Difference Between Left & Right Handed Flush Toilets

Differences

• The differences between a left-handed flushing toilet and a right-handed flushing toilet are simple. The obvious difference is the flush handle’s position. The other difference is out of view. On a right-handed flushing toilet, the flush assembly inside the toilet box is a mirror image of the flush assembly of a left-handed flushing toilet. The assemblies are not different, but they are positioned in the tank differently.

Handle Placement

• Most toilets have the flush handle on the left side, and it’s most commonly located on the top left corner of the front of the tank. Occasionally, depending on toilet brand and style, the flush handle is on the left side of the tank rather than on its front. In a right-handed flushing toilet, the handle is either on the tank front's top right corner or on the tank's right side.

Availability

• A significant difference between left- and right-handed flushing toilets is their availability. Because the left-handed variety is the norm, finding a right-handed flushing toilet is difficult. Some stores sell flush boxes with right-mounted handles, and full toilets with handles on the right are not often in stock. If you desire a toilet with a handle on the right, you can order an appropriate tank and mount it on your existing toilet.

Use

• Choosing between a left- and right-handed flushing toilet often comes down to your use of the toilet. If you are left-handed, the handle on the left side might be ideal for you because it’s within reasonable reach of your left hand. If you’re right-handed but typically flush the toilet while sitting on it, then the left-side placement of the handle is ideal. Your personal preference for flushing the toilet can affect which style of toilet is best for you.