Bidets are growing in popularity in the United States, and it’s no wonder why! They’re great alternatives to toilet paper and usually work out to be more cost effective over time. But do you need a special type of toilet in order to install and use a bidet?
There are various types of bidets that can suit almost any type of toilet. Depending on whether you have a one-piece, two-piece, or concealed toilet, you’ll be able to choose from stand-alone, built-in, handheld, and attachable bidets. Most can be installed without professional assistance.
Let’s take a closer look at the different types of bidets and how to go about attaching them to the various type of toilets. Soon enough, you’ll be enjoying your very own bidet!
What Is a Bidet, and How Does It Work?
Let’s start with the basics when it comes to bidets. A bidet is a device that you install on the toilet or near one to help you clean up after you’ve used the bathroom.
A bidet sprays water to get rid of any waste left on your skin, and then you can simply wipe the excess water away with a sheet of toilet paper. These devices are popular in many parts of the world and are now gaining traction in the United States.
Different Types of Bidets
Although a bidet might sound like a pretty simple concept, there are different types you need to consider before making a purchase.
Stand-Alone Bidets
Stand-alone bidets don’t attach to the toilet. Instead, they’re a separate device you can use afterward. You can install them on the floor, and they’re usually made of ceramic.
While some people opt for stand-alone bidets for their convenience and cheaper price, you still need to consider the disadvantages. They take up more space and need their own plumbing. It can also be a bit messy to move between the toilet and bidet.
Still, if you’re on a budget, they might be the right choice for you.
Built-In Bidets
If you’re concerned about the mess or have to save space, a built-in bidet is likely the right option for you. They’re more expensive but usually come with more customization features, and it’s much neater to handle everything in the same place. They’re also often called “combo toilets.”
Bidet Attachments
Attachments function a bit like a built-in bidet, but they’re an attachment that simply slides under the bowl. They usually have less customization options; however, they’re much easier to install than both built-in and stand-alone bidets. They’re relatively inexpensive too.
Handheld Bidets
The last option you have is a handheld bidet, which is much like a small hose that attaches to the toilet. It’s usually in the form of a spray and combines affordability with ease of use, considering you can direct the spray wherever you want (with less potential mess than the standalone bidet, since you don’t have to move away from the toilet).
Different Types of Toilets
Now that you’re familiar with the different types of bidets, what are the different types of toilets? Let’s take a closer look.
One-Piece Toilet
The main two types of toilet that you might have heard of are one-piece and two-piece toilets. A one-piece toilet has a connected tank and bowl, and it’s all part of the same unit. They tend to be heavier, and the main advantage is that they’re easier to clean since there are no disjointed parts. They also tend to be more expensive.
Two-Piece Toilet
A two-piece toilet is exactly the opposite — it has a separate tank and bowl. They’re less expensive and more customizable, but the main issue with them is that they break more easily and can therefore be more expensive over time. They also don’t tend to look as nice.
Concealed Toilet
If you’re very into a sleek aesthetic in your bathroom, you might have a concealed toilet. The bowl sits against the wall, with the cistern concealed behind it, so it takes up very little space. This type does tend to be more costly, however.
Can You Install a Bidet on Any Toilet?
For the most part, there’s a bidet for every type of toilet. That doesn’t mean every type of bidet is suited for every toilet though! You should do your research to see which type is best for your current set-up, and some types may require a more involved installation than others.
In certain cases, it might be better to hire a professional contractor to do the job.
How to Install a Bidet
If you’ve decided you now want a bidet, it’s time to decide which type you want and look at the installation process.
Installing a Stand-Alone Bidet
First, choose where you want to place your bidet. As you’ll have to move to it from the toilet, adjacent to the toilet itself is usually the best idea.
Once you’ve decided on the position of the bidet, you need to install water lines (both hot and cold, unless you only want one water temperature). You’ll also have to install valves and a drain outlet in the floor.
If you’re not experienced with plumbing, looking up video tutorials can help. However, if you’re struggling with this part, a plumber can do the job quickly.
You’ll then have to install the faucet and, finally, the bidet itself. Place the bidet and mark the mounting spots so you can then drill holes there. Put silicone sealant on the bottom of the bidet and place it over the holes. Secure it with washers and nuts, which should have been included with your purchase.
Then you can connect it to the lines and test the water to make sure everything is running with no leaks.
Installing a Built-in Bidet
A built-in bidet usually comes connected to the toilet seat, meaning you’ll have to remove your old one. Use a wrench to remove your current toilet seat and clean around the toilet to make sure you aren’t sealing bacteria in when you attach the new bidet seat.
Then put the mounting plate on there. Angle it over the holes and tighten the bolts to secure it, mount the bidet seat on it, and adjust. That’s it!
If you have a one-piece toilet, this might be slightly more difficult as some bidets are too wide.
You need to connect the bidet to the water supply too, so make sure the water is turned off before you do this. You should connect the T-valve to the fill-in valve. Find the T-valve’s lower connection and attach the bidet water supply hose, then one end of the supply hose to the upper connection. The bidet hose can then slot into the bidet seat.
How to Choose the Right Bidet for Your Toilet Type
For the most part, you should be able to use the type of bidet you want (with some minor adjustments for your toilet). However, concealed toilets may not work so well with any bidet that isn’t an add-on attachment, and some built-in bidets may be too wide for one-piece toilets. Make sure you measure!
The Best Add-On Bidets
If you’re searching for the best add-on bidet for your toilet, look no further. We’ve got you covered:
LUXE Bidet Neo 120
The Luxe Bidet Neo 120 (on Amazon) is a great option for those looking for an affordable bidet attachment. With metal cores and high-pressure valves, the price doesn’t compromise on the quality, which makes it a great add-on for those who want the best of both worlds.
The Bio Bidet Bliss BB2000
The Bio Bidet Bliss BB2000 (on Amazon) is designed for every body with a bunch of customization options to make it the best fit for you. It’s easy to install and will last a long time. You can even control it via remote control.
BioBidet Slim Zero
If you want your bidet to be sleek and covert, look no further than the BioBidet Slim Zero (on Amazon). It looks like a normal toilet seat but functions well, and there’s no electricity or plumber required for installation — making it the best choice for those who are a bit daunted by the DIY work bidets often take.
Bio Bidet BB-270
For a temperature-controlled bidet that’s relatively cheap for its features, check out the Bio Bidet BB-270 (on Amazon). With its warm water and dual nozzles, it prioritizes comfort over anything else and makes the switch into a bidet easy — you’ll never go back. It’s also easy to install and durable, which are the most important things.
TOTO WASHLET
Japan has been doing bidets well for decades, so it’s no surprise that the TOTO WASHLET (on Amazon) is one of the most popular choices. It has a side panel to let you customize your settings as well as a self-cleaning wand and high temperature range.
Ultimately, the bidet you choose will very much depend on what’s important to you, whether that’s customization, comfort, or an easy installation. As long as you do your research, you can’t go wrong with a bidet.