How to Use a Bidet: A Complete, Easy Guide for Beginners

If you’re wondering how to use a bidet for the first time, you’re not alone. This practical guide answers common questions, clears up misconceptions, and shows why more people are switching to bidets for superior comfort, hygiene, and sustainability in 2024. This is your go-to resource to use a bidet with total confidence.

Learn the quick, easy steps to use any kind of bidet confidently. This guide includes expert-backed tips, clear visuals, and answers to your most pressing questions. You will master the proper way to use bidet in minutes.

Quick Start: Bidet Basics in Under 60 Seconds

Use the toilet as you normally would.
Stay seated. Turn on the bidet using the controls.
Adjust the water pressure and position for a comfortable cleanse.
Let the stream of water wash you for 30–60 seconds.
Turn the water off.
Pat dry with a small amount of toilet paper or a dedicated bidet towel. Some electric models have an air dryer.

Quick Comparison: Bidet Types & Choosing What’s Right For You

Before you learn how to use a bidet, it helps to know the main varieties available. Each kind of bidet offers a different experience, installation process, and cost. Understanding the types of bidets and their benefits will help you find the perfect bidet setup for your home.

Electric Bidet Seat

Electric Bidet Seat offers the most advanced features—like a heated seat, warm water, adjustable nozzles, air dryer, and remote control. It's very user-friendly and installs by replacing your existing toilet seat, usually as a DIY project. With prices ranging from $250 to over $1,000, it's ideal for those seeking top comfort, convenience, and accessibility.

Non-Electric Bidet Seat

This is a simpler option with basic ambient-temperature water spray, controlled by a knob or lever. It installs just like an electric toilet seat bidet but doesn’t require power. Priced between $80 and $200, it’s great for budget-conscious users who still want an integrated solution.

Bidet Attachment

This type mounts under your current toilet seat and provides a basic, non-electric spray. It’s the easiest to install—perfect for renters or first-time users. With costs ranging from $30 to $100, it’s the most affordable and accessible way to try a bidet.

Handheld Bidet Sprayer

A spray nozzle connected to your toilet’s water supply, giving you full control over the direction and pressure. While more manual, it’s still relatively easy to install and priced between $30 and $70. Best for those who prefer a more hands-on approach.

Standalone Bidet

A separate, low sink-like fixture placed next to the toilet. It requires you to move between fixtures and needs professional plumbing. Costing $300 to $800 or more, it's best for homes with extra bathroom space or users seeking a traditional European setup.

Travel/Portable Bidet

A compact, manual squeeze bottle with a nozzle that requires no installation. Extremely lightweight and affordable ($10–$25), this is the go-to option for travelers, campers, or anyone who wants a bidet on the go.

Bidet Type	Key Features	User-Friendliness	Installation	Avg. Cost	Best For
Electric Bidet Seat	Heated seat, warm water, adjustable nozzles, air dryer, remote control.	Very High	DIY, replaces your existing toilet seat.	$250 - $1,000+	Those seeking maximum comfort, features, and accessibility.
Non-Electric Bidet Seat	Basic ambient-temperature water spray controlled by a knob or lever.	High	DIY, replaces toilet seat.	$80 - $200	Budget-conscious users who want an integrated and simple solution.
Bidet Attachment	Sits under your current toilet seat. Basic ambient-temperature spray.	High	Easiest DIY installation.	$30 - $100	Renters, first-time users, and anyone looking for the most affordable option.
Handheld Bidet Sprayer	A spray wand that connects to the toilet's water supply.	Moderate	DIY, attaches to the toilet’s water line.	$30 - $70	Users who want full control over the spray direction and pressure.
Standalone Bidet	A freestanding bidet or low-slung sink-like fixture installed next to the toilet.	Low (requires moving)	Professional plumbing required.	$300 - $800+	Bathrooms with ample space and those seeking a traditional European setup.
Travel / Portable Bidet	A small, manual squeeze bottle with a nozzle.	High	No installation needed.	$10 - $25	Travelers, campers, and anyone wanting a bidet on the go.

How to Use a Bidet Correctly: Step-by-Step Instructions

How do you use a bidet the right way? Learning the correct tips for using a bidet is simple. While the core concept is the same—clean with water—the controls and positioning differ slightly for each model. Here’s your guide to using the most common types.

