What is a Bidet?
A bidet is a bathroom fixture that uses a stream of water to clean you after using the toilet. While standalone bidets have been common in Europe, Asia, and South America for centuries, modern bidet attachments and seats have made this hygienic practice accessible to everyone.
Today's bidets range from simple attachments that cost under $30 to luxurious electric seats with heated water, air dryers, and nightlights. Whether you're looking for basic functionality or spa-like comfort, there's a bidet option for every bathroom and budget.
The growing popularity of bidets in North America reflects a shift toward better personal hygiene, environmental consciousness, and long-term cost savings over toilet paper.
Types of Bidets
Understanding the different types of bidets helps you choose the right one for your bathroom setup and preferences.
Bidet Attachments
The most affordable and popular option. These non-electric devices install under your existing toilet seat and connect to your toilet's water supply. They offer adjustable water pressure and self-cleaning nozzles.
- Price range: $25-$80
- No electricity required
- Easy 10-minute installation
- Works with most toilets
Best for: Budget-conscious buyers and renters
Popular choice: The LUXE Bidet NEO 120 is a bestseller with over 100,000 reviews.
Bidet Toilet Seats
These replace your existing toilet seat entirely and offer advanced features. Electric models provide heated water, warm air drying, heated seats, and remote controls for the ultimate comfort.
- Price range: $200-$800+
- Electric outlet required
- Heated water and seat options
- Air dryer functionality
Best for: Those wanting premium features and maximum comfort
Top pick: The TUSHY Classic 3.0 offers excellent value with a comfortable stream.
Handheld Bidet Sprayers
Also called "bidet showers" or "shattafs," these look like kitchen sink sprayers and hang next to your toilet. They offer maximum control and versatility for cleaning.
- Price range: $20-$50
- Full manual control
- Multi-purpose use
- Great for cloth diapers
Best for: Parents, pet owners, and those wanting flexibility
Highly rated: The Purrfectzone Bidet Sprayer is easy to install and built to last.
Standalone Bidets
Traditional fixtures that sit next to your toilet, common in European and South American bathrooms. These require dedicated plumbing and floor space.
- Price range: $200-$1,000+
- Requires bathroom renovation
- Separate plumbing needed
- Classic European style
Best for: New construction or major bathroom remodels
Portable/Travel Bidets
Compact, battery-powered or squeeze-bottle bidets you can take anywhere. Perfect for maintaining hygiene while traveling, camping, or at the office.
- Price range: $10-$40
- Battery or manual powered
- Fits in bag or purse
- No installation needed
Best for: Frequent travelers and outdoor enthusiasts
Travel essential: The TUSHY Travel Bidet collapses for discreet portability.
Bidet-Toilet Combos
All-in-one units that integrate bidet functionality into the toilet itself. These high-end fixtures offer seamless design and the most advanced features available.
- Price range: $1,500-$10,000+
- Integrated sleek design
- Full feature set
- Professional installation
Best for: Luxury bathrooms and smart home enthusiasts
Benefits of Using a Bidet
From personal hygiene to environmental impact, bidets offer compelling advantages over toilet paper alone.
Superior Hygiene
Water cleans more effectively than dry paper. Bidets remove bacteria and residue that toilet paper leaves behind, reducing irritation and promoting better overall cleanliness. Medical professionals often recommend bidets for patients with hemorrhoids, UTIs, or sensitive skin.
Environmental Impact
The average American uses 57 sheets of toilet paper daily, and producing a single roll requires 37 gallons of water and 1.5 pounds of wood. Bidets dramatically reduce toilet paper consumption, cutting your bathroom's environmental footprint by up to 80%.
Long-Term Savings
Americans spend an average of $100-150 per person annually on toilet paper. A basic bidet attachment pays for itself within months and continues saving money year after year. Families can save hundreds of dollars over a bidet's 5-10 year lifespan.
Medical Benefits
Bidets are gentler on sensitive areas and can provide relief for various conditions including hemorrhoids, anal fissures, inflammatory bowel disease, and postpartum recovery. The feminine wash feature is especially helpful during menstruation.
Accessibility
For elderly individuals or those with limited mobility, arthritis, or disabilities, bidets make personal hygiene easier and help maintain dignity and independence. Many bidet seats include remote controls for added convenience.
Never Run Out
Remember the toilet paper shortages? With a bidet, you're never dependent on store supplies. While you may still use a small amount of paper to dry off, your consumption drops dramatically, meaning no more panic buying.
