by Trevor Woods |
Last Updated: January 1, 2021 Bidets have been popular overseas for decades and they are starting to pop up in American bathrooms more and more. With the growing demand for bidets in the new North American market, it can be difficult to select the best bidet that meets your bottom’s needs.
Our guide will walk you through what a bidet is, how it works, and the features you should look for, so you can buy a bidet with confidence!
What Is A Bidet?
The bidet (pronounced “buh-day”) was originally invented in 17th century France. And it is designed to help clean your nether regions after using the toilet. By using water to help clean your bottom you will cut back on the amount of toilet paper you use. Not only will you save money on toilet paper but bidets also help promote personal hygiene with a perfectly clean posterior.
In the beginning, a bidet was a separate plumbing fixture that required it’s own water inlet and a waste outlet drain. Most came equipped with a faucet style spout. Think of it like a wash-basin for your buttocks. But now through advancements in plumbing and technology we see bidets nozzles attached to our toilets.
In addition to separate nozzles, vertical water spray-heads are commonly found under a specially equipped toilet seats. These combination toilet seats are also called washlets. The introduction of electronic bidets or washlets from Japan provided other creature comforts like night lights, heated seats, air driers, and the capability to use warm water.
Why Aren’t Bidets Popular In North America?
You might giggle at the idea of using a bidet, but bidets are quite common in the rest of the world. Cleaning your undercarriage with a bidet provides extra comfort and cleaning in the bathroom over standard toilet paper. If cleansing your backside with water is good for your hygiene, why don’t we see more bidets in our homes here? The short answer is the price, ease of installation, and our love of paper products.
Bidets and washlet seats can be pretty expensive, with some of the luxurious “robo-toilets” costing thousands of dollars! But with the emergence of washlet seats, which converts a standard toilet into a functioning bidet, the affordability of such luxury is more attainable to the average homeowner.
These convertible bidet seats are also much easier to install than the traditional bidet. By using the existing plumbing for a standard toilet, the average DIY’er can transform their toilet into a bidet in less than an hour.
Toilet paper has been used in North America as a commodity in the mid 1800s and has been a necessity ever since. Although TP has changed and evolved over the years, increasing in plies and absorbency, our dependency has never changed.
How Do You Use A Bidet?
We know toilet talk is a little taboo but bare with us on this one. We are going to explain the basic use of a bidet but your experience may differ depending on the make and model you use.
First, if your bidet or washlet has the ability to preheat water, allow it to warm up. If you are taping into a hot water line and do not have a hot water recirculation system, get the flow of hot water started but running a nearby faucet while you do your business.
When you are all done and ready to clean up, adjust the warmth of the water to a temperature that is comfortable to you. You may experience room-temperature water at first, but this will only be for a short time before the hot water line is full of warm water. Next, select the nozzle style you want to use.
As the nozzle starts cleansing, adjust the water pressure to a level that feels comfortable. Do not start off with the water pressure turned on to it’s highest level. The blast of water can be quite a shock, especially if the temperature isn’t set quite right, brrrrr! Readjust the temperature and pressure settings as needed during use.
After you have thoroughly cleaned you keister you will come to a conundrum; to wipe or not to wipe? Some are perfectly fine with going “paperless” while others prefer a toilet paper finale. We suggest you do whatever you feel most comfortable with. There is no right or wrong way to use a bidet.
Flush and finish up by washing your hands!
What Are The Benefits Of Using A Bidet?
Bidet use is growing in popularity as many of those who have converted to cleaning their gluteal crease with water refuse to go back to regular toilets. It’s pretty rare to find someone that doesn’t appreciate the bidet experience. Although rather expensive, most bidet users see it as an investment that will pay off with multiple uses each day.
Besides fewer streaks in your underwear, what are the other benefits of using a bidet? Many bidet manufactures tout improved personal hygiene and relief with certain medical conditions. While cleanliness is increased with the use of a bidet over toilet paper alone, we still recommend that you check with your doctor if you plan to use a bidet for any medical reason.
Going “paperless” with our toilets is also a more environmentally friendly option. The average American uses over 23 rolls of toilet paper per year, that’s a lot of TP! As we see a shift towards green or eco-friendly products an increase in bidet use will also increase. Additionally, bidets are “pandemic proof” and you will no longer have to worry about a shortage of toilet paper.
