What is a Portable Bidet and How Can it Transform Your Travel
Updated: Oct. 20, 2021
If you're ready for something better than toilet paper, consider a portable bidet. They're hygienic, economical and environmentally friendly.
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If you’re eco- and hygiene-conscious, or you’ve spent a fair amount of time in Europe, you’re probably familiar with the bidet. Designed to replace toilet paper, standard bidets clean your nether regions with a spray of water emitted from a basin that you squat over. They’re hygienic, economical and environmentally friendly. Trouble is, a regular bidet permanently fixed in your bathroom can’t come with you when you travel. So if you want to conserve toilet paper and stay clean wherever you are, a portable bidet is an excellent solution.
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How Portable Bidets Work
Portable bidets have two parts: a bottle, and a nozzle attachment designed to hold and spray water to clean you up. There are many models available, and they all work about the same. For the hygiene-conscious traveler, the trick is knowing which portable bidet to buy.
How to Choose a Portable Bidet
Expect to spend anywhere from $10 for a basic squeeze bottle to $50 or more for a fancy, battery-powered model. Some portable bidets, such as this inexpensive option, feature a nozzle designed to thread onto most disposable plastic water or soda bottles. Also on the basic end, this squeeze bottle bidet is small, compact and self-explanatory.
If you need more capacity, adjustable water pressure, maximum cleanliness, or just don’t want to squeeze a bottle repeatedly, you’re in luck. A battery powered unit may be what you’re looking for.
Portable Bidet Use and Maintenance
Bring your portable bidet wherever you go as long as there is access to clean water — vacations, business trips or a night at the movies. If you’re camping away from flush toilets, a portable bidet means there’s no need to stuff your pack with rolls and rolls of toilet paper. You’ll also leave your campsite without the guilt of burying your used toilet paper in nature.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can use your portable bidet without a privy. Just dig a small hole, do your business, then clean up with a quick spritz of water, just as nature intended. To maintain your portable bidet, wash it regularly with warm water and soap. And if you’re a regular user, remember to always travel with a spare.
Even if you’re a die-hard toilet paper user and hesitant to try water instead, you should still consider a portable bidet. Doctors consider them more hygienic than toilet paper. Plus they’re better for the environment and better for your wallet.
