solved the problem, and the second turned out to be completely ineffective - due to the use of aggressive household chemicals, the protective layer quickly disappeared. Over time, experts came to understand that eliminating the source of trouble would be much easier than solving the difficulties associated with it. For this reason, it was decided to abandon the rim in favor of a completely smooth bowl.
“There will be no rim - problems with dirt and bacteria will disappear!” – this is what plumbing manufacturers thought when they decided how to make the toilet more hygienic
Since there was no room for a rim in the new, so-called rimless toilet, the first thing the developers had to do was find a flushing method in which water flowing from one point could wash the entire bowl without splashing or spraying. And he was found in the form of a ceramic divider. The structure installed at the water supply point is designed in such a way as to redistribute the flow of liquid in three directions - along two side walls and along the back surface of the bowl. Accurate calculation of the sections of individual parts of the divider allows you to give additional acceleration to water flows. Thanks to this, they not only reach the front wall of the bowl, but also effectively clean all its surfaces.
The divider installed in rimless toilets promotes the formation of several water flows - thus it is possible to achieve complete cleaning of the entire inner surface of the bowl
An equally important task facing engineers and designers was the need to prevent water from spilling over the edge of the device. In previous models, the limiter was the rim located on the periphery, but how can you force the flow not to go beyond the boundaries of the bowl in the absence of it? Here, specialists from leading companies saw several solutions.
Thus, the Rimfree technology mentioned above uses a special flow separator. The effectiveness of such a flushing system can be judged by the fact that Twyford’s developments are now used by dozens of plumbing companies. No less high-quality work is ensured by the Tornado Flush technology (Toto trademark), a feature of which is the formation of a vortex flow of liquid flowing out of three holes at the back wall of the bowl.
Tornado Flush technology provides water supply simultaneously from several points. This creates a powerful whirlpool inside the bowl, ensuring perfect rinsing.
A special feature of toilets built according to the Rimfree and Tornado Flush scheme is a completely smooth bowl. At the same time, plumbing fixtures are also known, the vessels of which in their upper part have a small edge or special acceleration channels. With the help of the latter, the initial direction and width of the water flows are set - such models have recesses that come to nothing in the upper part of the device.
Plumbing fixtures with a protruding edge and recesses in the upper part of the bowl are also considered rimless, but it would be more logical to classify them as pseudo-rimless toilets
Despite concerns about the higher cost of the new devices, their prices remained at the same level as traditional models. This is explained by the fact that the need for a rimless toilet divider is simply offset by the more complex configuration of the internal channels of classic devices.
Advantages and disadvantages
To understand the difference between rimless and rimless toilets, it is necessary to pay attention to the specific structure of each option, since it is this that determines the presence of characteristic advantages.
Rimless products have several advantages.
- Better hygiene. The absence of a rim eliminates the problem area, which serves as a springboard for the accumulation of dirt and the growth of bacteria. The entire internal surface area is fully accessible, its cleaning is not complicated by any factors, which makes the toilet cleaner and safer for health. The model is very popular in places with strict sanitary requirements: hospitals, cafes and catering establishments, shopping and entertainment centers and other crowded places.
- Simplified cleaning process. The openness of the design simplifies access to every corner, cleaning is convenient, you don’t need to twist to reach under the rim with a brush or a brush, so the process is faster and less tiring. Major cleaning can be replaced by thorough daily wiping of the surface with a cloth without detergent.
- Economical water consumption. The high pressure created by a more powerful water pressure better cleans the surface of the product, so 30% less liquid is required for draining, which, if there is a meter, results in significant cost savings.
- Improved aesthetics. The product looks more compact and does not stand out in the bathroom interior.
- Safe care. The absence of large volumes of dirt growing on the toilet bowl coating makes it possible to wash the product without chemicals containing acids.
- Similar cost. The price for a rimless product practically corresponds to the cost of a standard toilet made from the same raw materials, which, with improved operational features, is a significant advantage - the best product for the same money.
There are no typical disadvantages to rimless toilets, although an unscrupulous manufacturer will have more than enough of them.