Additionally, as you become less reliant on toilet paper, it will be far less likely that you will run into clogged toilets. Flushing fewer paper products and wipes results in reduced toilet plunging. Or expensive calls to your local plumber to unblock your toilet!
Although bidet use in North American homes isn’t widespread yet, bidets and washlets are in high demand with the elderly, disabled, and those with certain medical conditions. Increasing their ability to care for themselves and greater independence makes bidets indispensable for those with limited mobility. Or for those that normally would have required assistance in the washroom.
What To Look For In A New Bidet
If you are considering making the switch, what should you look for in a new bidet? We will cover all the bidet basics when it comes to styles, models, and features you should compare when selecting the best bidet for your home.
Types Of Bidets
Conventional Bidet
The original bidet was a standalone plumbing fixture that was installed in the bathroom alongside your toilet. This bidet resembled a large basin that you would straddle when you wanted to use it to clean yourself. These bidets could come equipped with a variety of options like faucets, spray nozzles, and drain stoppers.
This style of bidet is not as popular here as in the rest of the world. This is because of the additional real estate and plumbing requirements for a standalone bidet in your bathroom. Also, they are not very convenient as some models would require you to take your pants completely off to straddle the large porcelain vessel.
Traditional design with classic detail.
Travel Bidet
Travel bidets resemble water bottles with a curved nozzle rather than a flat cap. These bidet-in-a-bottle must be filled with water then squeezed while aiming the bottle at the same time. While not very convenient, they are an excellent option for those who travel extensively or want to experience what a bidet feels like without the large upfront cost.
Bidet Sprayer
Also called a bidet shower or health faucet, this is a handheld triggered nozzle that delivers a spray of water to assist in cleansing yourself. Similar to a kitchen sink sprayer you must manually spray and wash yourself.
While this is more convenient and space-saving than the traditional bidet, you have to be pretty mobile and flexible to use them. Additionally, you must be careful with your aim so as to not accidentally hose down your clothes or the surrounding bathroom, whoops!
It's a game-changer!
If you never used a bidet sprayer before, you'll find plenty of uses for this handheld portable sprayer. It will make the "dirty work" with cloth diapers so much easier; your family can use it as a bidet and will love how much cleaner they feel after using the bathroom.
Super quick and easy installation and comes with everything you need to install in less than 10 minutes.
Bidet Attachments
These add-on bidets are the most popular style you will find in North American bathrooms. Also called combined toilets or washlets, they are attachable to the existing toilet bowl and are either controlled mechanically or electronically. These bidet attachments save space in your bathroom compared to traditional bidets and come with more refined features.
By simply mounting to an existing toilet or changing the toilet seat, a spray nozzle is used to provide a vertical jet of water to clean your cheeks. Electronic bidet seats can have additional creature comforts like heated seats,
Bidet seats are more luxurious than handled sprayers and are more esthetically appealing to the appearance of your bathroom. Add-on bidets are easy to install but the electronic versions are more expensive and require a GFCI protected electrical outlet.
Since add-on bidets are the most convenient and popular bidet option we will be comparing them and will show you what features to look for in the best bidet for your bathroom.
Key Features
Spray Pressure Strength
Bidet seats that are installed on your existing toilet will all come with some standard features like spray pressure control. While every add-on bidet will have a different spray nozzle feeling, the ability to control the intensity of the spray is the most important factor when deciding what bidet to buy.
The pressure of a bidet spray is an intimate personal preference and will vary between users. Some may prefer a gentle spritz while others will want an invigorating blast. Most bidet attachments will have a nozzle with a satisfactory sprayer, the capability to turn up and down the water pressure is critical.
Nozzle Type
Some bidet seats will come equipped with a single spray nozzle designed to clean as wide an area as possible. While other models will feature two nozzles for additional coverage and cleaning capabilities. Usually one nozzle at the rear of the bidet and one at the front for feminine washing.
Because everyone’s backside is not shaped the same, opt for a bidet with an adjustable nozzle. This will allow you to aim the water to a practical position. Also, pay attention if the nozzle is retractable when not in use and has antibacterial properties to keep it clean until your next bathroom break.
Temperature Control
Basic bidet models will only connect to the COLD water line that serves the toilet you are installing it on. While choosing a bidet attachment that only uses room temperature or cold water is the most convenient to install, the cool water can be a shock to the system!
Most people prefer the option to use warmer water. This means the bidet attachment hast to connect to a COLD and HOT
Unique Features
Now that we have covered the basic and standard features of bidet seats, if you want to pamper your posterior we can explore the features of electronic bidet models. Most powered add-on bidets will have a combination of features that sets them apart from their non-electric or mechanical counterparts.
