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When you’re researching bidets, one of the first things you’ll need to decide is whether you want an electric bidet or a non-electric bidet.
But what are the differences between the two and which option should you choose?
Electric vs Non-Electric Bidet
The most basic explanation is that electric bidets are plugged into an electrical outlet, while non-electric bidets are powered by water pressure.
If you decide on an electric bidet, you’ll need to have an electrical outlet next to your toilet.
If you don’t have one, your options are running an extension cord to the nearest outlet or hiring an electrician to install an outlet.
Non-electric bidets are simply hooked up to the cold water line that supplies water to your toilet.
At its most basic, a non-electric bidet can simply be a short hose with a nozzle sprayer, similar to a small shower head.
It may seem like non-electric bidets are a more appealing choice given you don’t have to worry about electrical outlets, but there are a number of things to consider before you jump into a non-electric bidet (no pun intended!)
To help make your decision easier, we’ve developed a list of the pros and cons of electric vs non-electric bidets.
Electric Bidet Pros & Cons
Electric bidets are popular for good reason – they provide the full “luxury bidet” experience.
There are dozens of high-tech features available, depending on the model you choose – everything from heated seats and night lights to soft-closing lids and bidets with dryers.
However, while there are budget-friendly options like the Bio Bidet USPA 6800U, electric bidets are substantially more expensive than non-electric bidets.
In addition, if you have a custom toilet seat that you love, you’ll have to give that up as electric bidets replace the toilet seat.
The Pros of Electric Bidets Include:
- Adjustable water temperature
- Heated seat
- Air dryer
- Night light
- Self-cleaning
- Ability to control water pressure
- Various other features depending on the model you choose
The Cons of Electric Bidets Include:
- More expensive than non-electric bidets
- Can’t keep your current toilet seat
- Requires an electrical outlet
- Doesn’t work during power outages
If you’re after the full bidet experience and don’t mind spending a bit more money, then an electric bidet is probably the best option for you.
Non-Electric Bidet Pros & Cons
While the high-tech features of electric bidets are certainly nice to have, the main goal of a bidet is to clean your butt with a spritz of water rather than wiping with toilet paper and non-electric bidets do exactly that.
However, because non-electric bidets don’t have an air dryer, it’s important to note that you will still have to pat your behind dry after using a non-electric bidet.
In addition, non-electric bidets require you to manually operate the sprayer with your hand.
Young children, the elderly, and people with conditions such as arthritis or Parkinson’s disease may find this difficult.
The Pros of Non-Electric Bidets Include:
- More affordable
- Easy to install
- Hand-help options
- You can keep your current toilet seat
- Can still be used during a power outage
The Cons of Non-Electric Bidets Include:
- Uses cold water
- No air dryer
- No heated seat
- Not self-cleaning
- Requires manual operation
- None of the extra “bells and whistles” of electric bidet
If all you’re after is a cold spray of water to clean your butt after going to the toilet, then a non-electric bidet might be a good option for you.
Installation
Both electric and non-electric bidets are generally easy to install and don’t usually require the assistance of a professional.
However, should you choose an electric bidet and there is no electrical outlet near your toilet, you will need to hire an electrician to install an outlet. This is an additional cost to keep in mind.
Electric vs Non-Electric Bidet: Which One Should You Choose?
The choice between an electric vs non-electric bidet is a personal one, but the primary things to keep in mind are your budget and which extra features are important to you (and that you think you’d actually use.)
A bidet is a hygienic, eco-friendly alternative to toilet paper so you can’t go wrong either way.
