Introduction to Bidets

Many Americans are fairly unfamiliar with bidets, encountering them rarely, perhaps only while vacationing abroad. However, they are growing in popularity in the U.S. and are being included more often in high end bathrooms, both in new construction and renovation projects.

A bidet is used for personally hygiene, generally after using the toilet. Though it is similar in size and height to a toilet, it actually is more like a low sink. The main difference between bidets is how the water for cleaning is provided. Generally, all bidets have hot and cold water controls. Many have faucets that fill the bidet, just like a small bathtub or sink. Most have one or two horizontal spray nozzles, either instead or addition to the regular faucet. The positioning and strength of the nozzles are a matter of personal preference. Often when there are two nozzles, one is a shorter nozzle, and one is a longer one that jets water in an arc.

As far as appearance, the bowl of a bidet looks best when it matches the material, color, and style of your toilet. It is also a good idea for the bidet fixtures to match or blend with the other ones in your bathroom.

Most bidet owners have a small separate towel rack next to their bidet, so it is a good idea to allow room for this when planning your bathroom layout.

In addition to the option of buying a stand alone bidet, there are combination toilets and bidets, as well as both bidet nozzle attachments and bidet-toilet seats with nozzles that can be added to your existing toilet. Most bidet enthusiasts prefer the stand alone option, but if you are short on space, these are sound options, especially if you choose high end products. Keep in mind, if your bidet is part of your toilet, you will not have the option of filling the bowl for cleaning.

Bidets, bidet-toilet combinations, and bidet toilet seats are available with lots of high tech and luxurious add-ons. These include remote controls, adjustable heated seats, jet massage options, and electric drying systems. In addition, controls are available to adjust water pressure and jet direction, as well as massage options. Keep in mind that these add to the price of the system.

Choose the type of bidet you want. If you want a full bidet separate from the toilet but don't have the room, consider whether you're willing to do some serious remodeling to suit your new feature. If not, you may need to compromise and buy a bidet that attaches to the toilet for an easy install.

Decide if you want to have warm water or if you can live with a cool water bidet. This may be the biggest downside to an attachment bidet because it uses the same water supply from the toilet, while a stand-alone bidet unit can use warm water.

Determine if you're willing to move from the toilet to a stand-alone bidet. These are the more common styles in Europe and Asia, and if you were first introduced to a bidet this may be the familiar way for you to use it.

Figure out how much you are willing to spend to install a bidet. Stand-alone units are more expensive and require additional water and sewage lines, but offer a more luxurious feel.

Follow the manufacturer's instructions to install it if you choose to go with an attachment style. These are fairly simple, require only household tools and can be installed and ready to use in 5 to 10 minutes.