The Ultimate Guide to Using a Bidet: Why You Should Make the Switch

In recent years, bidets have been gaining popularity in the United States, and for good reason. These bathroom fixtures, long common in Europe, Asia, and South America, offer a host of benefits that go beyond just cleanliness. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore why you should consider making the switch to a bidet, how to use one, and address common questions and concerns.

 

What is a Bidet?

Before we dive into the benefits, let's clarify what a bidet is. A bidet is a plumbing fixture or toilet accessory designed to clean your private areas after using the toilet. It uses a stream of water for cleaning, which can be more effective and gentler than toilet paper alone.

 

Why Use a Bidet?

1. Superior Cleanliness

The primary reason to use a bidet is simple: it provides a more thorough cleaning than toilet paper alone. Water is more effective at removing waste and bacteria than dry paper. This can lead to better hygiene and a fresher feeling throughout the day.

2. Gentler on Sensitive Skin

For those with sensitive skin, hemorrhoids, or other conditions, wiping with toilet paper can be uncomfortable or even painful. A bidet's gentle stream of water is much kinder to sensitive areas, reducing irritation and discomfort.

3. Environmental Benefits

Switching to a bidet can significantly reduce your toilet paper usage. This not only saves trees but also reduces water usage in the long run. It takes about 37 gallons of water to produce a single roll of toilet paper, while a bidet uses only about 1/8 of a gallon per use.

4. Cost-Effective in the Long Run

While there's an upfront cost to installing a bidet, you'll save money over time by reducing your toilet paper purchases. Some estimates suggest that a family of four can save over $250 per year on toilet paper by switching to a bidet.

5. Accessibility and Independence

For individuals with mobility issues or disabilities, a bidet can provide greater independence in the bathroom. It reduces the need for assistance with cleaning, promoting dignity and self-sufficiency.

6. Potential Health Benefits

Using a bidet may help prevent urinary tract infections and reduce the risk of hemorrhoids. The gentle cleaning action can also be beneficial for individuals recovering from surgery in the perianal area.

 

What Are the Types of Bidets?

There are several types of bidets available, catering to different preferences and bathroom setups:

• Standalone Bidets: These are separate fixtures installed next to the toilet. They're common in Europe but require more bathroom space.
• Bidet Toilet Seats: These replace your existing toilet seat and connect to your water supply. They're the most popular option in the U.S. due to their ease of installation and compact design.
• Handheld Bidet Sprayers: These attach to your toilet's water supply and function like a small shower head. They're versatile and affordable but require manual aiming.
• Bidet Attachments: These are installed under your existing toilet seat and connect to your water supply. They're a budget-friendly option but may have fewer features than bidet seats.
• Portable Bidets: These are small, bottle-like devices that you can fill with water. They're great for travel but less convenient for everyday use.

How to Use a Bidet

Using a bidet might seem daunting at first, but it's quite simple once you get the hang of it. Here's a step-by-step guide:

• Use the toilet as usual: Start by using the toilet normally.
• Activate the bidet: For bidet seats or attachments, this usually involves pressing a button. For standalone bidets, you'll need to move to the bidet fixture.
• Adjust the water pressure and temperature: Most modern bidets allow you to control these settings. Start with low pressure and adjust as needed.
• Position yourself: Slightly lean forward or to one side to allow the water stream to reach the right areas.
• Let the bidet do its work: Allow the water to clean for about 20-60 seconds, or until you feel clean.
• Dry off: Some bidet seats come with a built-in air dryer. Otherwise, you can use a small amount of toilet paper or a dedicated bidet towel to pat dry.
• Clean the nozzle: Many bidet seats have a self-cleaning feature. If not, you can usually wipe the nozzle with toilet paper or a cleaning wipe.

Remember, it might take a few tries to find the right settings and position that work best for you. Don't be discouraged if it feels strange at first–most people quickly adapt and wonder how they ever lived without a bidet!