Bidet vs. Toilet Paper: Quick Comparison
| Factor | Bidet | Toilet Paper Only |
|---|---|---|
| Cleaning Effectiveness | Excellent - water removes residue | Fair - smears more than removes |
| Environmental Impact | Low - minimal paper waste | High - 27,000 trees daily in US |
| Annual Cost (per person) | $5-20 (water + minimal paper) | $100-150 |
| Skin Irritation | Minimal - gentle water stream | Common - friction and chemicals |
| Plumbing Issues | Rare - less paper = fewer clogs | Common - especially with thick paper |
Installation Guide
Most bidet attachments can be installed in under 15 minutes with no special tools or plumbing experience.
What You'll Need
- Adjustable wrench or pliers
- Towel (for any water drips)
- Bucket (optional, to catch water)
- Included T-adapter and hose
Most bidet attachments include all necessary hardware. No drilling, cutting, or permanent modifications required.
Step-by-Step Installation (Attachment Type)
Turn Off Water Supply
Locate the shut-off valve behind your toilet (usually on the wall or floor) and turn it clockwise until it stops. Flush the toilet to empty the tank and release pressure from the line.
Disconnect Water Supply Line
Place a towel or bucket under the connection point. Use a wrench to disconnect the water supply hose from the bottom of the toilet tank. Some water will drip out - this is normal.
Install the T-Adapter
Connect the included T-adapter (also called a T-valve) to the fill valve at the bottom of the tank. Then reconnect your water supply hose to the bottom of the T-adapter. The side port will connect to your bidet.
Remove Toilet Seat
Locate the bolts at the back of your toilet seat (often hidden under plastic caps). Unscrew them and remove the seat. Keep the bolts handy - you'll reuse them.
Mount the Bidet Attachment
Place the bidet mounting plate over the bolt holes at the back of the toilet bowl. Align it so the nozzle points toward the front of the bowl. Place your toilet seat back on top and secure with the original bolts.
Connect the Bidet Hose
Attach the bidet's water hose to the side port of the T-adapter. Hand-tighten, then give it a quarter turn with pliers. Don't overtighten - you could damage the connections.
Turn On Water and Test
Turn the shut-off valve counter-clockwise to restore water flow. Check all connections for leaks. Test the bidet over the bowl first - the initial spray may be stronger than expected!
Pro Tips
Top Bidet Picks for 2024
Our recommended bidets based on value, features, and user reviews. All picks have thousands of positive ratings.
LUXE Bidet NEO 120
The bestselling bidet attachment on Amazon with over 100,000 reviews. The NEO 120 offers a self-cleaning nozzle, adjustable water pressure, and easy installation. It's the perfect entry point into bidets.
- Self-cleaning nozzle
- Adjustable pressure control
- Rear wash mode
- 10-minute installation
- 18-month warranty
BIGCOW Ultra-Slim Bidet
An incredibly affordable option that doesn't skimp on quality. The ultra-slim design minimizes the gap between the seat and bowl, and the dual nozzle system provides both rear and feminine wash options.
- Ultra-slim profile
- Dual nozzles (rear + feminine)
- Self-cleaning function
- Adjustable pressure
- Budget-friendly price
LUXE Bidet NEO 185
Step up from the NEO 120 with dual nozzles for rear and feminine wash. The same reliable LUXE quality with added versatility. Features separate pressure controls for each nozzle position.
- Dual retractable nozzles
- Separate mode selector
- Self-cleaning technology
- Chrome-plated knobs
- Fits most toilets
TUSHY Classic 3.0
A beautifully designed bidet from a brand that's become synonymous with the bidet movement. The bamboo pressure dial is satisfying to use, and the stream angle is perfectly calibrated for comfort.
- Stylish bamboo knob
- Optimal spray angle
- Premium build quality
- Angle adjustment control
- Brand recognition
SAMODRA Ultra-Slim
Another excellent ultra-slim option with dual nozzles. The minimalist design and reliable performance have earned it a spot among the top-rated bidet attachments on Amazon.
- Ultra-slim 0.2" profile
- Dual nozzle system
- Brass inlet valve
- Self-cleaning nozzle
- Easy installation
TUSHY Spa 3.0
Want warm water without electricity? The Spa model connects to your sink's hot water supply for temperature-controlled comfort. Everything you love about TUSHY, now with adjustable water temperature.
- Warm water capability
- Temperature control knob
- No electricity needed
- Bamboo accents
- Connects to sink supply
Purrfectzone Handheld Sprayer
The top-rated handheld bidet sprayer. Made from durable stainless steel with adjustable pressure from gentle spray to powerful jet. Also great for cleaning cloth diapers or washing pets.
- 304 stainless steel
- Adjustable spray modes
- Wall or tank mount
- Multi-purpose use
- Complete hardware kit
Arofa Handheld Bidet
A highly-rated budget handheld option with brushed nickel finish. Features an ergonomic grip and leak-proof design. Easy installation with both wall and tank mounting options included.
