The bidet is often seen as a bathroom accessory, but it actually has a history that spans eras and continents. Let’s explore its origin, evolution, and how it varies from one country to another—reflecting different cultures and personal hygiene practices around the world.
ORIGINS
The bidet first appeared in France in the 17th century. It was a basin placed in bedrooms and used mainly by aristocrats and upper classes to wash up. It was filled with water to clean the genitals, armpits, and feet. It was also very useful before and after sexual relations or during menstruation.
USING A BIDET INSTEAD OF A BATH
At that time, the bidet reflected a commitment to cleanliness and comfort, in an era when full baths were less common due to limited access to hot water and prevailing public concerns.
Fear of disease
When understanding of germs and pathogens was limited, the stagnant water in baths was often seen as a potential source of illness. People feared that soaking in a bath could expose them to disease.
Vulnerability
Fully undressing to take a bath was perceived as a moment of vulnerability. In a context where modesty and restraint were highly valued, being completely uncovered could be viewed as risky or inappropriate, especially for women.
Water-related challenges
Access to clean water was limited, and boiling enough water to fill a full bath was costly and labour-intensive. This made baths less practical and therefore less frequent, often reserved for special occasions.
In short, full baths were often replaced by more targeted washing. Using a bidet was considered sufficient to maintain good hygiene without the perceived risks of full baths.
EUROPEAN EXPANSION
In the 18th century, the bidet grew in popularity and became a common feature in the homes of the French aristocracy. It spread to other European countries, notably Italy, Spain, and Portugal, where it remains widely used today.
The advent of modern plumbing in the 19th century made it easier to integrate bidets into residential bathrooms. With more reliable water-supply systems, the bidet became more practical and its use became more widespread.
By the mid-19th century, using the bidet specifically to clean oneself after using the toilet was documented more frequently, especially with growing public-health concerns related to urban epidemics such as cholera.
Greater awareness of disease transmission and the importance of personal hygiene encouraged bidet use in Europe and eventually elsewhere around the world.
TYPES OF BIDETS AROUND THE WORLD
The traditional bowl-style bidet, while still popular in some countries, has evolved into several variations adapted to modern technologies and regional hygiene preferences.
Porcelain bidet or standalone bidet
- Prevalence: France, Italy, Portugal, Spain.
- Features: A separate fixture placed next to the toilet, used to rinse after using the bathroom. May have a small upward fountain or a faucet jet directed downward.
- Advantages: Enables a thorough wash with soap. Can be used to wash more than just the buttocks. Choice of water temperature.
- Disadvantages: Takes up space. May require a bathroom renovation. Moving from the toilet to the bidet is inconvenient, and since this type of bidet drains like a sink, evacuating solid particles can be problematic (you need to wipe first). Models where water flows downward require hand-rinsing to bring water toward the genitals. Fountain-style models are not very powerful.
Rinse bottle or portable bidet
- Prevalence: Africa, India, regions without modern toilet facilities
- Features: Can be a bottle with a perforated cap, a jug, or a bucket that users fill beforehand with water to rinse manually. Modern portable bidets have an angled tip that sprays water upward toward the genitals.
- Advantages: Portable. Useful where access to running water is limited. Very economical. Requires no installation. Water temperature of your choice.
- Disadvantages: Regular bottles or jugs require hand-rinsing (often with the left hand, culturally) for effective cleaning.
Bidet toilet or electric bidet seat (integrated bidet)
- Prevalence: Japan, South Korea.
- Features: Electric bidet with water jets integrated into the toilet seat; can heat water and may offer features such as lights, a heated seat, a dryer, sound options, and/or a deodorizer.
- Advantages: Provides advanced functions for maximum comfort. Automatic features reduce the need to touch anything with your hands, improving hygiene.
- Disadvantages: Expensive to purchase and install. Requires a nearby electrical outlet. Repairs are difficult; a minor break may require a full replacement. A bathroom renovation might be necessary for complete toilet-bidet options.
Handheld bidet sprayer (shattaf)
- Prevalence: Middle East, India, South America, Nordic countries.