 

Top Features to Look for in a Bidet

When shopping for a bidet, consider these features:

• Adjustable water pressure and temperature: This allows you to customize your experience for comfort.
• Multiple spray options: Some bidets offer different spray patterns for various cleaning needs.
• Heated seat: A nice luxury, especially in colder climates.
• Air dryer: This can further reduce or eliminate the need for toilet paper.
• Self-cleaning nozzles: This feature helps keep the bidet hygienic with minimal effort.
• Remote control: Some high-end models offer remote operation for added convenience.
• Energy-saving mode: This can help reduce electricity usage when the bidet is not in use.
• Child mode: Some bidets offer a gentler setting for children.

 

Addressing Our Most-asked Bidet Questions

As bidets gain popularity in the United States, we've received numerous questions from curious customers and skeptics alike. Let's address some of the most common concerns and misconceptions about bidets.

"Isn't it unsanitary?"

Actually, bidets are more sanitary than toilet paper alone. The water spray effectively cleans without spreading bacteria the way wiping can. Many bidets also have self-cleaning nozzles for added hygiene.

"Won't it make me feel cold and wet?"

Modern bidets often have temperature-controlled water and some even offer warm air drying. The amount of water used is minimal, so you shouldn't feel soaked.

"Is it difficult to install?"

While standalone bidets require professional installation, many bidet seats and attachments are designed for easy DIY installation. Most people can set them up in less than an hour.

"What about when I'm away from home?"

Once you're used to a bidet, you might miss it when traveling. Some companies offer portable bidet options for this reason. You can also look for hotels or rental properties that offer bidets.

"Isn't it expensive?"

While there's an upfront cost, bidets can save money in the long run by reducing toilet paper usage. There are also options at various price points to fit different budgets.

 

The Environmental Impact of Bidets

Let's dive deeper into the environmental benefits of bidets. The numbers are quite striking:

• It takes 37 gallons of water to produce a single roll of toilet paper.
• The average American uses 57 sheets of toilet paper per day.
• Toilet paper production leads to the loss of 27,000 trees daily worldwide.

By contrast, bidets use only about 1/8 of a gallon of water per use. Over time, this leads to significant water savings, despite the counterintuitive idea of using water to clean.

Moreover, reducing toilet paper usage means less energy used in production and transportation, fewer chemicals used in the manufacturing process, and less waste in our landfills.

 

Cultural Perspectives on Bidets

Bidets are common in many parts of the world, including most of Europe, Japan, and parts of South America. In these cultures, bidets are seen as a standard part of personal hygiene, much like brushing your teeth.

In Japan, for example, high-tech toilets with integrated bidet functions are the norm. These toilets often include features like heated seats, multiple wash modes, and even white noise machines for privacy.

As bidets become more common in the United States, we're seeing a shift in perception. What was once seen as an unfamiliar or luxury item is increasingly viewed as a practical, hygienic choice.

 

The Future of Bathroom Hygiene

As we become more aware of both personal hygiene and environmental issues, bidets are likely to play an increasingly important role in our bathrooms. We're already seeing innovations like:

• Smart bidets that learn your preferences and adjust automatically
• Bidets with UV sterilization for enhanced hygiene
• Eco-friendly bidets that use recycled water

These advancements suggest that bidets aren't just a passing trend, but a significant shift in how we approach personal hygiene.

 

Is a Bidet Right for You?

Ultimately, whether to switch to a bidet is a personal choice. However, given the benefits – improved hygiene, environmental friendliness, potential cost savings, and increased comfort – it's a choice worth considering.

If you're curious but not ready to commit, consider starting with an affordable bidet attachment. Many companies offer trial periods, allowing you to experience the benefits firsthand with minimal risk.

Remember, while it may feel unfamiliar at first, millions of people around the world can't imagine life without a bidet. You might just find that once you make the switch, you'll wonder how you ever lived without one.

So why not give it a try? Check out our Bidet 400. Its 4-stage i-Wave technology produces a comfortable, customizable wash with multiple modes. Your body, your wallet, and the planet will thank you for it.

Sources:

Tiny Waste - Toilet Paper

CNN - Why are bidets just now getting popular in America?