What is a bidet?

The majority of individuals utilize toilet paper for personal hygiene after using the restroom. Nonetheless, there is an increasingly prevalent alternative to this conventional "dry" method of cleansing the skin – the bidet. In modern households, bidets are becoming more common.

What kind of hygiene object is a bidet?

The device described here is a sanitary tool designed specifically for the purpose of cleaning the genitals and anus after using the bathroom. Its primary function is to provide a more hygienic process, ensuring a thorough and gentle cleansing of waste without causing any damage to the delicate mucous membranes.

The degree of acceptance and usage of this type of sanitary device varies among different countries. In countries like Korea, Japan, the Middle East, Central Europe (France, Spain), and South America, they are highly sought after and can be found even in public restrooms and other public facilities, not to mention in residential areas and hotels. On the other hand, in North America, Eastern Europe, and Russia, the usage of such devices is less common, but their popularity is steadily increasing with each passing year.

Who invented it?

The claim to be recognized as the birthplace of the bidet is a subject of debate among several nations. Certain historical records indicate that it initially emerged in Italy, while others credit the French with its invention. These assertions are in contrast with the perspectives of representatives from the Arab world, for whom water-related practices have long been an essential component of restroom etiquette.

The term "bidet" translates from French as "le bidet," which means "grasshopper." This may be due to its unique design or the posture adopted by individuals wishing to utilize it.

There is a theory that the concept for this device originated from French cavalrymen who participated in the Thirty Years War during the 1740s. Given that they spent the majority of their time on horseback, they needed a means to constantly cleanse the areas of their bodies that came into contact with the saddle.

In the 18th century, both nobles and courtesans in Europe were known to use bidets. Even the French King Louis XVI himself was not above using one. Typically, these bidets took the form of a tub on legs, accompanied by a pitcher of water, and were usually found in the bedroom.

It wasn’t until the early 20th century that bidets made their way into the bathroom and were connected to the sewer system. During this time, taps and a fountain at the bottom of the basin were added. While such models are less common nowadays, they can still be found today.

Appearance and principle of operation

The modern sanitary fixture is typically constructed using sanfayans or sanfarforum materials. It falls somewhere between a toilet bowl (in terms of external shape) and a bathtub bowl with a drain hole that can be plugged. The fixture is equipped with a water supply device that directs the jet to the desired areas.

There are numerous variations of this fixture, both mechanical and electronic:

• A traditional valve or lever faucet with a straight or curved gooseneck, installed on the rim. Water flows from it at a slight angle into the bowl, effectively cleansing the necessary areas of the user’s body;
• Water jets positioned on the rim, which release streams of water upwards or horizontally towards the user;
• A shower head connected to the mixer through a flexible hose, fixed near the base of the fixture.

Note: Please refrain from operating the water flow at maximum capacity until the temperature has been set properly if you are manually controlling it.

Who is it intended for?

The bidet is highly recommended for individuals of all ages and genders to maintain proper intimate hygiene. However, certain groups of individuals require this sanitary item more than others. These individuals include:

1. Women. This applies particularly to the menstrual and postpartum periods and also during pregnancy, especially in the later stages when it can be difficult to access the bathroom. The high sides of the toilet bowl and the lack of anti-slip coating on the bottom can increase the risk of accidents such as slipping or bumping.
2. Babies. It is important to clean them thoroughly after each diaper change to prevent irritation from urine and fecal matter on their delicate skin. However, using the bathroom sink may not be suitable due to the low spout, and using the bathtub can be risky, especially for mobile babies weighing over 5 kg, as there is a chance of dropping them.
3. Bedridden patients. Like small children, they require regular wet cleaning, preferably at least once a day, provided they can be safely brought to the bathroom.
4. Individuals who face mobility challenges due to conditions such as venous insufficiency, thrombosis, atherosclerosis, or diabetes. Painful legs can make it difficult for them to even use the shower.
5. People suffering from irritable bowel syndrome and hemorrhoids. For them, toilet paper can feel like rough sandpaper.
6. Elderly individuals. As the body ages, it may accumulate more toxins, resulting in a specific odor during excretions, especially feces. Muscle weakness, dizziness, and other age-related ailments can also make it challenging to maintain cleanliness. A bidet is an ideal solution for them, as it allows for regular hygiene maintenance and a feeling of freshness.

How to use this sanitary equipment?