A. How to Use a Standard Bidet Seat or Attachment

This covers both non-electric seats and bidet attachment models. These are incredibly straightforward and great for learning how to properly use a bidet.

Use the Toilet: Do your business as usual. Many people prefer a quick "courtesy wipe" with a small amount of toilet paper to remove any excess solid waste. This helps the water do its job more effectively and keeps the nozzle cleaner.
Stay Seated: There is no need to stand up or move. Remain seated comfortably on the toilet seat.
Activate the Spray: Reach to your side and turn the control knob or lever.
Pro Tip: Turn the knob slowly! This allows you to start with low pressure and gradually increase it to a comfortable level. Going full blast right away can be startling.
Adjust Your Position: If needed, slightly shift your body forward or backward to ensure the stream of water is hitting the right spot. You’ll know when the aim is correct.
Wash for 30–60 Seconds: Let the water cleanse the area thoroughly. Most users find this amount of time is perfect for feeling completely fresh.
Turn Off the Water: Turn the knob back to the "Off" position.
Dry Off: Gently pat the area dry using a few squares of toilet paper, a dedicated reusable bidet towel, or a cloth. You'll use far less toilet paper than you would for wiping alone.

B. Using an Electric Bidet (Panel/Remote Controls)

Electric bidet seats are the luxury models of the bidet world. They often come with a side control panel or a wireless remote, offering a spa-like experience.

Find the Controls: The controls will be on a panel attached to the side of the seat or on a separate remote.

Select Your Wash: Most electric bidet toilet seats have "front" (feminine) and "rear" wash options. Press the button for your desired cleaning.

Customize Your Settings: This is where electric bidet seats shine. You can typically adjust:

Water Pressure: Use the "+" and "-" buttons to find your ideal pressure.
Water Temperature: No more cold-water shock. Set it to a comfortable warm temperature.
Nozzle Position: Fine-tune the nozzle's aim forward or backward for perfect positioning. Some models have an oscillating or massage feature.

Activate the Dryer: Once the wash cycle is complete (usually 30-60 seconds), press the "Dry" button. A built-in air dryer will blow warm air to dry you off, completely eliminating the need for toilet paper.

Stop at Any Time: You can press the "Stop" button at any point during the wash or dry cycle.

C. How to Use Bidet Sprayer Without Making a Mess

A handheld bidet, also called a shattaf or bidet sprayer, gives you the most control but has a slight learning curve to avoid spraying water where you don’t want it.

Grab the Sprayer First: Before sitting down, or while seated, pick up the sprayer nozzle.
Aim Before You Spray: Position the sprayer head beneath you, aimed up at the area you want to clean. You can do this from the front or by reaching around from the back.
Start with Low Pressure: The key to how to use a bidet sprayer without making a mess is pressure control. Squeeze the trigger very gently at first. The pressure can be surprisingly strong.
Find the Right Angle: Adjust the angle of the spray head to effectively clean. You have complete control, so move it around as needed.
Cleanse and Release: Wash for about 30 seconds. Release the trigger to stop the flow of water.
Drip Dry: Give the sprayer a little shake over the toilet bowl to let any remaining water drip out before placing it back in its holder.
Dry Yourself: Pat dry with toilet paper or a towel.

Important Safety Tip: Always turn off the T-valve that connects the sprayer to the water supply after each use. Leaving it pressurized can cause leaks or hose ruptures over time.

D. Standalone Bidet Usage

The classic standalone bidet is the fixture you often see in European hotels, sitting right next to the toilet.

Finish at the Toilet: First, use the toilet. You will need to wipe with toilet paper before moving.

Move Over to the Bidet: Stand up from the toilet and move over to the bidet.

How to Sit on a Bidet: You need to straddle the bidet. You can choose to face the wall or face the controls (faucet).

Facing the Controls: This position is often easier for controlling the temperature and pressure and is generally preferred for feminine washing.
Facing the Wall: This position is common for rear washing. You will reach between your legs or behind you to use your hands to control the water.

Turn on the Water: Adjust the hot and cold taps to get a comfortable water temperature before the stream of water becomes too strong.

Position and Cleanse: Position your body over the jet of water. You may need to use your hands to help direct water for a more thorough cleaning. Some people use soap, but it's not necessary.

Dry Off: Use the dedicated towel that is typically hanging next to the bidet.

Getting Comfortable: First-Time User Tips & Common Concerns

It's perfectly normal to feel a little strange or anxious about using a bidet for the first time. Is the water cold? Will it be messy? Here’s how to get past the learning curve.

