Bidet has been around for a long time but hasn’t always been widely used in the United States. In fact, there are many who don’t even know what bidets are or what they do. But as of late, there’s been an increase in the popularity of bidets in the US, and statistics show that more Americans are starting to use them—and why not? Bidets can help you stay clean, healthy, and happy!
In fact, according to an article by Bidet.org, by 2025, 84% of households will have a bidet. This is because Americans are starting to realize how much cleaner their bottoms can be if they use one daily—and it’s not just for women! Men are also using them to get clean after using the bathroom.
With its ability to cleanse the body, bidets can offer a variety of benefits to users. However, many people still don’t know what bidets are or how they work.
In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about bidets: what they are, how they work, and why you should consider installing a bidet in your home.
What is a bidet?
A bidet is a plumbing fixture that’s used to clean your butt. Bidets are typically used for washing the genital area, perineum, and inner buttocks after using the bathroom. It looks like a toilet, but instead of flushing your poop down the drain, you spray it with water and then wipe it off with toilet paper.
They can be found in many bathrooms around the world as an alternative to toilet paper. Most bidets are electric or battery-operated, and they use a small amount of water to get the job done.
Types of bidet toilets
Bidet toilets are a great way to upgrade your bathroom. They offer you the benefits of a bidet without having to replace your entire toilet. If you’re interested in installing one, there are five main types of bidets you should know. Here’s the detail:
Bidet Attachments
Bidet attachments are devices that can be added to your existing toilet. They typically consist of a spray nozzle or wand that is attached to the toilet’s water supply. Bidet attachments are a cost-effective option and provide basic bidet functionality.
Bidet Seats
Bidet seats are designed to replace your existing toilet seat. They come with integrated bidet features such as adjustable water temperature, water pressure control, and nozzle positioning and often include additional features like heated seats, air drying, and deodorizers. Bidet seats are popular as they offer convenience and a wide range of features.
Handheld Bidets
Handheld bidets, or bidet sprayers or hoses, are similar to handheld showerheads. They consist of a flexible hose with a spray nozzle attached to one end. Handheld bidets allow you to control the water flow and direction manually, offering flexibility and ease of use.
Standalone Bidets
Standalone bidets are separate fixtures designed explicitly for bidet use. They resemble a basin or small sink and are installed next to the toilet. Standalone bidets have their own faucets or sprays for cleansing. They provide a dedicated and independent bidet solution but require additional space and plumbing modifications.
Toilet with Built-in Bidet
Some toilet bidets come with built-in bidet functionality. These toilets feature a bidet wand or nozzle integrated into the toilet bowl itself. They often offer advanced features like customizable wash settings, air drying, and automatic flushing. A toilet with a built-in bidet combines the functions of a toilet and a bidet into a single unit.
What Are the Benefits of Using Bidet?
The bidet is one of the most underrated bathroom fixtures. It’s essentially a toilet seat that has warm water and a nozzle that you can use to spray your after-the-potty bits clean.
But here’s the crazy part: It’s actually super good for you!
Here are nine reasons why you should be using one in your home today:
Enhanced Cleansing
Bidets provide an effective alternative to toilet paper, which can leave behind residue that can lead to discomfort and irritation. Bidets use water pressure to cleanse the anus and perineum (the area between the anus and the genitals), eliminating any trace of fecal matter while also helping to maintain good hygiene.
Improved Personal Hygiene
Using a bidet regularly helps reduce the risk of developing hemorrhoids and other common infections, such as urinary tract infections (UTIs). By using warm water instead of toilet paper, you can also help reduce your risk of getting infectious diseases like viral gastroenteritis or food poisoning.
Cost Savings
Another benefit of using a bidet is that it saves you money in other areas as well. A lot of people use toilet paper because they don’t want to spend money on something that may not work as effectively as advertised; however, by investing in a quality product, you won’t have this problem anymore because they’re designed specifically for use with nozzles or sprayers so they won’t clog up or cause any damage to your pipes!
Water Efficiency
Using a bidet will save you money on water and toilet paper. Each time you use the toilet, you’re likely using several sheets of toilet paper per visit. A single sheet of toilet paper can cost up to $3.00! If you use just one sheet of toilet paper per visit, that’s $24.00 every year! That’s a lot of money spent on something that doesn’t work well. But with a bidet, all you have to do is press a button, and your bottom will be cleaned in an instant!
Comfort and Convenience
The main benefit of using a bidet is comfort and convenience. You can use warm water to cleanse yourself after using the toilet without getting up from your seat or using toilet paper (which can be messy). This helps improve your personal hygiene and makes you feel more comfortable after going to the bathroom.
