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Bidet Toilet Seats – A Comprehensive & Quick Buying Guide
The Best Bidet Toilet Seats, Your Budget, And Your Expectations
Whether it is just a bidet attachment or a full-featured high-end bidet toilet seat, there is no lack of choices out there. From as little as $30 to over a thousand dollars, across all brands, you will be spoilt for choice. It’s a matter of finding one within your budget and serve your needs well.
But that’s easier said than done. When you begin your research, you are likely to be overwhelmed by the endless options and the contradicting reviews you came across. So if this is your first attempt at choosing a bidet seat, the best thing to do is set your preferences first. Identify which are the features that are must-have and good-to-have, versus how much you are willing to spend.
So whether it is for hygiene or a health condition, or simply for the convenience and comfort that a bidet seat offers, there is always one for you. And you will find that choosing a bidet toilet seat is pretty straightforward when you know the features and benefits of the various bidet type.
Let’s begin.
Most Postive Reviews Among Others
Have you noticed the phenomenon? The bidet toilet seat arena on Amazon seem to attract a lot of stars – high star rating that is. From the manual type to the electric models, at least a 4 stars on average and the reviews are in good numbers too. That is not something you often see on Amazon for sure. Is it because they are all good? That certainly is counter-intuitive when you are looking for a clear winner, isn’t it? Perhaps it’s a testament to how life-changing these products can be, as customers seem genuinely satisfied regardless of the brand or model. However, this abundance of glowing reviews makes it even more challenging to identify the best bidet toilet seats amidst a sea of contenders. It’s a curious mix of overwhelming choices and surprising consistency in quality that keeps shoppers on their toes.
So to understand the rationale behind those high ratings, let’s regress a little to those days when Americans are still not receptive to the idea of using the bidet. Which is that oval basin next to the toilet where you clean up after the ‘business’. The reasons are multifaceted, but we are not going to discuss them here.
In 1990, TOTO introduced its first washlet to America. That’s when Americans got their first glimpse of what a modern bidet toilet seat looks like and how it functions. So does that revolutionalized Americans’ toileting habit from then on?
Not until recently. And it is only beginning to gain traction. Which means more and more people in the country are experiencing the bidet seat for the first time. And judging by the high number of positive reviews, they love it. Obviously.
It will take a while before the market matures. That’s when people are more experienced with the product and expectations have grown higher. Only then, set by user experiences, will the good, the bad, and the mediocre begin to surface.
So how do you choose the best bidet toilet seat when it’s like everyone is telling you theirs is the best? Read on, and you will find your ideal bidet seat in minutes.
Bidet Types & Price Range
The most expensive types are the electric bidet seats. That’s where you can find most of the intermediate and advanced models in this category. Prices can range from $200 to above a thousand buck. If you want more than just basic features, this is where you should look.
Features like a heated seat, air dryer, adjustable temperatures, and deodorizer are common among these higher end bidet seats. The difference is in the hygiene department and the way you can adjust and program the spray functions. In short, if you are looking for comfort, convenience, and hygiene, this is the right place to start.
Then there are the non-electric bidet seats and bidet attachments. Usually goes below $100, they provide the basic bidet functions for regular use. They are powered by water pressure, so the least you should be concerned with is the water pressure in your house. You’ve got to make sure you have the minimum water power to work these non-electric bidet toilet seats. Normal pressure for households should be around 45 to 55 psi.
The advantage of these water-powered bidets is they are not affected by a power failure. As long as the water supply didn’t fail, you can continue to enjoy the wash. They are simple to install and easy to clean and maintain.
And if you are just trying out, these low-cost bidet seats or attachments are perfect for experiencing what it’s like to ‘wipe’ your nether region with water. (more about the non-electric bidet seats & attachments later)
Feature Rich Electric Bidet Seats
Compared to the non-electric or manual bidet, the electric bidet seats have more features that offer better hygiene, comfort, and convenience. It all depends on your budget, the price scales with the type of features, ease of operation and wash quality.
So to help determine the type of features you would prefer, it is important that you understand how they work and benefit you. And to make it easier for you, the features are group into Standard, Intermediate, and Advanced.