Should you wipe before using a bidet?

Yes, most experts and long-time users recommend it. A quick "courtesy wipe" with a small bit of toilet paper removes the bulk of any solid matter. This ensures the water jet can do its job of cleaning your skin directly, rather than just pushing waste around. It also helps keep your bidet nozzle cleaner for longer.

Does a bidet replace toilet paper?

It can! If you have an electric bidet with a built-in air dryer, you can completely eliminate your need for toilet paper. For other bidet models, you will still need something for drying. However, you are only patting dry, not wiping. This means your toilet paper usage can drop by 75% or more. Many people switch to reusable cloth bidet towels for an even more sustainable option.

Quick “Am I Ready?” Checklist

I know which type of bidet I am using.
I know where the controls are (knob, remote, or trigger).
I will start with the lowest water pressure first.
I have toilet paper or a towel ready for drying.

Drying Off and Additional Hygiene Steps

So, how are you not wet after using a bidet? The final step is drying, and it's just as important as washing.

Air Dryer: The most convenient option, found on most electric bidet seats. It uses warm air to gently dry you off in about one to two minutes. It's a completely hands-free and paper-free experience.
Toilet Paper: The most common method. You only need a few squares to gently pat the area dry. Because you are already clean, the paper will not tear or leave residue behind.
Bidet Towels: Small, reusable cloth towels are an eco-friendly alternative to toilet paper. Users typically have a small stack of clean towels near the toilet and a hamper for used ones. Each person in the household should have their own set.

Why is thorough drying important? Leaving moisture behind can lead to skin irritation or chafing. Taking a moment to dry properly ensures you stay comfortable all day long.

Troubleshooting, Maintenance, and Advanced Tips

Even the best bidet can have a hiccup now and then. Here are solutions to common issues.

Feeling Discomfort? If the spray is uncomfortable, the cause is almost always pressure. Turn the pressure down. If the water is too cold, consider upgrading to a model with a water heater. Also, check your aim—a slight shift in your seating position can make a big difference.
Water Outside the Bowl? This is a common issue with a handheld bidet sprayer. The solution is to always a) start with low pressure and b) make sure the spray head is well inside the bowl area before squeezing the trigger.
Keeping Your Bidet Clean: Modern bidets are very hygienic. Most have self-cleaning nozzles that rinse themselves before and after each use. For manual cleaning, simply wipe the bidet seat and exterior with a gentle bathroom cleaner once a week, just as you would a regular toilet seat.

Who Can Benefit: Special Use Cases

A bidet isn't just a fancy toilet accessory; it's a tool that can dramatically improve quality of life for many people.

Elderly and Limited Mobility: A bidet provides independence and dignity for those who find twisting and reaching to wipe difficult or painful.
Caregivers: It makes the job of assisting with hygiene easier and more thorough for caregivers.
Medical Conditions: Individuals with conditions like hemorrhoids, fissures, or IBS find the gentle water cleansing is far less irritating than abrasive toilet paper alone.
Postpartum Care: For new mothers, a bidet offers gentle, soothing cleansing during postpartum recovery.
Parents Teaching Kids: It helps ensure children are getting properly clean, reducing the risk of irritation and infection.

Medical, Health, and Sustainability Facts

Switching to a bidet comes with some impressive benefits backed by data.

Health Benefits: Based on research from the National Institutes of Health (NIH), gentle water cleansing is less abrasive and beneficial for sensitive skin conditions. Proper bidet use reduces friction and irritation caused by wiping. This can soothe and prevent issues like hemorrhoids and rashes. By washing away fecal bacteria instead of smearing it, a bidet offers a superior level of hygiene that can lower the risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs), especially for women.

Sustainability: The environmental impact of toilet paper is massive.

Paper Saved: The average person uses about 100 rolls of toilet paper per year. A bidet can reduce that by 75-100%.
Water Usage: You might think a bidet wastes water, but it's the opposite. Manufacturing a single roll of toilet paper can consume up to 37 gallons of water. A typical bidet use consumes about one-eighth of a gallon.

Mini Infographic: How Much Does Using a Bidet Save?

Trees: Saves millions of trees per year globally.
Water: Saves trillions of gallons of water used in paper production.
Money: Saves the average family over $180 per year on toilet paper.