Environmental Sustainability
Bidets are an environmentally friendly way to maintain personal hygiene without using paper products like toilet paper or wipes. An estimated 3 billion trees are cut down every year to produce toilet paper, which can take up to 500 years for one tree’s worth of wood pulp to decompose in a landfill! Bidets eliminate this wasteful process by providing an alternative means of cleansing yourself after using the bathroom, helping you conserve resources while reducing waste at home as well as keeping our planet healthy!
Suitable for All Ages
Bidets are suitable for all ages and body types, whether you’re a child or an adult. As we age, our bodies begin to break down in many different ways. This can make it difficult to bathe yourself, especially if you have arthritis or other joint problems that make it hard to move around in the tub or shower. The bidet is perfect for this situation because it allows you to remain seated during your daily ablutions—a great option for those who can’t stand up on their own! Moreover, they can be used by people of all heights, sizes, and abilities—even those with disabilities.
Customizable Features
Bidets are customizable to fit your specific needs and preferences. You can choose from different styles and colors to find something that really fits your style and blend with your bathroom decor. Many bidet models come with built-in seats, so you don’t have to worry about finding another place to sit down when using your bidet!
Easy Installation Options
Bidets are quick and simple to install in any bathroom space—even if you don’t have a dedicated space for them. All you need is an electrical outlet near your toilet and some basic tools to get started! If you’re not sure where, to begin with your installation process, Haynes Plumbing Services offers free consultation services to help guide you along the way. We’ll even walk through the entire installation process with you step-by-step from start to finish, so there aren’t any surprises when it comes time for us to leave your home or business!
How to use a bidet?
Bidets are a great addition to any home and are especially useful for people with limited mobility. They can help you stay clean and healthy without having to get in and out of the shower or bathtub, which can be difficult for some people.
Although many Americans are still unfamiliar with bidets (and they might not know how does a bidet work), the popularity of this cleaning system is growing rapidly—and we think it’s time to learn how to use a bidet!
So here is a general guide on how to use bidet:
Position yourself.
After using the toilet, remain seated and position yourself comfortably on the toilet seat.
Activate the bidet.
Depending on the bidet type, you may need to activate it by pressing a button, turning a knob, or using a remote control. Refer to the specific instructions for your bidet model.
Adjust water temperature and pressure.
If your bidet offers adjustable settings, choose your desired water temperature and pressure. Some bidets may have pre-set modes for different cleansing preferences.
Position yourself over the bidet.
Depending on the bidet type, you may need to scoot forward or slightly reposition yourself to align your intimate area with the bidet’s water stream.
Direct the water flow.
Use the controls provided by the bidet to adjust the position of the water stream. Aim it towards the desired area for cleansing, typically the genital or anal area. Make sure the water reaches the intended area for effective cleaning.
Cleansing process.
Allow the water to cleanse the area thoroughly. You can move your body slightly to ensure the water reaches all necessary areas. The duration of the cleansing process may vary based on personal preference.
Optional: Additional features.
If your bidet has additional features like oscillation or pulsation modes, you can activate them for a more comprehensive and invigorating cleansing experience.
Pat dry or air dry.
After using the bidet, you can pat the cleansed area with toilet paper or a towel to dry it off. Alternatively, some bidets have an integrated air dryer feature that can be used to dry the area gently.
Adjust clothing and hygiene routine.
Once you feel clean and dry, adjust your clothing as usual. You can then proceed with your regular post-bathroom hygiene routine, such as washing your hands.
When to Install a Bidet?
If you’re considering installing a bidet, you might wonder when it’s the right time to do so. There are a few scenarios in which installing a bidet would be smart. Here are those:
Bathroom Renovation
If you’re renovating the bathroom, installing a bidet will be one of the easiest ways to upgrade your space. It’s a quick and simple addition that can make your bathroom feel luxurious and modern in no time. The best thing? A bidet is also more affordable than installing a separate toilet room.
New Construction
If you’re building a new home, you likely want it to be as convenient as possible. A bidet is easy to install and fits seamlessly into any bathroom design. It will help make your life easier and more comfortable in the long run!
Upgrading Existing Bathroom
If you have an existing bathroom, it is possible to install a bidet without having to tear down the walls. If there is an existing toilet in the bathroom, you will need to add a seat or cover and then connect the bidet’s hose to the drain pipe under the sink. If there isn’t an existing toilet, you can install one by installing new plumbing lines to connect it to your sink. However, if there isn’t already any, this will require tearing down some drywall and laying new flooring.
