A common reason why bidets aren't used in the US is that during World War 2, American soldiers saw brothels utilizing bidets. When they came back to United States, they shunned the bidet because of the connotations. Plus, the construction boom that took place in the post-war years built plumbing systems without bidets.
Americans do not use a bidet for the same reason they do not use squat toilets. Americans are prudish about the groin. Bathrooms are not designed for a separate bidet. Bidets were handle held cold showers. Today's homes have water and electricity. Manufacturing and technology make a bidet out of a toilet seat.
However, excessive bidet use potentially causes anal pruritus and anal incontinence (AI). Physicians are advised to instruct patients with anal pruritus to avoid excessive cleaning of the anus and those with AI to discontinue bidet use.
Bidet use throughout the world
In Europe, bidets can be found in two-thirds of homes while they are nearly non-existent in North America. Asia also has had widespread use of bidet use for centuries, with many modern forms including electronic ones that dispense warm water and air dry you after use.
You see, bidets and hand sprayers can be extremely hygienic when installed correctly. But if installed incorrectly, by a handyman or anyone other than a non-licensed plumber, things can get dangerous. In fact, it's illegal to install a bidet without a plumbing license.
Italy is the only country where more than three-quarters of bathrooms have a bidet, one of only four countries where more than half have a bidet; and the only European country to be in the top ten. Bidets have been a legal requirement in newly-built homes in Italy since 1975 - and besides, Italians like them.
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.
Bidets are more hygienic.
Bidets allow for nearly hands-free cleaning of the genitals and anus after toileting or intimacy. Water is used to thoroughly clean skin surfaces and crevices rather than wiping, which can lead to the spread of fecal matter and bacteria.
While currently only 12% of the population of the United States has regular access to a bidet, that number is changing, with more and more people purchasing new toilets or attachments that provide the cleansing capabilities of the bidet to an ever-increasing number of bathrooms across America.
Although bidets have been around for a long time, their popularity has been less than predicted. One of the biggest reasons why bidets have fallen out of favour is because of the invention of the toilet paper. The traditions of cleaning the rear end with dry paper has stuck, and bidets have failed to catch on.
Since you're already clean from your bidet, you won't need much toilet paper to do so–just enough to remove any excess water. Use a gentle pat-dry motion instead of a wipe to avoid any irritation. That's all there is to it.
It's important to follow usage instructions, though, particularly with jet stream pressure and water temperature. “But if it's working properly and you clean and sanitize it regularly, a bidet is a good alternative option for many people,” says Dr. Lee.
Adjust the position of the bidet nozzle to ensure proper cleansing. Position yourself on the bidet seat, ensuring comfort and stability. Activate the water spray by pressing the appropriate button or lever. After cleansing, activate the built-in air dryer, and you are ready.
Backflow Prevention: Bidets and shattafs pose a high risk of backflow, which can lead to contamination of the main water supply. These devices are classified as fluid category 5, the highest risk level for cross-contamination.
Ask for bidet permission
Hovering over someone else's bidet isn't like using their phone charger or using a paper towel to dry your hands. This fixture is very much a personal care item. And some homeowners might not be keen to let a guest mess around with it, especially a first-timer.
The Bidet Boom
However, in recent years, the bidet has been making waves in the US market, fueled by a growing awareness of its advantages and a shift toward sustainable living. Americans are increasingly seeking alternatives to traditional toilet paper, and the bidet offers a convenient and eco-friendly solution.
Troops would associate them with sex work because they were found in brothels that they would frequent. Also, troops considered everything European to be dirty and unsanitary, so this was the original catalyst for Americans' aversion to bidets.
Features like bidet installations are examples of unique selling elements that may make your house stand out from similar listings in a competitive real estate market. Because bidets provide elegance and convenience, properties with them may draw greater interest from prospective buyers and fetch a higher asking price.
Where a Bidet Gets it's Water. You'll be relieved to know that the water does not come directly from your toilet bowl or tank, but instead from your toilet's main water supply.
Should you use a bidet after peeing? You can if you want to! Most people use bidets after pooping, but it's totally fine to use one after you pee. Some people enjoy using a bidet while they're menstruating since it can really help clean your genital area.
Cleaning the anus after defecation using an EBT contributes to hand hygiene and local comfort; however, inappropriate EBT use can cause colonic and anal damage. Here, we report a case of a patient with severe rectal inflammation and ulceration caused by excessive bidet use.
While most bidet users dry off with a small amount of toilet paper, sustainability-focused bidet owners use a dedicated cloth or towel. Bidet towels are a great way to reduce your home's environmental impact even more!
While bidets are effective at cleansing, they may leave you feeling wet. To dry off, gently pat the area with toilet paper until you're dry. It's essential to be gentle to avoid any irritation. Pro Tip: Consider using high-quality, soft toilet paper to prevent any discomfort.
Don't use the bidet as a toilet: It's designed for post-toilet cleaning, not for the disposal of waste. Avoid using too much toilet paper: It can lead to plumbing issues, especially in areas with sensitive systems. Watch the water pressure: Start low to avoid splashing or discomfort.