10 Disadvantages of Using a Bidet (2024)

Bidets are continuing to rise in popularity. However, this doesn’t mean that they are completely free of flaws. There are several potential downsides to using bidets.

The disadvantages of using a bidet include hygiene concerns, issues with discomfort, and high installation (and maintenance) costs. In addition, bidets may be incompatible with some toilets. Standalone bidets may also require extra installation space, which may not be ideal for small spaces.

If you’re on the fence about purchasing a bidet, or perhaps you want to learn more about using them, then you couldn’t be in a better place. Read on as we take an in-depth look at the potential cons of using a bidet.

Read Also: Bidet Pros and Cons: Benefits and Disadvantages Explained

1. Issues With Sanitation

Bidets are a great way to stay clean and hygienic. Still, they can be a source of potential health concerns. Health-related risks of bidet mostly result from the following:

Cross-Contamination

A bidet can increase the risk of cross-contamination if it’s not used properly. This is most likely when you share a bidet with many people.

Bidets are susceptible to dirt and bacteria build-up. This is likely to happen when the bidet isn’t properly cleaned and maintained. As a result, the germs can be transferred from user to user.

Ultimately, it’s important to maintain optimal hygiene standards, such as:

Ensuring that the bidet is properly cleaned and maintained. This includes regularly cleaning the nozzle and other parts of the bidet with an antibacterial cleaner. It would also be helpful if you cleaned the bidet between uses.
Keeping a towel or other absorbent material nearby. They’ll help you sop up any water that happens to splash.

Contaminations of Surfaces

In addition, when using a bidet, water can splash onto other surfaces when cleaning yourself. Common surfaces are the bathroom floor and walls or the toilet seat and bowl. This may spread any bacteria that may be present.

To help prevent this, you may need to do the following:

Constantly check if the bidet’s setting allows for the correct water stream. This will ensure it doesn’t stray too far when cleansing yourself and consequently mess up the surrounding areas.
Keep the environment around the bidet clean and dry. This will reduce the risk of bacteria and germs spreading.

It can be a bit of a hassle to keep the bidet clean and sanitary all the time. This is especially true when you’re sharing one. Still, adding extra maintenance work to your daily routine wouldn’t cost much.

Using Contaminated Water

When using a bidet, it may be impossible to tell if the water you’re using to clean yourself is safe. Sometimes, the water may contain germs and other contaminants.

If the water is contaminated, it can spread germs and bacteria, which could lead to potential health risks.

To ensure proper sanitation when using a bidet, you should constantly assess the water and its safety. Unsafe water can only increase the risk of infections.

Read Also: Are Bidets Sanitary?: Everything You Need To Know

2. A Bidet Can Sometimes Be Uncomfortable

Physical discomfort when using a bidet often stems from the following:

The Use of Cold or Hot Water

At times, the temperature of the water coming from the bidet can be too hot or cold for your liking.

Most users find that bidets can be quite cold with the first use. So even during the summer months, you may need to brace yourself if you’re not used to cold water. Sometimes, you’ll feel the cold water is too intense for your sensitive skin.

Some bidets are not equipped with temperature control, so you may find the water to be too cold for comfort. This can be especially uncomfortable in the winter when the air temperature is already low.

Alternatively, hot water may also not be your thing. For this, you may find hot-water bidets uncomfortable. The reason for this could be that the temperature of the water coming from the bidet is too hot.

Additionally, if you have sensitive skin, you may find it uncomfortable to experience the sudden rush of water while using a hot-water bidet.

If you’re not big on high-temperature water, adjust your hot-water bidet’s temperature and pressure settings with every use to make it more comfortable. This may be inconvenient, especially when sharing the bidet with people who prefer different settings.

Regarding water temperature, it would help if you considered the following options:

Use a bidet with a temperature control feature to combat temperature issues. This will allow you to adjust the water temperature to your desired comfort level.
Use a bidet with a heated seat. This can help you to keep warm while using the bidet when it’s cold outside.

The Pressure of the Water

Another physical discomfort you can experience when using a bidet relates to the pressure of the water.

Many bidets have adjustable pressure settings. However, you may find that even the lowest setting is too intense for your sensitive skin. This can cause discomfort and even pain if you’re not used to such pressure.

This is where a bidet with a pressure control feature comes in handy. This type of bidet will allow you to combat the pressure issue. You’ll be able to adjust the water pressure as necessary.

Additionally, you may choose to use a bidet with a soft spray feature. This type can help you reduce the intensity of the water pressure.

