Bidets! What are they, what are the best bidets, do they come with the toilet or are the part of the toilet seat? In this article we’re reviewing the best toilet seat bidets. Every country and culture is different there are many differences people have when using the toilet.
In North America people rarely use bidets but guess what? People are being converted every day because bidets are awesome and they work better than conventional cleaning methods!
Besides their hi-tech appearance, bidets have many other qualities. For example, they help reduce clogs in the toilet because they require less toilet paper (more TP for drying and less for wiping).
As a result they also conserve toilet paper and save us money in the long run.
Electric bidets also have other perks. They can provide a heated seat and warm water, many provide a feminine wash, and most modern bidets are self cleaning so you don’t have to worry about an unhygienic bidet.
Below we’ll share the basics of bidets and let you know what to look for when choosing the best toilet seat bidet for your family. If you’re already in-the-know with bidets, feel free to skip ahead to our reviews (electric and manual). Let’s get started!
Bidet Overview
You’ve probably heard about bidets before, but maybe you’re not quite sure what they are. As history has it, bidets were an invention of the French in the 1600s.
Prior to bidets people would use whatever they had access to for cleaning themselves after defecating. Leaves or a hand were likely common. Understanding bacterial and disease played a major role in the evolution of the bathroom.
Along with sewage came the opportunity to use more water to wash and remove waste.
These days bidets are common throughout the world. You rarely see bidets in the U.S. but they are becoming more prevalent and accepted.
They are much more common in parts of Europe, the Middle East, South East Asia and Japan. In Japan bidets have become much more than just a “wash”.
Some of the most advanced bidets are a complex technology that takes “wiping” out of the equation.
Types of Bidets
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Bidet Seat
The bidet toilet seat industry has taken off in recent decades. People tend to gravitate towards technology and gadgets. Thus, these bidets have gained popularity.
The bidet toilet seat is an attachment that is easily installed on an existing toilet. The toilet seat commonly offers extras like seat warming, air blowing, and an a remote that can be customized for each user.
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Integrated Bidet (with toilet)
An integrated bidet is a toilet that has a built-in bidet. These were more common in the olden days but still used in many countries. These may require additional plumbing work.
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Classic Bidet (additional plumbing needed bulky)
The classic bidet is still an option in many countries and requires the user to squat over the bidet to clean the bum. The classic bidet is a elongated shape and looks more like a sink than a toilet. It is a separate fixture from the toilet so you don’t deposit waste in the classic bidet.
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Bidet Seat Attachment (basics, non electric)
The bidet seat attachment is the most basic of bidets and requires minimal work for installation. It fits under your existing toilet seat which helps reduce cost.
A bidet seat attachment is not usually electric.
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Shower Bidets
If you travel often you’ve likely seen a shower nozzle next to a toilet and wondered “what is that for”. Shower bidets can be messy – I’ve entered a few bathrooms with shower bidets and encountered water everywhere. They do however, provide a pressurized wash and hook up to your water pipes fairly easily.
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Travel Bidets
Travel bidets are handheld bidets that can fit in a purse. I’ve encountered a few Europeans who travel with these and they do make cleaning much easier after the spray.
Travel bidets are manually filled and not electric. The water can be emptied out of the device after using and stored in a bag or purse after emptying.
Best Bidets Seats – What To Look For
On our list of best bidet seats you find a number of brands offering similar, yet different styles. To ensure you get the best bidet toilet seat you should think about your needs as a buyer and match them with the options below.
To help you out we’ve created a few things to consider when evaluating which bidet is best for you.
Size
We discuss the size of toilets at length on this website and understand that most people don’t realize there are different sizes. Toilets come in various heights (which doesn’t affect a buying decision) and the bowl comes in different sizes. The toilet bowl is extremely important when choosing a toilet seat because they must match.
Most of the bidet toilet seats on our list have options for 1) elongated or 2) round. Keep these to options in mind. If you don’t know what type of toilet bowl you have, take a look at it and you can measure.
Round toilet bowls usually measure about 16 ½ -17 ¾ inches while elongated toilet bowls measure up to 18 – 19 ½ inches.
Color
Do you want a toilet seat that matches your toilet? Most people have a toilet that is white, but occasionally people have black, cream, or grey toilets. We a like all colors but make sure the toilet seat you’re buying will match. A few of the bidet toilet seats on our list have multiple colors but most are white.
Electric or Manual
We prefer electric bidet toilet seats because they are cool! But electric devices aren’t for everyone.
