If you’ve never tried a bidet before, you might be intimidated at the nature of this device, or you might be confused about how it works. But the reality is, there are so many benefits to using a bidet regularly and so few downsides that it makes sense for most people to at least give it a fair try.
Why should you try to use a bidet and how can you get started?
Bidet Basics
Let’s start with the absolute basics, in case you aren’t familiar with bidets at all. There are many different types of bidets, though they all serve a similar purpose. For example, a bidet toilet seat functions as a normal toilet seat, but also has an attachment that functions as a bidet; this device is relatively inexpensive and easy to install, making it much more portable and accessible than a traditional, standalone bidet.
No matter what, all bidets come with an attachment that allows you to spray water on your underside, allowing you to clean your anus and genitals after using the bathroom. Depending on the bidet you have, you may have options for the temperature of the water, the pressure of the spray, and other qualities.
Why is it so important to try this type of device?
Bidets Get You Cleaner
Generally, bidets will get you cleaner than toilet paper. Why? Because water cleans more thoroughly than paper. You probably know this instinctively; wiping your hands with a napkin after eating messy chicken wings is better than doing nothing, but your hands aren’t going to feel clean until you actually wash them in a sink. Similarly, wiping yourself with toilet paper is better than doing nothing, but it’s nowhere near as good as washing with water.
Bidets Help You Feel Better
Many people who have never tried a bidet falsely assume that this spray of water is unpleasant. While this stream of water may be unexpected, the end result is that it typically makes you feel better. You feel cleaner and more refreshed after using one, so you can go about your day with a slightly elevated mood.
Bidets Can Improve Your Health
Using a bidet can improve your health in some ways. For example, using a bidet consistently can reduce the prevalence of certain types of infections. It can also reduce the appearance and severity of hemorrhoids in many people.
Bidets Save You Money (and Hassle)
How much money do you spend every year on toilet paper? You’re probably spending more than you think. Using a bidet a single time isn’t going to save you money or effort on purchasing toilet paper, but if you end up liking it, you could almost completely eliminate the need for this wasteful product. If you begin washing yourself with a bidet every day, in a matter of a few years you could end up saving hundreds of dollars – allowing the bidet to more than pay for itself.
Bidets Results in Fewer Clogs
If your toilet is constantly getting clogged, there could be a few different explanations. There might be issues with their toilet, or with your plumbing line, or you might be flushing something you shouldn’t (like baby wipes). But most commonly, clogs are attributable to large wads of toilet paper that can’t make it through your pipes. If you start using a bidet regularly, you can all but eliminate this type of clog.
Trying a Bidet Costs You Nothing
Here’s something else to keep in mind: trying a bidet doesn’t cost you anything. If you use someone else’s bidet, you won’t have to buy one of your own – and even if you do buy your own device, you can always return it if you end up hating it. All you need to do is spend a few minutes of your time and you’ll know whether or not this device is an upgrade for you.
You Only Have to Try It Once
Finally, remember that you only have to try a bidet once to learn whether or not this device is right for you. Most people intuitively understand how to use one, and once they try it, they begin to realize just how beneficial it could be for them.
Of course, if you find the spray of water to be incredibly unpleasant, or if you have other reasons for not wanting to use a bidet after you try it, you can always go right back to using toilet paper.
The fact is, most people benefit strongly from using a bidet rather than wiping with toilet paper, but if toilet paper is all you’ve ever known, you might still be reluctant to try this somewhat new device. Consider purchasing a cheap one or use one owned by a friend or family member so you can proceed confidently in one direction or the other.