Bidet seats are great because they don’t take up much space and can be attached directly to the toilet bowl with little effort. Bidet seats are popular around the United States as they eliminate the need to install a separate unit, plus these seats might come with a fixed or movable nozzle.
Below we explain two types of bidet toilets seats.
1. Electric Seat
The most expensive types are electric seats.
They usually come with various features, and if you are ready to pay a bit more, an electric bidet will be your best choice. It usually has a heated seat, adjustable water temperature, nightlight, deodorizer, air dryer, and so on.
2. Bidet Attachement (non-electric)
A more affordable solution would be a non-electric seat or attachment.
They offer all the basic bidet functions for regular use but note that they are powered by water pressure. You should check the water pressure in your home and see if it meets the minimum requirements. In most homes, the pressure goes between 40 and 55 PSI.
Note that these seats have more advantages than just being affordable. For example, they don’t depend on electricity and will still work during the power outage. Also, they are easy to install and maintain.
Here is an informative video about the differences between electric and non-electric bidet seats.
Few Standard Features
Here’s a list of four standard features of a bidet seat.
✓ Self-Cleaning Nozzle or Wand
The nozzle (or wand) is one of the most important parts of an electric seat. It’s made of stainless steel or plastic, but in some cases, it can be a combination of both materials. However, stainless steel nozzles are usually better, since they’re more durable and hygienic.
Most seats will have one or two nozzles, which are always adjustable. Typically, you will be able to choose between wide and standard spray, for both front and rear washing.
Also, no matter the material, you will have to replace nozzles over time. Some bidet seats come with a self-cleaning nozzle, while the more advanced models have a sanitizing feature to keep it sterilized after each use.
✓ Heated Seat with Temperature Control
A heated seat is one of the most appreciating features of electric seats. Especially in cold areas or during winter months, sitting on a cold seat can be very uncomfortable.
The temperature is usually adjustable between 80F and 100F, and the seat will probably have three or four settings to choose from.
A heated seat is one of the reasons why many people switch from non-electric to electric seats.
✓ Water Pressure and Temperature Control
With the ability to control the water temperature, using the bidet will become a completely different experience, especially on cold days and nights. Of course, you can use hot water with a non-electric units, too, but you will find electric units more convenient.
The cost to connect a hot water line to the bidet can be quite expensive. Electric seats usually has a control panel that you can use to change the temperature, but some units will allow you to adjust the temperature remotely.
Also, unlike the hot water in non-electric seats, you will get instant warmth. Combined with the ability to control water pressure, you will get a real spa-like experience.
✓ Air Dryer with Pressure Control
Another great advantage of electric models is the air dryer. It leads to a completely hands-free experience, so you won’t even need the toilet paper.
However, cheap models usually don’t have this feature. Some more expensive models will also allow you to adjust the pressure and temperature of the air.
This Luxe bidet elongated toilet seat model has become iconic over time thanks to its elegant design and compact sizes as well as a very sophisticated white look.
It comes with a self-cleaning nozzle freshwater that will be great for large family households plus the dual nozzle will be great for feminine hygiene.
The seat can be heated for your comfort plus the seat is fully adjustable. Moreover, the lid closes very slowly and quietly hence you don’t have to worry about the lid making too much sound.
Furthermore, Luxe bidet seat is really eco-friendly as you would be saving lots of water and toilet paper. Also, this seat is made from polypropylene that is known to resist staining, scuffing and scratching plus it is very easy to clean.
2. TOTO Washlet Electronic Bidet Seat with Remote Control
This seat is a polypropylene material that is known to resist staining, scuffing, and scratching, plus it is effortless to clean.
Customers can choose from round, and elongated models, plus the hinges are color matched and very easy to install and remove. Moreover, customers can choose from 5 different seat colors, ensuring you get the best bidet seat that matches your bathroom décor.
Furthermore, this model comes with a remote control that you can use to set water temperature and pressure. Also, this seat has a misting technology in place that sprays the bidet bowl before and after every use to prevent waste sticking as well as stains building up.
Plus, this model has an automatic cleaning wand as well as an illuminated touchpad.
Bio bidet adjustable seat is made from a durable wood frame that is padded with premium material for added comfort.
Customers could easily remove the seat for cleaning, plus the padding can be cleaned with a damp cloth soaked in a mild soap solution.
Moreover, the seat is made in the United States under strict quality control.
Plus, the manufacturer offers a 1-year warranty on all of their premium class bidet seats.
The packaging box comes with a clear instruction booklet as well as all the screws and bolts you will need hence you could install the seat quickly with no hassle at all.
4. SmartBidet Electric Round Seat with Remote Control Panel
SmartBidet electric seat comes with a soft close technology plus the round seat can be easily cleaned as you would only need to wash under the running water in the bathtub with antibacterial soap.
Customers can be sure that the seat will close slowly without making much noise.
