April usually brings the itch to finally tackle those home renovation plans. If you've decided to bring a bit of 2026 tech into the most used room in the house, you've reached the first big decision: do you go for a full All-in-One Smart Toilet or a retrofitted Smart Toilet Seat?
It’s not just about the look; it's about your plumbing, your long-term plans for the house, and exactly how much automation you want. Let’s break down the pros and cons of each format so you can stop scrolling and start planning.
Why Choose an All-in-One Smart Toilet or a Smart Seat?
The All-in-One Route
Think of an all-in-one unit like the Prestige (G2) or the Supreme (G2) as a complete "blank canvas" upgrade. These are full ceramic units where the bidet technology is built directly into the porcelain. You’d choose this if you’re doing a full bathroom reno or if you want that ultra-minimalist Japanese aesthetic where everything is hidden.
The Smart Seat Route
A smart seat, like the Omega or Finesse, is for those who already have a toilet they like but want it to do much more. These are designed to be retrofitted onto your existing pan. You’d choose this if you’re looking for a high-impact upgrade that takes less than an hour to install and doesn't require a skip in the driveway.
Key Benefits of Upgrading Your Format
- All-in-One: You get access to "integrated-only" tech like auto-flushing, proximity sensors that lift the lid as you walk in, and ultra-quiet pumped flushes.
- Smart Seat: It is a non-permanent upgrade meaning, if you move house, you can technically take your luxury seat with you.
- Both Formats: Regardless of the format, you’ll benefit from instant warm water washing, a heated seat and a warm air dryer, significantly cutting down on toilet paper use.
- Hygiene: Both options feature self-cleaning nozzles and motorised deodorisers to keep the ensuite smelling fresh.
Comparison of Models
All-in-One Units (The Full Package)
- Evolution: A versatile choice because it fits both S-trap (floor) and P-trap (wall) waste, plus it has its own integrated cistern.
- Supreme (G2): The high-tech heavy hitter with UV bowl sterilisation, a bubble foam shield to stop splashes, and a foot sensor for hands-free lid operation.
Smart Toilet Seats (The Clever Upgrade)
- Classic Mini R: A compact, round-shaped seat perfect for smaller UK toilets.
- Finesse VR/DR: The flagship seat that looks most like an all-in-one thanks to its smooth-edged design and built-in LED display.
Which Model Is Right for You?
- Choose an All-in-One if you are starting a bathroom project from scratch, have a P-trap or S-trap outlet, and want the absolute peak of automation, like auto-opening lids and UV sterilisation.
- Choose a Smart Seat if you want to keep your current porcelain pan, you're on a tighter timeline for installation, or you need a specific shape like a "Round Short" for a compact cloakroom.
Technical Specs Comparison Table
|
Feature |
All-in-One (e.g., Supreme G2) |
Smart Seat (e.g., Finesse) |
|
Installation |
Full ceramic replacement |
Retrofitted to existing pan |
|
Water Heating |
Ceramic Tube (Instant) |
Ceramic Tube (Instant) |
|
Lid Automation |
Proximity & Foot Sensors |
Manual (Soft-close) |
|
Sterilisation |
UV Nozzle & UV Bowl |
Self-cleaning nozzle |
|
Flush Support |
Integrated Auto-Flush |
Relies on existing toilet |
|
Shapes Available |
Fixed ceramic silhouette |
Round, V-shape, or D-shape |
Common Key Features
While the formats differ, Washloo ensures the core experience is consistent:
- Temperature Control: Both formats allow you to adjust the water temperature, seat temperature and dryer temperature.
- Precision Cleaning: Both feature posterior and feminine wash cycles with oscillating spray patterns.
- Self-Care: Both include "Kids Functions" for gentler settings and night lights for safer midnight trips.
- Soft-Close: No matter the format, you get a soft-closing seat and lid to prevent any jarring slams.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is an all-in-one smart toilet better than a seat? It depends on your needs. An all-in-one unit offers more automation (like auto-flush and auto-opening lids) and a sleeker look. However, a smart seat provides almost identical washing and drying features at a lower entry point and is much easier to install.
Can I put a smart seat on any toilet? Not quite. You need to match the seat shape (Round, V-shape, or D-shape) to your pan. For example, the Classic Mini is for round pans, while the Finesse fits elongated V or D-shaped pans.
Does an all-in-one smart toilet need a cistern? Some do, and some don't. The Washloo Evolution has an integrated cistern built in. The Supreme (G2) uses a pumped jet flush system, which can often remove the need for a traditional external tank.
Do I need a plumber for a smart seat? While many DIY enthusiasts can fit a smart seat in under an hour, we always recommend a professional for the electrical connection (fused spur) and to ensure the plumbing is watertight.