When it comes to personal hygiene, bidets are becoming more and more popular in households worldwide. However, with the variety of bidet options on the market, it can be challenging to decide which one is right for you.
Two of the most common types of bidets are the hand-held bidet and the toilet-mounted bidet. In this article, we will explore the differences between the two and help you determine which bidet is the best fit for your needs.
A hand-held bidet is a sprayer that attaches to your toilet and allows you to clean yourself with water after using the restroom. While a toilet-mounted bidet is a fixture that replaces your standard toilet seat and uses water to clean your private areas.
While both options offer the benefits of improved hygiene and reduced toilet paper usage, there are some key differences to consider. In the following sections, we will compare a hand-held bidet vs a toilet-mounted bidet in terms of cost, installation, ease of use, and overall effectiveness to help you make an informed decision.
What Is a Hand-held Bidet?
A hand-held bidet, also known as a bidet spray, is a device that sprays water for cleaning your intimate areas after using the toilet. It is a portable device that you hold in your hand and use to direct the water flow where you need it.
Hand-held bidets are commonly used in many countries, including the United States, Europe, and the Middle East. They are becoming increasingly popular in Australia and other countries as people seek more hygienic and eco-friendly alternatives to toilet paper.
Hand-held bidets are easy to install and use. They typically consist of a spray nozzle attached to a hose that connects to the water supply valve of your toilet. You can control the water pressure and temperature by adjusting the valve.
Using a hand-held bidet is simple. After using the toilet, you hold the nozzle and direct the water flow to the desired area. You can adjust the pressure and temperature of the water to your liking. Once you are done, you can dry yourself with a towel or use a small amount of toilet paper to pat dry.
Overall, a hand-held bidet is a convenient and hygienic alternative to toilet paper. It is easy to use, eco-friendly and can help prevent infections and other health issues.
What Is a Toilet-Mounted Bidet?
A toilet-mounted bidet, also known as a bidet seat, is a device that replaces your regular toilet seat with a seat that has a built-in bidet function. It is designed to provide a more hygienic and comfortable experience when using the toilet.
The bidet seat is connected to the water supply of your toilet and has a nozzle that extends from the back of the seat. When you activate the bidet function, the nozzle sprays a stream of water to clean your private parts. You can adjust the temperature, pressure, and position of the nozzle to suit your preferences.
Most bidet seats come with additional features, such as a heated seat, air dryer, deodorizer, and remote control. Some models also have a night light, automatic open/close lid, and self-cleaning function.
Installing a toilet-mounted bidet is easy but should be done by a professional plumber. You simply remove your old toilet seat and replace it with the bidet seat. Most bidet seats are compatible with standard toilet bowls and require no additional plumbing.
A toilet-mounted bidet is a convenient and cost-effective way to upgrade your toilet and improve your hygiene. It provides a gentle and effective cleaning experience that is superior to using toilet paper alone.

Hand-held Bidet vs. Toilet-Mounted Bidet: Comparison
Both hand-held and bidet seats have their pros and cons, and choosing the right one depends on your personal preference and needs.
When comparing hand-held bidets and bidet seats, there are several features to consider. Here are some of the key differences between the two:
Features
Hand-held bidets are typically smaller and more portable than bidet seats. They attach to your existing toilet and are easy to install. They also tend to be less expensive than bidet seats.
However, hand-held bidets require more effort to use since you must hold the bidet yourself.
Bidet seats are more permanent fixtures in your bathroom. They replace your existing toilet seat and are controlled by a remote or side panel.
Bidet seats offer more features than hand-held bidets, including heated seats, air drying, and adjustable water pressure. However, they are more expensive and require professional installation.
User Friendliness
Hand-held bidets are straightforward to use, but they require more effort on your part. You must hold the bidet and aim the water where you want it. This can be challenging for people with mobility issues or arthritis.
Bidet seats are more user-friendly since they require minimal effort on your part. You simply press a button or use a remote to control the bidet’s features. However, the learning curve can be steep if you’re not used to using a bidet.
Electricity Consumption
Hand-held bidets do not require electricity to operate, making them more energy-efficient than bidet seats. They also do not require any additional plumbing or wiring.
Bidet seats, however, require electricity to operate. They use heated water and air drying, which can increase your energy consumption and utility bills. Additionally, they require professional installation, which can be costly.
Installation:
Hand-held bidets are easier to install than bidet seats, as they require minimal plumbing work. Bidet seats may require professional installation or significant DIY plumbing skills.
Versatility:
Hand-held bidets offer more versatility than others, as they can be used for a variety of tasks beyond just cleaning oneself after using the toilet. For example, hand-held bidets can be used to clean cloth diapers, wash pets, or even clean hard-to-reach areas in the shower.
Cost:
Hand-held bidets are generally less expensive than bidet seats, making them a more budget-friendly option for those who want to try out bidet use without committing to a more expensive installation. The cost of a hand-held bidet sprayer can start from as low as $60 whereas the cost of a bidet seat starts from $150.
Comfort:
Bidet seats often offer more comfort than hand-held bidets, as they are designed to fit onto the toilet seat and provide a more ergonomic cleaning experience. Hand-held bidets can be more difficult to use for those with mobility issues or limited dexterity.
Water Pressure:
Hand-held bidets offer more control over water pressure than bidet seats, as users can adjust the pressure with their hands. bidet seats may have preset pressure settings that cannot be adjusted.
Advantages of Using Hand-held Bidets Over Toilet-Mounted Seats
If you are considering upgrading your bathroom hygiene routine, you might be wondering which option is better: hand-held bidets or bidet seats. Both have their advantages and disadvantages.
Better Hygiene
One of the main advantages of using a hand-held bidet is that it provides better hygiene. With a hand-held bidet, you can direct the water exactly where you need it, ensuring a more thorough and effective cleaning. Bidet seats have a fixed nozzle that may not be able to reach all areas as effectively.
No Electricity Cost
Another advantage of using a hand-held bidet is that it doesn’t require electricity, unlike bidet seats. This means that you won’t have to worry about any additional electricity costs or potential electrical malfunctions.
Better Mobility
Hand-held bidets also offer better mobility than bidet seats. With a hand-held bidet, you can easily adjust the angle and position of the nozzle, making it easier to reach all areas. This is especially beneficial for people with limited mobility or disabilities who may have difficulty using a bidet seat.
Lower Upfront Investment
Finally, hand-held bidets are typically more affordable than bidet seats, making them a great option for those on a budget. Additionally, hand-held bidets are easy to install and don’t require any special plumbing or electrical work, further reducing the upfront investment.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both hand-held bidets and toilet-mounted bidet have their pros and cons. Hand-held bidets are more portable and less expensive but require more effort to use. Bidet seats offer more features and are more user-friendly, but are more expensive and require professional installation. Ultimately, the choice comes down to your personal preferences and budget.