Rimless toilet: cons
- Noise. A directional flush of sufficient power makes more noise than a circular flush.
- Poor quality flush in some models. This problem is most often encountered by owners of devices with an elongated bowl: the flow of water in it may be distributed unevenly. To avoid this problem, choose toilets with a funnel-shaped bowl.
- Splashes when flushing in some models. Formed when devices operate with an imbalanced hydraulic balance. Due to the absence of a rim, which is a natural obstacle, too strong or improperly cut flow causes splashes.
The best floor models
The following toilets are recognized as the best floor-standing models:
- Ideal Standard Connect (E781801);
- Kale Basics (7112234000);
- Vitra S50.
Below is more detailed information about the characteristics of the presented floor models.
Ideal Standard Connect (E781801)
A compact toilet will significantly save space in a small bathroom. A convenient lever supplies water and can be adjusted. The toilet itself is made of hygienic porcelain and has a special antibacterial coating. The set includes a comfortable seat, the manufacturer has provided several options for connecting to the sewer.
Manufacturer country | Belgium |
Model features | perfectly smooth and durable surface of the product, several connection options |
Equipment | water supply lever, seat |
Price: from 20890 to 21390 rubles.
pros
- extensive equipment with everything you need;
- antibacterial coating of the inner surface;
- anti-splash function;
- ease of product care;
- 25 year warranty;
- horizontal outlet into the wall;
- 2 built-in flush buttons.
Minuses
- difficult installation process;
- requires the purchase of an additional adapter.
I work as a plumber and am often faced with the task of installing a toilet or faucet. This one surprised me, despite the complexity of the overall design, the installation was completed quickly. Then I contacted the owners, they were satisfied with both the work and the toilet itself. In addition, it is compact, although it has a decent weight.
Ideal Standard Connect toilet (E781801)
Kale Basics (7112234000)
Inexpensive standard shaped toilet. A regular tank is fixed to the main structure, you can adjust the installation yourself. The drain operates after pressing the double button. Water consumption is regulated, so you don't have to worry about your bills. The seat is very wide and comfortable, and is one of the advantages of our model.
Characteristics and Features | standard comfortable seat shape, good equipment |
Set | seat, connection adapters |
Production | Türkiye |
Price: about 9088 rubles.
pros
- wide and comfortable seat;
- water consumption control;
- The kit includes everything necessary to install the toilet;
- 10 year manufacturer's warranty;
- fastenings are made of stainless metal;
- high structural strength.
Minuses
- complex installation.
A toilet with a bidet was a long-time dream of ours, and we were very pleased with the purchase. The cost was low, the installation was carried out by specialists, there were no problems. We use it, as they say, with great pleasure. The toilet also has a comfortable seat, wide and strong.
toilet Kale Basics (7112234000)
Vitra S50
A toilet from a Turkish brand has many advantages. This includes a water-repellent coating on the surface, silent operation of the product while drawing water, and 100% smoothness. The toilet is quite stable, easy to install, the kit includes adapters and a lid. All surfaces are sanded and there is no porosity, so it will be much easier for owners to keep the toilet clean and hygienic. The model has a special lid shape, it is comfortable while sitting, and the toilet is easy to clean even when using a small flush. Water consumption is adjustable.
Production leaders in the monoblock segment
The leading position in the ranking of monoblock manufacturers is quite rightly occupied by the Italian company Laguraty . The line of this brand includes models of laconic and luxurious design, made in a non-trivial and classic style.
It is this company that offers original options with tanks in the shape of a soccer ball or a flower vase. Bathroom equipment from designer Giovanni Laguarti is produced in Italy and China.
The parent company strictly monitors the quality of products supplied to the market by Chinese structures, because bears overall responsibility for the serial production of products bearing the specified brand logo.
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Monoblock in antique style
Toilet for a bathroom in Baroque style
Variations on the cistern theme
Playing with color accents
Naturally, a product produced by Italian enterprises will cost significantly more than a Chinese-made equivalent. Note that the second option is not inferior in quality to the first, so it makes no sense to overpay for a purely Italian product.
