Bidwte (2024)

FAQs

Do you still have to wipe after using a bidet? ›

Use a bidet after you poop, but before you wipe.

This is because the water pressure will adequately clean your bottom without the need for toilet paper. Some people like to wipe with toilet paper after using a bidet, but it's a matter of personal preference.

Bidets can arguably be considered more sanitary than traditional bottom-cleaning methods. Quite simply, a bidet can provide a better hygiene experience compared to toilet paper. It starts with the basic fact that water can top a few squares of dry TP in removing trace amounts of fecal matter after you poop.

While some studies have found that excessive use of bidets can lead to anal pruritus, or anal itching, and anal incontinence, and the bidet's nozzle surface can become contaminated with bacteria, possibly leading to infection, users of bidets swear by their effectiveness and ease-of-use.

Using a bidet is generally safe, but there might be some risks if you use it incorrectly. For example, make sure to keep the water pressure low if you have ulcerated skin on or near your genitals or anus, said Dr. De Latour. High water pressure may aggravate tears in your skin, increasing infection risk.

A case of rectal mucosal prolapse syndrome due to bidet overuse has been reported previously. There was an increased incidence of hemorrhoids and pruritus ani (intense itching affecting the anorectal area) associated with habitual users of bidets.

Using a bidet with a strong spray pressure can also help with achieving a more complete clean. Some users may also use a little bit of toilet paper to dab dry after using their bidet. You can however use the bidets built in warm air dryer to fully dry you, eliminating the need to use toilet paper to dab dry.

It's clear that the widespread use of bidets in many countries has its advantages. The lack of popularity in the UK and US likely has to do with a combination of factors: unfamiliarity, lack of space, cost, and more.

Don't pee in a bidet

We're sorry to have to go there with this particular tip—but a bidet is not a toilet. You're not supposed to urinate in it—ever. The toilet is for toileting (pee, poop), while the bidet is for the cleanup job that comes after you've done your business.

The modern bidet seats even have drying options. If you press the 'Dry' button, provided there is one, the air dryer will dry the area. If you are using the traditional bidet, you can dry using toilet paper or a towel. In most public toilets with bidets, towels are provided on a ring next to it.

How often do you need to clean a bidet? ›

Wipe down the bidet regularly, at least once a week.

Use vinegar or a mild household detergent squirted onto a damp cleaning cloth. Wipe over the bidet with the cloth and leave to air dry. Rinse the cleaning cloth immediately after use with hot water to keep it clean.

You can always wash your hands afterwards! Consider combining the bidet with toilet paper. You can use the paper at the end, to finish the job, or you can dampen the toilet paper in the water and use it to wipe yourself clean.