- Features: A handheld sprayer, often next to the toilet, that allows manual control of cleaning.
- Advantages: Users can adjust water pressure and position. Economical. Few compatibility issues; it can be added beside almost any toilet without obstructing the seat and can be used on the left or right.
- Disadvantages: Requires manual effort, which may not be ideal for children, seniors, or people with reduced mobility. Cold water only.
Toilet bidet attachment
- Prevalence: United States, Canada, and more recently France
- Features: Attaches directly to an existing toilet, transforming a standard toilet into a bidet. Some models can be connected to hot water.
- Advantages: Easy to install; can be mounted on most existing toilets without a plumber. An affordable way to add bidet functionality to a bathroom. Intuitive controls to adjust water pressure. An effective jet that cleans precisely in the right spot.
- Disadvantages: Some seats or toilets may not be compatible. For hot-water connection, a sink near the toilet is required.
CULTURAL IMPACT AND GLOBAL PERCEPTIONS
More than a simple bathroom accessory, the bidet plays a significant role in cultural practices worldwide. Its adoption varies greatly from one region to another, influenced by cultural norms and attitudes toward personal hygiene.
In Europe and the Middle East
In countries like Italy and France, the bidet has been an integral part of bathrooms for centuries, reflecting a deep emphasis on personal hygiene. The same is true in many Muslim countries. Cleaning oneself after using the toilet is taught from childhood and considered an essential daily practice.
In Asia
In Japan, the electronic bidet has become the norm due to its association with cleanliness and high technology. Its presence in popular culture, combined with effective promotion by innovative brands like Toto, has made it a must-have in modern households.
In the US & UK
Because bidets were never part of standard bathroom design in North America or the United Kingdom, they were long viewed with skepticism or amusement. Travellers returning from countries that use bidets often shared their experiences anecdotally, emphasizing the “exotic” or unusual aspect rather than the practical or hygienic benefits.
Its later introduction met a public that didn’t really know its actual purpose. Few actors helped popularize its advantages. It’s also worth noting that the United States pioneered toilet-paper marketing. Thanks to massive advertising, toilet paper became the dominant standard after using the toilet, reducing the perceived need for a bidet.
However, things are changing. The arrival of easy-to-install bidet attachments for existing toilets is beginning to shift perceptions. With effective campaigns, bidet brands are gaining visibility, educating consumers, and highlighting practical and hygienic benefits—introducing bidets to a wider audience across North America.
The COVID-19 pandemic also sparked renewed interest in bidets, mainly due to toilet-paper shortages that pushed consumers to look for hygienic alternatives. This accelerated the bidet’s popularity and adoption, moving it from a curiosity to an essential element of the modern bathroom.
THE RISE OF THE BIDET IN CANADA
In Canada, interest in bidets has historically been modest, partly due to North American cultural influences that didn’t traditionally include bidets in bathroom practices.
However, several trends suggest it could grow in popularity in Canada over the next few years.
Heightened environmental awareness
More and more Canadians are adopting sustainable habits. The bidet, known for reducing water consumption and waste, aligns well with these values.
Interest in innovation
The arrival of more modern options, such as bidet attachments and bidet seats, makes installation and everyday use more accessible and appealing for all consumers.
Outside influence
With more immigrants arriving from countries where bidet use is common, demand is rising. In addition, the influence of the United States, where American bidet brands have been widely distributed, has been felt in Canada over the past 3 to 5 years, accelerating the adoption of this hygiene practice across the country.
Local initiative for a hygienic revolution
As of 2024, Boaty is on a mission to democratize bidet use in Canada. With sustained education and communications—backed by a thoughtful, turnkey, easy-to-use bidet offering, Canadians finally have access to an affordable Canadian brand bidet!
IN CONCLUSION
Today, the bidet is far more than a European relic; it’s a symbol of evolving hygiene standards around the world. With the integration of modern technologies, it continues to adapt to contemporary needs while keeping its essential place in the cleanliness routines of millions of people across the globe.
