When it comes to bathroom hygiene, Australians are increasingly rethinking their reliance on toilet paper. Whether motivated by cost, comfort, or sustainability, more people are exploring the value of switching to a bidet. But what does the switch really mean for your budget?
In this guide, we break down the bidet vs toilet paper cost comparison, covering not only the upfront investment but also the long-term savings. We'll also explore how this shift impacts the environment, your household, and your health, making it easier to decide if a bidet is the right choice for your bathroom.
The Rising Cost of Toilet Paper in Australia
Toilet paper might seem inexpensive on a per-roll basis, but the cumulative cost adds up quickly, especially in larger households. Based on average usage:
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The typical Australian uses around 120 rolls per year
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A 24-pack of toilet paper costs around $15-$20
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That equates to $75-$100+ per person annually
For a family of four, that’s $300-$400 every year, and that doesn’t include the cost of wet wipes, which many people use for better hygiene but aren’t septic-safe or environmentally friendly.
The price of toilet paper has also been volatile in recent years, affected by supply chain disruptions and increased demand during shortages. A permanent solution like a bidet offers price stability and freedom from shopping for paper products.
Bidet Costs: What You Really Pay
Unlike ongoing toilet paper purchases, a bidet is a one-time investment. Here’s a quick breakdown of what you can expect:
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Entry-level bidet attachments: From $79
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Electric bidet toilet seats: From $400-$1,000
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Fully integrated bidet toilets: From $1,500 and above
Installation can often be done DIY, especially for bidet seats and attachments. And once installed, your operating costs are minimal, just a small amount of electricity and water.
Comparing Bidet vs Toilet Paper Cost
To help visualise the value, here’s a quick cost comparison:
|
Expense Type |
Toilet Paper |
Bidet Toilet Seat |
|
Upfront Cost |
$0 |
~$500 (mid-range) |
|
Annual Spend (family of 4) |
~$350 |
<$20 (water & electricity) |
|
5-Year Cost |
~$1,750 |
~$600 |
In just 2 years, a bidet can pay for itself, and every year after that is pure savings. The bidet vs toilet paper cost gap only widens with time.
Environmental Impact: Bidet vs Toilet Paper
Cost is one factor, but what about sustainability?
Toilet paper production consumes massive resources:
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37 gallons of water per roll (used in manufacturing)
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1.5 lbs of wood per roll
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Toxic chemicals and energy in bleaching and processing
A bidet, by contrast, uses about 1/8th of a gallon of water per use. There's no deforestation, no packaging waste, and no need to flush paper.
When comparing bidet vs toilet paper (environment), the difference is stark. A single household switching to bidets can save:
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Hundreds of rolls of paper annually
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Thousands of litres of water used in manufacturing
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Significant landfill waste from packaging and wipes
If you’re serious about reducing your footprint, a bidet is one of the most effective bathroom upgrades you can make.
Other Cost Benefits of Bidets
Beyond savings on paper products, bidets deliver several hidden benefits that also save money:
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Reduced plumbing issues - Less toilet paper means fewer clogs and overflows
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Fewer cleaning products - Cleaner toilets require less maintenance
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Better skin health - No need for creams or treatments due to irritation from wiping
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Less laundry - Especially in households with young children or elderly adults
These indirect savings aren’t always visible but add up over time, making the bidet vs toilet paper debate even more one-sided.
Long-Term Investment and Warranty
Every bidet sold by Bidets Online includes a 2-year warranty, and many units last well beyond 5-10 years with proper care. That’s over a decade of toilet paper savings in exchange for one affordable installation.
With free shipping on orders over $200, same-day dispatch, and expert support from our Sydney-based team, you get both value and peace of mind with every purchase.
Why Australians Are Making the Switch
More Australians are investing in bidets for a simple reason: they offer a better experience at a lower lifetime cost. Whether you live alone, manage a busy household, or simply want a smarter hygiene solution, the benefits are clear:
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Lower long-term cost
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Better hygiene
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Environmental responsibility
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Less clutter in the bathroom
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No more panic buying toilet paper
Bidets are no longer a luxury. They’re a practical, affordable upgrade to any modern bathroom.
Our Best-Selling Bidets for Cost-Conscious Buyers
Looking to get started without breaking the bank? Here are some top picks for value:
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Non-Electric Attachments - Starting at $79, perfect for first-time users
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Electric Bidet Seats - Models like the Coway BA13 or DIB C830 offer luxury features under $1,000
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Handheld Bidet Sprayers - A versatile, plumber-friendly solution for as little as $89
Our showroom in Clyde, NSW allows you to view models in person or shop online for fast delivery Australia-wide.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much money can I save with a bidet?
On average, households save $300-$400 per year by switching to a bidet, enough to cover the initial cost within 2 years.
Is a bidet cheaper than using toilet paper?
Yes. Bidets are a one-time investment with minimal operating costs, while toilet paper requires continuous purchases.
Does a bidet use more water than toilet paper?
No. A bidet uses about 1/8th of a gallon per use, while toilet paper manufacturing uses over 30 gallons per roll.
Can a bidet help avoid plumbing problems?
Absolutely. Reducing toilet paper use means fewer clogs, overflows, and plumbing callouts.
Is a bidet environmentally friendly?
Yes. It uses less water, eliminates paper waste, and reduces packaging pollution.
Do bidets increase electricity bills?
Only slightly. Electric bidets use minimal power, usually less than 1 cent per use.
What if I still want to use some toilet paper?
That’s fine. Some users use a small amount to dry, but most switch to the built-in dryer or a towel.
How long do bidets last?
With proper maintenance, a quality bidet can last over 10 years.
Where can I buy an affordable bidet in Australia?
Bidets Online offers a full range of models at competitive prices, with fast shipping and expert support.