Super cleanly and eco-friendly, the bidet is a game-changer in the bathroom. We take a look at some of the key differences between the electric and non-electric bidet and showcase some of our favourite products from MyHomeware.
By Lauren Clarke
There’s no denying that the bidet is rising in popularity. This addition to your bathroom is lauded not only for its practical function but its eco-friendly benefits, encouraging less waste and a more hygienic outcome for the user. Whether you’re new to the world of the bidet toilet or an experienced user, refreshing yourself on the bidet basics before you make your next purchase will result in the best toilet experience for you.
THE BIDET BEGINNINGS
The bidet’s origins can be traced back to 18th Century France where they were first enjoyed by members of the nobility. The word ‘bidet’ itself is said to reference the straddle-style seating position used while washing oneself on this device. Bidets soon spread throughout the upper echelons of European society, with the Queen of Naples and Sicily even requesting a bidet for her own personal use.
In the 1900s, plumbing improvements resulted in dramatic upgrades to the bidet. No longer was it a simple basin but it also featured an adjustable spray nozzle and warm water.
But it was during the early 1980s when this luxury item really reached new heights. The electric bidet was introduced in Japan, with the bidet experience becoming more luxurious. Many modern toilets now integrate bidet functions, including some smart toilets. And then, as we became more conscious of waste product in the environment and technology advanced, making production more affordable, the bidet hit the mainstream, making it accessible to everyone — and it’s here to stay.
The two main types of bidet available in Australia are the electric and non-electric. Both improve personal hygiene by using water to clean instead of toilet paper — but there are many differences between these two products.
Below, we’ll take a look at some of the key differences between these two products.
EASE OF USE AND OVERALL EXPERIECE
The electric bidet is a luxurious experience. Users can control the warmth and intensity of the water spray for personalised comfort and effective cleaning. Heated smart bidet seats – like the Japanese commode – add to the comfort levels, particularly in colder climates — products like the Kohler Smart Toilet even feature a remote control, allowing you to adjust settings with ease.
By comparison, the non-electric bidets operate using water pressure alone, eliminating the need for electrical components. This means they don’t have all the bells and whistles of their electric counterparts — but it does make installation easier. Non-electric bidets can be connected directly to your existing toilet, whether you have a rimless toilet suite or another kind of product, without needing a power outlet. And, with fewer electric components, non-electric bidets require less servicing than their electric counterparts and have a longer lifespan.
This makes the non-electric bidet a cheaper option, saving you money long-term.
Electric bidet pros: More features, higher levels of comfort and a luxurious spa-like experience overall.
Non-electric bidet pros: Easier installation and reduced price in purchase and maintenance over the years.
ECO FRIENDLY
Both electric and non-electric bidets are great for the environment. Less paper waste helps our planet.
Non-electric bidets, however, have a smaller carbon footprint due to their reduced electricity use. They also use a direct water connection, making them efficient without extra energy consumption.
Electric bidets aren’t as eco-friendly as their non-electric counterparts, but their experience is undeniably more luxurious — and it’s still better than clogging the drains with paper.
Electric bidet pros: So luxurious, and still better for the environment than no bidet at all.
Non-electric bidet pros: Reduced electricity use and a direct water connection make these efficient without the extra energy consumption.
MAINTENANCE
No one lists ‘cleaning the toilet’ as their favourite recreational activity — and with an electric bidet, your cleaning routine is reduced. Self-cleaning nozzles improve hygiene by automatically sanitising the nozzle before and after use.
On the flip side, electric models may require occasional servicing and filter replacements, while non-electric options require minimal upkeep.
Electric bidet pros: Reduce day-to-day maintenance and keep your hygiene on point with self-cleaning nozzles.
Non-electric bidet pros: Save money with minimal upkeep when compared with the servicing and filter replacement requirements of the electric bidet models.
SUITABILITY AND ACCESSIBILITY
The electric bidet is suited to a variety of users. Since it’s able to be controlled via the touch of a button, electric bidets are ideal for families with children and those looking for a premium experience. It also can provide a disabled toilet solution for those with mobility issues.
Non-electric bidets are perfect for those seeking a budget-friendly, easy-to-use alternative who still want to consider the environment and reduce their carbon footprint.
Electric bidet pros: Ideal for anyone seeking a luxurious bathroom experience, including those with children or reduced mobility issues.
Non-electric bidet pros: Perfect for those looking to minimise their carbon footprint with maximising their hygiene.
THE VERDICT
Whether an electric or non-electric bidet is right for you does come down to your lifestyle — but both are great additions to your toilet. If you have the budget and value a spa-like bathroom experience, you cannot beat the electric. If you simply want to reduce your carbon footprint without breaking the bank, non-electric bidets cannot be beaten when searching for a more budget toilet experience.
There is one thing we know for sure. Whether you’re choosing electric or non-electric, you will be reducing your toilet paper use, resulting in long-term savings and an eco-friendly bathroom experience.
Whichever type of bidet you decide on, you can’t go past MyHomeware to find the right bidet for you. MyHomeware offers premium and budget-friendly toilet options, including rimless and tornado flush models. The company provides fast delivery nationwide and comprehensive customer support with customer-friendly policies, including 365-day returns and price-beat guarantees.
Check out the easy-to-navigate website today to discover the best bathroom supplies or visit a bathroom showroom near you.
For sales and enquiries, contact 02 8850 0111 or email MyHomeware today.
In Australia you need a licensed plumber to correctly install your bidet, whether electric or non-electric. This is to ensure it is done safely and correctly.
PRODUCT PICKS
MyHomeware offers a range of fabulous bidet solutions. Here are three of our favourites.
The Electric Intelligent Toilet Cover Seat with Instant Heating and Self-cleaning for toilet is an affordable electric bidet that allows you to heat the water and the toilet seat when it’s plugged in—but if you’d like to operate it as a non-electric bidet, all you need to do is unplug. It includes a night light and a self-cleaning nozzle in its features and is a fantastic bidet option.
If you’re seeking a premium bidet experience, you can’t go past the
Intelligent Electric Toilet Cover Seat with Instant Water Heating and Air Dryer for toilet. This bidet features a stylish slimline design and a powerful built-in pump to give you better water pressure. A curved fully stainless steel nozzle with removable tip provides better hygiene, and the air dryer benefits you while keeping the seat more hygienic.
For those on a budget, the Bathroom Qubist Back To Wall Bidet with Tap Hole Ceramic gets the job done while keeping your carbon footprint low. This floor-mounted product features modern clean lines in full vitreous china.
For more information on this extensive range, visit MyHomeware today.