Health Concerns
Bidets provide added health benefits for those who suffer from certain medical conditions such as diabetes, incontinence, or other gastrointestinal issues that cause frequent urination or bowel movements. Bidets are designed to help those with these conditions stay clean and comfortable while using them on a regular basis throughout the day or night, depending on how often they need them at home versus outside of their home environment (such as while traveling). If you or someone in your household has such health concerns, installing a bidet can provide relief and improved hygiene.
Environmental Considerations
Bidets are an environmentally friendly alternative to toilet paper, which is a renewable resource. By eliminating the need for toilet paper, bidets can reduce the waste that ends up in landfills. Bidets also save water because they use less than washing your hands with soap and water.
How to Choose a Bidet for Your Home?
Whether you’re a first-time bidet buyer or an experienced user, there are some things to consider when it comes to selecting the right bidet for your home. Here’s what you need to know in order to choose the perfect bidet for your home.
Type of Bidet
There are many different types of bidets on the market, from those that attach directly to your toilet bowl to those that sit on top of your existing toilet seat. You’ll want to make sure you choose one that fits your needs and lifestyle.
Features and Functionality
What does this thing do? How does it work? Does it have all of the features you need? Will it work with your current bathroom setup? These are all important questions to ask yourself before making a purchase! Common features include adjustable water temperature, water pressure control, nozzle positioning, air drying, heated seats, and a built-in deodorizer.
Installation and Compatibility
Bidets are easy to install, but you’ll want to make sure that you have enough space in your bathroom. You may also want to call a professional plumber if you’re installing a bidet on an existing toilet. Bidets are available in a variety of sizes depending on the size of your bathroom or other area where it will be installed. You can find them with elongated toilets or round toilets, so choose one that fits well with your bathroom’s design.
Size and Design
A bidet should complement your bathroom’s design without dominating it—but more importantly, it should be small enough that it doesn’t take up too much space or overwhelm its surroundings. In most cases, this means that small is better than big when it comes to choosing the right bidet for your bathroom.
Water Supply and Power Source
As you shop for a bidet, it’s important to consider your water supply and power source. If the bidet requires a specific type of water pressure or connection to a certain type of plumbing, you may need to invest in an expensive upgrade before you can install one. Check with your local building department or plumber before purchasing any toilet-related products.
Budget
Bidets come in all shapes and sizes, from simple models that attach right to your toilet to more elaborate units with remote controls and heated seats. The more expensive ones will generally have more features and better ergonomics, but they often also require some kind of installation or modification of your home’s plumbing system (as opposed to simply adding a new accessory).
Warranty and After-Sales Support
Another essential factor is to look for a warranty and after-sales support offered by the bidet manufacturer. This will ensure that if any issue arises, you can get it resolved without any hassles. Some companies offer a lifetime warranty, while others offer the same for only five or ten years. You should also check whether they provide service centers in your area or not. This way, you don’t have to spend time and money shipping them back and forth from your place.
Are You Ready To Upgrade To Bidet? Call Haynes Plumbing Services Today!
A simple upgrade to your bathroom can make a huge difference. From new fixtures and countertops to a remodel of the entire room, it’s easy to update your bathroom without breaking the bank.
If you’re thinking about remodeling your bathroom, Haynes Plumbing Services can help. We have the specialized tools and experience necessary to handle any project, no matter how big or small.
We’ve been serving the community for over 25 years, and we know how important it is to have trustworthy service providers who work hard and get the job done right. That’s why we offer our plumbing services at competitive prices—we know that you don’t want to spend more than you have to on plumbing work.
Our licensed and trained plumbers in Stafford, VA, are ready to help you with a wide range of plumbing services, including:
- Toilet repair and installation
- Leak detection and repair
- Full plumbing system replacements
- Pipe replacement and repairs
- Unclogging toilets and drains
- Sewer line repair and replacement
- Water heater repair and installation
- Leaking faucets fixed or replaced
- Bathtub, shower, sink, and toilet leaks repaired or replaced
- Garbage disposal installation and repair
- Bathroom Remodels in Stafford
- And many more…
At Haynes Plumbing Services, we also understand that choosing the right bidet company can be overwhelming. That’s why we’ve made it our mission to help guide you through this process so that it feels less like a hassle and more like a fun new adventure. We know what it’s like to have a busy life and lots of responsibilities—we’ve been there ourselves! And because of this shared experience, we want nothing more than for our clients’ lives to become easier and more comfortable by using our services.
Contact us today at (540) 659-3295, and we will send out one of our toilet repair and installation experts right away!