To wipe or to wash, that is the question; the answer is easy with bidet toilet seats, a modern twist on an age-old invention. The problem of how to keep our bodies clean has been around since the start of time. Leaves, newspaper, toilet paper and water are some of the ways humans have tried to address the issue of personal cleanliness. Of all these, water is undisputedly the most effective.

Then why is it that most health-conscious Americans are unaware about bidets and have never tried them?

Bidets are commonly associated with France, where the name ‘bidet’ originated. In case you don’t know what they are, bidets are devices that use a stream of water to clean one’s personal regions. There are many types of bidets that have been in use all over the world for centuries. In bathrooms in Europe, the stand-alone bidet, which looks similar to the toilet and stands next to it, is very common.

When the bidet was first invented in France in the 18^th century, it quickly became popular as a means to stay clean especially during the cold months when people would bathe only once a week and also as a way for men and women to clean themselves before and after sexual intercourse. In countries like Spain, Italy, and Portugal, the bidet is a regular fixture in over 90% of all households.

As common as they are in Europe, bidets have also been used in other countries for years. In the Middle East, washing with water is instructed by Muslim teachings. For this purpose, the Muslims use a Shattaf, or Muslim Shower. In Thailand, India, Japan and Korea, about 70% of bathrooms come with bidets.

Bidets are also a part of life in South American countries such as Argentina and Brazil. On several continents, bidets have long been used by people, and in these places, people have become so accustomed to the thorough cleansing and refreshing feeling of washing with water, that they can’t imagine why anyone would do it any other way.

In recent years, more and more Americans are experiencing the benefits of using bidets, and with the introduction of the bidet toilet seat, which installs right onto your ordinary toilet, there’s a whole plethora of high-tech features available in very attractive designs. People who use bidets help their bodies as bidets prevent inflammatory bowel diseases, urinary tract infections and hemorrhoids. They also work to ease cramps, rashes, and constipation.

Modern bidet toilet seats offer many more options than traditional bidets and make washing or wiping a no-brainer for anyone who’s tried them.