Water Heater
Some simple washlet seats have the ability to control temperature by mixing supplied hot and cold water. Electric powered bidets have the dependability to heat water to your desired temperature. This means you won’t have to worry about the initial spray of lukewarm water or temperature fluctuations during use.
The ability to create consistent temperature and pressure from start to finish without cold water shocks or drops in spray pressure makes for a more satisfying experience.
Heated Seat
A heated seat allows for maximum comfort while using the bidet toilet seat. Having a warm seat will allow you to quickly relax and is especially cozy in tiled bathrooms or during the cold winter months.
Air Dryer
An air dryer finishes off your bidet experience hands-free and without toilet paper. Not only will you derrière be dry but you will save some trees while you’re at it! Air drying features eliminate the need for toilet paper and allow you to go completely paperless.
Front Feminine Wash
The capability for front wash bidet seats means a number of female health and hygiene concerns are now covered at the touch of a button. While a posterior wash can be quite vigorous, a feminine wash option is a gentler and wider wash for her front.
Deodorizers
Premium add-on bidets have automatic air deodorizers built-in to effectively clean the air around the toilet. Neutralizing unpleasant odors is a courteous feature for busy bathrooms. But be aware you may need to purchase replacement carbon filters.
Night Light
An illuminated bowl makes it simple to find your way for a night-time bathroom break. Not only is this an excellent option for children but for adults as well with open concept ensuite bathrooms who don’t want to disturb their partner by switching on the lights.
Powered Seat
Soft closing or anti-slam seats are pretty standard for electric bidet seats. But some models allow you to adjust the height of the seat to make it more comfortable for the user. Other models even have hydraulic-assist to aid those with limited mobility ON and OFF the commode.
Control Panel
Bidet control panels are most commonly found attached to the base of the seat on the right-hand side for convenience. The quick access of bidet control panels allows for personalized water settings with each use. And control panels are typically easier to operate for guests.
Having a control panel that allows you to save user presets is a great way to customize the cleaning of your booty and consistently get the spray settings you desire.
Remote Control
Upgraded remote control options are great for those that want control in the palm of their hands. Just remember to mount the remote control in a handy location that isn’t likely to get bumped and accidentally fall in the toilet.
Self Sanitizing
Keeping your
Important Considerations
When comparing bidets you will find that most have similar sets of features. But you should look beyond the various options and consider other factors like cost, toilet fitment, and warranty support.
Cost
Just like any other purchases for your home, you will be limited by your budget. At the low end, you can buy a simple handheld bidet spray for under $30. Or you can go all-out and spend thousands of dollars on a toilet and bidet combination. But like most homeowners, you are looking for something in the middle
High tech toilet!
Washlet bidet seat toilet with integrated dual flush toilet.
So you will need to decide on what features are most important for you. In our experience, it’s worth paying for models with temperature control and
Most people will start off with a simple and inexpensive add-on bidet seat for around $50. Then upgrade later to a model with more creature comforts. The best value for premium electric bidet seats is between $300 to $500. For the most part, your caboose isn’t going to get any cleaner by spending more money than this.
Toilet Fitment
Before you buy a
Toilets come in two standard shapes: round and elongated. Make sure you buy a bidet seat that matches the shape of the toilet bowl. Also, 2 piece toilets typically have the most room to add a washlet. You’ll have to be extra careful when selecting a bidet for 1 piece or wall-mounted toilet.
Warranty
Warranty coverage is another important factor when comparing bidets. A strong warranty is always nice to have just in case you experience product issues. Everybody has a horror story about an expensive appliance they have purchased, and the problem is only made worse with limited customer support.
A
Just pay attention to what is actually covered under your warranty. Quite often parts and labor costs are covered under most warranty plans. But any additional shipping costs are generally at your expense. Do your homework on the warranty coverage to avoid costly repairs or replacements in the future.
The Best Bidets
The following is our picks the best add-on bidets after years of installing them for customers. You can opt to buy a brand new toilet when you decide to purchase a bidet. But if you don’t want to invest in the whole fixture you can purchase the
Best Travel Bidet
First is our choice for the best portable bidet for those who are always on the go. This is also a great option for those who want a low-cost option to test out the bidet experience without having to cough up a large sum of money.
