As modern bathrooms keep improving, more people are starting to notice and use bidets. However, have you ever wondered who the bidet inventor is?
When did this simple but useful device first appear, and how did it become what we know today?
In this blog, we will look at where the bidet came from, how it has changed over time, and why it is now so popular in many homes. Let’s get started!
Who Invented the Bidet?
The history of bidets is much longer than most people imagine. Although we cannot pinpoint the exact identity of the bidet inventor, historical records indicate that bidets first appeared in 17th-century France, around the 1600s.
According to historians' research, the most likely bidet inventor was French furniture maker Christophe de Rosiers. He introduced this innovative device to the social circles of the wealthy, making it quickly popular among the upper class.
These early bidets were primarily used for cleaning private areas after using chamber pots and were considered a luxury item for improving personal hygiene.
The Origin of the Bidet
The original bidet design was very simple, essentially a small washbasin mounted on a wooden frame that users would straddle to wash their private areas. In fact, the word "bidet" comes from the French word meaning "small horse" or "pony," as the position when using it resembled riding a horse.
These early bidets were typically standalone fixtures placed next to the toilet. They consisted of a basin with a water outlet, and users needed to clean manually. Although this design appears quite primitive compared to modern bidets, it was a significant advancement at the time.
Early bidets were often crafted as exquisite works of art, featuring painted ceramics and ornate wooden bases. They were not only functional devices but also a way to display wealth and taste.
Over time, the bidet design gradually improved.
How Bidets Evolved: From Basins and Bowls to Modern Bidet Seats
With the invention and popularization of indoor plumbing systems, bidet development encountered a major turning point. Indoor plumbing not only brought bidets into more ordinary households but also prompted their relocation from bedrooms to bathrooms, where they were centrally placed with other bathroom facilities.
In the 18th century, some bidets began to be integrated into furniture such as cabinets and chairs. Certain high-end models even featured small manual water pumps that could spray cleansing water streams.
By the 19th century, bidets began spreading to other parts of the world, including South America, Asia, and the Middle East. With geographical expansion, bidets also evolved into various forms, such as the small bidet spray attachments (also known as "bum guns") commonly seen in Southeast Asia.
The modern bidet became popular in the late 1900s when Japan created bidet toilet seats. People started to like the idea of having the bidet built into the toilet. These seats had warm water, air dryers, and buttons to control the spray and temperature. They were small, easy to fit, and soon became a normal part of many homes instead of a luxury.
Today, bidets are smarter and better for the planet. They use less water than toilet paper and keep you cleaner and more comfortable. Many new models have simple designs, power-saving features, and sensors that make them easy to use. The bidet has grown from a simple wash basin into a smart, eco-friendly bathroom upgrade that makes daily life easier.
Types of Modern Bidet
Modern bidets come in different styles to make bathroom use cleaner and more comfortable. The best choice depends on your bathroom and what you like. Here are the main types available today, each offering simple ways to improve daily hygiene.
1.Standalone Bidets
This is the most traditional type, a fixed fixture independent of the toilet that looks like a low sink. It offers excellent cleaning effectiveness with adjustable water temperature and pressure, making it ideal for households with ample bathroom space.
2.Bidet Seats
The bidet seat is currently the most popular choice, designed to directly replace your existing toilet seat. It offers a full range of features, from heated seats and warm water cleansing to warm air drying. Premium models also include automatic lid opening and deodorizing systems.
Easy to install, space-saving, with a wide price range, though electronic models require electrical outlets and some toilet models may not be compatible. Ideal for renters or families wanting to upgrade existing toilets.
3.Bidet Attachments
The bidet attachment can be installed directly beneath the toilet seat.
It offers low cost and minimal maintenance, but features basic functionality. Without heating or drying capabilities, using cold water in winter may prove uncomfortable.
This option is well-suited for first-time bidet users, renters, and budget-conscious households.
4.Handheld Bidet Sprayer
The handheld bidet sprayer resembles a kitchen spray nozzle, mounted beside the toilet. Its water flow direction can be freely controlled, and it can also be used to clean the toilet or rinse other items.
Inexpensive with multiple uses, but requires manual operation and may cause splashing. More suitable for those who prefer to control their own cleaning.
5.Integrated Smart Toilets
Smart toilets combine a toilet and bidet in one stylish unit. They often include features like automatic flushing, warm water, and deodorizing.
These models cost more and need professional installation, but they offer the best comfort and are great for families with bigger budgets.
Why Bidets Get More and More Popular?
Although bidets had a late start in the United States and some Western countries, their acceptance and adoption rates have been increasing rapidly in recent years. So what are the benefits of using bidets? Let's take a look:
- Enhanced Cleanliness: Bidets help keep private areas clean.
- Improved Hygiene: Bidets can remove bacteria and residue that toilet paper cannot reach.
- Comfortable Experience: Bidets can heat the seat, provide warm air drying, automatic flushing, and more, enhancing personal comfort.
- Eco-Friendly Choice: Compared to wet wipes, bidets are more environmentally friendly, won't clog municipal sewer systems, and reduce environmental burden.
- Cost Savings: Using bidets can save on toilet paper expenses and reduce toilet paper consumption.
Conclusion
Long ago, bidets were luxury items used by rich families in France. Today, they are a normal part of many homes and help people stay clean and comfortable, with warm water, soft sprays, and even massage features. The bidet’s story shows how people always look for cleaner and easier ways to live.
If you want a simple way to stay fresh and feel more comfortable, a bidet is a great choice. MyHomeware has many options, from easy add-ons to advanced smart toilets, so you can find one that fits your needs and your home.
FAQs
Is a Bidet French or Japanese?
The first bidets came from France, where they were used for washing and personal cleaning. Many years later, Japan improved the design and made the modern smart bidets we know today. These include features like heated seats, warm water, and air drying. That is why people often call them Japanese-style bidets.
Do You Still Have to Wipe After Using a Bidet?
It depends on the type of bidet you have. Many modern Japanese-style bidets come with a built-in dryer that blows warm air, so you do not need to wipe afterward. If your bidet does not have a drying feature, gently pat the area dry with soft toilet paper. Do not rub too hard, as that can irritate the skin.
Are Bidets More Hygienic Than Toilet Paper?
Yes, bidets are usually cleaner than using toilet paper. Water washes away dirt and bacteria more effectively, while toilet paper can sometimes just spread it around. Using a bidet can also help lower the chance of infections and other hygiene problems.
For people with sensitive skin, hemorrhoids, or those recovering from surgery, a bidet is a gentler and more comfortable choice. It cleans without rubbing or irritation, making it easier on the skin.
