The Rich History of the Bidet
Bidets can be a wonderful addition to a bathroom. In recent years they have become more popular in American households. The bidet has been around for years. The very first bidet came from France in the 1600’s, an era when bathing was a huge chore. The bidet was invented to make the bathing process less laborious.
What is a Bidet Used For?
Bidets are used to wet wash things after using the toilet. This method is considered more sanitary than wiping with toilet paper solely because it uses water.
Benefits of the Bidet
- Reduces urinary tract infection by removing more waste
- Helps keep you cleaner and free of odor
- A more comfortable way to clean if skin sensitivities exist
- DON’T SQUEEZE THE CHARMIN… Saves average of $1,300/year on toilet paper
Who Invented the Bidet?
We cant completely say for sure who invented the bidet. However, the popular belief is that French furniture maker Chris de Rosiers introduced it into wealthy circles initially. It rapidly became a popular method of freshening up after using the chamber pot, which was commonly located in the bedroom.
In the Beginning
Bidets were first invented and meant to function as small wash basins on legs that one could strattle and clean things down there. The word bidet stems from the French word for “pony”. The basins were separate fixtures placed next to the toilet that consisted of a basin of water and a spout. How does that work? Well, folks would use their hands to clean themselves! I know, nasty, right? No wonder everyone was getting sick back then.
The Growth of the Bidet
During the 18th century, bidets were built into cabinets and chairs. Very few featured a water hand pump that was capable of spraying water.
Upper class society loved them so much that they were often made into works of art. Bidets were often found in the bedroom because this is where the chamber pot was usually located.
Soon, Western Europe caught wind of this luxury wash system and the invention of plumbing helped this product gain popularity among other classes.
The United States did not jump on the bidet bandwagon like others. They resisted it due to the fact that it had a reputation for being a foreign, exotic product. In addition, Americans were comfortable using toilet paper and didn’t see any need for improvements in the world of wiping and hygienics. Honestly, I think Americans didn’t like discussing private bathroom strategies openly and thought the bidet was part of scandalous type activities(maybe because it was also used to clean after sex) which may have kept the bidet from catching on across the country.
Acceptance
In the early 60’s the American Bidet Company made an effort to promote this wonderful invention and even invented a bidet toilet seat to help with rashes, hemorrhoids, and anal fissures. Still, the bidet didn’t catch on here but did make its way to Japan, where they made more improvements like seat warming and controllable water pressure.
Finally, there has become some interest in bidets in the United States due to increasing awareness of health benefits and availability of affordable bidet attachments.
Where Do We “GO” From Here?
Well, bidets have become increasingly popular around the globe, including:
- France
- Italy
- Portugal
- Argentina
- Japan
If you are searching for a more hygienic and refreshing method of self-cleaning then the bidet may be right “Up Your Alley“