How to Use a Bidet Seat Properly

Bidet seats are becoming increasingly popular in the United States. Your first encounter with a bidet can be a little daunting, but they are actually very simple and hygienic to use. We’ve prepared this quick start guide for you to learn.

Mounting the Bidet Seat

1. Use the toilet first. The purpose of the bidet is to help clean off after toilet use. You can use the bidet seat in conjunction with toilet paper, or you can use the bidet seat on its own. Some people believe that using a bidet is a hygienic substitute for toilet paper, but many choose to use both.
2. Find the bidet seat. Many bathrooms in Asia and America don't have the space to accommodate a separate fixture next to the toilet – so many toilets are designed with built-in bidets or fixtures that fit over the toilet side rim or the seat. This way, you don't need to get up to clean yourself.
3. Activate a toilet seat bidet. Look for the control lever on the side of the bidet seat. Turn it forward or backward to wash front or rear. A nozzle will appear beneath you and rinse your nether regions with a stream of water. When you're done, simply turn the control lever to its center. The nozzle will rinse itself off and retract back into the seat.

Cleaning Yourself

1. Adjust the water strengths for comfort. Be very careful when turning on the water, as many bidets can produce a very high jet of water with only a slight turn of the control. You may find that you need to hold the control to keep the jets on.
2. Switch between front and rear spray modes to wash the dedicated part of your body.
3. Be sure that you know where the water nozzle is, or you could end up with a surprise shower. If your bidet does have a spray nozzle set in the bowl (unlikely in the UK due to regulations), place your hand above it to subdue any jet of water and then either press or pull the diverter lever between or immediately behind the taps.
4. Position yourself. Sit on the bidet seat and let the water spray clean your rear and/or your genitals. Consider combining the bidet with toilet paper. You can use the paper at the end, to finish the job, or you can dampen the toilet paper in the water and use it to wipe yourself clean.

Following Up

1. Dry your skin. Pat yourself dry with toilet paper or just let it air dry.
2. Wash your hands. Use soap and water, as you would any time after using the toilet. If you can't find soap, use whatever's available.