Let’s begin with the Standard or Basic features that a typical electric bidet seat will come equipped regardless of low-cost, intermediate or the top-end models.
Standard Features
- Self-Cleaning Nozzle (or Wand)
- Heated Seat With Temperature Control
- Water With Pressure And Temperature Control
- Air Dryer With Pressure And Temperature Control
- Power Saving
Self-Cleaning Nozzle (or Wand) Standard Features
The Nozzle is the most critical part of any bidet seat. It is generally made of stainless steel or plastic, or a combination of both. But stainless steel nozzle is always perceived as more durable and hygienic. The plastic nozzles which are common with Japanese bidet seats are made of high-quality plastic material and are usually made to be antimicrobial for hygiene purpose.
Most bidet will have either one or two nozzles for a posterior and anterior wash. Regardless, the nozzle position is adjustable for better reach. And the nozzle tip (or nozzle head) is designed to provide the spray angle for different wash mode. Typically, it comes with a wide spray and a standard spray for both rear and front washing. A wide spray will be more suitable, or rather it is meant for the ladies.
Whether it is stainless steel or plastic, the nozzle seldom requires replacement. Some models will have a detachable nozzle tip which you can replace periodically. This removable nozzle tip is good for those models that don’t have the self-sanitizing feature.
All bidet seats should have a self-cleaning function for the nozzles. The more advanced models will incorporate sanitizing function as well to keep the nozzle sterilized with every use.
Heated Seat With Temperature Control Standard Features
The heated seat is a great advantage of the electric-powered bidet seats. You will appreciate this feature the most if you are living in one of the snow states. Especially during those winter months, the nice warm seat is like hot cocoa for your freezing butt.
The seat surface temperature is adjustable with a range of about 80˚F to 100˚F. Typically the adjustment comes in 3 or 4 temperature settings for you to select. Or you can switch it off when you don’t need it.
This heated seat feature is one of the reasons people are dumping their manual bidet for an electric model. But the main reason is in the next function.
Water With Pressure And Temperature Control Standard Features
Using the facility during the chilling weather will never be the same with the warm water feature. Though you can still pipe in hot water with a non-electric model, you won’t experience the same convenience. Besides, the cost of running a hot water line to feed a manual bidet seat makes the overall installation expensive.
You are better off getting an electric bidet seat that provides both the heated seat and warm water. Even a low-end model, which cost under $200 can offer you the best of both worlds.
And together with the wash functions, the warm water feature offers a spa-like experience. Similar to the heated seat, you can change the water temperature via the control panel or remote control which usually comes with a 3 pre-set temperature level from 90°F to 104°F. And unlike pipe-in hot water, which needs time to heat up, you get instant warmth.
Besides temperature, the water pressure or volume is also adjustable according to your preference. Sometimes when you need that extra blast to feel clean, you have it. Other times you may want a softer spray when you have a condition like hemorrhoid.
Air Dryer With Pressure And Temperature Control Standard Features
Another clear advantage of the electric bidet seat is the air dryer feature. The finale is an entirely hands-off experience, so no paper is needed to wipe dry. But not all bidet seats come with this feature, especially with the lower price models.
The variation here is a mix of temperature and pressure control. Some models provide warm air with selectable pressure, and some let you choose the temperature with a fixed pressure output. The latter is the most common with a selectable temperature range from 90°F to 104°F.
Though not a must-have feature but it would be nice when you are caught with an empty roll. And yes, it’s still good to have a toilet roll within reach in case of an emergency, like a power failure.
So is this a must-have feature for you? By just touching buttons, you came in dry (not always) and left dry and clean.
Power Saving Standard Features
The power rating of a bidet seat ranges from 300W to 1300W. The most common rating average around 900W to 1000W. But these are maximum power rating, which you will never get to operate at such a high power level on every minute of the day.
Even with the seat and water temperature set to the highest, at most you are using about 80% of the maximum rating. But still, the power consumption can be substantial if the power saving mode is not turned on.
Every electric bidet seat should have this power saving feature. The more advanced models will have smart usage learning capability to manage power consumption. The low-cost model typically uses timer control to tone down the heater minutes after the last user.