The Position of the Bidet

If you’re using a bidet installed in an awkward position, you’ll likely find the entire experience displeasing. For instance, the bidet may be placed too low or too high, making it uncomfortable.

If the bidet is too low, it cannot be easy to reach and use. This can cause strain on the back and legs, making it difficult to clean yourself properly.

Additionally, if the bidet is too high, it can be difficult to sit on and use. This can cause strain on the arms and shoulders. Sometimes, cleaning the bidet can prove a hard task, especially if it’s awkwardly positioned.

In either case, the physical discomfort of using a bidet installed improperly can make the entire experience unpleasant.

Uncomfortable Seat

The bidet seat is a great invention. It has revolutionized how we clean ourselves after using the restroom. However, finding a comfortable position when using a bidet seat can sometimes prove overwhelming. This is because the seat can be either too hard or too cold.

When a bidet seat is too hard, it can be uncomfortable to sit on for extended periods. This is because the hard surface does not provide enough cushioning for the user’s body, resulting in discomfort that can even cause soreness.

Furthermore, the hard surface can make you shift around to find a comfortable position, which can be annoying and time-consuming.

Sitting on a cold surface can also leave you feeling uncomfortable. This can especially be true when temperatures are low and you’re using a standalone cold-water bidet.

These factors, combined with psychological discomforts, make using a bidet displeasing.

Associated Psychological Discomfort

Using a bidet can also be psychologically uncomfortable for some people. Psychological discomforts can manifest in the following ways:

If you aren’t used to using a bidet, the experience can be intimidating or even embarrassing.
The sound of the running water can be off-putting. It can even frighten first-time users.
If you’re a first-time user, adjusting to a different bathroom routine may take some time. You’ll have to unlearn your old bathroom routine and learn the new practice. Doing this requires time and willingness to adjust your habits.
Exposure to a standalone bidet can be uncomfortable for some people. One may feel like they are being watched, especially in public bathrooms.

All of these factors can make using a bidet a displeasing experience.

3. Bidet Use Can Cause Infections

Another major disadvantage of using bidets is the increased risk of infections, especially if poorly maintained.

Here are some of the common health-related issues an unsanitary bidet can cause:

May Cause UTIs

While the use of bidets is applauded for its sanitary benefits, there is equally a high risk of contracting urinary tract infections (UTIs) when exposed to contaminated surfaces. Infections are often highly likely since the water from the bidet can spread bacteria from one area to another when in use.

Using a bidet can increase the risk of developing a UTI for men and women alike in these ways:

In men, the water can spread bacteria from the anus to the urethra. This is especially true if the bidet is not properly cleaned and maintained.
Women are also exposed to UTIs as the water from the anal area can get to the vulva.

To reduce the risk of contracting a UTI, you may want to take the following precautions:

Use a bidet that is properly maintained and cleaned.
Set the water pressure to a comfortable level.

In addition to using a properly maintained bidet, it’s important to practice proper hygiene when using a bidet. This includes the following:

Washing your hands before and after using the bidet
Wiping from front to back to avoid spreading bacteria from the rear to the front.
Thoroughly dry off after using the bidet. Moisture can create an environment where bacteria can thrive.
Avoid sharing towels or other items you use after using the bidet.

Read Also: Do Bidets Cause UTI? Here’s What You Need to Know

Increases Other Risk of Infections

Bacterial infections are one of the most common risks of using a bidet. Besides Escherichia coli (E. coli), the bacteria that cause UTI, other bacteria can easily be transferred from the bidet to the user’s skin. This is a major cause of skin infections such as:

Sometimes, viral infections are another risk associated with using a bidet. Viruses can transfer from the bidet to the user’s skin, leading to illnesses such as hepatitis.

It’s important to observe the following safety tips to minimize the risk of bacterial and viral infections:

Clean the bidet regularly and thoroughly. This will help you to keep infectious germs at bay.
Use a clean cloth or towel when drying off after using the bidet. This will help to reduce the risk of bacterial transfer.
Set the pressure of the water to a comfortable level. If the water pressure is too high, it can cause tiny tears in the skin that can allow bacteria to enter the body.
Set the water temperature to a comfortable level. If it’s too hot, it can irritate the skin and make it more vulnerable to infections.

Read Also: Can Bidets Cause Hemorrhoids?

4. You May Pay High Water Bills

Regarding water consumption, you may wonder how much water bidets use. Ideally, every toilet flush consumes around 3 gallons (11.36 liters) of water. While this consumption depends on various factors, it may make you doubt your water bills.

