In our last post, we talked about some of the best bidet converter kits, and we’re astonished to see the response that we got on that post.
Most importantly, quite a few readers of izzysmarthomeguide.com contacted us and asked queries related to the bidet converter kit. Hence, we decided to answer all those questions in this post so that a broader range of audience can be benefitted.
Does it make sense?
In case, I’ve not answered your question then feel free to ask it in the comment section, and our core team will respond to it in a succinct span of time.
So, without any further ado, let’s begin…
Bidet Converter Kit | FAQs
To be honest, our team has tried to the best of its capability to answer all the important questions related to a bidet converter kit so that you can make an informed purchase decision.
What is a bidet converter kit?
If you want to convert your existing toilet into a bidet, you would need a bidet converter kit.
Moreover, it’s an environment-friendly plumbing device that you can install on your existing toilet in order to enhance your bathroom experience, hygiene, cleanliness, etc.
In simple words, a bidet is nothing but a type of sink that provides a rear wash after you use the bathroom.
Moreover, a bidet seat attachment comes with a retractable nozzle and an adjustable heated seat.
It goes without saying that a bidet offers a gentle alternative to toilet paper, reducing hemorrhoid pain and rectal itch.
Bidet converter kits are cheaper alternatives to a full bidet sink and are known to offer similar benefits as full toilet bidets with toilet seat add-ons.
Pros
- Cheaper as compared to a full bidet
- Saves money on toilet paper
- Newbie-friendly installation process
- Suitable for small and compact bathrooms
- Compatible with any size bathrooms
Cons
- The heater may not be reliable
- Might require a new electrical outlet
Can you attach a bidet to any toilet?
Yes, you can attach a bidet to any toilet with ease irrespective of whether you’re a first-time buyer or a seasoned professional.
In layman’s terms, with most toilets, installing a bidet is straightforward and doesn’t need any specific skill set.
However, in rare scenarios, you may have to do alterations to your bathrooms or may need to install some extra parts.
Mostly, issues arise with certain toilet designs that lack shutoff valves.
How do I know if a bidet will fit my toilet?
In general, most of the bidets are compatible with two-piece toilets.
In short, a bidet will fit most standard two-piece toilets.
At the same time, I’ll not deny the fact that there can be some exceptions.
Do let me know in the comment section if you’ve found any exceptions to what I’ve mentioned above for a two-piece toilet.
Unfortunately, if you’ve got a one-piece toilet then you’ve limited options available.
One-piece toilets such as Kohler San Raphael Elongated Toilet and the Rialto Round Toilet will do the trick for you.
Why bidet is not used in North America?
If you’re a resident of North America then you should look for an alternative to a bidet.
In general, bathrooms in North America aren’t built for bidets.
You’ll not find space or even additional plumbing setup for bidet fixtures.
Another important factor is the habit, most North Americans have grown up using toilet paper.
Are bidets sanitary?
Of course, bidets are sanitary and are a great alternative to toilet paper.
In general, you’ll find six types of bidets in the market.
Each of these bidets has its own pros and cons.
In fact, when you wipe your anal region after passing fecal matter, there is direct contact between your fingers and the feces.
However, I’ll not deny the fact that toilet paper lies in between, we know how ineffective that is when it comes to preventing the germs from transferring onto your hand.
Unfortunately, these harmful bacteria can then be passed on to other parts of your body without you realizing it.
Needless to say, these matters are indeed concerning.
What I actually wanna say is, the simple act of dry wiping is really not enough.
Using soap and water is absolutely essential to rid your anal region of feces and germs which is one of the key reasons why bidet usage is on rising.
Furthermore, using a bidet would mean you wouldn’t have to touch the buttock region to clean yourself every time you go to the bathroom.
Are bidets illegal in Australia?
Of course, NOT…
Bidets are legal in Australia.
At the same time, if you’re not following the installation rules and regulations set up by the Australian authority then your bidet might fall into the illegal category.
In short, if you’re well-versed with the installation procedure and follow the rules and regulations then your bidet will not be illegal in Australia for sure.
I know that quite a few people believe that using a bidet is illegal in Australia but trust me, that isn’t the case.
The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has strict guidelines regarding the installation and maintenance of plumbing equipment.
Are bidets for men or women?
A bidet is both for men and women.
It goes without saying that bidets are used by both men and women alike.
Needless to say, a bidet is a basic bathroom appliance that has a lot of utility.
At the same time, the design of the bidets isn’t gender-centric.
Trust me, I’ve not found any bidet that is solely built to cater to the needs of a male user.
Do bidets spray poop everywhere?
No, bidets don’t spray everywhere.
To my knowledge, bidets are designed to direct the flow of water into the anal region systematically.
Nonetheless, if you’re getting worried that the bidet will spray poop everywhere then the best thing that you can do is control the pressure of the water.