An added bonus to a soft-close seat is if you have small children in the family, you would not have to worry about their little fingers getting pinched.
Moreover, it is straightforward to install as you would only need to snap it in place without using any screws, bolts, and long instruction manuals.
Furthermore, this SmartBidet seat is very durable as it is double-coated to resist scratching and scuffing.
Pros
✅ Wood core
✅ Easy to install
✅ Affordable
✅ Available in round shape
Cons
The finish on the seat is porous hence the seat absorbs stains and odors
Some seats were reported to crack in the first few months of use
5. Genie Bidet Ultra-Thin Seat Attachment with Feminine Care
Genie bidet elongated toilet seats are made with the latest technology, so you don’t have to worry about the seat making too much noise.
All customers have to do is press the bottom and watch the seat quietly close, so this model will be great for small children and older adults.
Moreover, the seat is easy to remove for cleaning plus the plastic material used does not stain or absorb any moisture hence it does not breed germs and bacteria.
Customers have reported loving this toilet seat, plus it stays pretty warm in the colder months, and customers could buy additional padding.
Pros
✅ Very compact and easy to install
✅ Easy to clean inside and out
✅ Beautiful design
✅ Made from only durable material
✅ Plastic does not absorb stains or harbors germs
Cons
The slow-close mechanism was reported to break constantly
Smart Bidet 2000WE electric seat will be a great option for individuals wanting a durable and sturdy seat that can handle heavy individuals.
This model of Smart Bidet comes with fully adjustable water pressure, temperature as well as nozzle direction. Moreover, the heat can be heated with a press of a bottom on the control panel plus this model comes with an air dryer that will eliminate the need for you to purchase toilet tissue and hence save you money.
Customers have reported this model being really easy to install as it comes with a clear instruction booklet and does not require lots of bolts and screws.
The manufacturer has ensured that customers will have a chance to pick the perfect seat that will fit right in with their bathroom décor and this is why they have designed this toilet seat in six different colors.
Plus, Smart Bidet models come with a 2-year old warranty and has been reported to be extremely sturdy and durable.
Kohler Oval Adjustable Seat will fit on any Kohler toilet models plus the seat is made from durable and commercial-grade plastic that does stain or absorb odors.
Kohler Oval Adjustable Seat will fit on any Kohler toilet models plus the seat is made from durable and commercial-grade plastic that does stain or absorb odors. The hinges are very easy to remove so you would not have to worry about how you are going to replace the seat once the time comes.
The single side wand will provide an adequate spray of water that can be adjusted so as to get your front or back.
Furthermore, the pressure, as well as the temperature of the water, can be easily controlled through the panel.
Pros
✅ Known toilet manufacturer
✅ Available in several colors
✅ Commercial-grade plastic
✅ Easy to install and remove
✅ Does not chip, scratch or scuff
✅ Adjustable water pressure and temperature
Cons
Hinges were reported to come apart after some time
8. Brondell Swash Luxury Bidet Seat with Remote Control
Brondell elongated bidet seat is made with the latest technology hence you don’t have to worry about the seat making too much noise.
All customers have to do is press the bottom and watch the seat quietly close hence this model will be great for small children and elderly people.
Moreover, the seat is easy to remove for cleaning plus the plastic material used does not stain or absorb any moisture hence it does not breed germs and bacteria.
Customers have reported loving this toilet seat plus it stays pretty warm in the colder months and customers could buy additional padding.
Pros
✅ Very compact and easy to install
✅ Easy to clean inside and out
✅ Beautiful design
✅ Made from only durable material
✅ Plastic does not absorb stains or harbors germs
Cons
The slow-close mechanism was reported to break constantly
We listed additional topics of factors and features to help you choose the right unit.
Intermediate Features
Intermediate features will require you to pay more, but these can be very useful.
Here we listed five intermediate features of bidet seats to help you choose the right unit for your home.
✓ Air Deodorizer
It’s not the necessary feature, but it’s definitely nice to have. It consists of a small fan that draws air through a carbon filter and removes odor during the process.
However, the active carbon filter doesn’t last forever. You should change it every six months, but since they come in cartridges, they are usually affordable and easy to replace.
Most models will have a button on which you can activate the air deodorized, but some models will activate it automatically as soon as you sit.
✓ Remote Control
Some advanced bidet seats come with a remote control instead of a control panel. It provides the advantage of freedom and flexibility while operating the toilet. Although some models can still have a control panel on the side, the remote control will allow you to do all the adjustments and switch between different settings.
✓ Multiple Spray Mode
With the multiple spray mode, the bidet will provide you with a more elaborate spray washing, which can usually be either oscillating or pulsating.
The first option will have a nozzle that moves forth and back while washing. However, the pulsating mode will provide a massaging effect.
Advanced models have more features, such as aerated wash, enema wash, and similar. These features are nice to have, but they are not necessary.