- Brushed nickel finish
- Ergonomic design
- Dual mount options
- Extra-long hose
- Leak-proof guarantee
How to Use a Bidet
New to bidets? Here's what to expect and how to get the best experience.
Use the Toilet Normally
A bidet is used after you finish using the toilet, not before. Stay seated - you'll clean while sitting on the toilet.
Position Yourself
Sit slightly forward or back to align with the nozzle. Most bidets have a fixed spray position, so you may need to adjust your seating.
Start with Low Pressure
Turn on the water slowly. Start with the lowest pressure setting and increase gradually until comfortable. The sensation is unusual at first but you'll adapt quickly.
Clean for 20-60 Seconds
Let the water stream do its work. You can gently shift your position to ensure thorough cleaning. Most people find 30 seconds is sufficient.
Dry Off
Pat dry with a small amount of toilet paper or a dedicated bidet towel. Electric bidet seats often include warm air dryers. Some people prefer to drip-dry briefly first.
First-Time Tips
- Expect cold water: Non-electric bidets use unheated water. It's refreshing rather than uncomfortable, and the spray is brief.
- Don't be startled: The first spray can surprise you. Test it into the bowl first to see the pressure and position.
- Adjust the nozzle: Many bidets have an adjustable nozzle angle. Find the position that works best for your body.
- Less TP, not zero: Most bidet users still use a small amount of paper to pat dry. Your usage will drop by 80% or more.
- Give it a week: The bidet experience feels unusual at first. After a few days, you'll wonder how you ever lived without it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, bidets use the same clean water that comes from your sink and shower. The nozzle is positioned so it doesn't contact waste, and most modern bidets have self-cleaning nozzles that rinse before and after each use. The water supply comes directly from your home's plumbing, not from the toilet bowl.
Most bidet attachments fit standard two-piece toilets with no issues. One-piece toilets (where the tank and bowl are fused) may have less space between the seat and tank, which can interfere with some models. Check the product specifications for compatibility, and measure the distance from your mounting bolts to the front of the tank if you have a one-piece toilet.
Non-electric bidet attachments use room-temperature water from your supply line. In warm climates or during summer, this is comfortable. In colder areas or winter, the water can be cool but the spray is brief enough that most users find it tolerable or even refreshing. If you prefer warm water, look for models that connect to your sink's hot water supply, or invest in an electric bidet seat with a built-in water heater.
Absolutely! Bidet attachments are designed for DIY installation. You don't need any special tools beyond an adjustable wrench, and no permanent plumbing modifications are required. Most people complete installation in 10-15 minutes. The process involves turning off water, connecting a T-adapter, mounting the bidet, and connecting the hose. Full instructions are included with every bidet.
No, bidets use very little water - typically about 1/8 gallon (0.5 liters) per use. Compare this to the 37 gallons of water required to produce a single roll of toilet paper, and bidets are actually much more water-efficient overall. Your water bill won't noticeably change from bidet use.
Yes, bidets are safe and often beneficial for women. Many bidets include a "feminine wash" mode with a forward-positioned nozzle for front cleaning. The key is spraying from front to back to avoid pushing bacteria toward the urethra - quality bidets are designed with this in mind. Many women find bidets helpful during menstruation and especially during postpartum recovery.
Most bidet users still use a small amount of toilet paper to pat dry after washing. However, your toilet paper usage will drop by 80% or more. Some electric bidet seats include warm air dryers that eliminate the need for paper entirely. You can also use a dedicated small towel for drying - just wash it regularly.
Yes! Bidet attachments are perfect for renters because they don't require any permanent modifications. The installation is completely reversible - when you move, you simply disconnect the bidet, remove the T-adapter, and reconnect the original water supply line. Keep all original parts and your toilet will be exactly as you found it.
Yes, many doctors recommend bidets for people with hemorrhoids. The gentle water stream cleans without the irritation and friction of wiping with paper, which can aggravate hemorrhoids. The cleaning action can also help reduce itching and promote healing. Many hemorrhoid sufferers report significant relief after switching to a bidet.
Most bidets have self-cleaning nozzles that rinse automatically. For general cleaning, wipe down the control knobs and exterior with a damp cloth weekly. Avoid harsh chemicals that could damage plastic parts - mild soap and water work fine. Some models have removable nozzles for deeper cleaning. Check connections periodically for any signs of leaks.
Ready to Make the Switch?
Join the millions who have discovered a cleaner, more sustainable way to use the bathroom. With prices starting under $30 and installation taking just minutes, there's never been a better time to try a bidet.