The Science Behind Bidets and How They Improve Hygiene and Health

If you’re still using toilet paper alone, let’s talk science because there’s a good chance you’re missing out on a far superior way to clean yourself. A bidet is a bathroom upgrade that has actually been around for centuries in Asia and Europe, but is only now gaining mainstream acceptance in the U.S. While some still scoff at the idea of rinsing instead of wiping, the science behind bidets proves they’re not just about luxury; they’re about better hygiene, improved health, and even a positive environmental impact.

How Bidets Actually Work (A Crash Course in Bathroom Physics)

A bidet is essentially a targeted water jet designed to clean your butt(and the rest of your undercarriage for our female readers) after you use the toilet. There are several types, including standalone bidets, bidet toilet seat attachments(such as Fanny bidets), and handheld bidet sprayers. Some high-end models even come with temperature control, air drying, and deodorizers, because who doesn’t want a spa experience on the toilet?

The key to a bidet’s effectiveness is the science of water flow. Instead of relying on friction (as with toilet paper), a bidet uses pressurized water to remove waste gently and efficiently. Think about it this way: if you got mud on your hands, would you just wipe it off with a dry paper towel? Nope! You’d wash it with water. The same logic applies to personal hygiene.

The Hygiene Factor: Why Water is Superior to Paper

One of the biggest selling points of a bidet is hygiene. Here’s why:

• More Thorough Cleaning: Toilet paper only removes about 60% of fecal matter at best, while a bidet can remove nearly 100% by effectively rinsing the area.
• Reduced Bacterial Spread: Numerous studies have found that wiping can spread bacteria to your hands, which then travel to everything you touch. Water eliminates this risk as you never come into contact with your fecal matter. We've all had that dreaded moment in our lives when we are wiping and a finger breaks through the toilet paper sheets. Bidets virtually eliminate this risk. 
• Less Irritation and Residue: Paper can leave microscopic bits behind (yes, gross), and rough or scented toilet paper can cause rashes, irritation, and even microtears in sensitive skin. Bidets prevent this.
• Better for Women’s Health: Bidets are a game-changer for women, especially during menstruation or pregnancy. They provide a gentle yet effective cleanse, reducing the risk of infections like UTIs (urinary tract infections).

Health Benefits of Using a Bidet

Beyond basic hygiene, using a bidet has a surprising number of health benefits. Here’s how switching to water can improve your well-being:

1. Fewer Hemorrhoids and Less Irritation

Hemorrhoids (swollen veins in the rectal area) are often caused by excessive straining and wiping. Using toilet paper, especially the cheap, scratchy kind, can make things worse. Bidets, on the other hand, are gentle on the skin, reducing irritation and promoting healing. Recent studies have found that warm water bidets, such as a Fanny Hotshot bidet, significantly reduced symptoms for hemorrhoid sufferers, offering relief without the need for medication.

2. Prevention of Infections

Women are particularly prone to UTIs and yeast infections, and using a bidet can significantly reduce the risk. Why? Because water cleans more effectively than wiping, ensuring that bacteria like E. coli don’t stick around or aren't spread to places they shouldn't be. There are studies that have shown that women who use bidets regularly, have fewer cases of bacterial vaginosis compared to those who only used toilet paper. Cleaner equals healthier!

3. Easier for People with Mobility Issues

For individuals with arthritis, disabilities, or limited mobility, wiping can be a challenge. A bidet eliminates the need for reaching, twisting, and excessive movement. In fact, many doctors recommend bidets for elderly patients or those recovering from surgery to maintain proper hygiene without straining.

4. Better Postpartum Care

For new mothers, bidets can be a lifesaver. After childbirth, the perineal area is often sore and sensitive, and wiping can be downright painful. A gentle stream of water helps with cleansing and soothing discomfort, promoting faster healing and reducing infection risk.

5. Improved Bowel Movements

Some advanced bidets have enema functions that can stimulate bowel movements, making them a natural solution for constipation. Warm water relaxes the muscles, encouraging smoother elimination without the need for laxatives.

Environmental Benefits: Saving the Planet, One Rinse at a Time

If hygiene and health benefits aren’t enough to convince you, let’s talk about the environmental impact of bidets vs. toilet paper.

• The average American uses 100-150 rolls of toilet paper per year: That’s over 30 pounds of paper per person, contributing to deforestation.
• Toilet paper production wastes water: You might think bidets use more water, but it actually takes 37 gallons of water to produce ONE roll of toilet paper, while a bidet only uses about 1/8th of a gallon per use.
• Less waste, less pollution: Fewer paper products mean less strain on sewage systems and landfills. Countries that widely use bidets (like Japan and Italy) have significantly lower toilet-related waste issues.

Switching to a Fanny bidets can dramatically reduce paper consumption, lowering your carbon footprint and saving trees. And let’s be real, who really enjoys the stress of hunting for toilet paper, especially during a shortage or when you forgot to pick some up at the store and are all out.

Common Myths About Bidets (And Why They’re Wrong)

Still hesitant? Let’s bust some bidet myths.

1. “Bidets Are Unhygienic” ❌ FALSE!
Bidets are far cleaner than toilet paper. Many models even have self-cleaning nozzles to prevent contamination.

2. “Bidets Are Expensive” ❌ FALSE!
While luxury models exist, you can get a basic bidet attachment without having to break the bank and it pays for itself in toilet paper savings within months.

3. “Bidets Are Only for Women” ❌ FALSE!
Bidets are for everyone! Men, women, kids, anyone who wants a cleaner, healthier bathroom experience can benefit.

4. “It Will Be Too Cold!” ❌ FALSE!
Many bidets have temperature control, allowing you to enjoy a warm and comfortable cleanse.

Should You Make the Switch?

The science is clear: bidets are cleaner, healthier, and better for the environment than toilet paper. They reduce bacterial spread, improve skin health, prevent infections, and provide relief for conditions like hemorrhoids and constipation. Plus, they help save trees and water, making them an eco-friendly choice.

If you’re still on the fence, consider this: Once you start using a Fanny bidets, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without one. Your skin will thank you, your wallet will thank you, and, most importantly, your butt will thank you.

It's time to upgrade to a Fanny bidet!