But not to worry, you won’t notice any difference in electricity consumption. You will probably see a slight increase during the cold seasons when you need to keep the seat warm throughout the day. Just remember to turn on the power saving mode to keep the energy consumption to the minimum.
Intermediate Features
Air Deodorizer Intermediate Features
For most users, this is a good-to-have feature. But if the restroom is lack of proper ventilation, like one underneath the stairs or a converted windowless storeroom, it becomes a must-have.
The built-in air deodorizer consists of a small fan unit which sucks in air through an active carbon filter removing unpleasant odor in the process. And because inside the bowl is a small and butt-covered space, the deodorizing is highly effective.
But the effectiveness of the carbon filter will last until it is saturated. That’s when it loses the ability to remove odor. So to maintain an odorless restroom, you need to replace the filter about every 6 months. And usually the filter is in cartridge form, so that makes it easy to change, and it is not expensive.
Most bidet seat deodorizer doesn’t work continuously. You need to press a button, then the deodorizing runs for a minute or 2 and stop. You can activate on demand repeatedly through the side control panel or via the remote control.
Of course, there is also the automatic deodorizer which will run the moment you sit on the bidet seat. While you are on the seat, whether it’s manual or auto-activation, you should still be able to turn on or off the air deodorizer.
Multiple Spray Mode Intermediate Features
This feature is what most people will look at first when shopping for a bidet toilet seat. Or rather, people who own a bidet seat now or previously. They know everything boils down to the wash ultimately.
The intermediate and advanced range will have more elaborate spray washing. But the 2 most common wash is the oscillating and pulsating wash. The former is having the nozzle move back and forth for a more thorough cleansing. While the latter is a water pulse feature which pulsates the water stream for a massaging effect. And a softer front wash for the ladies which provides a wider angle spray.
However, with mounting competition, new and better wash functions can be seen in newer bidet seat models. You will see terms like an aerated wash, enema wash, turbo or vortex wash, and whatever. These are nice-to-have features which are usually found in the intermediate and advanced models. But they are not necessarily more expensive than those that provide the oscillating and pulsating wash.
Some folks deemed the newer wash mode, like the enema wash as more effective and make them feel cleaner. They claimed the spiraling spray has a massaging effect which helps with a better bowel movement. Not a bad idea and it might come in handy when you had constipation.
Whatever the wash features are, they all provide a decent level of cleanliness and hygiene. As for comfort, it’s only a matter of personal preference.
Feminine Wash Mode Intermediate Features
Almost all electric bidet seats will have this feminine wash feature. But please take note of the keyword ‘Almost’. Not implying that there are bidet seats that don’t come with the feminine wash features, but rather how refined is the wash.
The lower end models will usually state the wash function as “Front and Rear wash modes”. There is nothing wrong with that statement. But if it doesn’t mention anything about spray width, do they mean it will be the same spray mode for both posterior and anterior wash only at a different position?
For ladies, the wide angle spray is a better anterior wash mode. It is gentle on the skin and covers a wider area for a thorough cleanse. So you may want to pay a little attention to this detail when choosing a bidet toilet seat.
The intermediate and high-end models will let you have more control over the front-wash mode. Usually, you will have the option of a normal spray and a wide angle spray. Some models even have a selection of spray widths and more nozzle positions.
Night Light Intermediate Features
Another good-to-have feature to provide you with the convenience of using the toilet in the dark. Available mostly in the mid to high-end range models.
You have the flexibility to turn on and off this night light feature on the side control panel or via the remote control. Once turned on, the light will auto-activate either by a motion or light sensor (depending on the make and model). The latter will depend on how dark the surrounding is and stay illuminated till brightness takes over.
Again, it will depend on your preference. Do you need the light to turn-on throughout the night, or only when you need to use the facility? They are usually LED lights which consume very little energy. So as far as power consumption is concerned, it hardly moves the needle.
The benefit it offers is when nature calls urgently in the wee hours, you don’t have to fumble with the light switch while still in a sleepy state. They are bright enough for you to move about safely in the bathroom. It won’t be anything like the room light that’s blinding when they are turned on suddenly.
Remote Control Intermediate Features
From the intermediate range onwards, you will have a remote control instead of a side control panel. The advantage of the remote control is the freedom and flexibility you get in operating the bidet seat.
