Lately, you see them everywhere: Bidets. What are they exactly and how do they work?
A bidet is a bathroom fixture designed for personal hygiene, typically found next to the toilet. It uses water to clean the genital and anal areas after using the toilet. Bidets provide a more thorough and often more comfortable cleaning experience. Bidets come in various types, including standalone fixtures and attachments that can be added to existing toilets.
Keep reading to learn everything you need about these handy fixtures!
Why use a bidet?
Bidet, pronounced as bee-day, is one of those bathroom fixtures you often see in Europe. But lately, they are gaining popularity in the US. And for good reason!
A bidet is useful because it not only fulfills a sanitary function, it also brings a touch of luxury to your bathroom space. Plus, studies have shown that using a bidet improves your health. In fact, most people who start using a high-end bidet say they won’t ever go back to regular toilet paper alone. The feeling of having a freshly washed behind makes one feel on top of the world.
Still not convinced?
Benefits of using a bidet
A bathroom fixture that often gets overlooked in the United States, but is highly popular in many parts of the world, is the bidet. Coming from the French word for ‘pony’, it aptly symbolizes a fixture that you might ‘straddle’, somewhat similar to a pony.
Although it is used to clean yourself, you should also clean your bidet. Just like you would clean your toilet.
1. A bidet aids in cleanliness
The primary function of a bidet is to aid in cleanliness. It works by releasing a controlled stream of water to cleanse sensitive areas after using the toilet. By doing so, it significantly reduces the reliance on toilet paper, leading to a more thorough and comfortable clean. Scientific research has further confirmed that using a bidet can lessen the risk of certain health issues, such as urinary tract infections, and can promote overall genital hygiene.
2. Bidets are eco-friendly
Moreover, bidets are remarkably eco-friendly. While the traditional use of toilet paper leads to further deforestation – an average American uses approximately 50 pounds of toilet paper each year – bidets minimize this impact due to the minimal tissue required. They also consume fewer gallons of water when compared to the amount needed to produce toilet paper. Thus, incorporating bidets into bathroom use not only adds a touch of luxury but also contributes to a healthier individual and a greener planet.
3. Reduced irritation of the skin
Water is gentler on sensitive skin than wiping with toilet paper, reducing the risk of irritation or discomfort.
4. Accessibility
Bidets can be beneficial for individuals with mobility issues or those who find it challenging to reach or use toilet paper effectively.
How does a bidet work?
A bidet works by utilizing a targeted stream of water to cleanse the genital and anal areas after using the toilet. Typically located next to the toilet, a bidet can have various controls to adjust water pressure, temperature, and nozzle positioning.
The user activates the bidet either through manual controls or, in more advanced models, electronic panels. The water stream provides a thorough and efficient cleaning, promoting better personal hygiene. After use, some bidets also offer features like air drying.
Options to choose from
You can go from lower- to very high-end bidets. Here are some of the options one can have:
- Adjustable Water Pressure
- Allows users to control the intensity of the water stream for a customized cleaning experience.
- Temperature Control
- Enables users to set the water temperature to their preference, providing a comfortable cleansing experience.
- Nozzle Positioning
- Allows users to adjust the position of the water nozzle to ensure precise and effective cleaning.
- Dual Nozzles
- Some bidets come with separate nozzles for front and rear cleansing, providing more targeted hygiene.
- Heated Seat
- Adds comfort by offering a heated seat, especially beneficial in colder climates.
- Air Dryer
- Provides a drying function after cleaning, eliminating the need for toilet paper.
- Self-Cleaning Nozzles
- Nozzles equipped with self-cleaning features for enhanced hygiene.
- Deodorizer
- Incorporates an air deodorizer to neutralize odors and maintain a fresh bathroom environment.
- Soft-Close Lid
- Prevents slamming and adds a touch of convenience and safety.
- Night Light
- Illuminates the bowl with a soft light, facilitating nighttime bathroom visits.
- Massage or Pulsating Function
- Offers a pulsating water stream for a massaging effect, promoting relaxation.
- User Profiles
- Some advanced bidets allow users to save their preferred settings for a personalized experience.
- Remote Control
- Allows users to control bidet functions remotely, providing convenience.
- Quick Release Seat
- Facilitates easy removal of the bidet seat for thorough cleaning.
- Energy-Saving Mode
- Conserves energy by reducing power consumption during periods of inactivity.
Talk about fancy!
Are you wet after using a bidet?
High-end bidets often have a built-in dryer which means you don’t have to wipe after using one. After using water on you it will also dry you. No need to dry yourself off. However, if yours does not have a dryer built in you may want to dry yourself off using a towel or toilet paper.
However, using toilet paper to dry yourself may cause the paper to disintegrate. Which… is kind of annoying.
Is a bidet more sanitary than wiping?
A bidet is often considered more sanitary than wiping with toilet paper. While toilet paper can leave residue and may not clean as thoroughly, a bidet uses water to provide a more effective and cleaner experience. The water helps remove bacteria and particles, reducing the risk of irritation or infection.
Additionally, bidets contribute to improved personal hygiene by eliminating the need for excessive wiping, which can be harsh on the skin.
The gentle and targeted water stream from a bidet is seen by many as a more hygienic and comfortable option compared to traditional wiping methods.
Most popular bidets on Amazon
- Veken Ultra-Slim Bidet
- Over 30K positive reviews
- LUXE Bidet NEO 185 – Self-Cleaning, Dual Nozzle
- Over 44K positive reviews
- Non-electric Brondell bidet toilet seat
- 5K bought in the past month
Disclaimer: TheToiletSpecialist.com is not responsible for any damage caused to your toilet and surroundings by (wrongly) interpreting information found on this site. Please seek custom advice from a professional to evaluate your current situation.
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