How do you use a bidet? FAQs answered

Although bidets are widely-used in bathrooms around the world, many people in North America are still becoming familiar with them. Further, since bidets clean the most private area of one’s body, the topic tends to remain private as well. Yet people who regularly use a bidet experience improved personal hygiene and comfort.

Perhaps it’s a lack of understanding that keeps people from the daily benefits of a bidet. With this in mind, here are the answers to five frequently-asked questions about bidets.

How does a bidet work exactly?

Once you easily install the Coway Bidetmega 200 onto your toilet, you sit on it just like you would a regular toilet seat. Then you go to the bathroom just like you do every day—number one, two or both. But now, instead of wiping with toilet paper, you press the manual control buttons next to the toilet to activate cleansing streams of water from the bidet. The control panel allows you to customize many features, such as water flow, temperature and different wash settings, including rear and front washes.

Should you use soap with a bidet?

That is up to you. Some people do, and some people don’t. Those who don’t use soap are following the advice that “water is the best and healthiest way to clean just about everything.” The water flow from the bidet is strong enough to provide a thorough clean without additional soap. Keep in mind, too, that cleanser can be an irritant to sensitive body parts. In fact, that’s why the Coway Bidetmega 200 has a wash setting specifically designed for women.

But some people prefer to keep a bar of soap within arm’s reach of their bidet, and that’s fine, too.

Do you need to use toilet paper with a bidet?

Again, there’s a level of personal preference here, but in general, the answer is no. The water flow from the bidet does the cleaning; it replaces the need for toilet paper. As far as drying oneself, the Coway Bidetmega 200 comes equipped with a drying function.

However, old habits can die hard. If you choose to use toilet paper with the bidet, just discard it afterwards in the toilet bowl like you normally do. Note: You’ll likely use a lot less toilet paper since the water jets will do most of the cleaning.

Are bidets good for septic tanks?

As the contractors at BuildDirect write: your septic tank will love your bidet. As described above, bidets reduce the need for toilet paper. Less toilet paper means fewer clogs in your system’s pipes and septic tank.

Are bidets a good value?

Yes. Not only do bidets save money by lowering household toilet paper expenses, they potentially reduce paper clogs in the bathroom plumbing. Also, the improved personal hygiene can relieve symptoms of bathroom-related issues like hemorrhoids and IBS (irritable bowel syndrome), particularly skin irritation. A bidet is an upfront investment, but it pays for itself through numerous benefits over time.