The Bidet Buzz
Aren’t bidets just a little…weird? Does a bidet really get you clean? Are bidets only for women? If you’ve asked yourself any of these questions, or are just curious to learn more about bidets, you’ve come to the right place.
I get it – when you first encounter something new, especially when it involves a spray of water in your personal areas, it’s natural to have a lot of questions. But let me tell you, bidets are actually pretty straightforward to use and install. And once you experience the comfort and refreshment of a good bidet wash, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without one.
You see, I used to be a hardcore toilet paper loyalist myself. But a few years back, my friend Amy got a new bidet and wouldn’t stop raving about it. I was skeptical at first, but after trying it out at her place, I was hooked. Now, I can’t imagine going back to just wiping. It’s like the difference between splashing some water on your hands versus actually washing them – there’s just no comparison.
Bidet Basics
So what exactly is a bidet, and how does it work? Essentially, a bidet is a bathroom fixture that uses a gentle spray of water to clean your nether regions after you use the toilet. It’s kind of like a mini sink or basin right next to the toilet, but instead of washing your hands, you’re washing your butt.
Bidets have actually been around for centuries, with widespread use in countries like France, Italy, and Japan. But they’re becoming increasingly popular in the US too, especially after the great toilet paper shortages of 2020. [1] Nowadays, you’ve got all sorts of options – from simple attachments that clip under your existing toilet seat, to high-tech electronic bidet toilets with all the bells and whistles.
The basic concept is the same across the board, though. You just sit down on the bidet, give the nozzle a little tap, and voila – a refreshing stream of water cleanses your behind. Many modern bidets even have features like adjustable water pressure, heated seats, and built-in air dryers to keep you comfortable and dry.
Bidet Benefits
Now, I know what you might be thinking – won’t that get me all wet and soaked? Nope, not at all! [2] Bidets are actually designed to keep things nice and tidy, emitting just a gentle, targeted spray that cleans you up without creating a mess.
In fact, the average bidet uses less than a quarter-gallon of water per use – that’s about the same as a standard water bottle. [2] And with features like adjustable nozzles and pressure controls, you can customize the experience to your liking. No need to worry about getting blasted by a sudden geyser!
But the benefits of bidets go way beyond just avoiding a wet bum. Using a bidet is hands down more hygienic than relying on toilet paper alone. [2] Water is simply more effective at removing bacteria and debris than dry paper. Plus, with features like self-cleaning nozzles, you can feel confident that the bidet itself stays nice and sanitary.
Bidet Hygiene
Think about it – when your hands are dirty, do you just wipe them off with a paper towel? No way, you wash them with water and soap to get them truly clean. So why would you treat your nether regions any differently? [2]
In fact, studies have shown that using a bidet can actually be more hygienic than just wiping. One study at a nursing home found that residents who used bidets felt cleaner and had better bathroom hygiene than those who stuck to toilet paper. [2] They also saw a decrease in bacterial content in the residents’ urine.
And let’s not forget the environmental benefits of bidets. All that toilet paper we flush down the drain really adds up – to the tune of about 27,000 trees per day! [2] Cutting back on TP by using a bidet is a simple way to lighten your carbon footprint.
Bidet Options
These days, you don’t need a separate bidet fixture to enjoy the freshening powers of a good wash. There are all sorts of convenient bidet options that integrate right into your existing toilet setup.
Bidet Toilet Seats: These electric seats replace your regular toilet lid, adding features like heated seats, remote controls, and built-in air dryers. They’re a great choice if you want a high-tech, luxurious bidet experience.
Bidet Attachments: For a more minimalist approach, bidet attachments simply clip under your existing toilet seat. They’re water-powered, so no need to worry about electrical outlets. Plus, they’re super easy to install.
Handheld Bidets: Also known as a “Shattaf” sprayer, these mount right to the side of your toilet tank or the wall. They give you hands-on control over the wash, perfect if you want extra precision.
Travel Bidets: When you’re on the go, these compact, portable bidets are a lifesaver. Just fill the bottle with water, invert, and you’ve got a fresh, hygienic clean wherever you are.
No matter your needs or bathroom setup, there’s a bidet out there that’s perfect for you. And the best part? They’re actually pretty affordable these days, especially when you factor in the money you’ll save on toilet paper. [2]
Bidets for Everyone
One misconception I used to have is that bidets are only for women. But the reality is, bidets are for everyone who uses the bathroom – men, women, kids, the whole gang. [3]
After all, we all have to go, right? And when it comes to good hygiene, a bidet provides a more thorough, gentle clean than just wiping alone. Plus, it’s a great way to save money on TP, which is a win-win in my book.
That said, bidets do offer some extra benefits for the ladies. The front wash setting on many bidet models is specifically designed to help prevent urinary tract infections and keep things fresh during that time of the month. [4] And for those dealing with conditions like Crohn’s or IBS, the gentle bidet spray can be a godsend compared to all that irritating wiping.
But guys, don’t count yourselves out! Bidets are just as useful and hygienic for men. After all, we poop just like everyone else, and a quick bidet rinse is way nicer than tedious toilet paper. Plus, you’ll be doing your part to save the planet one flush at a time.
Bidet Myths, Busted
As I’ve learned, there are a few common misconceptions about bidets that are just plain wrong. Like the idea that you need soap to get properly clean. [2] Nope, not true at all!
See, the thing is, using harsh soaps “down there” can actually do more harm than good. It can lead to all sorts of unpleasant issues like UTIs, irritation, and even anal fissures. The medically-recommended way to clean is with good old warm water – which is exactly what a bidet provides.
Another myth is that you have to be some kind of plumbing expert to install a bidet. But in reality, setting up most bidet seats and attachments is a total breeze, even for a DIY newbie like me. [2] No need to call in a professional – you can usually get the job done in under 30 minutes using just the basic tools that come with your bidet.
And let’s not forget the misconception that bidets are bad for the environment. On the contrary, they’re actually way more eco-friendly than traditional toilet paper. [2] Sure, bidets use a bit more water per use. But when you consider the massive environmental toll of producing and flushing all that TP, the bidet comes out on top every time.
A Refreshing Upgrade
At the end of the day, there’s really no downside to giving bidets a try. They’re cleaner, more comfortable, and better for the planet than just wiping alone. Plus, with all the affordable, easy-to-install options out there, it’s never been simpler to upgrade your bathroom routine.
So go ahead, take the bidet plunge! I promise, once you get used to that refreshing wash, you’ll never want to go back. Just remember to do the ol’ “bidet shimmy” to get the water where you need it. [4] And if you’re a little unsure at first, no worries – I was in your shoes not too long ago.
These days, I can’t imagine life without my trusty bidet. It’s literally a game-changer when it comes to feeling clean and confident, all while doing my part to save the planet. And hey, if it was good enough for the French and Japanese for centuries, I’d say it’s probably worth a shot, don’t you think?
References
[1] “Clearing Up the Top 10 Misconceptions About Bidets,” Brondell, accessed December 2, 2022, https://www.brondell.com/healthy-living-blog/clearing-up-the-top-10-misconceptions-about-bidets/.
[2] “Convenient Bidets for Freshening Up,” Brondell, accessed December 2, 2022, https://www.brondell.com/healthy-living-blog/convenient-bidets-for-freshening-up.
[3] “How Do You Use a Bidet?,” Reddit, accessed December 2, 2022, https://www.reddit.com/r/explainlikeimfive/comments/wn9ai/serious_request_how_do_you_use_a_bidet/.
[4] “Bidets Are a Girl’s Best Friend,” BioBidet, accessed December 2, 2022, https://biobidet.com/blogs/news/how-to-use-a-bidet-for-women.