What Is a Bidet Towel?
Americans and Brits still tend to be startled by that strange second toilet found in some formal, restaurant, or European bathrooms. With little experience using bidets, they may also wonder what that extra array of towels is doing next to it. While these little squares of cotton cloth may look like ordinary hand towels, each bidet towel provides a very special service to an individual bathroom user. Does this Spark an idea?
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Function
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Bidet towels are small bathroom towels that are usually hung on a rod, hook, or toilet paper stand near the toilet and bidet. After using the bidet, take a bidet towel to wipe away any excess moisture. Bidet towels are a softer, more economical, and environmentally friendly alternative to toilet paper for after-bidet use.
Each bathroom user has his own bidet towel. Private areas should be clean after using the bidet, so bidet towels can be reused. Wash the towels regularly to ensure proper hygiene. White cotton linen towels can be washed in hot water and bleached when necessary.
Types
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Bidet towels have as varied a selection as other bath towels. They can range from washcloth size all the way up to typical hand towel dimensions. They are available in white and an array of colors. Bidet towels can be smooth or waffled linen, or plush cotton of varying thickness. For added elegance in a formal bath, shop for bidet towels with decorative trim or personalized monograms.
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Geography
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Bidets are still something of a novelty in America and the United Kingdom, but are a way of life for many in Europe, Latin America, and Japan. According to the Life In Italy website, ironically, the United States is one of the largest manufacturers of bidets, but they export most of them to other countries. Because of this, it can be difficult to find American stores that sell bidet towels. Look for online suppliers, both American and international, for a better bidet-towel selection (See Additional Resources).
Benefits
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Use bidet towels to cut down on toilet paper use, which saves trees and you money. Less toilet paper also means less flushing, water waste, and paper waste for municipal services to filter. Bidet towels are also softer and more comfortable against tender skin, particularly for those with hemorrhoids and other health conditions.
Considerations
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Place bidet towels in a separate area from hand towels, preferably close to the bidet or bidet-toilet. Be sure all guests understand the location of the bidet towels, to avoid any confusion. Keep a stack of fresh towels handy for bathroom users, as well as a small hamper for soiled towels.
Consider purchasing bidet towels in different colors for each family member to help everyone keep track, or use separate unique hooks for each person's towel. Dark colors hide stains better, but white and pastel colors can typically be washed in hotter water and bleached if necessary.
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References
Resources
- Photo Credit c2007 Heltje at stock xchng
