If you've just installed a bidet or are considering one, you're not alone. More Australians are discovering the comfort, cleanliness, and sustainability of bidet use. But for first-time users, a common question arises: how do you use a bidet properly and politely?
This guide explores the essential etiquette, hygiene tips, and unspoken do’s and don’ts of using a bidet in your own home or when visiting someone else's. Whether you're installing your first model or want to be bidet-savvy before trying one, this blog is your complete starting point.
Why Bidets Are Gaining Popularity in Australia
The past few years have seen a steady rise in bidet installations across Australian homes. Factors driving the shift include:
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Cost savings from reduced toilet paper usage
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Improved hygiene and comfort
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Environmental sustainability
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Growing awareness of health and accessibility benefits
Bidets are no longer a European luxury; they're quickly becoming a modern bathroom essential. But understanding how a bidet works and using it correctly is key to having a positive experience.
How Do You Use a Bidet?
Before getting into etiquette tips, let’s cover the basic function.
Step-by-step usage:
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Finish your business - Use the toilet as usual.
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Activate the bidet - This may involve turning a dial, pressing a button, or adjusting a remote, depending on your model.
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Adjust settings - Control the water pressure and temperature before it begins spraying.
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Position yourself - Ensure the nozzle is correctly aligned for a thorough clean.
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Let it wash - The bidet gently sprays water to cleanse the area.
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Dry off - Use toilet paper, a dedicated bidet towel, or the built-in dryer if available.
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Clean the unit - If applicable, give the seat or nozzle a quick wipe for the next user.
Bidet Etiquette Basics for First-Time Users
1. Don’t flush paper while using the bidet
One of the main advantages of a bidet is reducing toilet paper use. If your bidet includes a built-in dryer or you use a reusable towel, you can go completely paperless. But if you do use some toilet paper to pat dry, be sure it's minimal and septic-safe.
2. Always leave it clean
A clean bidet is a shared courtesy. After using the bidet, check for any residual water on the seat or controls and wipe it down. Many electric models self-clean, but a quick once-over helps maintain good hygiene.
3. Don’t use it as a sink
It might spray water, but a bidet is not designed for washing hands, brushing teeth, or any other activity not related to bathroom hygiene. Treat it as you would the toilet, with respect.
4. Mind the settings for others
If you’re sharing a bathroom, always reset the water pressure and temperature settings after use. Not everyone enjoys a high-pressure jet or hot spray.
How Does a Bidet Work?
Understanding how a bidet works helps make the experience more comfortable and effective.
Bidets function by delivering a gentle stream of water to cleanse the genital and anal area after using the toilet. They either attach to an existing toilet (non-electric models) or are built into a seat with advanced features like:
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Adjustable nozzle positioning
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Temperature control
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Air dryers
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Heated seats
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Deodorising functions
This personalised hygiene solution can replace or dramatically reduce toilet paper use while offering a much more effective clean.
How to Use a Bidet: Public vs. Private
Bidet etiquette slightly shifts depending on the setting.
In your own home:
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Use towels or dryers if preferred
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Customise all settings to your liking
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Encourage household members to follow your cleaning routine
In someone else’s home:
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Ask before using their bidet if unsure
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Avoid changing settings too drastically
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Leave everything as you found it
When travelling overseas where standalone bidets are common (especially in Europe, Japan, or South Korea), it's polite to dry the unit after use and avoid splashing water outside the basin.
Bidet Safety and Hygiene Tips
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Always wash your hands after use
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Avoid over-tightening water pressure; gentle is better
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Use antibacterial wipes or cleaners for nozzle maintenance
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Schedule regular cleaning of electric components
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For female users: Always spray front-to-back to reduce the risk of infection
Learning how to use a bidet properly includes not just comfort but health and safety.
Helping Guests Use Your Bidet
If you’ve recently installed a bidet, guests may be curious or hesitant to try it. Consider placing a simple instruction card or label near the controls. It can be as simple as:
“To use the bidet: press ‘Wash’, adjust pressure, and dry with toilet paper or a dryer. Press ‘Stop’ when done.”
Adding a touch of guidance can help ease them into the experience and reduce misuse.
How Bidets Support Accessibility
Bidets aren’t just about luxury; they’re a life-changing fixture for people with:
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Limited mobility
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Arthritis or dexterity issues
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Recovery from surgery or childbirth
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Sensitive skin or hemorrhoid discomfort
At Bidets Online, we offer electric and non-electric bidet options suited for all needs. You can view our full range in person at our Sydney showroom or explore models online with free shipping available across Australia.
Key Takeaways for Bidet Beginners
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A bidet offers superior hygiene and long-term cost savings
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First-time users should start with gentle pressure and lukewarm water
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Always clean up after yourself and respect shared settings
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Learn the basics of how a bidet works and use it with care
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Bidet etiquette ensures comfort for everyone, from housemates to guests
Once you've adjusted to bidet use, you’ll likely wonder how you ever lived without it.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you use a bidet for the first time?
Start by using the toilet as usual, then activate the spray function on the bidet. Adjust water pressure and temperature to your comfort level, then dry off using paper or the built-in dryer.
How does a bidet work?
A bidet sprays a targeted stream of water to cleanse your bottom after using the toilet. Most modern units are built into toilet seats with adjustable settings.
Is it okay to use toilet paper with a bidet?
Yes, but you’ll use far less than normal. Many people switch entirely to air drying or bidet towels.
Are bidets messy to use?
Not at all. Modern bidets are designed to be clean and efficient. The spray is controlled, and high-quality models have self-cleaning nozzles.
How should I clean my bidet after use?
Wipe the seat or buttons if they’re damp. For built-in bidets, nozzles are typically self-cleaning, but a regular wipe-down is good hygiene.
Can guests use my bidet?
Absolutely. Just be sure they know how it works and that it's been cleaned beforehand. Some users leave basic instructions nearby.
What should I avoid doing with a bidet?
Don’t use it as a sink, don’t drink from it, and don’t over-adjust the pressure. Always use the bidet for its intended purpose.
Is bidet use safe for children?
Yes, with supervision. Many families use bidets to teach young children proper hygiene early on.