Most of the bidets are capable of providing a concentrated stream to the exact target location.
Furthermore, if the feces is solid, there is next to no chance of occurrence of the splash.
In fact, you would see them accumulating within the toilet bowl or even a standalone bidet.
Do I wipe before using a bidet?
The sole purpose of the introduction of a bidet was to eliminate the use of toilet paper or at least reduce its usage for sure.
In layman’s terms, wiping your backside right after pooping but before using the bidet beats the purpose of using the bidet in the first place.
Trust me, if you’re using a bidet properly then you wouldn’t be needing toilet paper or any alternative for sure.
Nonetheless, there are certain exceptions to it including when your stool isn’t consistent due to a digestive disorder.
If that is the case, then wiping your backside before turning the bidet could be a good idea.
In fact, people suffering from mobility issues can also be benefited from this.
In general, wiping is simple, and not necessary before the use of a bidet for sure.
Do I need to dry my bum after using a bidet?
Frankly speaking, there isn’t any hard and fast rule when it comes to drying the bum after using a bidet.
To be honest, some people don’t dry their bums as the stream of water coming from bidets is usually concentrated in a particular spot, and the amount of water is usually low.
So, the remaining droplets are easily soaked in undergarments.
Nevertheless, if you’re interested in avoiding this feeling then you can try using a paper towel or toilet paper.
Furthermore, you can also use an air dryer, making sure to keep the heat down.
Also, some bidets come with a built-in air dryer.
Do bidet toilets need electricity?
Some bidet toilets need electricity while other bidets don’t need it.
In short, it totally depends upon users’ choices.
In fact, certain types of bidets require power to operate.
For example, portable travel bidets, add-on bidet toilet seats, and smart toilet suites with built-in bidets.
Furthermore, travel bidets also come in non-electric forms, but the electric variants are usually preferred due to their feasible costs.
Needless to say, add-on toilet seats are among the most widely used electric bidets.
These reasonably priced bidets are definitely a value-for-money product as the utilities are manifold.
On the other hand, the non-electric variants will also serve your purpose.
Are bidets worth it?
Of course, bidets are worth your time and money.
The two parameters that make a bidet valuable are cost and utility.
Not only are bidets highly affordable but also serve as a good alternative to toilet paper.
The branded bidets are the ones that pay for themselves in the long run.
If you’re currently using toilet paper then you can easily replace it with a bidet, and trust me, it will definitely enhance your bathroom experience.
Compared to toilet paper, bidets are known to provide better hygiene as well as ease of use.
How to use a bidet?
As we all know, the primary task of a bidet is to clean the back after passing fecal matter.
So, irrespective of the bidet variants, the primary task of each one of them is to provide appropriate cleaning without compromising on hygiene.
Moreover, irrespective of whether you are a first-time buyer or a seasoned professional, operating bidet will not consume much of your time and will definitely enhance your bathroom experience.
Let’s have a quick look at the steps that you need to expedite when it comes to using a bidet.
Respond to the call of nature
First and foremost, you need to complete your job of responding to the call of nature.
Secondly, you need to ensure that the feces haven’t dropped into a standalone bidet.
Adjust the nozzle
Once you’re done with nature’s call, you need to either adjust the nozzle or your body.
All you need to do is to aim the stream of water perfectly into the region so the cleaning can be expedited in a proper manner.
As compared to other bidet variants, using an electric one is quite easy.
On the other hand, if you’re using a non-electric version then you must ensure that the angle is set properly in order to prevent any last-minute misadventure.
Or, else you can angle your buttocks in such a way that the water hits the right spot.
If needed, you can adjust the bidet water pressure.
Needless to say, with experience these adjustments will become a reflex for sure.
Set an ideal temperature
It’s good to buy a bidet that comes with an ideal temperature control mechanism.
The best part is, you’ve got the luxury of adjusting the water temperature.
Dry yourself (if you feel the need)
If needed, you can dry yourself.
As discussed earlier, some users prefer staying as it is and letting their underwear soak up the remaining droplets of water.
Or, else you may choose to wipe the area with a paper towel or even use the bidet’s built-in air dryer if it is available in your bidet model.
Do bidets feel good?
We at izzysmarthomeguide.com have been recommending bidets to our clientele for quite some time, and you know what, our clients are pretty happy with the convenience and enhanced bathroom experience that bidets bring to the table.
Scientifically speaking, the stream of water ejected by bidets helps in stimulating the anal and frontal regions of your lower body.
The nerves located deep inside the anus are mostly interconnected.
The ones in charge of the anal sphincter are also attached to the genitalia.
Moreover, simply wiping the anus after a poop session may not entirely clean the region at times.
A feeling of strange discomfort persists in such cases, bidets ensure that never happens.
Does a washlet or a bidet save water?
A bidet uses an average of 16 ounces of water each time you use it.
