What Is a Bidet?

The bidet is a French invention and a standard bathroom fixture throughout Europe. It often mystifies American tourists who are unfamiliar with it, because the bidet is rarely seen in the United States. There are many mistaken American ideas floating around the use of the bidet.

Primary Purpose

Bidets are for washing the anus, genitalia and all parts in between. After putting some water in the bidet, as you would for a sink, you then sit or squat above the basin and wash accordingly.

Secondary Purpose

The bidet is just as often used for washing the feet, and can be used for touch-up washing in general.

Laundry

The bidet is not for hand-washing laundry, but it is handy for that purpose and sometimes used this way.

History

The bidet was first seen in early 1700s France. The word "bidet" is a French for "pony," and also very similar to the verb "to trot." It is called that because you mount a bidet in much the same way as you mount a horse.

Why Use One?

The bidet is more hygienic than using toilet paper.

Resources

• Bidet history