Bidet use can result in high water bills. This is especially true if not managed properly.

Bidets use a relatively significant amount of water for each use, and if used frequently, the cost can add up.

Furthermore, if the bidet is not installed correctly, it can cause water leaks, forcing you to pay high water bills In the end.

Additionally, some bidets have additional features, such as heated water or air dryers. These features can also increase the cost of your utility bills.

Fortunately, there are some ways to reduce the risk of high bills associated with bidet use:

Installing a low-flow bidet. This type uses less water than a traditional bidet.
Installing the bidet correctly. This will help you avoid potential water leaks.
If you have young children, be mindful of how often they use the bidet. If possible, monitor their use.

5. Some Bidets Require Bathroom Modifications

Some bidets come with costly modifications during installations. So, when considering the installation of a bidet, be mindful of the cost of any necessary bathroom modifications. These may include the following:

Plumbing Modifications

When installing a bidet, ensure that the plumbing is up to code. This means that:

The pipes are properly connected. The water will not flow properly if the pipes are not linked correctly. This would impede the efficient performance of the bidet.
The water pressure is adequate. If the water pressure is too low, the bidet may not be able to spray water at sufficient pressure. Likewise, the water may stray too far away if the pressure is too high. This will make it impossible to clean yourself, besides making the bathroom messy.

Hire a professional plumber to ensure that the plumbing is up to code. They can inspect the pipes and make any necessary modifications.

Electrical Modifications

In addition to plumbing modifications, some bidets require electrical modifications to function properly. For instance, bidets with heated seats and other features that require electricity will require proper electrical modifications to function properly.

A professional electrician comes in handy to ensure that the system is up to code, as they’ll inspect the wiring and make any necessary modifications.

Another area to look out for is the electrical system. The system should be properly grounded to prevent potential shocks.

Flooring or Wall Modifications

Some bidets may require you to modify your bathroom floor or walls to accommodate their design. For instance:

A wall-mounted bidet may require new plumbing and electrical wiring to be installed.
A floor-mounted bidet may need new flooring to be laid.

The cost of these modifications can add up quickly. Therefore, it’s important to consider installation-related costs before purchasing your ideal bidet.

In addition to the cost of the modifications, you may have to hire a professional to install your preferred bidet. This is especially true if the modifications are complex and require specialized tools and skills.

The cost of bathroom modifications can be high. However, there is also room for potential savings. You can achieve this by installing a high-quality and efficient bidet.

Still, I recommend you consider the cost of any necessary interior changes or installation needs. This will help you determine if your choice of bidet is a worthwhile investment.

6. Standalone Bidets Come With Additional Installation Costs

Standalone bidets offer several advantages that make them worth considering for any bathroom.

For one, they are much more hygienic than traditional toilets. A standalone bidet cleans you more thoroughly than a conventional toilet. This can help reduce the risk of infection and other health problems.
Additionally, standalone bidets are much more comfortable than traditional toilets. They provide a more ergonomic seating position and adjustable water pressure.
Finally, standalone bidets are much more eco-friendly than traditional toilets. For instance, they require less water and less energy.

Having a standalone bidet in your bathroom can be a great convenience. However, it also comes with the following costs:

It requires extra space in your bathroom. The need for extra space can be a problem if you have a small bathroom or limited space. This means you’ll have to sacrifice another fixture. Alternatively, you may have to remodel the bathroom to make room for the bidet, which may prove costly.
It can be expensive to install and maintain. According to a recent report by Forbes, a standalone bidet with the lowest installation material costs $200. Still, one with high installation material may take up to $600.

Read Also: How Much Does It Cost To Install a Bidet?

7. High Upfront Cost

The upfront cost of purchasing and installing a bidet can be quite high. The high price may deter many people.

Depending on the type of bidet and the installation process, you’ll have to part with a good amount of money. For example, a basic bidet seat can cost anywhere from $100 to $500, while a more advanced model can cost up to $1,000 or more.

Additionally, the installation process can be costly. This is because it may require specialized tools and knowledge. Depending on the complexity of the installation, the cost can range from $100 to $500 or more. The approximate cost of installing a modern bidet can range from $200 to $1,500.

The upfront cost of purchasing and installing a bidet is one of many costs you may have to factor in. Consider ongoing costs if you’re to operate the bidet for a long time. You can look at it in the following ways:

Some bidets require electricity to operate. You’ll need to pay an electrician to do the wiring job.
Bidets require plumbing. They may need to be serviced regularly to keep them in good working order.
Some bidets require special cleaning solutions or filters. These need to be replaced periodically. Hence you must budget for them.

