Bidet toilets have transitioned from luxury items to essential fixtures in modern bathrooms. Once considered a “weird” thing one saw in Europe or Japan, bidet toilets are increasingly popular in the US, both among luxury-oriented younger consumers and as must-have items for those who want to age in place.
With a surge in sales and growing awareness of their benefits, bidets are becoming a staple for those seeking enhanced hygiene, comfort, and long-term value.
🚀 Bidet Sales Are Booming—Who’s Buying?
The bidet market in North America is experiencing significant growth. According to Cognitive Market Research, the North America bidet toilet seats market is projected to reach $552.54 million by 2029, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 12.11% from 2023 to 2030.
Although awareness of home bidets skyrocketed during the pandemic and its accompanying shortages in toilet paper, their sales have continued to climb. This growth is driven by increasing awareness of personal hygiene, environmental concerns, and the adoption of smart home technologies.
Younger consumers are leading this trend. A 2024 survey by Bio Bidet found that 71% of millennials and 69% of Gen Z are open to trying bidets, with nearly half considering them holiday gifts. While younger people may be leading the way, bidet benefits may be even greater as one ages.
💎 Why are bidets becoming essential bathroom fixtures?
A bidet is a simple bathroom add-on that offers health and comfort benefits that may seem like luxury items today, but they contribute to long-term independence. These items appeal to eco-conscious consumers and provide hygiene and personal health benefits that make bidets essential bathroom fixtures.
Bidets offer indulgence today
- Enhanced Hygiene: Bidets offer a superior clean compared to toilet paper, reducing irritation and promoting better personal hygiene
- Comfort Features: Modern bidets come with heated seats, adjustable water temperatures, and air dryers, providing a spa-like experience
- Eco-Friendly: Reducing toilet paper usage not only saves money but also benefits the environment by decreasing paper waste
And independence tomorrow
- Aging in Place: Bidets facilitate independence for older adults by simplifying personal hygiene routines, reducing the need for assistance
- Health Benefits: They can alleviate issues related to hemorrhoids and urinary tract infections by providing gentle cleansing
- Property Value: Homes equipped with modern bathroom fixtures like bidets may have increased appeal to potential buyers
Bidet toilets enable aging in place
⚠️ Potential Drawbacks
- Installation Requirements: Many bidets require electrical outlets nearby, which might necessitate additional wiring
- Learning Curve: First-time users may need time to adjust to the features and controls of advanced bidet models. Installing a bidet toilet for an older relative with cognitive challenges may prove confusing. Best to upgrade early!
- Initial Cost: High-end models can be expensive, though the long-term savings on toilet paper and increased comfort often offset the initial investment
🛠️ Installation Needs
- Compatibility: Most bidet seats are designed to fit standard toilets, but it’s essential to check the shape (round or elongated) for proper fit
- Plumbing: Bidet seats typically connect to the existing water supply and don’t require additional plumbing. However, standalone bidets may need separate water lines
- Electrical Access: Electric bidets require a nearby GFCI outlet. If one isn’t available, installing an outlet may cost between $150 or more
💰 Cost & ROI
Initial Investment
The cost of a bidet toilet varies widely depending on whether you can add a bidet seat to your existing toilet, or whether you opt for a completely new bathroom fixture.
- Bidet Toilet Seats: You can purchase a bidet seat to match your existing toilet at Costco, where they range from $100 to $400
- Toilet + Compatible Bidet Seat: Or you can buy a new toilet that is compatible with a bidet seat, which costs about $500 more (interesting that the bidet seat and toilet fixture cost about the same for many brands)
- Standalone Bidet Toilets: Most expensive are the standalone bidet toilets, which on Amazon range from $500 for an unknown brand to $8000 or more for Toto or Kohler
Installation Costs
- Professional Installation: You’ll probably need a plumber as well as an electrician. Installation costs range from $350 to $1250, depending on the complexity of the job and local labor rates
Return on Investment
- Toilet Paper Savings: Households can save hundreds annually by reducing toilet paper usage.
- Increased Home Value: Modern bathroom features can enhance property appeal and value. In 2022 the New York Times estimated the average US return on investment (ROI) for bathroom remodeling to range from 43% to 89%, with an average ROI of 60%
- Health and Comfort: Improved personal hygiene and comfort contribute to overall well-being, which is invaluable
Bidet Toilets are Luxurious and Essential Bathroom Fixtures
Bidet toilets are more than a luxurious bathroom upgrade. They’re a practical investment in hygiene, comfort, and long-term independence. As awareness grows and technology advances, incorporating a bidet into your bathroom becomes a decision that pays dividends now and in the future.
