As Americans rethink hygiene and sustainability, a quiet revolution is making its way into bathrooms across the United States. Popular in Asia for decades, bidets—devices that use a stream of water to clean after using the toilet—are gaining serious attention in the West. What was once considered exotic or unnecessary is now being hailed as the future of personal hygiene.
In this blog, we explore why bidets are so popular in Asia, the environmental and health benefits they offer, and why 2025 might be the year they finally go mainstream in the U.S.
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Why Bidets Are a Staple in Asia
Bidets are nearly ubiquitous in countries like Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan. In Japan, over 80% of households have high-tech toilets with integrated bidet functions, also known as washlets. These aren’t just basic water jets—they come equipped with:
Heated seats
Adjustable water pressure
Deodorizing filters
Warm air dryers
Motion sensors
This cultural norm is rooted in a strong emphasis on cleanliness and technology. Public restrooms in Japan often rival those in five-star hotels, and using a bidet is seen as a more hygienic and refined method than toilet paper.
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The U.S. Perspective: From Novelty to Necessity
Historically, bidets were rarely found in American homes. Many viewed them as a European luxury or simply unnecessary. But things began to change during the COVID-19 pandemic, when toilet paper shortages made consumers seek out alternatives.
Bidet brands like Tushy, Bio Bidet, and Brondell saw a massive surge in sales in 2020. Since then, awareness has only grown. With more people working from home and investing in comfort, bidets are no longer a novelty—they’re a bathroom upgrade.
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The Environmental Impact of Toilet Paper
Toilet paper production is environmentally costly:
27,000 trees are cut down every day for toilet paper
37 gallons of water are used to produce a single roll
Billions of plastic-wrapped rolls fill our landfills each year
Bidets use just 1/8 of a gallon of water per use, drastically reducing environmental impact. If even 50% of U.S. households switched to bidets, it could lead to significant conservation of trees and water resources.
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Health and Hygiene Benefits
Using a bidet is not just better for the planet—it’s also better for your body. Dermatologists and urologists often recommend bidets for people with:
Hemorrhoids
Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
Urinary tract infections (UTIs)
Sensitive skin or rashes
Water is gentler and more effective at cleaning than dry paper, especially for those with sensitive skin or mobility issues.
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Affordability and Accessibility in 2025
Until recently, the high cost and complex installation of bidets were barriers to adoption in the U.S. But in 2025, the landscape is very different:
Entry-level bidet attachments start at $40
No plumber required—DIY installation in 15 minutes
Available at Amazon, Target, Walmart, and home improvement stores
With sleek designs and eco-friendly messaging, these devices appeal to younger, environmentally conscious consumers.
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Cultural Shift: Will America Finally Ditch Toilet Paper?
More Americans are beginning to see bidets not just as a foreign luxury but as a smart, sustainable choice. Social media influencers, tech blogs, and even comedians are talking about bidets—helping to reduce the stigma and normalize the product.
As climate concerns grow and hygiene standards evolve, 2025 may be the tipping point for bidet adoption in the United States.