And all models will have a little side panel which provides the necessary front and rear wash control but without the adjustment. This little add-on control is a backup in case the remote ran low on battery, or it was misplaced.
The remote control is central to all the adjustment like water and air temperature, pressure, ON/OFF the deodorizer and more. Some will even incorporate multi-user settings which are a common feature of the advanced models.
Advanced Features
- Self-Sterilizing Nozzle And Bowl
- Auto Open And Close Seat
- Concealed Water And Power Connections
- More Spray Functions
Self-Sterilizing Nozzle And Bowl Advanced Features
Are bidet seats sanitary? When hygiene becomes a top priority in your search for a bidet toilet seat, this question inevitably comes to mind. But just how sanitary can you get with a bidet seat?
As much as you wanted if you have the budget for the ultimate model that offers unprecedented cleanliness and hygiene. In most of the high-end bidet seats, this self-sterilizing feature only focuses on the nozzle. Different methods are used to keep the nozzle sanitized as it self-cleans.
The 2 most common method is the use of electrolyzed water and silver ions. The former has the same sanitizing effect as household bleach, while the latter is capable of inhibiting the growth or reproduction of bacteria. Both methods work fine to keep the nozzle clean and free of microorganism with every wash.
But if that doesn’t satisfy your unparalleled hygiene standard, there is TOTO with an additional bowl sanitizing feature which keeps the bowl sanitized round the clock.
The TOTO washlet uses electrolyzed water to pre-mist the bowl in an 8 hours cycle when nobody is using the toilet. This will keep the bowl and nozzle sanitized without you lifting a finger. And you’ll find yourself having to clean the bowl less often than before.
Auto Open And Close Seat Advanced Features
This feature is rare even among the high-end models. The only 2 brands, as it seems, that offer the auto open and close lid is TOTO and Kohler (Novita). So is this good to have? Not when you have a special person in the family who may struggle even with a task like lifting the toilet lid. Then it’s a must-have feature.
Besides convenience, the hands-free lifting and closing of the seat and lid is an excellent hygiene feature. At the very least, you don’t have to grapple with the men in the house to put the seat down every time.
Operated by a sensor, the lid opens when you approach the toilet, and the seat is usually lifted with the remote control. After you have finished and walked away, the lid (and seat) will close some minutes or seconds later. The TOTO models even let you select the timing to close the seat and cover. And you can also set to automatically open and close only the lid; perfect for a stay-alone female user.
Concealed Water And Power Connections Advanced Features
Though this feature has got nothing to do with the performance of the bidet seat, it does present two benefits. The first is, of course, aesthetic wise. After splurging a significant amount on the bathroom decor, concealing all the wiring and piping, why would you allow an eyesore like the water hose or power cable to be visible?
But to hide them entirely out of sight is almost impossible. At best, the connections are better organized for a neater look. After all the water supply valve still needs to be accessible, therefore it can’t be hidden completely. Even for a wall hung toilet, you will still need an exposed shut-off valve next to the toilet for the bidet seat.
Unless it is an integrated wall-hung system whereby the bidet and toilet are built as one, then you can hide all the supply connections behind walls. Grohe Sensia Arena and TOTO Neorest EW Washlet are examples of such a system.
The other benefit is protection. When there is electricity, there will be safety issues if an installation is not done properly. Although there is no real danger with an exposed cable in a bidet seat installation, concealing it will eliminate all possibilities. Making the bidet seat even safer for the little rascals who may be playing around it while you are busy.
More Spray Functions Advanced Features
More options mean more ways to enjoy the wash. That’s the advantage of having a premier class bidet toilet seat. And nobody will reject the flexibility and freedom to choose. But the flip side is more touches on the remote control buttons to get the desired wash. To the technophobes, this can be a turn-off as the control will need some orientation and getting-used-to.
But for the majority of users, there is hardly a learning curve to scale. The remote control is usually well labeled with text and the respective easy-to-understand icons. And most of the advanced models will have an LCD screen to help with the various settings on the remote control.
