How to Use a Bidet Properly: A Definitive Guide

When learning how to use a bidet, first familiarize with its controls so you don’t get any surprises the first time you try it out.

• Knowing how to propely use a bidet starts with knowing how one works. The central feature of any bidet’s basin is a spray nozzle that sends water upwards to clean your posterior. Most bidets have a lever that controls the jet, so experiment with it to learn the location of the spray and how high it goes so you can position your target area over it. Some bidets will only spray when you maintain pressure on a lever or button.
• Many bidets have hot and cold temperature controls. Test them to determine how to set the bidet to your preferred temperature. You don’t want to be sprayed with uncomfortably cold or hot water.
• There are bidets with adjustable sprayer settings and some bidet nozzles can be adjusted for “posterior” or “feminine” angles, depending on your need.

Tip: If the bidet has a powerful spray, place one hand over the nozzle before turning it on to contain the splashing.

• Bidets are not toilets, but rather wash basins designed for cleaning up after using the toilet. Use the toilet and dry wipe once with toilet paper to remove any remaining solid waste before using the bidet.
• Position yourself to use the bidet by straddling the bowl. It’s acceptable to sit on the rim of the bowl, but many users will squat or “hover” over the bidet.
• Standalone bidets offer users the option of facing away from the controls, as you would when sitting on a toilet, or towards them, which may make it easier for first-timers to adjust the settings and grow accustomed to the bidet.

Tip: You may need to remove your pants to comfortably use the bidet when facing the controls.

• Turn on the spray and clean the desired area as you would during a bath or shower.
• Use a gentle soap if desired, but many hygiene experts find that the water alone should be sufficient.
• Some bidets do not have jets, but instead use taps and a faucet to simply fill the bowl with water like a sink. In these cases, you may need to wash and rinse the target area with your hands.
• After washing, pat dry with toilet paper or a towel – homes or hotel rooms with bidets may have dedicated towels and hampers for them. Dispose of bathroom tissue in the toilet, as the bidet is for liquids only.
• Warm air dryer bidets include a built-in dryer, which you can use comparably to hand dryers in public bathrooms. Expect it to take longer than drying with toilet paper or towel.
• Rinse out the basin with water when finished to make the bidet cleaner.
• Always wash your hands with soap and water at the sink as you would after using the bathroom.

Tip: Some toilets and toilet seats have built-in bidets. Users should remain at the toilets or bidet toilet seats and use the controls as directed.
You can also transform a toilet into a bidet with a special bidet attachment.

How to propely use a bidet includes being familiar with hand-held versions. Bathrooms without space for a standard bidet can usually accommodate a hand-held sprayer attached to the toilet's water supply. These devices allow you to control the direction of the spray, which can be an advantage over standard bidets. Here are some tips on how to use a hand-held bidet.

• Locate the sprayer and open the shut-off valve, if it has one.
  Make sure the temperature is to your liking.
• Place the sprayer underneath your body, aiming towards the area you want to clean.
• Lightly squeeze the trigger to begin spraying.
• Wash and dry as you would with a standard bidet.
• Return the sprayer to its stand or hook and close the shut-off valve.

• Positioning: Sit comfortably on the bidet seat and ensure you're positioned correctly over the nozzle.
• Adjust Water Temperature: Many bidets have temperature controls; adjust it to your preference, avoiding extremes.
• Water Pressure: Start with a low to moderate pressure setting and increase gradually if needed.
• Front and Rear Wash: Most bidets offer options for front and rear cleansing; choose the appropriate one.
• Control Panel: Familiarize yourself with the bidet's control panel or remote for adjusting settings.
• Pat Dry: After using the bidet, pat yourself dry with toilet paper or a towel.
• Hygiene: Always wash your hands thoroughly after using the bidet.
• Cleaning Maintenance: Regularly clean the bidet's nozzle and surface to maintain hygiene.
• Body Position: Lean slightly forward or backward to ensure thorough cleaning.
• Consult your doctor: Consult with your doctor if you have any medical concerns before using a bidet.