The bidet (pronounced ‘beeday’) has been an integral part of most European bathrooms for decades. Their popularity in other countries has surged in recent years as millions of people have come to realize the benefits a bidet can offer them.
The traditional ceramic bidet, similar in form to a toilet, used to be the only bidet option available. However, there are now many different choices available – including hand-held spray bidets and toilet seats with built-in bidets which can be easily added to an existing toilet.
It’s easy to become overwhelmed by the number of different models available and our aim is to keep you informed of all the options available, review different bidets and allow you to make an informed decision if you want to purchase one.
Using a bidet is more hygienic than using toilet paper because it cleans far more efficiently than paper.
The average person in the US uses between 2 and 3 rolls of toilet paper a week. You can remove this cost and save money.
Toilet paper production is not good for the environment. It requires large amounts of energy, water and chemicals.
A bidet is more delicate on your nether regions than toilet paper, which is a bonus for haemorrhoid suffers.
If you plan on installing new bathroom equipment, then a built-in bidet may be the best option. This may take the form of a separate toilet-like unit, or a combined toilet/bidet in one. If space is an issue, the combined bidet and toilet is a good solution.
You should look at bidets which completely replace your toilet seat. These come with a variety of functions, such as different spray patterns, temperature controls and the ability to dry you. They are often controlled via a separate remote. These are one of the more expensive options, but provide a lot of functionality.
There are many toilet seat bidets which you can easily add to your existing seat. They vary somewhat in the functions they offer. Some are simple manual units, others are electrically operated and offer more functionality. They’re all quite easy to install.
A handheld bidet sprayer may be the best option for you. These are basically a shower hose which attaches to the wall near your toilet. They are cheap to buy and come in a variety of finishes to match your bathroom. Installation is a quick and easy job.
Travel bidets are the simplest option of all and are easy to pack into a case to take with you on trips. They are also one of the cheapest options available.
They needn’t be expensive at all. There are a wide range of bidets available, starting from around $20 for a handheld bidet sprayer. A basic model which attaches to your toilet starts at around $30. However, you can expect to pay quite a lot more for advanced models which replace your entire toilet seat and provide a wealth of functions.
Yes! Washing yourself with water will always get you cleaner and feeling fresher than trying to rub away excrement with toilet paper. It’s just common sense. They also clean more gently, which can be very important for people with hemorrhoids, anal fissures, or other conditions.
Both men and women of all ages can use a bidet, they’re good for anyone with a bottom! For women, they are also useful for cleaning up during menstruation. In fact some models have dual nozzles, with the front one designed with a more gentle spray for feminine cleansing.
No! Most bidet models attach to your existing toilet in the area of the hinge and only protrude a few inches on the side containing the controls. Some bidets replace the entire toilet seat and so don’t take up any more room. Bidet spray attachments fix to the wall near the toilet and take up very little space.
The vast majority of bidets are a breeze to install with no plumbing experience necessary (unless you plan on installing a stand-alone unit). The most popular bidet models just require you to undo your toilet seat by removing the 2 bolts by the hinges. You then place the bidet attachment between the toilet and the seat and reattach the bolts. Then just detach the water inlet from your toilet, attach the supplied T valve and screw in the original hose together with the one supplied with the bidet. Simple!
