The Essential Guide to Bidet and Shower Toilets

This is a collaborative post.

Revolutionise your bathroom hygiene and comfort with a multifunctional electric bidet or shower toilet. Integrating a toilet seat bidet or attaching a handheld shower spray, these ingenious solutions deliver superior cleaning and luxury not possible from toilet paper alone. This comprehensive UK guide covers must-know information before installing an advanced bidet or shower toilet in your home.

What Are Bidet Toilets and Shower Toilets?

First, let’s clearly define these two product categories:

Bidet Toilet Seats

A bidet toilet or washlet toilet seat retrofits onto your existing toilet bowl to provide a heated water stream for personal cleansing. Adjustable settings give you complete control over spray position, water temperature, pressure and other variables for a customisable experience.

Designed for intimate hygiene after using the toilet, bidet seats are highly effective and comfortable for people with mobility constraints too.

Shower Toilets

Shower toilets combine a toilet bowl with an extendable bidet wand for targeted washing. At the press of a button, the handheld nozzle sprays you with a focused jet of warm water.

The integrated design provides both standard toilet function alongside the adjustable bidet cleaner. Units may also include extras like heated seats, hot air dryers and deodorisers.

Now that you know the key differences, let’s explore why you should upgrade to these exceptional bathroom additions!

Benefits of Bidet Toilets and Shower Toilets

Intrigued by how a bidet seat or shower toilet can improve your lifestyle? Here are the standout benefits driving popularity amongst those wanting to elevate their bathroom experience:

Exceptional Hygiene

Water cleansing provides superior hygiene compared to wiping alone by:

• Removing residue and bacteria from hard-to-reach areas
• Preventing urinary tract infections
• Supporting quick rinse-off after bowel movements
• Freshening up during menstruation

Adjustable wands and nozzles allow you to fine tune the position of the water stream as needed. Female users often appreciate the enhanced freshness during intimates wash cycles.

Reduced Irritation

Spray washing is very gentle on delicate skin compared to repeated rubbing and chafing from toilet paper. By reducing irritation, bidet use helps:

• Prevent painful haemorrhoids
• Improve comfort from medical conditions like fissures or fistulas
• Quickly wash off traces of urine and faeces to avoid rashes
• Soothe physical discomfort during pregnancy and postpartum

Overall, the hygienic water wash helps maintain healthy pH balances and skin integrity in sensitive nether regions.

Eco-Friendly Lifestyle

Bidet and shower toilets hugely reduce dependence on toilet paper products. Each person saves up to 100 rolls per year! This positively impacts the environment by lowering:

• Toilet paper waste going into landfills
• Water consumption during paper production
• Deforestation for source material
• Chemical pollutants from paper bleaching processes

Making the bidet switch aligns with eco-conscious living and sustainability goals. Ditch single-use toilet paper for good!

Luxurious Comfort

Why settle for basic necessities when you can elevate your bathroom into a home spa? High-end bidet toilet seats and shower toilets pamper you with features like:

• Heated seats to keep you cosy
• Warm air dryers to eliminate dampness
• Ambient mood lighting for a sleek look
• Built-in air purifiers and deodorisers
• Custom wash modes with adjustable pressures
• Self-cleaning wands

The modern conveniences integrate beautifully into contemporary bathroom designs for that luxury hotel suite feeling.

Accessibility & Mobility Support

For those with age-related mobility limitations or physical disabilities, bidet conveniences enable easier and dignified washroom use.

Helpful aspects include:

• Hands-free operation without twisting or reaching
• No need to transfer between toilet and bidet stations
• Adjustable wand positions from remote control
• Consistent water temperature regulation
• Simple interface for those with dexterity issues

Bidets allow people to confidently manage personal hygiene independently – thereby supporting mobility and enhancing quality of life.

Added Home Value

Upscale bathrooms sell houses faster! Integrating a luxurious shower toilet or bidet seat adds distinguishing value sure to impress potential buyers and increase overall property worth. Consider it a strategic investment into your home.

Now that you see the incredible benefits, let’s explore how these ingenious products actually work.

How Bidets and Shower Toilets Work

Modern electric bidet and shower toilets integrate advanced technologies for unmatched performance and convenience. But what’s actually happening behind the scenes?

Understanding the integrated components and functionality helps ensure you select a model truly aligned with your priorities.

Bidet Toilet Seat Mechanisms

Bidet attachments like washlets contain an internal water reservoir, heating system, pump, and mechanical nozzle. Key aspects include:

Water Reservoir

Stores clean water for washing. Reservoirs range from basic tanks to direct plumbing connections. Larger capacity allows more washes between refills.

Instant Water Heater

Heats water between ambient and body temperature for comfortably warm washes. Ceramic core elements regulate temperature – preventing scalds.

Hydraulic Pump

Pressurised water stream released from nozzle. Higher pressure increases cleaning intensity. Consider noise level if audible.

Self-Cleaning Nozzle

Stainless steel or ceramic nozzle tip extends to spray water when activated. Automatically rinses inside and out before/after wash cycles.

Positioning Arm

Adjusts nozzle location as needed. Flexible joints allow nozzles to optimally target intimate areas based on user positioning.

Together, these components deliver a satisfying wash experience surpassing basic bidet functionality.

Shower Toilet Functionalities

Shower toilets contain similar internal heating systems, pumps and wand cleaning features. Additionally:

• Toilet Bowl – Vitreous china or ceramic pan replaces existing loo. Some models allow you to keep your original toilet bowl.
• Bowl Flushing – Integrated high efficiency flush system. May feature sensor-activated, remotely triggered or automatically scheduled flushing.
• Handheld Wand – Retractable spray nozzle gives you control over water positioning for targeted cleaning.
• Hot Air Dryer – Warm air jet built into the bowl rim or toilet seat gently blows moisture away, keeping you comfortable.
• Deodorizer Filters – Activated charcoal removes bathroom odours during use. Some configurations infuse pleasant fragrance instead.

