What is a Bidet, exactly? Bidets are plumbing fixtures that are not as well known or installed as often in bathrooms in the United States.
In a way, bidets are a bit of a luxury because they are installed next to the toilet and allow the user to wash the private areas of the body instead of using toilet paper. The fixture looks a little bit like a mini toilet, but it is a basin used for washing.
Bidets actually have a long history. They originated in France in the early 18th century at a time when people did not have the luxury of bathing regularly. The French word “bidet” translates to “tiny horse” in English, describing how users straddle the devices.
Today, they are seen and used more often in European countries. Many people, while traveling in Europe, do not realize what bidets are used for and mistakenly think these fixtures are for washing your feet.
One of the nice features of a bidet is that the water temperature can be regulated so that one is washed with warm water. Also, the force of the water spray can be adjusted.
There are two different styles of sprayers: One has a device on it that looks a little bit like a faucet that swivels at the end, and the other style has a fountain-like sprayer located in the bottom that shoots the water straight up.
There is a newer product in this country now that can be installed directly on the existing toilet instead of having the bidet as a separate fixture. Several manufacturers have designed a product that can be attached to the toilet as a seat.
But it is a larger toilet seat with a device attached that functions as a bidet. The device does offer heated water by plugging it into an adjacent electrical outlet. They also make models that do not have to be plugged in where you use cold water or pipe the hot water over from your vanity.
If you have any questions, are looking to have a bidet installed in your home, or are just looking for a quality plumber in the St. Paul and Minneapolis metro area, give St Paul Pipeworks a call today.
Yours Truly,
Matthew Dettwiler
Social Media Manager
FAQs About Bidets
Q: What is a bidet, and how does it work?
A: A bidet is a plumbing fixture often installed next to the toilet. It’s designed for personal hygiene, allowing users to clean their private areas with water instead of using toilet paper. There are two main styles of bidets: one with a swiveling faucet-like sprayer and another with a fountain-like sprayer located at the bottom.
Q: Why are bidets considered a luxury in the United States?
A: Bidets are considered a luxury in the United States because they are not as commonly installed in bathrooms compared to other countries. Their installation and use have historically been less widespread, making them seem like an extravagant addition to a bathroom.
Q: What is the history behind bidets?
A: Bidets have a long history, originating in France in the early 18th century. They were initially developed during a time when regular bathing was not common, and the name “bidet” is derived from the French word for “tiny horse” because users straddle the device while using it.
Q: Are bidets only found in Europe?
A: While bidets are more commonly found and used in European countries, they can be found in other parts of the world as well. However, they are not as prevalent in the United States. When traveling in Europe, some people may mistakenly think bidets are meant for washing feet due to their unfamiliarity with the fixtures.
Q: Can I regulate the water temperature and pressure on a bidet?
A: Yes, one of the advantages of bidets is that you can adjust the water temperature and pressure to your preference. Some bidet models offer warm water, which can be heated by plugging the device into an electrical outlet. Others can use cold water or redirect hot water from your bathroom vanity, providing flexibility in water temperature options.