Proven technologies are used in the production of Laguraty monoblocks. The company's patented casting and firing processes guarantee long service life of about 25 years. The production uses exclusively natural raw materials that do not pose a threat to the environment.
Plumbing faience is coated with a heavy-duty glaze that prevents contamination and wear. The package includes a durable plastic seat with a micro-lift that gently lowers the lid onto the bowl.
The Laguraty assortment includes modifications with horizontal and vertical drainage, which allows you to select plumbing fixtures for any sewerage installation scheme.
There is a half shelf around the circumference of the bowl against the splash; the design of the circular drain eliminates the appearance and spread of bacteria on the sanitaryware.
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Unique body painting
Drawing technique
A series of monoblocks with views of capitals
Signs of luxury plumbing
Royalking Sanitary Ware SSWW , whose production plants are localized in Germany, is no less actively involved in the production and supply of monoblocks to the market
Unlike the Italian brand described above, the German company does not specialize in the production of monoblock sanitary ware, but devotes enough space to it in its assortment.
Solid monoblock structures of the SSWW brand are covered on both sides with a dirt-proof glazed nano shell, which prevents surface contamination, rust deposition and limescale deposits.
Firing of sanitary ware blanks is carried out using our own technology. The monoblock tanks are equipped with unique fittings from Geberit and seats with microlifts.
Water for flushing comes from holes located around the circumference of the bowl. There are two modes of water consumption for flushing, providing an opportunity to save water consumption.
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Monoblock with vertical outlet
Toilet with horizontal outlet
Hidden version of the horizontal pipe
Advantages of a horizontal arrangement
An interesting and practical new product is offered to customers by the Spanish manufacturer Roca . A new word in his developments is a monoblock toilet combined with a washbasin.
In addition to the stylish design and impressive shape of the ROCA W+W 893020001 , the aspect of water saving has been carefully thought out. A model created on a similar principle is in the Laguraty line of monoblocks, its serial number is 8074. The monolithic design tank has two compartments, one of which is designed to collect water drained from the sink.
The second compartment of the tank is directly connected to the water supply, so that there are no difficulties with flushing if the volume in the first section of the tank is insufficient.
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Monoblock toilet with washbasin
The benefits of saving space
Elegant lines of sanitary ware
Reasonable water consumption
The excellent design of the monoblock system is solidly complemented by high quality characteristics, the stability of the plumbing and the strength of the material.
By analogy with other representatives of the segment, the toilet is equipped with an ergonomic seat with a microlift. Combining three separate objects into a monoblock provides the opportunity to significantly increase the free space in the bathroom.
Gustavsberg is replenishing the market with very worthy monoblock plumbing fixtures , guaranteeing impeccable product service for a quarter of a century, although it does not please with an affordable price.
Olympia and Turkish sanitary ware from VitrA are in demand . Both manufacturers guarantee the use of monoblocks without problems for at least 10 years.
A warranty period of 5 years for bowls and 3 years for fittings is promised by Arcus (China), which produces a wide range of monoblock toilets. The assortment includes products in numerous shades of white, colored, black models and monoblocks with elegant painting.
Products of this brand are attractive due to their affordable price and the company’s diligent desire to maintain high world-class quality standards.
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Products from a Chinese manufacturer
Model from the Chinese company Arcus
An abundance of modifications and styles
Price attractiveness
There are smart toilets on sale that are made using a monoblock principle. Multifunctional smart plumbing is equipped with systems for bidet operation, drying, and automatic lid movement. Control and configuration are carried out using a remote control.
Varieties
Rimless toilets are divided according to the specifics of their location and installation; there are two types with characteristic features.
- Floor-standing – these options are characterized by standard installation, are relatively more bulky, and are often equipped with a bidet and a microlift;
- Hanging - available in more popular versions, they are mounted on the wall using special fastening devices, and a tank is built into them. Such models take up less space and are equipped with a reliable suspension system that can withstand loads of up to 500 kg. The solidity of the tank ensures the absence of leaks, a long period of operation, and also reduces the noise of its operation; such a monoblock is quite practical.