With smart conveniences that handle everything from flushing to drying, shower toilets fully transform your bathroom experience!

Key Considerations When Choosing Models

Navigating the myriad of bidet toilet and shower toilet options can get overwhelming. Keep this buyer’s guide handy when evaluating products:

Type of Model

Consider your primary motivation and budget. Choices differ vastly across price points and feature sets.

Entry Level Bidet Seats – Basic hygiene and comfort needs.

High-End Bidet Seats – Luxury comforts and adjustability.

Integrated Shower Toilets – Ultimate all-in-one convenience.

Match model capabilities to your expectations around wash customisations, luxury features, and budget.

Adjustability

Do you want total control over wash variables? Seek models offering:

• Customisable water temperatures
• Multi-directional spray positioning
• Variable speed pressure settings
• Pulsating massage functionality
• User profile memory presets
• App connectivity for preferences

Consider ergonomic factors allowing nozzle positioning ideal for female versus male anatomies too.

Design Aesthetics

Will the unit blend aesthetically with your bathroom’s sleek look and feel?

Assess based on:

• Colour/finish options
• Minimalist style
• Discreet appearance
• Flush integration

Slimmest profiles with hidden fixings maintain sightlines better around the toilet area.

Special Features

Are bonus functionalities worth the investment for you? Popular options include:

• Heated seat and water heating
• Warm air dryer
• Touchscreen remote control
• Automatic open/close lid
• Built-in LED night light
• Self-cleaning wands
• Air purification and fragrance

Compare “nice to have” elements against price tradeoffs.

Dimensions & Weight

Confirm technical specifications match your toilet’s existing:

• Bowl shape and depth
• Toilet seat hole spacing
• Flush style compatibility
• Load Capacity
• Wall clearances

You want a secure fit without risk of shifting, leaks or damage.

Get precise measurements to avoid integration or positioning issues. Check serviceability access, too.

Power & Plumbing

Understand installation requirements around:

• Electrical supply needs and locations
• Water hookup fittings and positioning
• Drainage planning to conceal plumbing
• Multi-voltage compatibility for travel units

Factor in any hidden costs to connect utilities or modify bathroom layouts pre-purchase. Doing so avoids nasty surprises down the track.

By reflecting on these key buying factors, you can confidently select a bidet or shower toilet aligned with your practical needs and desirable features.

Installation & Setup Guidelines

Once purchased, follow best practice installation steps for seamless integration:

1. Assess Your Bathroom

• Evaluate the current layout, design elements and product dimensions
• Complete any structural or utility preparedness tasks
• Ensure suitable access routes for unit delivery

Accurately measuring your space and submitting technical drawings to vendors helps identify modifications or potential issues early.

2. Remove Existing Toilet

• Turn off the water supply and flush out the remaining water
• Disconnect plumbing connections
• Unbolt bowl from floor mounts
• Detach and remove the toilet

Skip this step if only installing a bidet seat attachment.

3. Install New Toilet

• Unpack and handle with care
• Position back-to-wall with access to utilities
• Secure bolts through the base to the floor
• Reconnect plumbing and utilities
• Seal base perimeter with waterproof silicone

4. Configure Bidet Functions

• Insert batteries into the remote
• Code unique settings like water temperature
• Set user-profiles and preferences
• Connect app and integrate smart home ecosystem

5. Test & Finalise

• Check all functions activate correctly from the controls
• Make final adjustments so positioning suits users
• Complete finishings like concealing plumbing, caulking joints

Refer to vendor guidelines for model-specific technical instructions. Seek professional assistance if unsure during any phase.

Operating Tips & Troubleshooting

Here are some top tips for safely operating and maintaining your bidet or shower toilet convenience:

Goal	Action
Optimal Hygiene	Use self-cleaning cycles before first use and weekly thereafter. Clean exterior surfaces frequently.
Prevent Clogs	Don’t place anything in bowl that could block internal mechanisms. Use drain maintainer monthly.
Check Settings	Adjust pressure, temps, positions and preferences seasonally to suit needs.
Conserve Energy	Deactivate heating features during warmer months if not required for medical conditions.
Ensure Operation	Replace water filters and maintenance parts like seals and nozzles regularly per manual.

Common troubleshooting fixes:

Issue	Likely Cause	Solution
Strange Noises	Debris buildup, worn motor	Run cleaning cycles, inspect internals
Leaks	Loose plumbing joints, cracked outlet	Tighten fittings, replace seals
Limited Water Flow	Low system pressure, clogged jets	Check pressure regs, inspect and clean
Lacklustre Wash	Hard water deposits preventing pressure	Descale plumbing and surfaces

Be sure to check user documentation for model-specific maintenance activities too. Proactively caring for internal components ensures your convenience bidet or shower toilet delivers an exceptional service life.

Enjoy Enduring comfort and Convenience

Bidet toilet seats and shower toilets revolutionise personal care and comfort in the bathroom. Beyond superior hygiene, the customisable designs provide targeted cleansing with options ranging from pleasantly practical to ultra-luxurious.

By following the guidance around product comparisons, installation and troubleshooting, you are sure to enjoy lifelong benefits enhancing both well-being and your home’s resale value. No more dreading bathroom breaks or embarrassing odours with these clever home upgrades! Say goodbye to toilet paper discomfort and hello to indulgent freshness anytime.