On the other hand, a washlet uses around 12 ounces of water each time you use it.
The thing that I really love about the washlet is its ability to preset the water temperature as per your preference.
Furthermore, there is no “warm-up” time, and water is dispensed instantly at your preselected temperature.
Also, you avoid the need for toilet paper with a washlet.
Therefore, a washlet saves you on average about $110 a year on toilet paper and an equal amount of water.
Even with the additional water usage from the washlet sprayer, a washlet will save about $200 per year.
What’s easier to use when considering a washlet or bidet?
To be honest, the washlet is much easier and more convenient to use.
In fact, with a bidet a person must first use the toilet, wipe to avoid any spillage while transferring to the bidet, remove all shoes, pants, and undergarments, and mount the bidet the opposite of a toilet.
Furthermore, adjusting the temperature, cleaning yourself, drying yourself, dismounting the bidet, and most importantly, putting your undergarments, pants, shoes, and back on.
With a washlet, simply use the toilet as you normally would.
Activate the sprayer and then the warm air dryer, and you’re done.
What is the difference between a washlet and a bidet?
A washlet is a registered trademark of the Japanese toilet company TOTO, used for their line of cleaning toilet seats with a warm water spray feature for external genital, anal, inner buttocks, and perineum cleansing.
A washlet is a toilet seat that is affixed on top of the toilet, replacing the standard toilet seat.
Therefore, a washlet allows the user to urinate, defecate (poop), and cleanse themselves on the same fixture without having to move or reposition themselves.
And, the best part is, a washlet can be used by both males and females.
On the other hand, a bidet is a type of standalone sink or fixture that resembles a toilet.
Furthermore, it uses water with a retractable or separate hand-held sprayer, or faucet, or sprays from the bottom of the bowl straight up to wash and clean the external genital, anal, inner buttocks, and perineum areas.
A bidet is not a toilet.
Hence, it is not designed to accept urine, stools, or tissue paper.
Furthermore, after each use, it must be cleaned and sanitized.
Why should you not use a bidet for your feet?
As mentioned earlier also, bidets are specifically designed for cleaning people’s bottoms and not for cleaning any other parts of your body.
In fact, most people will keep the bidet clean and fresh but much like a regular toilet, you may not want to shove your feet in it.
Correct me, if I’m wrong.
How do you use a bidet shower?
A bidet shower is nothing but a handheld spray attachment to a regular toilet.
When it comes to working style, they work similarly to regular bidets.
Sit on the toilet regularly and do your business.
Spray your legs wide apart and turn on the spray nozzle, pointing it away from you down the toilet to check its pressure.
The next thing that you need to do is to direct the water onto your bottom to clean yourself.
Needless to say, some people may use toilet paper to dry themselves afterward.
How to use a bidet for women?
- If the bidet that is going to be used by a woman comes with temperature controls for hot and cold water, then all you need to do is to adjust the water temperature to what is comfortable for you
- Most of our female clients have affirmed that they prefer warm water
- In general, the control to adjust the temperature will be found on the control panel next to the toilet seat
- Once done with the aforementioned steps, you need to position yourself on the bidet by either sitting on the rim or squatting over it
- At the same time, you must be aware of the fact that, unlike toilets, free-standing bidets don’t have a seat you sit on
- Moreover, depending on the area that you need to clean, you need to select the setting or mode that will get the job done
- For example, in order to clean after urinating, you need to select the feminine wash setting as this will specifically target the urinary track region and wash it thoroughly
- If your bidet comes with a built-in dryer then you can use this to dry yourself off
- Else, you can use toilet paper for drying the wet region
What is special bidet soap?
Soap for use in bidets is called sapone intimo or detergente intimo.
As compared to regular soaps, these counterparts are gentler on your anal as well as the genital region.
You’ll be astonished to know that male and female genital regions have different pH.
These intimate soaps come with different pH.
For example, you can buy intimate soap for males with pH 5.5, and for females with pH 3.5.4.5
For children, you can buy an intimate soap with pH 4.5.
Is there a downside to using a bidet?
Definitely, you can be exposed to problems such as scalding if you’re NOT using a bidet in an appropriate way.
You need to pay attention to your bidet’s water pressure and temperature.
In case, either of the two is abnormally high then you may experience scalding or else your bottom may start agitating.
So, to avoid such problems you can hire a plumber for the installation of your bidet as well as you can read the user manual thoroughly.
Why do men love bidets?
First and foremost, I would like to affirm that at izzysmarthomeguide.com, our male clients literally love bidets, and trust me, there are numerous reasons for it.
It goes without saying that a bidet is a great way of preventing and treating hemorrhoids.
Furthermore, the pressure of a bidet can also assist with getting things moving when you’re constipated by letting small amounts of water into the anus.
Do bidets help prevent UTIs?