Be sure to check if the toilet seat is electric or manual. Both will require set up but a manual will have a small lever to push. Sometimes simplicity works best!
Technical Know-How
Similar to the electrical consideration you’ll want to evaluate yourself. Do you like technology? Are you fine with using a remote? Most people like learning how to do things but others are set in their ways.
For the electric bidet toilet seat you’ll need to read the directions carefully to make sure you understand how to use the device. Don’t worry this will only take a few minutes.
Outlet or Battery
Does the toilet seat need to be connected to a wall for electricity? Does is need batteries? Most of our electric bidet seats will need both an outlet and batteries. The outlet is necessary for the unit and the batteries are for the remote.
Climate
What type of climate do you live in? If you’re in the South Western U.S. you might not require warm water or a heated seat. But let me be honest, warm water bidets are amazing.
If you live in a region where there are cold winters, or a long spring and autumn, you should go for a bidet that has all the warming options. It may not seem like a big deal but warm water on your bum is way better than cold water.
Installation
How much installation is required? Installing a bidet toilet seat might seem like a hassle but it’s fairly easy.
Many people will worry about the water line and want to call a plumber to do it for them. But don’t do that! The installation is simple and you can do it within a few minutes.
The bidet options on our list are relatively easy to install. You don’t need to be a DIYer, you just need to follow directions. All of the bidets below should be installed within 20 minutes using a few common tools laying around the house.
Warranty
Lastly, you’ll want to check out the bidet warranty. This is more important with electric devices. Some of the bidets on our list have a 3 year warranty while others only have 1 year. Take into consideration the brand reputation because a 1 year warranty from a solid company may be more meaningful than a longer warranty from a lesser known brand.
7 Best Bidet Toilet Seats
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BioBidet – BB2000 – Electric – Warm Water, Self Cleaning, Heating, Nightlight, Remote
BioBidet might not be the most well-known bidet on our list but it’s certainly the most elegant.
It makes a statement with a great looking design and nice curves that blend in well to any toilet. It comes in two colors options a white and beige. This particular bidet toilet seat is for elongated toilets.
Highlights:
- 2 color options
- Stainless steel bidet
- Design fits seamlessly with elongated toilets
- Bidet is self cleaning
- Heated water option (adjustable temp)
- Heated drying option
- Feminine bidet option
- Remote
- 3 Year Warranty
- Nightlight
- Enema function (optional)
Yes, I’m sure you noticed the 3-year warranty. Any doubts you had about the brand or quality should be answered by the company’s guarantee. It makes me trust the company.
With this toilet seat bidet you’re getting the top of the line with all the extras. The digital remote allows you to adjust settings (warm water, feminine wash, and self-cleaning).
The BioBidet doesn’t require too much set-up but you will need batteries for the remote and an outlet for the bidet (check out this BioBidet beauty on Amazon).
Because I’m concerned about hygiene I like that this bidet cleans itself after being used. The stainless steel piece is washed as the motorized piece goes back into the device so you never have to worry about splash transferring from person to person.
Stainless steel is strong and won’t rust with use over time.
This bidet toilet seat won’t inconvenience guests who don’t want to use it. They won’t see the bidet pieces and they can go about their business as usual.
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Toto – Electric Washlet – PreMist
Toto is a Japanese company that makes some of the best toilets in the world. Yep, Toto is reliable and because it’s built by Japanese engineers you can bet they’ve perfected it.
This Washlet toilet seat bidet by Toto isn’t the fanciest bidet on the market but it’s just what you (and I) need. It comes in cotton and white colors and attaches to both elongated or round toilets (just double check which size you need).
This style with buttons on the side is the typical Japanese style – but don’t worry the options are in English and easy to follow. The patented Pre-Mist option allows you to wet your bum before doing the deed so there’s less friction on the way out.
Highlights:
- 2 color option
- 3 foot cord (plug)
- Simple installation of a new toilet seat
- 3 Temperature settings
- 5 pressure settings
- Heated seat
- Auto air deodorizer
- Auto self-cleaning
- 1 year limited warranty
The Toto Washlet Toilet Seat Bidet has many of the same options as our number 1 ranked bidet but at a fraction of the cost. And it comes with a fine reputation.
I like the style, and although it’s nothing fancy or modern it will blend in well with your favorite toilet (check out the Toto Washlet bidet on Amazon).
The cord is only 3 feet long so check your bathroom to make sure there’s adequate space. Because the C100 is fairly simple (no remote) it’s perfect for older users who don’t want the confusion of learning a few remote. It’s also nice for minimalists who don’t want extra parts – everything is on the toilet seat.