International Etiquette & Cultural Perspectives

Bidets are common in many parts of the world, including Asia, the Middle East, and Southern Europe. Here’s a quick guide to etiquette.

Country/Region	Common Bidet Type	Etiquette & Tips
Japan	High-tech electric seats (washlets) are standard in homes, hotels, and public restrooms.	Using the bidet feature is expected. Controls are often in Japanese, but have universal symbols.
Italy	The standalone bidet is found in nearly every home and hotel by law.	A dedicated towel is always provided. Wiping first at the toilet is standard before moving to the bidet.
South Korea	Electric bidet seats are extremely common.	Similar to Japan, use is widespread and encouraged for hygiene.
USA / Canada	Once rare, bidet seats and attachments are rapidly growing in popularity and use at home.	Still uncommon in public. If you have guests, it's polite to briefly explain how to use your bidet.

Summary & Key Takeaways

Anyone can learn how to use a bidet at home quickly and easily—and once you do, you’ll understand what a bidet feels like and why so many people never go back to toilet paper. It's a simple, logical process that provides superior hygiene, comfort, and sustainability compared to using toilet paper alone.

By following the simple steps for your specific type of bidet, you unlock a cleaner, fresher feeling after every toilet use. The personal, environmental, and medical benefits of a bidet make it a modern bathroom upgrade that is well worth considering.

FAQs

1. Is there a proper way to use a bidet?

There is something to be said for using the bidet in the right way to get both clean and comfortable. First, you go to the toilet as usual, if you are using a bidet seat or bidet attachment, you will remain seated; if it is a standalone model, you will switch over and sit down. Turn on the water jet function, at first adjust the low pressure and warm water, if you can adjust so. Aim the water at the area to be washed, usually the perineum, and rinse for 30 to 60 seconds. Women should note that it's best to spray from front to back, as this prevents germs from going where they shouldn't. When you're done, take some toilet paper, a clean towel, or a reusable cloth made for bidets, and gently pat the area dry. Don't rub hard, especially if your skin is sensitive, as that can be uncomfortable. Many electric bidets have warm air drying, so it's convenient to use less or no paper. If you use a stand-alone bidet, you may have to sit across it, with your face toward the controller or your back, whichever position suits you. Be sure to wash your hands after using the bidet, as you can't skip this step. There are many benefits to using the right bidet for a long period of time. Personal hygiene can be a lot better, toilet paper can be saved, but also to reduce the irritation, such as hemorrhoids, urinary tract infections, these problems, can also be relieved. Overall, the use of the bidet is to move gently, according to their own comfort to adjust, wash and dry, do not let the water pool, or may not be strong.

2. How are you not wet after using a bidet?

When using a bidet, it's normal to get a little wet, so don't be surprised. But what's important is the drying step afterwards. Most people will take a few sheets of toilet paper and gently pat dry, not too much, because the water flow is usually gently sprayed out, not the kind of clattering immersion, so there won't be a lot of water. Some people also like to use a soft reusable towel to wipe, this kind of towel can be washed and reused again and again, especially environmentally friendly, it is worth trying. If you're using an electric bidet, it usually comes with a built-in warm air dryer, which will gently blow your body dry and help you dry off, eliminating the need for toilet paper altogether. It takes a little longer than using paper, but once you get used to it, you'll realize that you don't have to do it yourself, and it's a very comfortable experience. In short, you won't leave the toilet soaking wet. Take a few seconds to dry off and you'll feel fresh and clean, ready to go. Once this step becomes a daily habit, it will be as natural as wiping after going to the bathroom - no hassle at all.

3. Do you sit forward or backward on a bidet?

It depends on what type of bidet you are using. If you're using a bidet toilet seat or bidet attachment, then just sit on the toilet as you normally would, facing forward. You don't have to move or turn around. The spout is inside the toilet seat and sprays water from underneath, so it's especially convenient to get the cleaning done while you're sitting comfortably. If it's a freestanding bidet, the kind that looks like a short sink next to a toilet, there are several options for posture. Some people like to sit up across the face of the control buttons, that is, the direction of the faucet or the wall; some people would like to sit back, back to the faucet. In fact, there is no fixed correct posture, mainly depends on which one makes you feel natural, and also can be convenient to clean to the place you want to clean. For example, women mostly find it smoother to clean the front with their face towards the control buttons; but others may find it easier the other way around. The key thing is to be in a position that is comfortable and still allows the water to run exactly where it should. You may have to try both positions to find the one that works best for you. Whichever one you choose, use it a few times and you'll soon get used to the bidet with no fuss at all.

