A bidet is a plumbing fixture designed for personal hygiene after using the toilet. It typically consists of a low basin, similar to a small sink, and a spray nozzle or faucet to direct a stream of water for cleansing the genital and anal areas.
Types of bidets:
- Stand-alone bidet: A separate fixture installed next to the toilet, resembling a small hand basin.
- Bidet attachment: Attaches to an existing toilet, offering a retrofit option without major plumbing changes.
- Integrated bidet toilet seat: Combines the functionality of a toilet seat with bidet features, offering the most seamless integration.
Benefits of using a bidet:
- Enhanced hygiene: Provides a more thorough and refreshing clean compared to toilet paper alone, potentially reducing the risk of urinary tract infections and hemorrhoids.
- Reduced toilet paper usage: Contributes to environmental sustainability and cost savings.
- Gentle on sensitive skin: Water can be more soothing than toilet paper, particularly for individuals with skin conditions.
- Improved accessibility: Can be especially beneficial for individuals with limited mobility or dexterity.
Considerations when using a bidet:
- Temperature control: Some bidets offer adjustable water temperature for comfort.
- Water pressure: Adjustable water pressure ensures a comfortable and effective cleaning experience.
- Hygiene concerns: Proper cleaning and maintenance of the bidet is crucial to prevent the spread of germs.
- Cultural acceptance: Bidet use is more common in some cultures than others, and individual comfort levels may vary.
Related terms: Personal hygiene, toilet hygiene, anal cleansing, water cleansing, eco-friendly bathroom, accessible bathroom, universal design bathroom.
Additional notes:
- The word “bidet” comes from the French word “bidet,” which means “pony,” likely due to the straddling position traditionally used with stand-alone bidets.
- Bidets offer a range of features and functionalities, from basic models to heated seats and automated drying systems.
- Exploring different options and considering individual needs is important when choosing a bidet.
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A bidet (US: /bɪˈdeɪ/ or UK: /ˈbiːdeɪ/) is a bowl or receptacle designed to be sat upon in order to wash a person's genitalia, perineum, inner buttocks, and anus. The modern variety has a plumbed-in water supply and a drainage opening, and is thus a plumbing fixture subject to local hygiene regulations. The bidet is designed to promote personal hygiene and is used after defecation, and before and after sexual intercourse. It can also be used to wash feet, with or without filling it up with water. Some people even use bidets to bathe babies or pets. In several European countries, a bidet is now required by law to be present in every bathroom containing a toilet bowl. It was originally located in the bedroom, near the chamber-pot and the marital bed, but in modern times is located near the toilet bowl in the bathroom. Fixtures that combine a toilet seat with a washing facility include the electronic bidet.
Opinions as to the necessity of the bidet vary widely over different nationalities and cultures. In cultures that use it habitually, such as parts of Western, Central and Southeastern Europe (especially Italy and Portugal) Eastern Asia and some Latin American countries such as Argentina, Paraguay, it is considered an indispensable tool in maintaining good personal hygiene. It is commonly used in North African countries, such as Egypt. It is rarely used in sub-Saharan Africa, Australia, and North America.
"Bidet" is a French loanword meaning "pony" due to the straddling position adopted in its usage.