The Brondell GoSpa
Simply fill the bottle with water of the temperature of your choice before using the bathroom. When you are ready to use the travel bidet, screw the cap on and point the ergonomic nozzle in the correct direction. Give the soft bottle a gentle squeeze for constant water pressure.
The unique nozzle design and storage bag allow for discreet storage and transport of this travel bidet. The Brondel GoSpa is the easiest way to take a bidet wherever you go!
Take clean wherever you go!
The GoSpa travel bidet fits conveniently in your briefcase, purse, suitcase, or glove box for an instant bidet wash anywhere.
The discreet carrying bag and easy-store nozzle make the GoSpa a perfect solution every time.
Best Budget Bidet
This bidet is best for beginners or those bathroom users that want a simple no-frills bidet. Fewer features not only keep the cost of this bidet seat affordable but also less prone to breakages.
The Luxe Bidet Neo 120 is a non-electric bidet that features a mechanical nozzle that is operated by the pressure of the toilet water supply. It also comes with a hygienic nozzle guard gate that automatically retracts after each wash to ensure a sanitary experience.
This bidet attachment comes with everything you need in the box and installs in minutes. The sleek and simple design allows this bidet attachment to mount under any standard toilet seat. And with an 18-month warranty, it’s hard to beat at this price point.
A luxurious look at an excellent price!
With a sleek design and high-quality parts, the Luxe Neo bidet attachment will give your bathroom a next-level look.
Constructed with high-pressure valves with metal/ceramic cores and steel hoses instead of plastic.
Best Value Bidet
Up next is the best bang-for-your-buck bidet. The
The convenient side panel control allows you to adjust the heated seat, water temperature, and air drier. All of these essential options are worth every penny over more basic models.
The powerful dual spray nozzle offers the ideal fixture for the whole family. A posterior wash and front wash improves overall hygiene and reduces the need for toilet paper.
While the BioBidet is more complicated to install and requires a 120 Volt power source, it comes with an outstanding 2-year manufacturer warranty that covers parts and labour.
The Bio Bidet Ultimate electric bidet seat for round Toilets is easy-to-use with front and rear wash cycles, oscillating and massaging modes, auto wash and kid's wash.
The vertically oriented dual nozzle delivers an aerated pulsating wash of warm water and when finished, you can opt for the warm air-dry.
Best Overall Bidet
And now we have the premier posterior cleaner, the Cadilac to clean your crack, you get the idea. If you have the money to invest in a high-end
Toto is an industry leader in quality plumbing fixtures, not just bidets. They started the washlet seat in the 1980s and by 2006 they had shipped 20 million units worldwide. Now that number has grown to over 50 million!
The TOTO K300
The powerful deodorizers and automatic spray wand cleaning make this model perfect for a busy bathroom. Plus, Toto brings technology to our washrooms with the ability to save 2 custom user settings so you get a consistent cleaning experience.
Toto washlets are trusted for their high-quality design, innovation, ease of installation, and top-notch customer service support. The TOTO K300
A refreshing clean for everyone!
Instant and continuous warm water stream will last as long as you need it.
AIR-IN WONDER WAVE provides a gentle, yet effective clean every time by infusing air into each droplet.
Conclusion
There are a lot of bidets out there but after a lot of installing, testing, and comparing these are our picks for the best bidet you can buy right now. The bottom line for your bottom is to choose the one that has features everyone in your home will enjoy.
Before you know it, everyone will be lined up outside the bathroom door to try your new bidet.
Happy Plumbing!
Recommended Reading
How To Unclog A Toilet With Or Without A Plunger
We will show you how to quickly unclog a toilet with a plunger and 11 clever ways to clear a toilet if you don't have a plunger handy.
How To Install A Toilet
Installing a toilet might seem like a daunting DIY project, but it's really quite simple. Our guide will have you flushing a new toilet fast!
How To Easily Fix A Wobbling Toilet
Rocking or wobbling toilets can be a home owner’s worst nightmare. We will show you how to quickly stabilize your toilet, rock on!
How To Snake A Toilet
Conquer that clogged commode with a toilet auger! We will show you how to properly snake a toilet and bust up that blockage!
Everything You Need To Know When Buying A New Toilet
Did you know that the average person spends nearly a whole year on a toilet over their lifetime? Let us help pick the perfect new toilet for you!
How To Fix A Running Toilet The Right Way
A continually running toilet can cost you hundreds of dollars on your next water bill. Learn how to diagnose and fix a running toilet and save money!