It is worth paying attention to compact models with an oblique outlet , which can be equipped with motion sensors that lift the lid when a person enters the room. Sometimes they have additional compartments that hold various detergents and fragrances for use when draining.
Today, buyers can choose a wall-mounted, wall-mounted or wall-mounted option. It all depends on personal preference.
Decision-making
The wall-hung option has a larger list of positive properties than the negative ones and than the floor-mounted option. Of course, the complexity of repair work is a very serious argument against its use. True, accessibility to the services of professionals reduces the level of troubles. Of course, professionals are expensive. But the choice of decision is influenced by the psychological factor. The mounted option is unusual to the eye. The suspended support-free mount causes mistrust among most potential users. The person doubts whether the fastenings will support his weight. In fact, the mount can support up to 400 kg. There are no people with this weight.
The solution in old Soviet-built houses is toilets with a high flush cistern. Now this solution is used for a special design.
PHOTO: masteravannoy.ru Toilet in old Soviet houses PHOTO: masterok-remonta.ru Toilet room in a large modern apartment
Review of manufacturers and models
When buying a certain product, you can trust the label or chance, but purchasing products from a well-established manufacturer will be more reliable. There are several companies in high demand in the plumbing market today.
- VitrA. This company produces sanitary ware and related products for bathrooms. It equips rimless toilets with the Rim-ex flush system, well suited for use in restrooms in shopping malls, hospitals and other public places. Also, the vast majority of models are equipped with a special compartment for detergent, washed with water when draining.
- Roca. This plumbing ware manufacturer has a rich history, having been in business since 1929. The products are in demand among luxury hotels, Olympic venues, and in places where quality plays a major role.
- TOTO. This company produces toilets using modern technologies and innovations, and uses a multi-flow Tornado Flush flush system, which improves the flushing of the toilet bowl over the entire area. The company uses eWater+ technology, designed to destroy harmful bacteria. In addition, the toilets are equipped with motion sensors that open the toilet lid when a person approaches.
- Am. Pm. The company offers a line of rimless products from mid-range to luxury class, combining thoughtful forms designed to save space. They have excellent design and comfortable operation. For production, only high-quality ceramic raw materials that meet European standards are used.
- Cersanit. This is a Polish manufacturer of sanitary ware with a moderate pricing policy. Rimless toilets are practical and have a versatile, discreet design. All Cersanit products are manufactured in accordance with European quality standards and are fully certified. Cersanit toilets are similar to the products of the Ideal Standard brand.
The ranking of quality product manufacturers also includes companies from Germany and Switzerland.
Owner reviews
To prevent you from suspecting us of bias, we suggest that you read reviews from owners of rimless toilets. Perhaps this will be a decisive argument in favor of one model or another.
Karina. “When we bought a Jacob Delafon toilet, at first I couldn’t be happier. When the passions subsided, I began to notice one drawback - it is not very convenient to wash the top of the bowl. True, it practically doesn’t get dirty, so you don’t have to do this often.”
Vladislav. “I was looking for a suitable toilet without a rim for a long time, and settled on the Ifo Rimfree model. I was captivated by its beautiful appearance and reliable design with a cast flow divider. The toilet has been in use for two years and during this time I have never regretted my choice - it flushes powerfully, consumes little, and requires very minimal maintenance.”
Auntie. “When we bought a toilet, I chose it based on appearance and convenience. Lol only found out that we had such state-of-the-art plumbing fixtures two months later, when my husband’s brother showed up and asked: “Did you buy a rimless toilet? And only then did I start to take a closer look at how cleanly it rinses off. I clean it once a week as before, but it really has become easier to wash the inside of the bowl. The toilet is really cool, I recommend it. It's called VitrA S50."
Nata. “We bought the vaunted Roca The Gap. Well what can I say? A toilet is like a toilet – you still need to wash it periodically.”
Avpopov. “At the moment I am the owner of Keramag Renova v.1 203050000. I am happy as an elephant. The casting is perfect, the glaze is everywhere. The sound is ringing. The surface is slippery. There is no rim at all. There is no splashing. It washes off powerfully, but of course, it doesn’t wash the entire front wall. The seat was installed from AM-PM with a microlift.”
