The bidet versus toilet paper debate has been going on since the beginning of the beginning. each person has a preference, and there are many reasons for this. In this bidet vs toilet paper article, we will explore the pros and cons of each option to help you make an informed decision.
What Is A Bidet?
The bidet is a low-mounted sink or plumbing appliance that has become an essential element of the contemporary European bathroom (in some countries, it is required by law to be next to the toilet for sanitation purposes). The bidet is a toilet-like device that employs a stream of water to accomplish the same job as toilet paper. There are three varieties of bidets:
- Bidet that may be used on its own. These are independent fixtures that are usually found next to the toilet. A person uses the bidet to clean up after using the toilet. Apart from the contemporary plumbing, this is the closest thing to a 17th-century bidet.
- Bidets for toilets that are built-in or add-on. Because small bathrooms can’t have both a toilet and a bidet, many toilets come with built-in bidet fixtures that fit over the rim or seat (there are also add-ons that can be purchased separately). These bidets function similarly to standalone bidets, however, the user does not need to switch to a separate fixture to clean.
- Bidet with a handle. This bidet is mounted on the wall and must be operated by hand, similar to a handheld showerhead.
While using a bidet may seem intimidating to first-timers, it’s really pretty simple, and most come with temperature and pressure controls for extra convenience. More information on how to use a bidet may be found here.
Bidet Usage Is Growing
Bidets have been around for centuries and are a popular bathroom fixture in many parts of the world. But what is their purpose? Toilet paper and bidet use have remained relatively steady over the last few decades, but experts say that’s changing. Experts say more people are switching to bidets because they offer better hygiene than toilet paper, and it can be easier on your skin too. Bidet usage could explode as companies create new ways to make them accessible to everyone who wants one!
Although the bidet has been around for centuries, it has never really caught on in American homes. That, though, may be changing (even though it took a pandemic to do it). So, let’s take a look at the bidet’s history, why it’s becoming more popular in the United States, and how it compares to the good old TP.
The Bidet’s History
Bidets were created in the 1600s in France to encourage improved cleanliness. It was little more than a bowl sitting next to the chamber pot. After urinating in the pot, a person would go to the bidet to clean oneself even more thoroughly. Due to the straddling posture, one would adopt while using a bidet, the term bidet derives from an ancient French word for “pony.”
Why Aren’t The Majority Of Americans Using Bidets?
With the introduction of indoor plumbing, bidets were widely embraced in households throughout Europe and other areas of the globe. The United States, on the other hand, has had a difficult time accepting the bidet, and it’s not because of a romantic relationship with toilet paper, but because of what bidets were originally linked with.
During World War II, American troops began discovering bidets in European brothels, and news of them spread across the country. As a result of this misleading link, bidets seemed to be the polar opposite of hygienic, and the United States remained mostly bidet-free.
Bidet Use In The United States (And The Impact of COVID)
During the peak of the COVID epidemic in 2020, a scarcity of toilet paper and the consequent fear caused a surge in bidet sales throughout the country. Despite this increase, bidet usage is still modest. Bespoke Surgical conducted a poll of 3,600 American adults to measure current public sentiment on bidets in the United States.
In all, little over 12% of Americans have access to a bidet. But, in the future, were they inclined to buy a bidet? According to the poll, the great majority of Americans are inclined to acquire a bidet at some time in the future, with just 11% stating they are unlikely to do so.
Why would a bidet be considered by Americans? There were many causes behind this:
- To feel cleaner, 88% would use a bidet.
- For health and hygienic reasons, 75% of people would use a bidet.
- Because of its environmental friendliness, 68 percent of people would use a bidet.
- To save money on toilet paper, 66% would use a bidet.
The poll also found that simplicity of installation, positive evaluations, design, environmental friendliness, and pricing are the most essential things to consider when choosing a bidet. People indicated the most significant features they’d seek are a self-cleaning nozzle, adjustable water temperature, adjustable water pressure, heated seats, and knob design, in that order.
Bidets Have Environmental Benefits
Is it true that a bidet may benefit the environment? Yes! Bidets, according to Yuzu Magazine, result in a 75 percent decrease in toilet paper consumption, lowering the quantity of solid waste and lessening the impact on wastewater treatment facilities. After all, the only thing a bidet does is flush more water. After being treated, the water from the bidet may be reused.
Some may counter that recyclable toilet paper is now available. However, according to the New York Times, just 2% of the toilet paper we use is produced entirely of recycled materials. Why isn’t recycled paper more widely used? Softness is the cause. The soft toilet paper we’ve become used to can only come from virgin pulp, and most of us aren’t prepared to give up that luxury.
Increasing The Use Of Bidets And Plumbing Fixtures
Bidet usage is growing. This is a result of the popularity of bidets in Japan and other countries. However, there are some disadvantages to using a bidet, such as potentially being hit by scalding water.
Bidets remain far from an essential bathroom feature in American homes despite their potential health, environmental, and cost benefits.
However, the tide may be changing. Whether you’re using a bidet, considering one, or have plumbing problems with your bidet or your traditional toilet, a professional plumber can help.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it better to wipe or use a bidet?
A: Bidets are more effective in cleaning the anus area and there is less of a chance of infection with bidet use. Wiping only has one major risk, which is that fecal matter can be left on your hands which could then go up into your nose or mouth if you do not wash them properly
Why do Americans use toilet paper instead of a bidet?
A: Its a cultural difference. Some Americans feel that using toilet paper is more hygienic, due to the lack of water involved in its use. This is because some cultures traditionally would use bidets for cleansing purposes as opposed to toilet paper.
Do I still need toilet paper with a bidet?
A: If you dont have a bidet, then yes. But if you do have one, then no.
Outside your home is the sewer line which could need repair. Learn more about this in What Is Pipe Relining And Do I Need It?
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