4. Is using a bidet hygienic?

Yes, it is true that using a bidet is much cleaner than relying on toilet paper alone. The water is able to clean the skin thoroughly, washing away bacteria, residual dirt, and odors, rather than just moving these things around on the skin like a dry scrub. This is especially beneficial for people with sensitive skin, those with hemorrhoids, and those who have just recovered from surgery, as the water flow is gentle and does not cause irritation. Today's bidets are also particularly careful in their hygienic design. Most have self-cleaning nozzles that rinse themselves before and after each use. Some of the higher-end models are also sterilized with ultraviolet light or have a layer of antimicrobial material applied to the nozzle, just to ensure cleanliness and hygiene. Moreover, when using a bidet, you don't have to touch the area to be cleaned, which reduces the chance of contact with bacteria, which is much cleaner than wiping with paper. Overall, bidets provide a cleaner, more refreshing feeling and a more hygienic way to feel at ease. As long as you take good care of your bidet, it will always help you maintain good hygiene, which is especially useful.

5. Will it spray everywhere?

It won't. When you sit upright on the toilet seat or fitting of a bidet, your body naturally forms a seal with the seat. It's like having a built-in splash protection that ensures the water sprays precisely where it's supposed to clean and doesn't splash into the toilet bowl. The nozzle is also well-designed, with the angle and pressure adjusted to clean the body without making a mess. Even if you're using a handheld bidet nozzle, you'll have complete control. Just point the nozzle inside the toilet and apply gentle pressure so the water doesn't spray everywhere. You may have to practice using it for the first time, but most people get the hang of it quickly and without any trouble at all. All in all, modern bidets are designed to be clean, precise, and easy to use, and they certainly won't leave you with a mess. As long as it is used correctly, there is no extra cleaning work like splashing or spraying, except for the areas that need to be dried, making it especially hassle-free to use.

6. How much do bidets cost?

The price of bidets varies quite a bit, depending on the type and features. Basic bidet attachments are the most cost-effective and can be hooked directly to an existing toilet, starting at about $30 to $50. These are simple, non-motorized models that generally have cold water jets and simple pressure adjustments. They're fine for basic needs. More expensive is the non-electric bidet seat, which usually costs $70 to $150. It requires you to replace your old toilet seat and has more comfort features, such as dual nozzles for front and back cleaning. But it doesn't need to be plugged in, so it's pretty cost-effective. Electric bidet seats are much more advanced, with prices ranging from $200 to more than $600, depending on the brand and features. This type of general warm water, heating seat, spray mode can be adjusted, there is an air dryer, night light, some even with a remote control. It is particularly convenient to use. High-end built-in bidet toilet, that is, the kind of toilet and bidet made together, the price may be more than 1,000 U.S. dollars, mostly used in luxury bathrooms or new construction of the house, the quality and experience are top-notch. Overall, no matter what the budget, you can find the right bidet. Choose a basic model if you want to be affordable, or an electric model if you're looking for versatility and high tech, and pick according to your comfort level and budget.

7. Is a bidet hard to install?

Bidet seats and attachments are actually exceptionally easy for most people to install. These models are designed for do-it-yourself installation, and some basic tools are usually all that's needed. Usually a screwdriver and an adjustable wrench will take 15 to 30 minutes to install. They fit directly onto your existing toilet and share the water supply line with a T-valve. So there's no fiddling with those big pipes or electrical systems. Unless you're installing an electric model, which requires an outlet nearby. If you don't have an electrical outlet near your toilet, but an electric bidet seat you may have to think more about outlet installation, but otherwise the electric bidet itself is just as easy to install as a non-electric one. However, a freestanding bidet is a completely different story, as it looks like a free-standing low sink. Installing a freestanding bidet usually involves cutting up the floor, adding new plumbing, and maybe changing the layout of the bathroom. This is a job best done by a professional plumber, and it's usually better to do it when the bathroom is completely renovated. Overall, most modern bidets are designed to be user-friendly and can be easily installed by the do-it-yourselfer. Only freestanding bidets require a lot of work and professional help.

References

National Institutes of Health (NIH), NIDDK, “Hemorrhoids and Anal Fissures: Self-care Tips.” https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/hemorrhoids