At the onset of the pandemic, there was a drastic shortage of toilet paper as panicked consumers were stocking them for an infinite period of uncertainty.
The situation made it evident that having a more permanent hygiene solution in our bathrooms was necessary.
Hence, bidets were summoned to save the day.
Sure, it is absurd to correlate them with the pandemic frenzy, but it is no secret that the interest in bidets sky-rocketed during this phase.
A market research report by OpenPR reveals that the bidet market is predicted to hit USD 3.38 billion by 2027 during the forecast period 2021-2027.
Bidet seats and bidets toilets are catching the attention of consumers alike.
The modern sanitary solutions will surely make your lives easier, but what should be the best choice for you?
As you set out to remodel your restrooms, we are here to help you understand the difference between bidet toilets and bidet seats.
| Comparision | Bidet Toilet | Bidet Seat |
|---|---|---|
The Good  |
Luxury Feeling | Easy On Pocket |
| Top Features | Easy To Install and Maintain | |
| Auto Open/Close Lid | Available On Various Price Range | |
| Auto Flush | Remote Controlled And Side Panels | |
| Fits On Existing Toilet | ||
| The Bad
|
Pricey affair | Features Are Limited Depending On Price |
| Can’t be installed without a plumber | May Have Fitting Issues | |
| Maintenance and repair is expensive | Cheaper Bidet Seats May Have High-Pressure Water Spray | |
| Limited Options Available | Running Cost Is Nearly Same As Bidet Toilet | |
| Require Renovations To Install |
What Is A Bidet Toilet
The bidet toilet or toilet with a built-in bidet gives you the best of both worlds experience.
They are integrated and chic units that come with a pre-built bidet wand and nozzles.
The luxurious invention of the sanitaryware industry is packed with trendy features that make it a must-have for modern homeowners.
The tankless apparatus is synonymous with ultimate comfort.
It equips the users with constant lukewarm water, a warm air dryer, adjustable warm seats, and this is just the tip of the iceberg.
What Is A Bidet Seat
Washlets, or commonly known as bidet seats, are an attractive addition to the hygiene game that is swiftly making its way into our homes.
So, what are these bidet seats?
A bidet seat resembles a regular toilet seat and substitutes the old seat to affix to your existing toilet bowl.
It has a built-in bidet wand with nozzles that retract into a covering when not in use.
The shell helps the wand to keep clean.
There are two types of bidet seats, non-electric and electric.
The non-electric seats only require a clean water supply and offer only cold-water wash.
On the other hand, with the electric seats, you get warm-water heated seats, adjustable spray settings, a warm air dryer, etc.
Throughout this article, we will walk you through the various features of bidet toilets and bidet seats so that you can construct an informed decision.
How Does A Bidet Toilet Differ From Bidet Seat
It can be overwhelming to choose between a bidet toilet and a bidet seat, especially when they are loaded with so many features.
In this section, we will compare the different aspects of the two pieces of equipment based on their features, installation process, and prices.
● Features
When it comes to features, all bidet toilets have great list features because bidet toilets come in a price range of $1500 to $4000.
So they have a lot of premium features that make your bathroom a luxury experience.
Here is a list of features that make integrated bidet toilets a smart choice.
- Lids with sensors that open and close automatically
- Heated toilet seats
- Warm water supply to ensure best bathroom experiences in the winter
- Warm air dryer
- Pulsating massage sprayer
- Tornado flush system
- Odorless deodorizer
- Buttons regulate the water pressure and other features.
- Night light
- Retractable self-cleaning nozzle.
If you are looking for a luxury experience, bidet toilets can be the best investment you can make for your washrooms.
Now when it comes to bidet seats, the features majorly depend on the price range of the bidet.
| $300 or less | Between $300 to $800 | Over $800 |
| Entry- to mid-level electric bidets.
Warm air dryers and hybrid water heaters) are found in some of $250-$300 bidets. Of course, non-electric bidets (attachments and seats) and handheld sprayers. |
Mid-level (advanced or premium) electric bidets.
Most have warm air dryers and wireless remotes, but basic tank-type heaters are still somewhat common. Hybrid heaters are easy to find, but tankless heaters are still few and far between. Some models have air deodorizers and manufacturer-specific (patented) technology (e.g., ewater+ and PREMIST). |
At this point, you’re dealing with mostly luxury units.
Tankless heaters are much easier to find and warm air dryers are a given. Luxury features like antimicrobial wands (Brondell Silver solution) and automatic open/close seats (TOTO) are increasingly common. |
● Ease Of Installations
Let us see the key difference between installing a bidet toilet and a bidet seat
Bidet toilets are integrated single-unit toilets with a built-in bidet.
Therefore, the installation process entirely replaces your old toilet unit with a new bidet toilet.
It is advisable to hire a plumber to install the apparatus, especially if you are not mechanically keen.
Installing a bidet toilet is comparatively easier, and you can do it all by yourself.
You can simply unscrew some bolts, remove the old seat and install a bidet seat by yourself.
Therefore, it is definitely easier to install a bidet seat.
● Cost Of Installation
Installing a bidet seat is mostly a DIY process, that you can easily execute by following the manual.
In case, you need a plumber or an electrician to help, the cost for installing bidet seats or bidet toilets is more or less the same, depending on the service charges.
Such charges can range between 200-1000 USD.
● Prices
Bidet toilets are expensive, primarily because of the integrated benefits.
Their prices range between 1,500-4,000 USD.
