Best Bidets of 2024: Save Money & Reduce Waste | CNN Reviewed
The bathroom is getting a high-tech upgrade, and it’s one that’s surprisingly good for your wallet and the planet. Bidets, once considered a niche luxury, are rapidly gaining mainstream traction, and for good reason. They offer a more hygienic clean, drastically reduce toilet paper consumption, and, contrary to some assumptions, are relatively easy to install. But with a growing number of options on the market, from simple attachments to fully-featured electronic seats, figuring out which bidet is right for you can be daunting.
The appeal isn’t just about comfort or cleanliness. The environmental impact of toilet paper is substantial. According to BidetMate, the average household spends $120–$150 a year on toilet paper, and each roll requires approximately 37 gallons of water to produce, not even factoring in the energy and chemicals used in processing. Switching to a bidet dramatically cuts down on paper usage, which translates to fewer trees felled and less waste.
Beyond the Basics: What Bidets Actually Do
Many people harbor misconceptions about bidets. Brondell, a leading bidet manufacturer, addresses some of the most common concerns, including the idea that they’re unhygienic or difficult to use. Their blog explains that modern bidets utilize angled sprays to effectively remove waste, and many models feature self-cleaning nozzles and antibacterial components. The water stream is precise and controlled, offering a level of cleanliness that dry toilet paper simply can’t match.
The functionality varies widely depending on the type of bidet. Basic bidet attachments, which can cost under $250, connect to your existing toilet and provide a cool water spray. More advanced electronic bidet seats offer features like heated seats, warm water, adjustable spray pressure, and even air dryers. These can range in price from $300 to over $800. Handheld bidet sprayers, often referred to as “shattafs,” are another option, offering a portable and affordable solution. Travel bidets, as the name suggests, are designed for on-the-go use.
The Financial Upside: Long-Term Savings
While the initial investment in a bidet might seem significant, the long-term savings on toilet paper can quickly offset the cost. BidetMate estimates that a bidet can pay for itself within a couple of years by slashing paper consumption. Considering the average household spends over $100 annually on toilet paper, this is a compelling argument. Reducing toilet paper use can likewise benefit your plumbing system, potentially minimizing clogs and the need for costly repairs.
The water usage is also surprisingly low. A single wash with a bidet uses roughly 1/8 gallon of water – less than a cup. This is a fraction of the water required to manufacture toilet paper.
Addressing Hygiene Concerns: Modern Features and Design
One of the biggest concerns people have about bidets is hygiene. However, modern bidets are designed with cleanliness in mind. Many models feature retractable nozzles that clean themselves after each use, and antibacterial components help prevent the spread of germs. The fact that your hands never arrive into contact with fecal matter is a significant hygiene benefit.
The design of modern bidets also addresses concerns about spray accuracy and mess. The angled spray, as Brondell explains, is designed to direct waste away from the device and safely into the toilet.
Beyond the Bathroom: The Wider Environmental Impact
The environmental benefits of bidets extend beyond water conservation. The production of toilet paper contributes to deforestation, chemical pollution, and carbon emissions. By reducing toilet paper consumption, bidets help mitigate these impacts. A Reddit discussion on Zero Waste highlights the concern about the waste created by purchasing a bidet itself, but ultimately concludes that the reduction in toilet paper use outweighs the initial environmental cost. The discussion also touches on the importance of testing the bidet installation to prevent leaks and ensure proper function.
Combining a bidet with sustainable drying options, such as bamboo or recycled paper, further minimizes environmental impact. This holistic approach to bathroom hygiene offers a truly eco-friendly solution.
What’s Next for the Bidet Boom?
The bidet market is expected to continue growing as more consumers become aware of the benefits. Innovation in bidet technology is also ongoing, with manufacturers exploring features like automatic nozzle sterilization, personalized spray settings, and smart home integration. Expect to see more bidets appearing in public restrooms and hotels as well, as businesses recognize the demand for this hygienic and sustainable option. The increasing focus on sustainability and personal hygiene suggests that bidets are not just a passing trend, but a permanent fixture in modern bathrooms.