How a Bidet Toilet Works

Bidets are not as popular in the U.S. as they are in other countries.

Most American bathrooms contain three main fixtures: a sink, toilet and bathtub or bathtub/shower combination. In other regions of the world such as Asia, Latin America and Europe, many hotel, restaurant and home bathrooms also feature an appliance known as a bidet. A bidet can be used by both men and women for personal cleansing after using the toilet.

History

Bidets originated in France in the18th century. The word "bidet" actually means "small horse." French soldiers spent many hours straddling their "bidets" at a time when baths were taken once a week or less and toilet facilities could be more or less described as a hole in the ground that users had to straddle over to use. Eventually the Japanese improved on the concept, and bidets became common in Asian countries and throughout Europe. Traditionally installed in the bedroom, over time the bidet was adopted by other countries and moved to the bathroom.

How to Use

Bidets generally work in one of two ways. When the faucets are turned on, a directional stream of water flows out of a nozzle, or the bidet bowl fills up with water allowing the user to clean herself manually. After using the toilet, straddle or sit on the bidet facing the wall, in other words, in the opposite direction you would face when using the toilet. Turn on the faucets, adjust the water temperature, clean yourself up, and then dry yourself with a paper towel or soft cloth. Modern bidets also feature amenities like heated seats, automatic air-drying and hands-free operation.

Benefits

In Western culture, showering at least once a day is common. However, most people use the bathroom more than once daily. Cleaning up with a bidet allows the user to maintain a feeling of freshness that toilet paper cannot completely provide. People with health issues, such as incontinence or limited mobility, may be more comfortable using a bidet for personal cleansing instead of toilet paper. In addition, some people may be sensitive to the dyes and perfumes used in the manufacture of toilet paper.

Installation

Most bidets are still installed as an adjunct appliance to a toilet; however, a standard toilet can become dual purpose with the installation of a bidet attachment. This type of installation may be favored by homeowners who have limited floor space in the bathroom. Installing a bidet may increase your water bill slightly, but the cost is offset by not having to purchase toilet paper.

References

• Review Bidets: How Do I Use a Bidet?
• American Bathlette Co: The History of the Bidet
• BIdetsPlus: The Bidet Experience