✓ Feminine Wash Mode
Almost every electric bidet seat comes with this feature. This washing mode includes a wide-angle spray, which is gentle on the skin and covers a wider area, and comes with different washing modes.
However, note that some lower-end models state that they have “Front and Rear Wash Modes”, but it’s not the same as Feminine Wash Mode.
✓ Night Light
Another nice-to-have feature is a night light, which will make it easier to use the toilet in the dark. Usually, they will allow you to switch between multiple colors, and even adjust the brightness of the light. It’s not only useful, but somehow, it looks pretty nice in the dark and doesn’t consume much energy.
Advanced Features (optional)
These advanced features of electric bidet seats are not only good to have, but they also improve the overall hygiene.
Here are four advanced features to help you choose the best bidet toilet seat for your home.
1. Self-Sterilizing Nozzle and Bowl
If hygiene is your top priority, you might have asked yourself if bidet seats are sanitary. Yes, they are, but you will also have to pay more for better models. When it comes to self-sterilization, most seats focus on the nozzle.
However, some seats use electrolyzed water which has similar sanitizing effects as household bleach. On the other hand, some models use silver ions, which prevent bacteria reproduction.
Some TOTO washlets also use electrolyzed water to pre-mist the bowl when it’s not in use, which also leads to less frequent maintenance.
2. Auto Open and Close Seat
This feature is pretty rare among toilets, and by far, only TOTO and Kohler implemented this technology. It’s useful if you have a person with mobility problems in the family, but also, it makes the whole experience handsfree.
Due to a sensor, the lid opens automatically when you approach the toilet, while the seat is lifted via remote control. When you finish, the lid will close automatically.
3. Concealed Water and Power Connections
This feature doesn’t affect the performance of the toilet, but it has two advantages. At first, it makes the toilet nicer, since there are no exposed wires and cables. The other advantage is protection. When there is electricity, you should always be properly protected.
4. More Spray Functions
With more spray functions, there are more ways to enjoy the wash. You will notice that the remote has more buttons, but it doesn’t take much time to learn to use it properly. Some TOTO models have oscillating and pulsating spray modes, but that’s not all. By choosing a spray mode, water pressure, temperature, as well as a few other things, you can create a completely unique experience that you will enjoy.
Few Disadvantages
Although there are just a few, we should still mention that electric bidet seats have some disadvantages. At first, they are pricier than non-electric units, and also, they require power to work. If the power outage happens, it will become a regular toilet.
Also, the installation is a bit trickier, and obviously, they consume energy. You should also pay attention to safety, especially due to the fact that water and electricity are close together.
Avoidable Mistakes
Let’s talk about some of the most overlooked things when buying a bidet seat. At first, some manufacturers say that their bidet seat is suitable for all two-piece toilets. It’s true, but you should know that two-piece and skirted toilets might require a different installation.
Then, make sure that the power cord can reach the outlet. Since most cords are between 3 feet and 1 meter long, it’s ideal if the power outlet is around 1.5-2 feet from the center of the toilet. Finally, make sure to only use portable water for the bidet. If you are using untreated water for flushing, make sure to run a separate clean water line for the seat.
Tips Before Purchasing
There are a few things that you need to ensure before you buy the bidet seat. At first, you should measure the distance between two mounting holes. In most cases, it is 5.5 inches, but it’s not always the same.
Next, you should check whether your toilet bowl is round or elongated since it needs to match with the seat. It’s a nice idea to buy a seat that’s made by the same manufacturer as your toilet.
Finally, you should pay attention to the minimal clearance between the tank and the bolt holes. Usually, the clearance between 1.5 and 2 inches should be good enough but always check with the manufacturer.
Installation Preparation
If this is your first time buying the electric bidet seat, most probably, you don’t have the power outlet installed. Make sure to do it before you even unpack the seat, and if you are not a professional, don’t do it by yourself.
The primary thing to note is where to position the outlet. You should always place it as far from water as possible, but if the toilet is located between the vanity top and the tub, you should use the outdoor receptacle protector.
Take a look at this installation video.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there battery-operated bidets?
There are, but very few. You can find batteries mainly in portable bidets.
How to dry after using a bidet?
There are two ways to dry after using a bidet. You can either use toilet paper, or the air dryer if your bidet has one.
Conclusion
As you can see, buying an electric bidet seat can be tricky if it’s your first time. However, if you follow our buying guide or buy a model from our list, you won’t go wrong. All of these provide an excellent ratio of price and quality.
![GenieBidet - Rear & Feminine Ultra Thin Toilet Attachment with Self Cleaning Dual Nozzles - No Wiring Needed - Easy 15 Minute Install. Hybrid Brass 3-way T with ON/OFF & [Travel Bidet Included]!](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41h6GiGxSSL._SL160_.jpg)
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