Pioneered by TOTO, the oscillating and pulsating spray are the two most common wash mode. And there should also be a wide and softer feminine spray. All these are standard wash modes among the high-end bidet seat models. Generally, and whatever names were given to the wash, it all boils down to two effects, that is cleanse and massage. And whichever wash mode you are on; you can always adjust the water temperature and pressure on demand.
And if you are not picky about how you want your rear pampered, some models have a one-touch easy wash button where the factory presets the spray mode. It will run through a wash cycle without any more actions from you. Pretty convenient for the elderly who may fumble with too many buttons on the remote control.
Or if you prefer, you can preset your desired wash using the user setting. You can adjust to your liking the nozzle position, water temperature, pressure, and spray mode. Once set, you only need to hit the user button and let the bidet complete the cleansing cycle of your choice. There are usually two users preset. So in total, you will have three preset one-touch buttons for your selection.
Going Tank Or Tankless Or Both?
This feature may not be the most important, but you should know the difference if you are looking to save on energy or to enjoy a longer and uninterrupted wash. The concept is very similar to the water heater, be it the storage tank type or the tankless instant water heater. Both have their advantages and disadvantages. You will have to decide which is more suitable for you and your family. Just like how you have decided on the type of water heater for your home (including price consideration).
Tank Type Bidet Seat
Some bidet seats use a small holding tank where water is pre-heated and kept warm. The advantage of this is, of course, you get instant warm water as long as there is water inside the tank. The downside is when the water is depleted, and you are still not done with the washing, you will start to receive cold water.
Usually, the tank will hold enough water for a 30 to 45 seconds wash each time. This water capacity is often enough to last you through even with a little-extended wash. After that, it can take up to about 3 to 5 minutes before the water is ready to be used again. So in between that period, the water will be cold to lukewarm. Still not too bad considering the interval between normal uses.
And if you have the energy saving mode turned on, the initial spray might not be warm enough. This is to be expected since the power has been tone down when nobody is using it. But the water won’t be icy cold, and it’ll take about 2 or 3 seconds before nice warm water resumed.
You can easily tell if the bidet seat is a tank type by its high back appearance. The additional height is to accommodate the storage tank and pump within the seat. Usually, it’s about 6 inches in height, which is twice that of a tankless type. And the clear advantage you get out of such a bidet seat is a higher water pressure produced by the inbuilt pump.
If you can’t trust the high back to be a tank type bidet seat, the surest giveaway is the lower power rating. All tank type bidet has a power consumption rated at around 600W max., versus 1100W to 1400W of the tankless seat. Does that resemble those water heaters mentioned earlier?
Of course, the downside is energy will be consumed continuously as long as the heater has been turned on. Which is the reason the energy saving feature will never be an option for such type of bidet seat.
Tankless Bidet Seat
If you prefer a sleeker look of a tankless bidet seat, you will also love the continuous warm water wash it offers. Using a proven reliable ceramic heating system, water can be heated up in a matter of seconds and will continue to deliver warm water as long as the heater mode is turned on.
The working principle is simple. In order to deliver instant warm water, high heat has to be produced fast by the heater and remain at a high temperature. To achieve this, a power equivalent to at least 1000W is applied to the ceramic heater which will then heat up the water that passes through the heater element. The heating process is almost instantaneous resulting in a sudden surge in water temperature.
And it may look as if it consumes a lot of energy, but in fact, it is more energy efficient than the tank type bidet. That’s because it only operates at the time of need, so it doesn’t have to be turned on all the time. You can do the math between having a 500W heater running all day versus a blast of 1200W for 30 seconds. Pretty common sense stuff.
The advantage of such a bidet seat is you do not have to wait for several minutes to get the water heated up, and you can enjoy an unrestricted supply of warm water. And the water temperature will maintain at your selected level till you are done with the washing, however long it takes.
But, though it is so called instant heating, you may still get unheated water at the start of the wash. For most people, this is no bother at all, because that 1 or 2 seconds of chill is quickly met with a steady stream of nice warm water.
These tankless bidet seats are often promoted as “instant water heating”, “continuous wash”, “slim line design”, or simply as having a “ceramic heating system”. If you saw such phrases in the feature list, you know you are looking at a tankless bidet seat. But don’t depend on the hypes, the giveaway is always the power rating. So be sure to read the specification first before deciding.