Oleg Peskishev. “Cersanit Carina: the bowl is flat, when you relieve yourself, the splashes from the surface bounce off onto your feet. When you sit on it (on the bowl), your belongings lie in it, if you want to wash them, press the drain. There is no enamel on the inner surfaces of the pot itself, but only some fragments. But the main drawback is the splashes flying onto the floor during draining. I believe that the technology for producing rimless toilets is still imperfect. I recommend choosing a toilet with a rim and a deep bowl.”
Anna. “We bought a rimless toilet from Cercanit - we’re not happy with the product, it doesn’t flush well, the water doesn’t cover the required area for flushing, water from the toilet splashes on the walls and floor.”
Of course, no one can conduct a complete analysis of owner reviews. A small study we conducted revealed almost equal numbers of supporters and opponents of rimless toilets. However, the fact that consumers who are dissatisfied with the quality of products unsubscribe online much more often allows us to declare the success of the Rimless technology.
Rimless toilets are rapidly gaining ground over traditional models. And although many new products are not yet free from childhood diseases, the time is not far off when Rimless technology will completely replace the outdated classics. Now we can only advise one thing - in order not to be disappointed in your choice, you should not save money - the market is full of reliable, proven solutions from first-tier manufacturers.
“Childhood diseases” of rimless toilets
Any technically original innovative invention is doomed to go through a period of so-called “childhood illnesses” - a period of identification in the process of mass exploitation of individual shortcomings that require comprehension and improvement. The rimless toilet, which has rapidly fascinated the world community, is no exception.
A number of models cause complaints from consumers due to the thin walls of the bowls, their small volume, partial splashing of water when flushing, and insufficient flushing power. Therefore, when choosing a specific model of such a “young” toilet, you should give preference to more experienced brands that have managed to cope with most of the design flaws of their creations.
So, which is better: a rimless or rimless toilet ? If you want to get rid of hard-to-reach places that complicate cleaning, the appearance of rusty streaks (when the water in the pipes is of very poor quality), and unpleasant odors, then feel free to give preference to rimless models!
Any questions? Write to us!
Tips for choosing
The environmental features and operating process of a rimless toilet are similar to the classic model. Most of the important points that you need to pay attention to when choosing a specific product are quite standard.
- The raw materials from which the toilet is made. It has one of the primary meanings and affects many features of the product:
- strength - awkward movements sometimes hit the plumbing fixtures, a fragile product can crack and become an irrevocable waste of money;
- evenness and smoothness - the uniformity of the ceramic mixture affects the formation of defects on the surface of toilet bowls: dents, bulges, as well as roughness, which contributes to the accumulation of dirt and further negative processes;
- color and its uniformity - the most attractive are porcelain and metal products.
- Location option. Despite the many advantages of a wall-hung toilet (it takes up less space, is quieter, does not stand out in the bathroom interior), some people are confused by its hanging system on the profile, which superficially seems unreliable. In this case, the needs will be satisfied by a classic floor-mounted rimless toilet.
- Flush system. The production of this part must be of especially high quality; it is recommended to test the product at the stand; if this option is not available in the store, you should look for information on the Internet: the manufacturer’s reputation, user reviews.
- Additional functionality. Depending on the model, different equipment may be offered, which directly affects the final cost.
Small fasteners (dowels, bolts) may be included with the toilet or will have to be purchased separately. Since the toilet is a hygienic product, it cannot be exchanged or returned, so it is important to choose the right model right away. It is recommended to choose slowly, taking into account all the listed criteria, and also think about additional points inherent in a particular situation.
If you choose the corner option, then you should definitely monitor how it washes away. This function must be configured correctly initially.
How to prevent water splashing?
•If the drain flow seems too strong, O-rings may come in handy. Install them in the flush mechanism to limit the pressure of water entering the bowl.
•If the flow is not very strong, but splashes still appear, the problem probably lies in the divider. The part may be faulty or incorrectly installed. Check the position of the divider and replace the element if necessary.
•You can also purchase a tight lid and close the toilet every time you flush. Treat it with a disinfectant every time you wash your plumbing fixtures.