The Ultimate Guide to Bidets: A Thorough History and How-To

If you‘re curious about bidets and wondering whether installing one could be right for your home, you‘ve come to the right place! This comprehensive bidet guide will walk you through everything you need to know, from a quick history lesson to usage tips and recommendations for the best products. Let‘s get started!

Tracing the Origins of the Bidet

Before we dive into the nitty gritty details, it helps to understand where the bidet originated. As you may have guessed from the name, the bidet was invented in France in the early 1700s. But did you know it was specifically designed by a French furniture maker named Monsieur Bidet?

The name bidet actually comes from the French word for "pony" – and the original basin shape did in fact resemble a horse‘s saddle. These early bidets were found exclusively in the bathrooms of French nobility and the elite. It was not until the 1700s and 1800s that the bidet spread throughout Europe to become a common bathroom fixture for all classes.

According to historians, the first bidets were simply basins with faucets that users would straddle to clean themselves. Of course, today‘s models have come a long way with all kinds of high-tech features for comfort and convenience. But shapes reminiscent of the original "saddle" can still be found. Who knew the bathroom staple had such an interesting backstory?

Demystifying Exactly How to Use a Bidet

Now that we‘ve got the history lesson out of the way, let‘s get down to brass tacks: how do you actually use one of these contraptions? Don‘t worry – it‘s pretty straightforward once you get the hang of it.

At its core, a bidet is simply a basin with a directed water stream used for personal hygiene after using the toilet. You sit directly on the bidet so the water is aimed at your privates. The stream does the job of cleaning the area that toilet paper would otherwise.

According to bidet experts, the process should take no more than a minute or two. Here are some tips:

• Make sure to wipe first before hopping on the bidet, in order to remove any solid residue
• Start with a gentle stream, adjusting the pressure higher if needed
• Let the water thoroughly cleanse front to back
• Stand up and dry off completely when finished

It may feel a bit strange at first, but don‘t worry – you‘ll quickly get the positioning down. Using a bidet becomes second nature very fast.

Who‘s Using Bidets and Where Are They Popular?

Ever walked into a European or Asian bathroom and wondered what that weird toilet-looking thing was? Chances are it was a bidet! Let‘s take a look at how bidet adoption differs across the globe:

Japan	Over 90% adoption
Italy	Over 80% adoption
France	Over 50% adoption
United States	Less than 10% adoption

As you can see, bidets are commonplace throughout Europe and Asia with the highest use in Japan. But why hasn‘t the bidet caught on in North America?

Experts point to higher costs, lack of awareness, and perceptions that bidets are unnecessary – even though research shows clear hygiene and health benefits. The good news is that bidets are starting to gain traction in the US, especially as new high-tech designs emerge.

5 Benefits of Owning Your Own Bidet

Convinced it may be time to get your own bidet yet? Here are some of the top perks according to bidet companies and experts:

• Enhanced personal hygiene: Bidets offer a much more thorough clean than toilet paper alone
• Health benefits: Improved cleaning may lower UTI risk and prevent hemorrhoids
• Comfort: Those warm water streams feel so soothing on sore areas
• Eco-friendly: Drastically reduces toilet paper waste and consumption
• Cost effective: Despite higher initial cost, bidets save money over time on TP

Modern bidet seats and attachments take the experience to another level with settings like warm air dryers, heated seats, slow-close lids, nightlights, and deodorizers. Now that‘s a luxury bathroom!

High-Tech Features Define the Latest Bidets

Today‘s cutting edge bidets include a slew of innovative features to take your bathroom to the next level. Here are some of the latest high-tech add-ons:

Adjustable water temperature – Electronic bidets allow you to dial in the perfect water temp from 85 to 110°F. No more freezing cold streams!

Variable spray patterns – Alternate between a gentle aerated stream to a more concentrated and targeted jet.

Heated seats – Who doesn‘t love a toasty, warm seat to settle into? This setting is great for cold mornings.