These ongoing costs can add up over time. It would help if you considered them when deciding whether to install and use a bidet.

8. Electric Bidets Require Power To Operate

No doubt, electric bidets are becoming increasingly popular in households worldwide. However, one must have access to a reliable power source to operate them. This can be a source of confusion for many people.

Without power, an electric bidet will not be able to perform some of its functions, such as:

Heating the water
Spraying the water
Drying the user

This means that without power, an electric bidet is essentially useless.

Most electric bidets require a dedicated power outlet. This means that the bidet must be plugged into a wall outlet that is not shared with any other electrical appliances. The problem here is the outlet may draw a significant amount of electricity.

Additionally, the outlet must be rated for the specific wattage of the bidet. If the outlet is not rated for the wattage of the bidet, it could cause an electrical shock or other damage to the bidet.

In some cases, an electric bidet may require a dedicated circuit breaker. This is usually the case if the bidet draws more than 15 amps of electricity. A dedicated circuit breaker ensures that the bidet has its own power supply. This helps to prevent any potential electrical issues or damages.

Furthermore, electric bidets require a certain amount of power to operate properly. If the power is too low, the bidet may not be able to heat the water or spray it with enough force.

Considering the factors mentioned above, having access to a reliable power source is essential when operating an electric bidet.

When using an electric bidet, take the following safety precautions:

Ensure that the bidet is installed correctly and that all the wirings are secure. If the wiring isn’t safe, it could cause electrical issues.
Refrain from placing the bidet near any water sources. This could also cause an electrical shock or damage the bidet’s components.

9. Incompatibility With Some Toilets

Not all toilets can accommodate bidets.

Bidets are designed to fit onto the rim of a toilet, so if the size of the toilet is too small, then the bidet will not fit well. This is especially true for older toilets, which tend to be smaller than modern units. Additionally, some toilets have a curved rim, which makes it difficult to attach a bidet.

Another concern is that some toilets have a tank too close to the rim, making it impossible to attach a bidet. This is especially true for wall-mounted toilets with a tank built into the wall. In these cases, it is only possible to attach a bidet with major renovations.

In addition, some toilets are not designed to be used with a bidet. For example, some toilets have a built-in sprayer that is designed to be used for cleaning the toilet bowl. Installing a bidet in such a toilet would interfere with the sprayer.

Some toilets are also designed to have a special seat with a built-in water reservoir. Such seats may be incompatible with a bidet. Installing a bidet would only alter the reservoir system.

In short, when installing a bidet, be sure to check if your toilet is any of the following types:

True tankless toilet
Pressure-assisted tankless toilet
Concealed cistern

These toilets are incompatible with a bidet. So, it’s best to think about other alternatives if you’re into using a bidet.

Read Also: Can You Install a Bidet on Any Toilet?

10. You May Still Need To Use Tissue Paper

Bidets are a great way to clean oneself after using the restroom. Yet, some people still feel that they may need to use tissue paper when using a bidet.

It’s important to remember that a bidet is not a substitute for toilet paper. Here are some important facts to keep in mind when using tissue paper to complement a bidet.

You can use toilet paper to dry off after using the bidet. The water from the bidet can leave your bottom area feeling wet and uncomfortable. Tissue papers will ensure you wipe away any excess water or messes after you use the bidet. You’ll feel neat to go about your day!
Tissue papers can also help clean the bidet. They can help you wipe water or messes you may have made on the bidet in the process. Using tissue paper to complement a bidet can be a convenient and hygienic way to clean up after using the toilet. However, using tissue paper simultaneously with a bidet also has its repercussions.
There is a potential for the tissue paper to clog the system. This can be an issue if the tissue paper is not disposed of properly. If this is the case, it can accumulate in the pipes and cause clogs.
Clogs can lead to costly repairs. They can be a hassle, especially when you’re tight on budget.
If the clog is severe enough, it can lead to water leakage in the bathroom. You’ll end up paying high water bills.
Tissue papers can also be difficult to flush away. Some toilet papers are designed to absorb rather than flush away. Thus, getting the paper to go down the drain can be hard.

However, here are a few steps you can take to make this process easier:

Ensure you use a small amount of tissue paper at a time when using the bidet. This way, you’ll be able to flush away the tissue paper.
Try to break the tissue paper into smaller pieces before you flush it.
Use plenty of water when flushing the toilet to help move the tissue paper.

Following these steps will make the entire process easier and more convenient.

10 Disadvantages of Using a Bidet