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What Is a Bidet?
What Is a Bidet?
Bidets get little attention in the United States, but they’re commonplace in nations around the world. These handy wand-like devices are a lot more sanitary than wiping with toilet paper, especially for those with sensitive skin, genital issues (including piles and rashes) and hemorrhoids. Bidets are also environmentally friendly, reducing waste and eliminating the need for soap.
The word “bidet” is a French loanword; it means “pony” for the way you straddle them during use. They’re very popular in Western Europe, Asia and South America, as well as northern Africa, and they’ve recently gained traction in the U.S., perhaps spurred on by the Great TP Shortage of 2020.
A bidet is basically a water sprayer that’s attached to your toilet or a stand-alone fixture that resembles a low sink. Many have a nozzle with adjustable settings to customize the water’s temperature and pressure. Others have a control panel integrated into the attachment, an arm that juts out or a remote control. Choose the one that best meets your needs and suits your space.
Most importantly, a bidet’s spray nozzle and its attachment should be cleaned regularly to prevent clogs. This is especially important in hard-water areas. Most electronic bidets have a built-in self-cleaning function that does the job for you, but it’s best to check them out every so often and do a deep cleaning once or twice a year with vinegar or other cleaning solution. You can also buy a specialized cleaning kit to make the process easier.
Some people may not feel comfortable using a bidet, particularly men with sensitive genital areas. The spray from a bidet can be uncomfortable or even painful, and some people report itching. It’s important to consider your comfort level before you try a bidet, and keep in mind that the benefits outweigh any discomfort you might experience.
While bidets won’t necessarily remove all of the fecal matter that’s left on your anus after you wipe, they do more thoroughly cleanse and scrub than wiping with toilet paper, particularly when it comes to the cracks and crevices where bacteria can hide. They’re also gentler on the skin than aggressive wiping, and they’re much more effective than toilet paper in preventing itching in those with sensitive skin conditions like hemorrhoids.
A bidet is also more eco-friendly than toilet paper because it uses less water and generates fewer waste products. It’s especially beneficial for those with septic systems, as bidding can help reduce the amount of solid waste that ends up in your tank. It also reduces the number of toxins and pollutants that enter our rivers and lakes, and is more effective for your overall hygiene than wiping with paper. Considering the average family uses $100-150 worth of toilet paper per year, a bidet can pay for itself quickly. Not to mention, it’s a great tool for older adults and those with physical disabilities. Just make sure to follow hygienic practices and avoid touching the area to minimize the risk of infection.
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