Bidet Seat vs Handheld Sprayer – Which One Is Better?

Cleaner for both you and the environment, the bidet trend is finally getting the attention it needs. After doing some research you might notice that there is more than one type of bidet available.

In fact, there are several types such as bidet seats, handheld sprayers, stand-alone bidets, and Japanese-style washlets.

However, in the United States, the most popular types of bidet are the bidet seat and the handheld sprayer.

But which one is better? What are the pros and cons to each? And which bidet type should you choose? Find out in this bidet seat vs. handheld sprayer comparison.

The Differences Between Bidet Seats and Handheld Sprayers

If you’ve seen the two bidets, you already noticed a clear difference. The handheld sprayer is a stand-alone piece of equipment that you manually use to clean your behind.

Meanwhile, a bidet seat is attached to the toilet seat itself and has a small spout coming out from inside the toilet.

You don’t need to move it like the handheld sprayer, instead, you touch a button to activate it.

While appearances greatly differ between the two bidet types, that’s not the only contrast between them. They’re distinct in their functionality, affordability, and installation.

If you’re trying to determine whether you should install a bidet seat or a handheld sprayer, read through the following features and functions of each type, decide what matters most to you, and go from there.

Function

In this section, we’ll be looking at the features of each bidet. We’ll also go over how each one works along with its mechanism.

Bidet Seat

The bidet seat offers the most versatility compared to its handheld counterpart. You have numerous options to pick from.

First off, there are two different types of bidet seats available – electric and non-electric bidet seats. Electric bidet seats usually come with a lot more features, such as heated water and a dryer function for your behind (which can eliminate the need for toilet paper.)

That being said, both electric and non-electric bidets efficiently clean your behind with a stream of water, which is the ultimate function of a bidet.

In addition, both options usually offer the ability to alter the spray’s position and water pressure to your liking.

The non-electric variety might not offer you a dryer, but if your goal is to stop using toilet paper, you can use bidet towels to dab yourself dry.

Handheld Sprayer

This type of bidet has a much simpler mechanism than a bidet seat. However, it’s a popular bidet type for renters as it simply attaches to the water supply. It’s also popular for those who want the most control over the direction of the water spray.

You turn it on by switching the T-Valve on, placing the sprayer where you want, and pushing the head’s lever.

This might require more effort than a bidet seat since it’s not a push of the button. Still, handheld sprayers are a popular option.

Affordability

How much are you willing to invest in a bidet?

There’s a clear distinction in price when it comes to bidet seats and handheld sprayers.

Check out each of their price description below.

Bidet Seat

Bidet seats can be considered a luxury item. They can be expensive compared to other types of bidets in the market.

Their prices can also rise, especially, if you’re considering an electric option. That’s because, like most things, you get what you pay for.

Bidet seats give you several options and features that handheld sprayers lack, such as heated water, an air dryer, and dual nozzles.

If those extra bells and whistles are important and/or desirable to you, it’s worth considering spending that bit extra and installing a bidet seat.

Handheld Sprayer

If you’re new to the bidet game, and you’re on a tighter budget, the handheld sprayer might be a good place to start. It won’t be too big of an investment and you get to decide whether you like what a bidet feels like before you shell out more money.

It’s affordable and multi-functional, making it an exceptionally cost-effective purchase for your bathroom.

Other than that, when it comes to durability, both bidet types are generally easy to maintain and cost-effective to run.

Installation

There are two ways you can go about the installation process – you can hire a plumber and call it a day, or go the DIY route.

Bidet Seat

The process of installing a bidet seat may require a few more steps than installing a handheld sprayer, but it’s not complicated.

First off, you need to get your screwdriver and wrench ready.

You’ll need to cut off the water supply in your toilet to avoid it being sprayed in your face.

Then, remove your old toilet seat.

While you’re near the water supply, screw in the T-Valve to use it as your bidet’s main water source.

Afterward, you need to connect the bidet seat to your toilet.

Finally, attach the hose coming out of the T-Valve to the bidet.

Handheld Sprayer

The initial process here is similar to the bidet seat installation.

You’ll need to attach a T-Valve to your water supply. Don’t forget to turn it off before doing this.

Afterward, you just need to screw the hose of the handheld sprayer in place and turn your water supply back on.

Make sure to test it out, you can always adjust the pressure levels by adjusting the T-Valve’s lever.

Recommended Luxury Bidet Seat

Recommended Budget-Friendly Bidet Seat

Recommended Handheld Sprayer

FAQs

Are bidet sprayers sanitary?

Yes, bidets are sanitary. In fact, they are more effective and hygienic than toilet paper.

Can using bidets cause infection?

With correct usage and maintenance, there’s little risk of catching any infections.

How hard does a bidet spray?

This depends on how high or low the water supply’s flow rate is as well as the spout’s design.

To Conclude

When it comes down to it, both bidet seats and handheld sprayers have their perks.

Bidet seats come with extra features including a heater and spraying adjustments. The only downside is that they often come with a hefty price tag.

Meanwhile, handheld sprayers offer more manual control and multifunctionality at a reasonable price.

Having said that, if your budget can extend to a few hundred dollars, you’ll find that a bidet seat like the Bio Bidet Bliss BB2000 provides you with a luxury bidet experience akin to something you’d find at a high-end Japanese hotel.