How to Use Bidet Spray: Tips for First-Time Users

Title: How to Install a Handheld Bidet Sprayer | Step by Step Upload Date: Jan 30, 2023 Description: A clear, step-by-step tutorial on installing and using a handheld bidet sprayer, ideal for first-time users seeking practical guidance on setup, water connection, and correct operation. Video Credit: Take Two Vlogs

What Is a Bidet Spray and How Does It Work?

Sometimes also known as a hand-held bidet, it's just a handheld nozzle for cleaning yourself up after using the toilet. A trigger-operated nozzle is attached to the toilet cistern via a braided hose, directed through a T-valve, sometimes called a bidet diverter. Situated between the cistern inlet and the cistern fill valve, squeezing the trigger activates the bidet diverter, which sends cold water from the cistern inlet, through the braided hose, and out the spray nozzle as a controlled stream. The harder you squeeze the trigger, the more forceful the stream will be.
So, in practice, how does a bidet work? You point it where you need to aim and give the trigger a gentle squeeze — rinse! When not in use, it sits in a holder bracket that is wall mounted, neatly storing the bidet and allowing you easy access to it. This spray requires less room than a stand-alone bidet unit, and these diverter kits start from $7 AUD. It's a great addition to any modern bathroom in Australia.

plumber installing bidet sprayer hose beside toilet in tiled bathroom

Setting Up Your Bidet Spray: Installation Basics

So now you know everything about how this device works, it's time to install the bidet spray on your toilet. Installation is pretty simple, but attaching any fitting to your potable water supply requires licensed plumbing work in all Australian states and territories. That means the diverter will require a licensed plumber to install and certify upon completion. A bidet diverter is not something you can DIY install in Australia. Always check your state/territory requirements, as licensing rules vary.
A licensed plumber will install this by turning off the water supply, removing the existing plumbing that goes between the cistern inlet valve and the water supply, and attaching the WaterMark-certified T-valve, then checking all of this for leaks. Since the WaterMark Certification Scheme dictates that fittings connected to any water supply require a WaterMark-certified fitting, always look for the WaterMark stamp on a diverter before purchasing. And because all WaterMark-certified fittings must meet lead-free requirements by May 2026, shop around to find compliant fittings when you're buying.
A basic bidet spray diverter kit can cost between $30–$80 AUD. On top of this, you can expect a licensed plumber to charge between $80–$150 AUD for their time. Once the bidet diverter is installed, you can take on the job of attaching the braided hose and mounting the holder bracket to the wall yourself.

Hand gripping a brushed stainless steel bidet spray with flexible hose

How to Use a Bidet Spray Step by Step

OK, so you've got your bidet spray installed and tested for leaks — let's go through one of the most common questions asked by first-time users: how to use bidet spray correctly?
Sit comfortably on the toilet seat. Take the head of the spray out of the holder bracket and place it underneath you with the nozzle positioned towards where you're needing to rinse. Here's the important bit: squeeze the trigger very slowly and gradually to begin with. Standard Australian residential water pressure runs between 200 and 500 kPa, which means if you depress the trigger all the way, you could end up with a fairly strong and even harsh stream. Start off slow.
Point the nozzle where you need it. A light spray for ten to fifteen seconds is usually enough, then grab a small piece of toilet paper or a dedicated towel and pat dry. That's it — that's all you need to know about how to use a bidet spray; you'll have a good idea after your first one or two times. Note: a simple bidet sprayer connects to the cold water line feeding the toilet cistern, so the spray comes out cold, which some might find especially bracing in winter. If this isn't your preference, the smart bidet seat covers described below have heated water built in.

stainless steel handheld bidet sprayer mounted beside toilet on white subway tile wall

Hygiene, Water Pressure and Common Mistakes to Avoid

Now you have an understanding of how to use a bidet, there are some extra hygiene tips to keep yourself and your toilet clean and healthy. The biggest mistake you can make is turning the water pressure to maximum straight away — begin with the lightest spray and build up from there. Don't leave the T-valve open when your bidet sprayer is idle; turn it off after each use to avoid a pressurised hose sitting unattended.
Hot water safety matters too. Australian plumbing standards require that hot water delivered at bathroom outlets must not exceed 50°C. Simple bidet sprayers connect to the cold water line only — do not attempt to attach one to a hot water line without proper temperature control, as this creates a scalding hazard. Rinse your nozzle after every use and return it to its holder to dry. Check your hose at least once a month for leaks and replace washers annually.
If you have an inwall cistern, consult a licensed plumber to confirm your setup is compatible — most bidet sprayers require 200–500 kPa operating pressure, so verify your supply falls within that range.

White smart bidet toilet with open lid in dark moody bathroom

Upgrade Your Bathroom with Bidet Sprayer Accessories and Alternatives

Now you understand how to use bidet spray and keep everything clean, you might start thinking about what other bathroom features you can add.
If all you want is a holder or hook for your toilet water spray, there's a range of holders on the market. Both Poseidon and Fienza sell bidet spray holders and wall brackets worth considering.
You can also add a smart bidet seat cover. It sits over the existing toilet pan and the bidet is activated from a nozzle attached to the toilet seat itself, using buttons or a remote, and often features heated water, adjustable water pressure, and an air dryer — note you will need an electrical outlet nearby. Smart bidet seat covers range from $80 to $1,846 AUD.
If you're really looking to upgrade, some people explore japan toilets — a full toilet unit with integrated bidet functionality, often featuring a heated seat, odour elimination, and warm air drying. This is a distinct product category, separate from the handheld bidet spray. Kohler's Japanese-style smart toilets start at $1,619 AUD and range up to $6,000 AUD for top-specification models. If you're planning a full bathroom remodel, these are a very high-end cleaning solution. But if you're simply after a practical bidet installation guide, this covers everything you need to know about how to use a bidet spray from day one.

References

State plumbing licensing legislation (VBA Victoria; Fair Trading NSW; QBCC Queensland; Building Practitioners Board WA; CBOS Tasmania; ACTPLA ACT; Building & Energy SA; ABPB NT)
WaterMark Certification Scheme, Australian Building Codes Board
National Construction Code 2022, Volume Three (Plumbing Code of Australia), Part A5 Documentation of Design and Construction — Lead-Free Copper Alloy Requirements
AS/NZS 3500.4 Plumbing and Drainage — Heated Water Services, Standards Australia

FAQs

How long does a licensed plumber typically take to fit the T-valve diverter?

Most experienced plumbers complete the diverter installation in under an hour, since it involves only a short section of pipework at the cistern inlet. The job is straightforward enough that some plumbers will combine it with another scheduled visit to keep call-out costs down — worth asking about when you book.

Can a bidet spray be used safely with a rainwater tank supply?

It can, but you should confirm with your plumber that the tank's pump delivers pressure within the 200–500 kPa operating range, as gravity-fed rainwater systems often run lower. Water quality is also worth considering — a basic inline filter is a sensible addition if your tank water carries sediment that could clog the nozzle over time.

Is a bidet spray suitable for households with young children or elderly users?

Absolutely, though supervision is wise for young children until they understand the gradual trigger technique. For elderly users or those with limited grip strength, a spray head with a larger ergonomic handle makes the trigger easier to depress steadily — several Australian bathroom brands offer these as part of their accessibility-focused fittings range.