Bidets vs Smart Toilets: Which is Better?

Bathroom upgrades and renovations can take many different forms. They could be relatively minor updates, such as changing the tapware and shower head, or a complete overhaul that brings your bathroom well into the 21st century. 

One common project that many homeowners consider for their bathroom is the installation of a bidet or smart toilet. For some, choosing between the two can be overwhelming. Both offer improved hygiene and a more luxurious experience than your traditional toilet, but which option is truly better? 

In recent years, more households have embraced modern bathroom technology. With this, the debate of bidets versus smart toilets has grown. So let’s take a look at the key differences, benefits, and downsides to help you make as informed a decision as possible. 

What is a Bidet?

A bidet is a bathroom fixture that offers a more hygienic cleaning alternative to toilet paper. Originating in France, bidets have been around for centuries and are highly popular across the world. You’ll find various options to choose from, including standalone bidets and more convenient attachments you can add to your existing toilet. 

The basic function of a bidet is to spray water that delivers a thorough and gentle cleanse after you’ve used the toilet. In addition to the cleanliness benefits, bidets are a more eco-friendly option, as they help reduce your need for excess toilet paper use. Whether you’re seeking a fresher clean or simply looking to go green, bidets offer a simple yet effective solution.

What is a Smart Toilet?

Take your bathroom experience to new heights by upgrading your existing, traditional toilet to one enhanced with smart technology. It’ll be the home update you never knew you needed. 

Smart toilets come equipped with a raft of convenient features like automatic flushing, heated seats, and built-in bidet functions. You can even get some with night lights! These toilets generally offer a more luxurious and comfortable experience than your traditional system; some smart toilets have sensors that lift the toilet seat or self-cleaning nozzles to maintain hygiene. 

Yes, smart toilets can come with a higher price tag. That being said, they also provide a hands-free, modern touch to your bathroom. For homeowners who value convenience and sleek design, a smart toilet is the ultimate upgrade.

Bidets: Pros and Cons

Like any major household appliance or fixture, bidets come with several benefits – as well as potential drawbacks – that you should consider before making your choice. These pros and cons include: 

Pros:

• Easy to install: Bidet attachments can be a budget-friendly choice that you can fit onto your existing toilet. You will, however, need a licensed plumber to install it for you.

• Better for personal hygiene: Using water promotes better hygiene by providing a more thorough clean and refreshing feeling than toilet paper.

• Eco-friendly option: Bidets reduce the need for toilet paper, which helps save trees and decreases paper waste.

• Gentle on sensitive skin: As water is less abrasive than toilet paper, bidets are great for people with sensitive skin or certain medical conditions.

Cons:

• Space requirements: Standalone bidets require additional bathroom space, and not all toilet models may be capable of accommodating a bidet attachment. 

• Limited features: Traditional bidets lack the advanced features you’ll often find in smart toilets such as heated seats or air dryers.

• Learning curve: Some people may need time to adjust to the sensation and practice of using a bidet.

• Possible plumbing adjustments: Installation may require minor plumbing work, which could be inconvenient for some households.

Considering both the advantages and possible disadvantages of installing a bidet will help you decide whether it offers the right fit for your bathroom needs. 

Smart Toilets: Pros and Cons

Like bidets, smart toilets perfectly combine modern convenience and luxury. However, they also come with their own set of advantages and disadvantages:

Pros:

• All-in-one solution: Smart toilets often come with built-in bidet functions which means you don’t necessarily need a separate unit.

• Convenience and comfort: Many include features such as heated seats, automatic flushing, and adjustable water temperatures that create a more comfortable experience.

• Hygienic design: The inclusion of sensors in the smart toilet design helps detect when the toilet needs to flush. This reduces the spread of germs and keeps everything hands-free.

• Deluxe feel: With their stylish designs and advanced features, smart toilets add a luxurious, high-end touch to any bathroom.

Cons:

• More expensive: Smart toilets tend to come with a higher price tag than standard models, both in terms of initial purchase and installation costs and potential repairs.

• Complex installation: Installing a smart toilet may require professional help and additional wiring, making it more involved than a simple bidet attachment.

• Continual maintenance: With advanced features comes the potential for more things to go wrong, which often means higher maintenance needs and costs.

It’s certainly worth weighing up both the benefits and the potential drawbacks of smart toilet installation when deciding if it’s the right choice for your home. 

Cost and Maintenance Considerations

As we’ve seen from looking at the pros and cons of bidets and smart toilets, when you compare the two it’s important to keep the cost and maintenance needs in mind. 

Bidets, particularly attachments, typically have affordability on their side with basic models often available at a relatively low cost. Smart toilets can be significantly more pricey due to their advanced features. Installation costs also vary; while most bidet attachments can be installed easily, smart toilets often require professional help.

On the maintenance side of things, bidets are generally low-maintenance and only really need occasional cleaning. Smart toilets, however, may need more attention due to their complex electronics and extra features. 

In the end, your budget and willingness to manage ongoing maintenance will help guide your decision.

Make the Best Choice for Your Bathroom

So with all these points of consideration in mind, which is the best option for your bathroom and home - the bidet or the smart toilet?

Ultimately, it really comes down to what matters most to you in terms of comfort, budget, and features. If you're simply looking for an eco-friendly personal hygiene solution that offers a thorough cleaning without breaking the bank, a bidet just might tick all the boxes. However, you might be more “team smart toilet” if the thought of a luxurious, hands-free experience with all the bells and whistles better suits your tastes.

In the end, there’s no real wrong answer. Both options offer unique benefits, so what matters most is finding the one that best fits your lifestyle. Take your time to consider what you value most in your bathroom routine, and you’ll be on your way to making the right decision for your home.