Bidets have become an increasingly popular fixture in modern Australian bathrooms, thanks to their hygiene benefits, comfort, and environmental advantages. But while many now see them as a practical upgrade, few realise how far bidets have come since their invention. In this article, we take a closer look at bidet history, tracing the bidet origin through centuries of design and innovation, right up to the high-tech models available today at Bidets Online.
The Origin of the Bidet: A French Invention
The bidet origin story begins in 17th century France. The word "bidet" comes from the French word for "pony" or "small horse", a playful reference to the straddling position required to use early versions of the device. Originally, bidets were simple basins placed on wooden stands, used for personal cleansing after toilet use or intimacy.
These early models were typically reserved for the aristocracy and were often found in bedrooms rather than bathrooms. At the time, personal hygiene was considered a luxury, and owning a bidet was a symbol of refinement and social status.
18th-19th Century: Widespread Adoption and Plumbing Integration
By the 18th century, bidets became more widespread across France and parts of Italy. They remained largely manual but began to incorporate more sophisticated designs and improved materials, such as porcelain and copper basins.
In the 19th century, as modern indoor plumbing became common, bidets evolved again. They were integrated into water systems, allowing for a pressurised stream instead of manually filling the basin. This marked an important moment in bidet history, setting the stage for the functional convenience we associate with modern units.
The 20th Century: Decline and Reinvention
Interestingly, the rise of toilet paper in the early 20th century led to a temporary decline in bidet popularity in some Western countries, particularly English-speaking nations like the UK, USA, and Australia. In these regions, the bidet origin was often misunderstood, and the device was considered unfamiliar or unnecessary.
However, in countries like Japan, Italy, and Argentina, bidets remained a staple household item. Japan, in particular, would later revolutionise bidet technology.
The Japanese Influence: Electronic Bidets
The most dramatic shift in bidet history came in the 1980s with the invention of the electronic bidet toilet seat in Japan. Known as “washlets,” these seats were designed to attach to existing toilets and included built-in features like:
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Adjustable water pressure and temperature
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Nozzle position control
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Warm air drying
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Heated seating
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Deodorising functions
Unlike traditional standalone bidets, these integrated models required no extra floor space and quickly gained popularity. Today, electronic bidets are the global standard in hygiene technology.
The Bidet’s Modern Resurgence in Australia
In recent years, Australians have been rethinking their bathroom habits, leading to a renewed interest in bidets. Several factors are driving this shift:
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Environmental awareness: Households want to reduce toilet paper waste.
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Comfort and hygiene: Bidets offer a cleaner, more refreshing experience.
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Health needs: Elderly users and people with disabilities find bidets much easier to use.
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Cost savings: Over time, reduced paper use adds up.
Thanks to online accessibility and growing public awareness, modern bidets are now more affordable and easier to install than ever before.
Where We Are Now: The Future of Bidet Technology
Today’s bidets are a far cry from the porcelain basins of 17th-century France. From manual non-electric seats to fully integrated smart toilets, the variety of options has expanded significantly.
At Bidets Online, we offer products that represent every stage of the bidet’s evolution:
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Traditional attachments for basic water cleansing
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Electric seats with advanced settings
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Complete bidet toilets with all-in-one functionality
Customers across Australia can enjoy free shipping on orders over $200 and the peace of mind of a 2-year warranty on all products.
Key Milestones in Bidet History
To recap, here are the major turning points in the development of the bidet:
- 1600s - Invented in France; wooden basin-based design
- 1700s-1800s - Improved materials and plumbing integration
- 1900s - Decline in English-speaking countries; continued use elsewhere
- 1980s - Rise of Japanese electronic bidets
- 2000s-present - Global resurgence and smart tech innovation
Each phase reflects both changing hygiene practices and technological progress.
The Bidet in Australia: Then and Now
Historically, bidets were rare in Australian homes. When they did appear, it was typically in luxury bathrooms or boutique hotels. But today, thanks to changing attitudes and improved accessibility, bidets are entering mainstream Australian households at a rapid pace.
Bidets Online plays a leading role in this change by offering:
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Friendly, knowledgeable customer support based in Sydney
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An interactive showroom at 7/13 Berry Street Clyde NSW
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Same-day dispatch for in-stock items
- Quality products that cater to all users and budgets
A Cleaner, Smarter Bathroom Solution
The bidet origin may have started with European nobility, but its evolution has made it suitable for everyone. From saving money on paper to supporting those with limited mobility, the bidet continues to prove its worth, centuries after its invention.
Whether you want to upgrade your home for comfort or invest in a more sustainable solution, there’s a bidet for every bathroom at Bidets Online.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where did the bidet originate?
The bidet originated in France in the 17th century as a personal washing basin. It was initially used by the wealthy and positioned in bedrooms rather than bathrooms.
When did bidets become integrated into modern plumbing?
During the 19th century, as indoor plumbing systems improved, bidets were adapted to use pressurised water rather than manual filling.
Why did bidets fall out of favour in some countries?
The widespread availability of toilet paper in the 20th century led many English-speaking countries to see bidets as unnecessary, especially in homes with limited space.
What country pioneered electronic bidets?
Japan introduced the first electronic bidet seats in the 1980s, revolutionising the global market with advanced features like warm air drying and heated seats.
Are bidets popular in Australia?
Yes, bidets are becoming increasingly popular in Australia due to rising awareness of their environmental, economic, and hygiene benefits.
What is the difference between traditional and electronic bidets?
Traditional bidets are standalone or seat attachments with basic water functions, while electronic bidets offer advanced features such as temperature control and air dryers.
Is a bidet more hygienic than toilet paper?
Yes. Bidets provide a water-based clean, which is generally more thorough and gentler on the skin than dry wiping.
Do bidets help reduce toilet paper usage?
Absolutely. Using a bidet can reduce or eliminate the need for toilet paper, leading to cost savings and environmental benefits.
Where can I view or buy a bidet in person?
You can visit our interactive Sydney showroom or browse our full product range online. Our team is always happy to help.