There are some general guidelines for using bidets for both men and women. Here are the steps:

• First, sit on the bidet seat, depending on which part of the intimate area you want to clean. If the bidet has a shower head, it doesn’t matter which position you choose;
• Next, turn on the water supply and adjust the temperature and pressure to your liking. Some bidets even have smart technology that offers different programs;
• After you finish using the bidet, don’t forget to turn it off, unless it has an automatic shut-off feature;
• Finally, dry yourself with a towel, preferably a disposable one. Using a paper towel is also an option.

Attention! It’s recommended for women to position themselves facing the faucet or nozzle to avoid any fecal matter from reaching the perineum. This can help prevent unpleasant conditions like cystitis caused by pathogenic bacteria.

Types of bidets

There are various models available for sanitary products that can perform their main function independently. Just like toilet bowls, these models come in different designs:

The first type of model is quite realistic to install on their own, and it is not difficult. However, they do require additional space, typically the same amount as a toilet bowl. This can be problematic in standard apartments.

The second type of model takes up less space, but the installation process is more complicated. It is recommended to seek the help of professionals for their installation.

Recognizing the challenges of installing two similar units in a single bathroom simultaneously, manufacturers often offer consumers a "two-in-one" solution – a toilet bowl with a bidet function, allowing for both recovery and washing. The price of such a toilet varies depending on the included features.

To bypass the inconvenience, one can purchase an additional accessory for the toilet bowl, which can be easily installed without assistance:

• A bidet overlay – a device that attaches to the same holes as the lid, equipped with a mixer and a movable nozzle;
• A bidet attachment – a bar with a faucet and a small shower head, which is mounted to a vertical surface (wall).

Such a practical lifehack without unnecessary extras costs approximately 4,000 rubles.

By the way! Occasionally, instead of being located inside the toilet bowl, the hygienic shower may also be connected to the side of the bidet cover.

There is an alternative choice available which is a bidet cover (or bidet seat). It comes in two variations: mechanical and electronic. The initial one has only the essential features such as temperature, pressure, and direction adjustments for the water jet. Unfortunately, the second option is not cost-effective but offers enhanced comfort options.

Additional elements

If you possess a certain amount of spare financial resources, you have the capability to acquire a bidet with an expanded range of capabilities:

1. The inclusion of a microlift on the lid guarantees a gentle descent, avoiding the "slamming" sensation of the seat.
2. The integration of a thermostatic regulator enables you to set and maintain the desired water temperature at the outlet.
3. Equipped with a carbon filter, the bidet effectively purifies the water, while the integration of an ionic filter both cleanses and enriches the water with oxygen.
4. Designed with an electronic control system featuring a display or remote control, this bidet provides the ability to select and activate one or multiple available programs. This enables users to initiate a complete series of functions in the desired sequence, from pre-wetting to automatic "cleaning", disinfecting the bidet, and cleaning the nozzles after the procedure concludes.
5. A special sensor is installed on the device to detect and fix a person, preventing the electronic bidet from starting "idle". The cleaning cycle will only begin once the photocell is triggered.
6. For those with a cooler bathroom, the heated seat will be very useful.
7. A flow-through or hybrid water heater can eliminate the "downtime" of the bidet in case of a sudden cut-off of hot water. This function is especially indispensable in homes without a centralized hot water supply.
8. The "turbo" function increases the power of the water supply, while the jet helps to quickly and completely wash away all dirt.
9. The built-in hydromassage system operates in multiple modes, including vibration, pulsation, and waves.
10. Users with poor eyesight will find the backlight feature very helpful.
11. With the built-in hair dryer, there is no need to use a towel for drying.

What to pay attention to when choosing?

If you opt to have a bidet installed in your residence:

• First and foremost, determine the optimal location for installation of this device, taking into consideration its compatibility with other bathroom fixtures and furniture;
• If your combined bathroom has enough space, you may opt for a freestanding floor model. However, if the bathroom is small or the toilet is separate from the bathroom, it would be better to consider a special cover or a hygienic shower head;
• Ensure that there is proper access to water and drainage in the chosen location;
• When selecting the device, choose sanitary porcelain or sanitary ware with a high-quality and preferably water- and dirt-repellent coating;
• Thoroughly review the documentation, inquire about a certificate of quality, and obtain a warranty card;
• Verify that the product comes with all necessary components;
• If you are uncertain about your ability to install the plumbing yourself, it is advisable to hire a skilled professional;
• Make sure to carefully read the instructions before using the product, especially if it is a high-end model with a remote control and extra features.

The inclusion of a bidet in the bathroom is widely believed by doctors to be effective in preventing inflammation in the intimate area, as well as urogenital system and rectal diseases. It is important to prioritize proper hygiene for yourself and your loved ones, as it plays a crucial role in maintaining a long and healthy life.