In simple words, a UTI is caused by bacteria entering the urinary tract, getting thoroughly clean when you use the bathroom is an important step in preventing UTIs.
A bidet is a safe, sanitary way to keep yourself clean and avoid contracting a painful UTI.
If you’re someone with urinary track infection then you should never wipe from back to front, and always make sure you pee after sex.
Fortunately, a bidet can help in both scenarios.
To be honest, wiping from back to front vastly increases the risk of bacteria getting into the urinary tract, especially if you’ve pooped.
People asking “Can a bidet cause a UTI?” are definitely worried about this exact issue.
Nonetheless, bidet toilet seats and many bidet attachments have a front wash feature aka “feminine wash” sprays water from front to back, making sure that nothing is pushed into the urinary track.
Furthermore, you can use a drying feature, if your bidet has one, or gently pat dry with a few squares of toilet paper to make sure nothing is pushed into the urethera.
To be honest, sexual intercourse is one of the most common cause of UTIs because of bacteria that can enter the urinary track.
You should always pee with 15 minutes after sex to flush out your urinary tract, and a bidet helps get everything extra clean.
In short, the fresh, clean feeling that your bidet gives you after sex might help you remember to pee afterwards, just so you can use your bidet.
Which country uses bidets the most?
Bidets were first invented in France and often linked with French practices.
But, today, Italy ranks as the European country that loves bidets the most.
In fact, a building law even says that every Italian home must have a bidet.
Moreover, other countries also report high bidet usages.
Do bidets give enemas?
Frankly speaking, answering this question can be a tricky one.
In fact, only certain specialized handheld bidets can give you a true enemas.
They actually provide an enema nozzle designed to penetrate the anal sphincters where it introduces water to the rectum.
Some electric bidet seats do provide the option to use a vortex water stream designed to enter the rectum.
Does bidet increase water bill?
Yes, a bidet will increase your water bill but not significantly.
In fact, a bidet uses an eighth of a gallon of water per wash so it will raise your water bill a bit, but not much.
Can bidet cause yeast infection?
Habitual use of bidet toilets may aggravate urinary track microflora either by depriving normal microflora or facilitating opportunistic infection of fecal bacteria and other microorganisms.
How long does a bidet last?
A good bidet has a lifespan of 6 to 9 years if it is properly cleaned and maintained.
However, a lack of regular cleaning and maintenance can drastically reduced a bidet lifespan.
Do bidets use a lot of electricity?
The most efficient electric bidets use about 14 kWh/month.
On the other hand, the least efficient electric bidets can consume up to 160 kWh/month.
In simple words, a bidet can increase your electricity bill by 5 to 10 dollars per month.
Do I need an electrician to install a bidet?
You would be needing an electrician for the installation of an electric outlet nearby your toilet.
If you already have an electric outlet nearby your toilet then I don’t think you would be needing an electrician.
Moreover, if you’re a first-time buyer then you may be needing a plumber for the installation of a bidet.
How long does it take to install a bidet toilet?
Frankly speaking, installation time should be somewhere around 20 to 30 minutes irrespective of whether you’re a seasoned professional or expediting the installation process for the first time.
How much does a bidet cost?
A bidet can cost between $30 and $7000.
So, it’s always advisable to choose a bidet that not only caters to your requirements but also falls well within your budget.
How long should you bidet your butt?
You should bidet your butt for at least a minute if not more than that in order to reap optimum benefits out of it.
Do bidet clean the front?
Both the posterior and front wash features of modern bidets are excellent tools in helping get men and women squeaky clean.
Does insurance pay for bidets?
Frankly speaking, some customers with medical needs are able to have their bidet seat purchase covered by insurance.
Nonetheless, it goes without saying that every insurance claim looks different.
What percent of the world uses bidets?
As far as I know, today, bidet is considered an essential bathroom item for at least 80 percent of the world including Europe, South America, Middle East, and Asia.
Do let us know in the comment section if your view is different as is backed by the data.
Is a bidet better than wipes?
Yes, a bidet is better than a wipe.
Some of the features that puts a bidet in a different league altogether includes better efficacy, less smearing, lower overall cost, better plumbing.
Moroever, bidets are environment-friendly as it helps in saving trees.
It’s A Wrap
First and foremost, I would like to thank you for being with us till the end.
Secondly, I would like to bring to your notice that I along with my core team have put loads and loads of effort in coming up with this idiosyncratic superlative FAQs on the topic bidet, and in case, you liked our effort and wants to appreciate us then please do share this post with like-minded people and the ones who are in search for it.
Afterall, sharing is caring, isn’t it?
Cutting long-story-short, we’ve tried to the best of our capabilities to cover almost all the important queries related to bidet.
However, if we’ve not covered your question then please feel free to reach out to the team of izzysmarthomeguide.com, and trust me, they would be more than happy to assist you.
That’s all, as of now:):)
