How to Use a Bidet: A Beginner’s Guide

If you’ve ever traveled to certain parts of Europe, Asia, or the Middle East, you may have come across a bathroom fixture that seems completely foreign to most Americans: the bidet. While bidets have been around for centuries, they’re not as common in the United States, which can make using one for the first time feel intimidating. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know about how to use a bidet, from what it is to how to clean it.

What is a Bidet?

A bidet is a bathroom fixture that looks like a toilet but is used for a different purpose. Instead of sitting on it to go to the bathroom, you straddle the fixture and use it to wash your private areas after using the toilet. The idea is to use water to clean yourself, rather than relying on toilet paper. Check this article about types of bidets in detail.

How to Use a Bidet

Using a bidet may seem daunting at first, but it’s actually a straightforward process. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use a bidet:

Step 1: Use the Toilet

Before using the bidet, use the toilet as you normally would.

Step 2: Adjust the Water Temperature

If your bidet has an adjustable water temperature, set it to your desired temperature. Some bidets may only have cold water, while others have both hot and cold water.

Step 3: Position Yourself

Straddle the bidet, facing the faucet or nozzle. You should be in a position where you can easily reach the controls.

Step 4: Use the Water Nozzle

Turn on the water nozzle and aim it at your private areas. You can adjust the water pressure and angle to get the desired cleaning.

Step 5: Dry Off

After using the bidet, use a clean towel or toilet paper to dry yourself off. Or check this article to dry yourself after using a bidet.

How to Clean a Bidet

Cleaning a bidet is a crucial step in maintaining good hygiene. Here’s how to clean a bidet:

Step 1: Rinse the Bidet

Use the water nozzle to rinse the bidet bowl and nozzle after each use.

Step 2: Wipe Down the Surface

Use a clean cloth or disinfectant wipe to wipe down the surface of the bidet.

Step 3: Clean the Nozzle

Some bidets have a self-cleaning nozzle feature. If yours doesn’t, use a small brush to clean the nozzle.

Tips for Using a Bidet

Here are some additional tips for using a bidet:

• If you’re not sure about the water temperature, start with cold water and adjust as needed.
• Don’t be afraid to experiment with the water pressure and angle to find what works best for you.
• Use a gentle soap if desired, but make sure to rinse thoroughly afterward.
• Always dry yourself off after using the bidet to avoid excess moisture.

Conclusion

Using a bidet may seem intimidating at first, but it’s actually a simple and effective way to maintain good hygiene.

Whether you’re using a standalone bidet, a bidet toilet seat, or a bidet attachment, the basic process is the same: use the toilet first, adjust the water temperature and pressure to your liking, position yourself over the bidet, and use the water nozzle to clean yourself. After using the bidet, make sure to dry yourself off thoroughly and clean the bidet itself to maintain good hygiene.

If you’re new to using a bidet, don’t be afraid to take your time and experiment with the different settings. Everyone’s preferences are different, so it may take some trial and error to find what works best for you. Remember that using a bidet is a personal hygiene practice, so it’s important to keep it clean and well-maintained.

Now that you know how to use a bidet, you may find that it’s a more effective and hygienic way to clean yourself after using the toilet. While bidets may not be as common in the United States, they’re a popular fixture in many other parts of the world and can provide a more comfortable and thoroughly clean than toilet paper alone.

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