What Is a Bidet?
A bidet is a specialized electric or nonelectric wash basin that provides personal, sanitary cleansing. It emits a focused stream of water to help clean yourself after using the toilet. Traditionally, as in many Asian, European and Middle Eastern countries, the bidet is a separate freestanding unit, much like a urinal, that sits next to the toilet. Traditional bidets are either floor mount or wall mount.
Bidet Types
There are a variety of bidet types:
- Freestanding bidet that resembles a sink/urinal hybrid placed next to the toilet (requires a dedicated plumbing line)
- Bidet toilet seat (also known as a washlet)
- Bidet attachment
- Handheld sprayer
- Portable bidet
- High-tech toilet and bidet combo, a recent innovation that’s a toilet with built-in bidet functioning
They’re available in a price range to fit most budgets.
Bidet toilet seats and attachments are the most common types in the United States. They’re easy to install and provide the look and feel of a toilet with the functionality of a bidet. Bidet toilet seats replace existing toilet seats and don’t take up additional space. They operate using tap water to clean.
No matter what type of bidet toilet you choose, they’re designed to do one thing: hygienically cleanse your lower body.
Benefits of Using a Bidet
Bidets in the home are a personal choice, and many people find they have several advantages.
- Bidets promote better hygiene and clean more thoroughly than toilet paper alone.
- Over time, a bidet may help you save on your water bill.
- They cut down on the amount of toilet paper used.
- Less toilet paper means less potential for plumbing issues such as clogged pipes.
- Bidets offer better relief than toilet paper for people suffering from certain bowel conditions.
Bidet Features
While each bidet is different, electric bidets include:
- Heated seats
- Heated water
- Adjustable spray pressure
- Motion-activated lids
- Electronic controls (with a remote control or side panel)
- Warm air dryer
- Adjustable nozzle or dual nozzles for front and rear wash
- Self-cleaning nozzles
Electric bidets, which are feature rich, typically come with a higher price tag over nonelectric bidets.
Nonelectric bidets are affordable, easy to install, easy to use and fit on any toilet. Many models attach to the toilet underneath the toilet seat. They’re powered directly by existing water pressure, which is usually controlled by a pull lever or control knob. Some nonelectric bidets offer built-in soap reservoirs.