Warm air dryer – Gently dry off without the need for vigorous scrubbing or TP.

Deodorizer – Activated carbon filters absorb odors for a fresher bathroom.

Touchscreen remote – Control every setting right from a wireless remote control.

Night light – Subtle bowl illumination so you can find the toilet in the dark.

These conveniences make the bidet experience smooth sailing. Many also include self-cleaning for maximum hygiene. Talk about luxury!

How to Properly Use Your Bidet Like a Pro

Want to make sure you‘re using your new bidet correctly? Follow these pro tips:

• Always wipe first before sitting on the bidet to remove excess waste
• Start with a lower water pressure and angle the stream away from sensitive areas
• Adjust the settings until you find the perfect temperature and aim
• Let the water wash front to back for 1-2 minutes
• Pat dry thoroughly with a clean towel or toilet paper after use
• Clean the bidet weekly with gentle soap and water

Take the time to get the positioning right and go slowly as you adjust the settings to your preferences. Before long, your bidet routine will feel like second nature.

Purchasing the Best Bidet for YOUR Bathroom

Ready to take the plunge into bidet ownership? You‘ll first want to decide on the right type for your space:

Bidet toilet seats – These attach right onto your existing toilet, providing an all-in-one experience. Prices start around $400.

Standalone bidets – These are their own separate basin and work best if you have the room. Starts around $150.

Bidet attachments – Affordable add-ons like handheld sprays start under $50.

You‘ll also want to consider features, settings, water pressure options, and controls like buttons, knobs or a remote. Carefully measure to ensure the model fits your toilet size and shape.

Professional installation generally runs $150-250. The DIY route is possible with bidet seats by following instructions. Be sure your plumbing and electric are compatible beforehand.

I‘d recommend brands like Toto, Brondell, Bio Bidet, and Kohler based on glowing reviews. Finding a reputable manufacturer ensures quality construction and performance.

Answering Common Bidet Questions and Concerns

Still have some bidet questions? Here are answers to some frequently asked:

Are bidets sanitary? Yes! The fresh water stream and self-cleaning features keep things hygienic. Just be sure to wipe first.

Do you still need toilet paper? You‘ll use way less TP, but you‘ll still need some to dry off.

Is it difficult adjusting to using one? It may feel funny at first, but give it a few tries to get positioned right. You‘ll get the hang of it quickly!

Can women use bidets safely? Definitely, just angle the stream away from sensitive areas. Bidets are safe for women.

Are bidets safe during pregnancy? Absolutely, just be careful of water pressure. The hygiene benefits are especially helpful.

Do bidets require a lot of maintenance? Just occasional cleaning with gentle soap and water to keep things fresh.

Do bidets use a lot of electricity/water? Nope! Bidet costs are minimal, and they can actually save on utilities.

Bidet Brands and Manufacturers to Know

Here are some of the top bidet manufacturers according to plumbing experts and consumer reviews:

Toto – Leading brand beloved for quality, durable products, and advanced features. One of the pricier options.

Bio Bidet – Specializes in bidet toilet seats. Known for excellent customer service and support.

Brondell – Offers a wide range of bidet seats and attachments at lower price points but still good quality.

Kohler – Major plumbing fixture brand also manufacturing bidet seats and accessories.

Tushy – Direct to consumer brand focused on contemporary, affordable bidet attachments.

Finding a reputable brand ensures you get a well-made and functional bidet product with strong customer support. Check warranties too and read reviews before deciding.

Start Enjoying the Benefits of a Bidet Today

And there you have it – now you know the complete history of the bidet, how to use it, and all the top products to consider for your home. With the potential benefits for hygiene, health, comfort and more, installing a bidet could be one of the best investments you make for your bathroom.

Here‘s to cleanliness and luxury! Bidets have come a long way through the centuries, but their core purpose remains the same. Join people all around the world who are embracing the bidet lifestyle. Your bathroom routine will never be the same again.