Some of the best bidet seats are manufactured by companies like TOTO, Woodbridge, BioBidets.
On the other hand, bidet seats are pocket-friendly resorts.
An electric bidet seat costs anything between 300-500 USD and will have most of the features.
If you want a seat with advanced features, then the cost can go up to 1000 USD.
The least expensive electric seat is 200 USD.
Non-electric bidet seats are furthermore reasonable and cost less than 100 USD in most cases.
Advantages And Disadvantages Of Bidet Toilet
Let us see the pros and cons of the bidet toilet first.
Advantages
Saves Space
Bidet seats are integrated units and eliminate the need for stand-alone bidets.
If you have limited space in your washrooms, then bidets toilets are the perfect choice for you.
Its sleek designs give your bathroom a luxurious look while ensuring the best personal hygiene practices.
Saves you money
Let say you spend $3 on average on a toilet paper roll.
Estimating that you would need 500 rolls in a year, imagine the money you are spending just to stay hygienic.
You could easily cut down the huge expenditures by incurring a one-time cost of installing a new-age bidet toilet.
Not to forget, they are a permanent solution.
Eco-friendly Option
It is estimated that it takes around 15 million trees to make 36.5 billion toilet paper rolls.
Imagine the wastage you can prevent, just by installing a bidet seat.
This modern equipment empowers you to take care of the environment alongside your home.
Ideal for new mothers and people with limited mobility
It is an ideal option, especially if you have elderly family members, members with mobility issues, and expecting or new mothers.
Bidet seat ensures all over cleanliness with added comfort.
No more clogged-up toilets
Flushing used toilet papers down your toilets often clogs them up.
With bidet toilets, not only do you save money and the environment, but you also save your toilets from becoming Clogzilla.
Disadvantages
Expensive
Bidet toilets are definitely an expensive choice.
Therefore, if you have a budget for your bathroom renovation a bidet toilet can burn a hole in your pocket.
Not easy to install
You can’t install a bidet toilet on your own. It can be a tiresome process, particularly when you are not handy with tools.
Therefore, you will need a plumber to step in and install it for you.
Not easy to maintain
If any feature stops working on the bidet toilet, you would have to call in an expert to help you fix it.
Also, a faulty bidet toilet robs you of the experiences you bought it for in the first place.AdvantagesDisadvantages
Advantages and disadvantages of bidet seat
Let see some pros and cons of the bidet seat now.
Advantages
Cost-effective
Bidet seats are inexpensive alternatives when you want to renovate your washroom on a budget for a cleaner experience.
Bye-bye toilet papers: Once you have installed a bidet seat, you can stop incurring costs to buy toilet papers.
A constant water supply, and electricity, in the case of electric bidet seats, are all you need.
Cares for the environment
As the consumption of toilet paper goes down, so will deforestation.
Fewer trees will be cut down just so you can have clean tushies!
Easy to install and maintain
You can install a bidet seat without needing help from an expert.
They can be easily installed by following detailed instructions.
It is a simple DIY process.
Enhances feminine hygiene
The water nozzles help women clean their nether regions more effectively.
It helps reduce discomfort during pregnancy or right after birth.
Cleaning with water also prevents UTIs and other health issues.
Disadvantages
Not all models will have the best features:
A non-electric bidet seat will not give a warm seat or hot water. however, if you want one you will have to purchase an electric bidet seat, which can raise your budget.
Uncomfortable water pressure
Some seats have an option to adjust the water pressure coming out of the nozzles.
However, if it is unavailable in a model then it can be a reason for discomfort.
How To Choose What Is Best For You?
Until this point in the article, we have seen all the factors that make both bidet toilet and bidet seats wonderful options.
Nevertheless, now is the time to make a decision.
So, what would be a great choice for your bathroom? Before you commit, there are a few things you need to consider.
Features
Bidet toilets have their merit. If you are looking to station a hygienic solution in a smaller space, then bidet toilets are ideal for you.
Not to forget the plethora of benefits that come along with these toilets with built-in bidets.
If you want to refurbish your washrooms and make them glamorous, then sleek bidet toilets are your friends.
However, on the other hand, you may not get all the facilities in a non-electric bidet seat, and to avail of the luxurious features, you will have to level up to an electric alternative.
Price
That being said, bidet toilets are a pricey affair, because with great features come substantial cost.
Bidet seats would also cost you lesser than a bidet toilet.
So, if you are on a budget, bidet seats seem like a terrific option.
Installation
You may want to pick a bidet seat in case you already have an existing toilet.
The installation process is much easier than a bidet toilet.
You can do it yourself without needing help from an expert.
In the event of opting for an integrated bidet toilet, you may need a professional to help you with the installation.
It can add up to your budget. You would also have to throw out the existing toilet.
Maintenance
The repair and maintenance costs for bidet seats are also low.
Lest the seat breaks, you can still use it as a regular toilet seat or get it repaired without costing a fortune.
However, the repair and maintenance costs lie at the higher end of the scale for bidet toilets.
Final words
Our lifestyles have dramatically transformed over the last two years, and unarguably personal hygiene has become an imperative part of it.
The new-age sanitary solutions are dedicated to delivering the customers the best and most comfortable bathroom experiences.
Both bidet seats and bidet toilets are game-changers, and with them by your side, you can permanently bid adieu to toilet papers.
That being said, you can find yourself in a tough spot when deciding which one to choose.
This article is the ultimate guide you will need.