The drawback is the lower water pressure it provides because there isn’t a pump in it to boost spraying power. Even though, the pressure is still good to give a clean and comfortable wash. And price wise, these tankless bidet seats cost more than the tank type seats.
Advantage | Disadvantage | |
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Tank |
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Tankless |
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Best Of Both Worlds
Whenever there are two schools of thoughts, there will always emerge a new idea that serves to bridge the best of both worlds. So if neither the tank nor tankless bidet seats appeal to you for their downsides, perhaps the hybrid water heating system might change your mind.
It has the characteristic of both the tank and instant heating system which uses the ceramic heater element. You can imagine the upsides it brings about. The first advantage is, like the tank system, it has a pump. So there is no compromise on the water pressure. And since it uses the ceramic heater, you get instant heating of water. But of course, it will also spot a high power rating like the tankless models.
The hybrid system uses a small tank to hold some warm water ready to serve you. So when water leaves the tank, new water fills in and at the same time it gets heated up instantly. This process will go on until you are done with the washing. Therefore, you won’t have to put up with even one second of unheated water throughout the wash duration.
And of course, there is no worry about running out of warm water. You can spray continuously for 5, 10 or even 15 minutes and you still get warm water. Just like the tankless bidet, the heating is on demand, so no energy is consumed by the heater when you are not using the bidet. The only drawback is, it is the most expensive among the 3 heating systems.
Don’t Skip This Important Step Before Your Purchase
Now that you have an overall feel of the features, you may be starting to look for a bidet seat. But before you hit the buy button, please get this step right, or you may stand to ruin your day when the bidet arrives.
First, you need to check the distance between the 2 mounting holes. For most toilets, the distance is 5-1/2″. But don’t assume yours will be the same. Use a measuring tape to confirm the length, and if the measurement falls within the stipulated range by the manufacturer, the bidet can be fitted on your toilet.
A bidet seat comes in two sizes, or rather, shapes to match your toilet bowl. So the next step is to check if your toilet bowl shape is elongated or round, and there’s an easy way to verify. The image below shows the typical dimension range of both the elongated and round toilet bowl.
Whatever dimension you obtain from your toilet, check if they are within the range of the respective bowl size. You will find that it either falls within the elongated or round bowl. Choose the correct bowl shape to select the right bidet seat.
Again, do not assume the bowl shape with visual cues. It is possible for an apparent round bowl to have the same length as the elongated bowl. Especially those with a round front. If that’s the case, you will have to select the elongated bidet seat models. Always use the actual dimension of your toilet bowl to determine if you should choose an elongated bidet seat or a round one.
Different brands will have a slightly different dimension range on the bowl shape. To be safe, use the respective brand’s specification to determine the correct bidet seat size and shape. For example, if you intend to get a Brondell bidet, it makes sense only to use the measurement from Brondell. Every bidet manufacturer should have this information online. Or at least they should be able to advise you through the phone when queried.
And one more step before you hit ‘Pay Now’. There is a minimum clearance distance between the tank and the bolt holes. Usually, a 1-1/2″ to 2″ clearance is good enough. But if in doubt, always clarify with the manufacturer in the first instance.
The minimum clearance is not an issue for most two-piece toilets. But if you have a one-piece toilet, then you need to pay attention to how the tank is joined to the bowl. If the tank has a French curve joining the bowl like the KOHLER San Raphael toilet, you may have difficulty finding a bidet that can fit on it. In any case, the minimum clearance must only be on flat surfaces. Look at the image below; you get the idea.
Setting Up The Installation
If this is your first time buying an electric bidet toilet seat, you probably haven’t got a power outlet installed. So get it installed first before even unpacking your new bidet. And if you are not a trained electrician, do not attempt to carry out any of the work. Let the pro do it.
The main thing to take note is where to position the electric outlet. A simple rule of thumb is to place the outlet away from any water source such as the water supply valve. Or away from the vanity top if the toilet is just beside. Always remember, electricity and water don’t mix.
But that’s not always possible especially when the toilet is located between the vanity top and a bathtub. If that’s the case, you can use an outdoor receptacle protector. That will protect the outlet from any incident of water splashes (and curious kids). And always use an outlet with ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI) for added safety.