The warranty leaves me wanting more, but the brand recognition is enough for me to trust. I don’t like too many buttons so I appreciate there’s not remote. If you like this bidet toilet seat but want the remote you can check out the Toto Washlet C200 (same features just extra remote).
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Brondell Swash – Electric – Sterilization, Warm Water, Warm Air, Nightlight
Brondell electric bidets are arguably the most coveted on our list. This is the top of the line, luxury, and the only reason it’s not number 1 on our list is the price.
If you can afford it, we recommend going with Brondell.
Enamored with the hi-tech toilets he saw in Japan, Dave wondered if it would catch on in the U.S. (like so many other tech products developed by the Japanese).
A few years later, and after investment from none other than Mark Cuban, Brondell has claimed the top spot for luxury bidets (check out the price of Brondell Swash on Amazon).
The team has secured awards from “Electronic Home Health Product of the Year”, “Good Housekeeping VIP Award”, and “Wired Tools Top 100” among others. Don’t believe me, just read the reviews!
The Swash 1400 offers seats in round and elongated sizes and like the other options on our list, they are easy to install. They are specifically designed for North American toilets so don’t worry about having to adapt bidet to fit your toilet (it will fit perfectly).
Highlights:
- Remote
- Nightlight
- Deodorizer
- Endless warm water
- Heating
- Aerated spray
- Gentle close lid
- Spray width adjustment and oscillation
- Stainless steel nozzle and self-cleaning
- 3 year warranty
What’s not to like about this toilet seat bidet? Nothing!
I really like the warranty. 3 years is legit and because it’s a technology investment it’s nice to know they stand by their product. The design is also something to admire.
It’s more than just functional, it looks great, especially at night with the blue nightlight. The bidet nozzles are super thin and stylish, although you won’t see them because they retract.
If you’re not sure about using a bidet give it a try and within a week you’ll be hooked. It may seem messy or strange but like anything, you’ll get used to it and realize how amazing it is at cleaning!
4. BioBidet BB-600 Seat Bidet
BioBidet is yet another well-reviewed and well-liked bidet. It’s a smaller company at a more reasonable price than some of the other electric bidets on our list.
The technology is adequate yet simple with a side panel that removes the need for a remote control.
Highlights:
- Elongated or Round options
- Dual nozzle wash (bum and feminine)
- Adjustable seat and water flow
- Heated water and seat
- Slow close lid
- Warm fan
- Energy saver mode
- 2 year warranty
As you can see, you’re getting most of the features you’ll get in our top reviews. The 2 year warranty is solid and enough to make me a buyer.
The bidet is great for first time users who aren’t confident with using technology because the control panel is simple and next to you – just learn what buttons to push and you’re all set (check Biobidet price on Amazon).
The one thing lacking with this bidet toilet seat is the style and design. Don’t get me wrong it looks fine but it isn’t as sleek as the designer bidets mentioned above.
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American Standard – Aqua Wash Non Electric
Most of you will notice the name American Standard. It’s one of the oldest names in plumbing and likely makes a lot of the products in your bathroom. American Standard is reliable, trustworthy and they stand by their products.
The American Standard bidet is all about simplicity and functionality. If you’re not wanting an electric bidet you’re in luck. This one uses a push lever and you can control the angle and velocity.
Installation is easier due to having not electrical cord and there are only two buttons (one lever and one easy lid removable button).
Highlights:
- Non electric
- Simple installation
- Telescoping lid design
- One button push to remove lid (cleaning purposes)
- Slow close lid
- Inexpensive (good for 1st time user)
Users will likely be pleased with this bidet as it’s easy to use, without the moving parts of digital electronics or excess buttons. Even house guests will figure it out on the first try without having to ask the embarrassing question of “how do I use it” (check out the Aqua Wash on Amazon).
Because it lacks many of the features of other toilets (like heating) the toilet seat has a low profile that blends in better with the toilet.
Reviews are generally pleased with the ease of installation and how it works. The price for the American Standard bidet is reasonable and comes at a discount to other electronic options.
With this bidet you’re getting good performance, not a stylish electronic bidet that will impress family and friends. The company offers a 1 year limited warranty, but because it’s a reputable company you can feel comfortable making a purchase.
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Kohler – Manual Bidet Seat
For a manual toilet seat bidet, Kohler did a good job with engineering. It looks great and the handle provides control for water and direction. A simple push on the handle can direct the spray in the area you desire.
