In Europe and other parts of the world, bidets are a popular bathroom fixture. They’re hygienic, easy to use and save you money over toilet paper.
But why aren’t bidets more common in the United States? The answer lies in habit.
1. They’re more hygienic
Unlike toilet paper, which can leave behind bacteria and fecal matter, bidets clean your privates thoroughly. They also help prevent urinary tract infections (UTIs) and other issues. Plus, they are environmentally friendly — about one-eighth of a gallon of water is used per use, which is much less than the 37 gallons it takes to produce toilet paper.
Bidets have been around for centuries, first appearing in France in the 1700s. They are now used all over the world and are considered much more hygienic than toilet paper.
A bidet is like a low sink next to the toilet, which has a spray of water that helps you cleanse your privates. Some models even have a shower head and massage features, making it easy to get clean after using the restroom. Some are even equipped with a control panel night-light, which is helpful if you wake up in the middle of the night and want to use your bathroom without getting out of bed.
In addition to being more hygienic, bidets are also more comfortable and easier on your skin than traditional wiping methods. They also help reduce your risk of hemorrhoids, according to Coway.
It’s also easier on your hands because you don’t have to touch the fecal matter with your hands, which can spread germs more easily. In fact, some studies have found that people who use a bidet may have less fecal microbes on their hands than those who wipe only with toilet paper.
This is especially helpful for women, as it can help limit the amount of fecal microbes on their skin. During menstruation, for instance, it’s important to maintain cleanliness because this can lead to UTIs and other urinary problems.
The nozzle on most bidets is designed to spray a wider area, which means that you can get a cleaner wash than with a traditional toilet. They also have adjustable settings to make sure that the spray is perfect for your needs.
While some people are still hesitant to try bidets because they think they’re unsanitary, these fixtures can actually be quite useful. They’re more sanitary and comfortable than traditional wipes, plus they’re environmentally friendly and convenient to use.
2. They’re more comfortable
A bidet (pronounced “bidet”) looks like a toilet but is equipped with jets of warm water that can wash your private parts. Some bidets even include an air dryer to dry your skin off after you use it, but the best ones have a built-in hot and cold water supply that can be programmed to deliver just the right temperature.
They’re more comfortable than a brisk wipe from the paper towel dispenser. This is especially true for people with mobility limitations or arthritic hands who need to reach across the bathroom.
Wiping your anus with dry toilet paper can be painful and irritated, but the smooth, slick surface of a bidet’s water spray is much more soothing. It’s also more effective at cleaning your anus, which is important if you have hemorrhoids or a gastrointestinal disorder that causes frequent bowel movements, such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis.
There are also some scientifically proven benefits to using a bidet, including a reduction in bacteria on your hands and bottoms. According to a study from 2005, users of a bidet-equipped nursing home found that their hands and bottoms were much cleaner afterward.
It’s hard to come up with a definitive answer to the question, “are bidets better?” because it depends on your specific needs and preferences. The most obvious answer is yes, but you have to be willing to invest in the right one for you.
Some bidets are more expensive than other similar products on the market, but if you’re looking to replace your paper towels, a bidet might be worth it. For instance, many models offer an adjustable nozzle and seat heater, which can make the experience more enjoyable.
If you’re considering a bidet, it’s probably a good idea to talk to your doctor first, as they may have suggestions for a model that fits your needs and budget. Some hospitals even offer bidet programs for their patients to make it easier to adopt the practice at home.
3. They’re more environmentally friendly
The production of toilet paper requires a lot of water, chemicals and trees. And that’s not to mention all the packaging and waste associated with it.
But bidets don’t require these things, and that makes them far more environmentally friendly. They also save money in the long run.
Firstly, a bidet uses significantly less water than toilet paper. In fact, it only uses about 1/8 gallon of water per use – while manufacturing one single roll of toilet paper requires 37 gallons!
A bidet also costs less to buy and install, which means it can be more affordable for many households. You can also find a wide range of different models, with different features and prices, so you should be able to find something that’s right for you.
Bidets also save energy, as they use less electricity to heat up the water and dry you off. This is because they don’t need to be pumped with a supply of hot water, like some toilets do.
Plus, some of the best bidets are even self-cleaning – so you can rest easy knowing that you’re doing your part to protect the environment.
And a bidet can even be more convenient than using toilet paper if you have mobility issues or arthritis. Wiping with toilet paper can be difficult to get into hard-to-reach areas, and there’s also a risk of getting fecal matter on your hands or nails.
That’s why it’s always better to wash your hands after wiping rather than relying on paper to do the job.
But, if you do still want to use toilet paper, there are plenty of eco-friendly options on the market. Some are made from recycled paper, while others are derived from agricultural by-products.
Another option is to use bamboo-based wipes, which are a lot more sustainable than virgin tree fibre-based products. And, some of these are actually home compostable too!
So, whether you’re looking to make your bathroom more hygienic or want to do your bit for the environment, you might be surprised at how much of an impact bidets can have.
4. They’re more convenient
A bidet uses a water jet to clean the bathroom in style. The water spray can be controlled and adjusted to your preferences.
Some models have a fancy touch screen and even a night light. Some even have an automatic open/shut lid. They are more energy efficient than conventional toilets, too. And they can be installed in any home or apartment.
Choosing the right model can make your life easier and more enjoyable in the long run. The best ones include features like a heated seat or rim, temperature and pressure control, and a warm air dryer.
Most of these devices are also user friendly and can be easily cleaned with soap and water. Some models even feature remote controls and wireless connections.
Bidets are an excellent option for senior citizens or anyone with mobility issues. They’re especially handy for people with arthritis, gout, or other medical conditions that can prevent them from reaching their hands in front of the mirror to wipe.
One of the perks of having a bidet is avoiding using too much toilet paper, which saves you money and reduces the clutter in your bathroom. And because they use so much less water than a regular toilet, they’re also eco-friendly.
The water from a bidet is more hygienic than wiping with dry toilet paper, so it’s also safer for your skin. And some models have special nozzles for sensitive areas such as your genitals or vagina.
They’re also fun to use, a good way to get your kids involved in the cleaning process. They’re also more convenient than conventional toilets, particularly for elderly or disabled people who may be confined to bed. Plus, they’re easier on your plumbing pipes and sewer system. They’re a nice option to consider when renovating your home or apartment. The best part is, they’re not the most expensive option out there.