Once you have the electric outlet in place, the rest is pretty much downhill from there. Just follow the installation manual, or watch the manufacturer’s video, you can’t go wrong.
Disadvantages Of Electric Bidet Toilet Seats
While the electric seat offers a bunch of features that a non-electric bidet seat can’t provide, it does have some disadvantages. Besides being pricier, the obvious one is the need for power. It becomes a regular toilet seat once there’s a power failure.
Installation wise it is more challenging as you will need to install a power socket for the bidet seat. That adds to the overall cost and safety risk. Any electrical installations near a water source are subject to additional safety measures, which can cost money to implement if you follow the safety regulations strictly.
Inevitable higher running cost as it consumes energy. Especially during the cold seasons when you use more of the heating features.
So these are inherent drawbacks of an electric bidet seat. But the benefits it offers will more than make up for lost ground.
Avoid These Easily Overlooked Mistakes
Other than the necessary check on the bowl shape and dimensions, some steps are easy to overlook and forgotten. For example, the manual or catalog may say it is suitable for all two-piece toilets. They are not wrong but would have been better if they add a precautionary statement to remind users a two-piece and skirted toilet might require special attention on installation.
Some skirted toilets would require you to install the seat first before it is mounted into position. That’s because the tightening nut is hidden once the toilet is secured to the floor. Access to the nut can be quite a challenge then. Some situations might even require you to remove the toilet for access. So remember to check this potential problem if you have a skirted toilet. Some bidet seats come with special bolt anchors for such a situation.
It was discussed earlier the problem with the one-piece toilet that has a French curve joining the bowl. Unfortunately, most bidet seats are not suitable for these toilets. There must always be ample clearance space that allows the bidet to sit flat on the bowl top, or it may tear or break at any time.
The location of the power outlet has to be no further than the power cord can reach. The cord length is usually about 3 feet or 1 meter. The best distance would be around one to two feet from the center of the toilet. And choose a side that is safe from water splashes from an adjacent vanity top or shower.
Last but not least, only use potable water for all your washing. If you are using rainwater or untreated water for flushing the toilet, run a separate clean water line for the bidet. This advice might seem like common sense, but not for the foolhardy.
Recommendations (Electric Models)
The following recommended models are chosen based on its high rating on Amazon and price (at the time this post was published). The price range is only a guide for your easy reference, where the actual price may not fall within the range due to fluctuation, which is common on Amazon. But generally, due to competition, they shouldn’t differ much.
And it does not necessarily mean a lower cost bidet model is inferior to those in the intermediate range. Likewise, an expensive advanced model may not have all the features of an intermediate bidet model. Different manufacturers price their product differently according to their competitive strategy. It is more practical to look at how the features can best meet your needs and weigh it against the price.
Economical Range (≤ $200 to ≥ $300)
Bidet Seats | Features | Winning Features / Bummer |
---|---|---|
TOTO A100 Washlet
| Winning Features
Bummer
| |
TOTO A200 WASHLET
| Winning Features
Bummer
| |
Bio Bidet Ultimate BB-600
| Winning Features
*Also available in round seat. | |
Brondell Swash SE400-EW
| Winning Features
*Also available in round seat. | |
Brondell Swash S300-EW
| Winning Features
Bummer
*Also available in round seat. | |
SmartBidet SB-1000
| Winning Features
Bummer
*Also available in round seat. | |
SmartBidet SB-2000
| Winning Features
*Also available in round seat. | |
Lotus Hygiene Systems ATS-500
| Winning Features
|
Intermdiate Range (≤ $350 to ≥ $500)
Bidet Seats | Features | Winning Features / Bummer |
---|---|---|
TOTO C100 WASHLET
| Winning Features
| |
TOTO C200 WASHLET
| Winning Features
*Also available in round seat. | |
ALPHA JX Electric Bidet Toilet Seat
| Winning Features
Bummer
*Also available in round seat. | |
Brondell S1000-EW Swash 1000
| Winning Features
*Also available in round seat. | |
Brondell Swash 1400
| Winning Features
Read full review (open in new tab/window) *Also available in round seat. | |
BioBidet USPA 6800
| Winning Features
*Also available in round seat. |
Advanced to Ultimate Range (≤ $650 to ≥ $1000)
Bidet Seats | Features | Winning Features / Bummer |
---|---|---|
BioBidet Bliss BB2000
| Winning Features
Bummer
| |
TOTO SW584#01 S350e
| Winning Features
Read full review (open in new tab/window) *Also available in round seat. | |
TOTO SW574#01 S300e
| Winning Features
Read full review (open in new tab/window) *Also available in round seat. |
Are Non-Electric Bidet Seats Worth Considering
They cost so much lesser than the electric models. But that doesn’t make these non-electric bidet seats any less appealing. Despite the lack of lavish features of the electric models, the manual bidet seat can still offer you a decent cleanse and comfort level.
