5 reasons why you need a bidet and the types you can choose from to suit your needs?

When it comes to hygiene and comfort, nothing beats the cleanliness offered by a bidet. Often viewed as a luxury in certain countries, bidets have become more mainstream globally due to their practicality, eco-friendliness, and long-term cost savings. If you’ve ever considered buying a bidet, here’s why you should make the switch—and the types you can choose from to suit your needs.

Accessible for People with Limited Mobility

For individuals with disabilities or mobility issues, using toilet paper may pose a challenge. A bidet, especially one with advanced features, can make personal hygiene easier and more accessible for people who find it difficult to twist or reach.

Retain Independence and Personal Dignity

The independence afforded by a bidet can make a significant difference to a person’s dignity.

Improved Hygiene and Comfort

Bidets provide a superior level of cleanliness compared to toilet paper alone. The gentle stream of water helps to clean more effectively, reducing the chance of irritation and providing a more comfortable bathroom experience. If you or someone in your household suffers from conditions like haemorrhoids, sensitive skin, or postpartum discomfort, a bidet can provide much-needed relief.

Eco-Friendly Option

Using a bidet significantly reduces your reliance on toilet paper, leading to a smaller environmental footprint. The production of toilet paper involves cutting down trees, processing water, and generating significant amounts of carbon emissions. A bidet cuts down on these environmental costs by requiring less paper or even eliminating the need for it entirely.

Cost-Effective in the Long Run

While a bidet might seem like a luxury purchase upfront, it can save you money over time. By using a bidet, you’ll dramatically reduce the expense of toilet paper, making it a smart investment for long-term savings. Plus, some advanced bidets come with features like warm water or air-drying, eliminating the need for additional products.

Gentler on Skin

Toilet paper can be rough, especially for people with sensitive skin or medical conditions. A bidet offers a more soothing and effective way to clean, preventing irritation or injury. It’s especially useful for people recovering from surgeries, older adults, or anyone who values comfort and gentleness in their personal care routine.

Types of Bidets to Consider

When buying a bidet, you’ll find several options on the market. Each has unique features that cater to different needs and budgets. Here’s a breakdown of the most popular types:

1. Bidet Toilet Seats

Bidet toilet seats are one of the most convenient and popular options. These seats replace your existing toilet seat and come with a built-in bidet function. Some models offer features like heated seats, adjustable water pressure, temperature control, and even air drying.

Pros:

• Easy to install without needing major plumbing work
• Come with high-end features for extra comfort such as warm water, air drying, heated seat and multiple spray modes.
• More affordable than standalone bidets

Cons:

• May require an electrical outlet near your toilet
• Can be more expensive than bidet attachments

At The Mobility Store, we have a display model of the Izen A13 bidet available for you to view. We also have one installed in our toilet in each of our showrooms, so you can experience it firsthand.

• Standalone Bidets

These are the traditional style of bidets and are typically separate from the toilet. They’re common in parts of Europe and require you to move from the toilet to the bidet. Standalone bidets offer a basin with a faucet that you use to clean yourself after using the toilet.

Pros:

• Extremely effective at cleaning
• Offer various water pressure and temperature options

Cons:

• Require extra space in your bathroom
• Higher cost for installation and plumbing – often 3 times or more the cost of a bidet toilet seat.

• Bidet Attachments

These are one of the simplest and most affordable types of bidets. Bidet attachments fit under your existing toilet seat and connect to your water supply. They usually offer basic functionality like cold or room-temperature water, but some models include options for warm water if connected to your sink.

Pros:

• Very affordable and easy to install
• Great for people trying out bidets for the first time

Cons:

• Fewer features compared to electric bidets
• Limited to water pressure adjustments – no temperature control etc.

• Handheld Bidets (Bidet Sprayers)

These are similar to a handheld showerhead and are typically mounted next to your toilet. You control the spray and angle, making it a versatile option for cleaning both the toilet and yourself. It’s also a popular choice in households with cloth nappies, as it helps with pre-rinsing.

Pros:

• Inexpensive and versatile
• Easy to install without electricity

Cons:

• Requires manual operation
• No temperature control unless connected to a hot water supply

• Portable Bidets

A portable bidet is ideal for those who want the convenience of a bidet while traveling or if you’re renting a home and can’t install a permanent fixture. These are small devices you can fill with water and use manually.

Pros:

• Inexpensive and portable
• No need for installation or plumbing

Cons:

• Manual and less convenient compared to other types
• Limited effectiveness compared with plumbed bidets
• Limited water capacity

Conclusion

Buying a bidet is not just about luxury; it’s about improving hygiene, maintaining personal dignity, saving money and being more environmentally conscious. With several types of bidets available—from affordable attachments to high-end toilet seats—you can easily find one that fits your budget and toilet setup. A bidet offers cleaner, gentler, and more sustainable personal hygiene, making it a worthwhile investment for anyone looking to elevate their toilet experience.

Speak to our friendly and experienced mobility team at our Melbourne or Perth stores to discuss your needs and find the best product for you.

If you can’t visit our stores, check out our extensive online shop and have your item delivered to you in the comfort of your own home.

Get in touch with us so that you can improve your mobility today.