Dr. Ibrahim also points out that using a bidet can cut back on or eliminate that irritation: “Bidet usage is much healthier for perianal skin because the usage of water cuts down on the usage of chemically laden wet wipes and toilet paper.”
All of that is to say: Using a bidet is not just about feeling clean. Says Dr. Ibrahim, “It is important to keep that area as healthy as possible because irritation in that area increases the risk of bacterial infection and irritation.” Irritation can cause inflammation, which, he adds, can lead to pain, itching, and—if left long enough—infection.
One of the main reasons Americans who do embrace bidets have done so is because they’re much less wasteful than relying solely on toilet paper. “Toilet paper production is extremely resource-intensive, consuming massive amounts of water and trees during the process,” Lin says. “Using a bidet consumes a negligible amount of water and can easily reduce your toilet paper usage by 75% or more.”
That seems like quite a number, and admittedly, we couldn’t find scientific confirmation for it—but Adam S. Peer, a candidate of Harvard University Extension School’s master’s degree in sustainability, agrees that using a bidet is better for the environment. “In my research, I found that if a US consumer completely switched to bidet use, they could lower their carbon footprint by about 85 kg per year,” he says, “equivalent to driving about 218 miles.”
Toilet paper isn’t just wasteful, Lin adds, it’s inefficient. He points out that toilet paper can sometimes leave behind residue. “You’re just smearing with paper,” he says, highlighting how water can effectively dislodge feces and paper. “Don’t we use water to clean everything else in our lives?”
Says Dr. Ibrahim, toilet paper is especially likely to leave residue if it’s low quality or very soft. “The residue can be small fibers that remain on the skin after wiping,” but using a bidet can reduce or eliminate that residue.
“There’s a pretty big chunk of the US population that plans their bowel-movement schedule so they can take a shower immediately afterward,” he continues. “They know that they don’t feel clean enough with toilet paper alone.” The beauty of bidets is that they provide post-shower cleanliness where it counts, without the need to take a full shower.
Oh, and bidets can handle poop and blood.
Yursik says her bidet isn’t only useful post-poop, it’s a game-changer during her period too. “For many years of my life, I dealt with heavy bleeding and clots,” she says. “Because I was familiar with the old-school bidet, I was initially hesitant when I invested in a washlet, but it’s been wonderful. I would recommend it to anyone who has heavy periods.”