You can also find features like self-cleaning nozzle, adjustable spray position and pressure, and even feminine wash on some models. And if you like, some non-electric models have provision for a hot water line. Or you can always change the plumbing parts and adapt for a hot water supply from the shower or vanity top. But of course, you won’t get the same level of convenience and ease of operation like their electric counterpart.
It also depends on your bathroom design. Especially when you have a small bathroom with no glass door or partition between the shower and toilet; then a non-electric bidet seat is not an option. Or, if you live in a state where the average annual temperatures hover around 70˚F, such as Florida or Hawaii, would you need a heated seat and warm water for washing?
So it’s pretty much about meeting your needs and not always about affordability. Even if money is an issue, a simple bidet attachment, which costs less than $50 cleans better than toilet paper.
Besides, the manual seats do have some great benefits which the electric models can’t offer. Like there’s no need for a power outlet, so there’s no safety concern and no recurring cost due to power usage. On a broader (or broadest) scale, you are helping the environment by cutting down on CO2 emissions. The environmentalists will love you to the moon and back.
Moreover, they are inexpensive, easy to install, and slimmer (not much different from a regular toilet seat). You get quicker returns from the savings on toilet rolls. On top of that, they last longer since there are no electrical and electronic parts which will deteriorate over time.
So, does the manual seat sounds good enough for you? Here are some recommendations you may want to consider.
Recommendations – Bidet Seat (non-electric) & Attachments)
Bidet Attachments | Features | Winning Features / Bummer |
---|---|---|
Luxe Bidet Neo 110
| Winning Features
Bummer
| |
Luxe Bidet Neo 120
| Winning Features
Bummer
| |
Luxe Bidet Neo 320
| Winning Features
| |
Brondell SimpleSpa Thinline SS-150
| Winning Features
Bummer
| |
Astor Bidet Freshwater Spray CB-1000
| Winning Features
Bummer
| |
Bio Bidet Simplet BB70
| Winning Features
Bummer
| |
GenieBidet Elongated Seat
| Winning Features
Bummer
*Also available in round seat. |
Summary
Buying a bidet seat need not have to be stressful when you are clear about the features you want and a budget that befits the type. So it is always a good idea to check out the features first which will help to adjust or form your expectation.
And don’t lose sleep over what heating system you should settle on. Because ultimately those little downsides of the respective water heater type hardly have an impact on comfort and performance. Maybe you will see a slight increase in your water bill during the winter season with a tank type, or perhaps not. It all depends on how you will utilize the power saving mode and usage pattern.
Be sure to check the dimensions and bowl shape before you went ahead to buy your desired bidet seat. Also, have a look at the installation manual when your toilet is the skirted type. And be extra careful if you have a one-piece toilet with a French curve. Don’t put yourself up for disappointment when the butt washer arrives only to discover you can’t use it.
Whether it is the highest end model or just an attachment, you will love the difference it makes. The fresher and cleaner feeling you get is priceless, and a more sanitary bathroom makes it safe for everyone in the house. And using a lot less of the paper means the toilet and drain pipes are less likely to get plugged.
You don’t need a reason to get yourself a bidet toilet seat. No matter how skeptical you are, you can always experiment with a bidet attachment or a non-electric seat. They are not much higher in cost than a regular toilet seat. So maybe when the time comes for a replacement, give these low-cost bum cleaner a try. Who knows you might end up with one of those expensive electric bidet toilet seats later. You are warned.