Similar to the American Standard bidet, Kohler offers this non-electric bidet for minimalists. You’ll notice the rear sits a little higher than the American Standard (for this reason I prefer the American Standard).
If you have kids you’ll need to teach them not to pull or push on the handle as it could damage the product (or spray water all over). The seat comes in 2 colors and fits on elongated or round toilets (make sure to choose which size toilet you have).
Highlights:
- 2 colors (white and biscuit)
- No batteries or electricity needed
- One handle – easy to learn and use
- Controlled direction (with handle)
- Self-cleaning
- Soft close lid
I really like the minimalist yet functional look. It’s stylish for a simple bidet. I also like that the water intensity and direction is controllable using the handle (some people are different sizes – one spray doesn’t fit all). Check out Kohler’s bidet on Amazon.
The learning curve is simple and if you can handle cool water then you’ll love this option. With this small investment you’ll save a lot of money on toilet paper and walk away from the bathroom much cleaner than before. This video below shares more info on Kohler bidets.
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GenieBidet – Self Cleaning Non Electric – Rear and Feminine
The GenieBidet is another option for your bidet toilet seat. It’s a brand that isn’t well-known, however it has over 1000 positive reviews so we had to include it on our list (so many positive reviews is really impressive)!
This is another non-electric bidet that only attaches to the water line. Installation is simple and takes 20 minutes max.
There are actually 2 nozzles, one for the bum and one for feminine cleaning. You won’t get a heated seat or heated water with this bidet but it’s a great option for the price (check out GenieBidet on Amazon).
Highlights:
- Easy installation
- Non-electric
- Simple 1 lever control for water and direction
- 1 color – white
- 2 sprays (bum and feminine)
The GenieBidet has a 1 year warranty but because the product is simple, you probably won’t have any issues. I really like the sleek design and how thin it is compared to other electric options.
It looks like a regular toilet seat minuse the lever and water attachment on the right side. Some toilets guest might not even notice there’s a bidet.
Pros and Cons Of Bidets
Americans often believe that bidets make a mess and spread germs. However, the opposite is actually true.
If used properly, bidets can be a cleaner, more hygienic option for cleaning oneself. It’s also softer on the skin than sandpaper-like toilet paper. Let’s take a closer look at the pros and cons of bidets.
Pros
- Improved Cleanliness (better overall clean)
- Less Toilet Paper
- Financial Savings (TP and clogs)
- Moisturizes Skin
- Fewer Clogs (due to less TP)
Cons
- Can Be Messy (with water)
- Shower Bidets can spread germs
- Handling bidets can spread germs around the toilet
- Can be more expensive than regular toilet
- Must be installed (sometimes simple, sometimes complex)
- Learning curve (short but takes time to master)
Why Aren’t Bidets Popular In The U.S?
So why aren’t bidets popular in the U.S. As with any culture, people get comfortable doing things a certain way. Once a norm has been created it’s really hard to change.
For now, Americans prefer rubbing toilet paper against their bottoms. If done too much it can rub off the skin. Although we’ve become used to it, wiping isn’t necessary the most sanitary action.
A little moisture when cleaning oneself can go a long way and make the area much cleaner.
Believe it or not, bidets are becoming more popular. Swanky hotels and residences usually have the option for a bidet even if most people don’t use them. Sure you still won’t find a bidet at a public bathroom but bidets are better used at home where it’s more comfortable.
Conclusion
Bidets! Most people have joked about them, but few Americans have ever used one. If you’re brave enough to give it a try, you will learn to love it.
Contrary to popular belief, a nice toilet seat bidet isn’t messy and it’s extremely hygienic.
The best toilet seat bidets that we mentioned on our list are stylish, functional, and discrete. This means guests and kids don’t have to use it.
Why should you use a toilet seat bidet? As we mentioned they’re hygienic but they also save toilet paper and reducing “rubbing” that can harm our bum.
Some people believe that installation is a hassle. This isn’t true. Installation takes a few minutes to attach the water line and find an outlet (for electric options).
Our best electric toilet seat bidets were:
- BioBidet
- Toto
- Brondell
- BioBidet
Our best manual toilet seat bidets were:
- American Standard
- Kohler
- GenieBidet
We hope you found a bidet that serves you and your family well. It wasn’t until I went to Japan to realize how amazing bidets were and ever since then I’ve been hooked. I hope this article helps you discover the awesomeness of bidets without having to travel long distances.
Thanks for reading and be sure to check out other articles on Toilet Travels.