Are bidets more sanitary than wiping? A comprehensive health comparison

September 30, 2025 •

4 min read

According to a 2021 study, using a bidet can significantly reduce microbial contamination on hands after using the toilet. This scientific evidence has fueled a growing public interest and debate: are bidets more sanitary than wiping?

Quick Summary

Using a bidet offers superior cleaning and hygiene compared to wiping with dry toilet paper, which can leave residue and spread bacteria. Bidets are gentler on the skin and more eco-friendly, but proper usage and maintenance are crucial to prevent any potential risks.

Key Points

Superior Cleaning: Water is more effective than dry paper at removing fecal residue, leading to a more thorough clean and reduced odor.
Gentler on Skin: Bidets reduce skin irritation, micro-abrasions, and aggravation of conditions like hemorrhoids caused by harsh wiping.
Reduced Bacterial Spread: Studies show bidet use can significantly decrease microbial contamination on hands compared to wiping with toilet paper.
Environmental Benefits: Bidets dramatically lower toilet paper consumption, conserving natural resources like trees, water, and energy.
Accessibility and Comfort: Bidets offer a dignified and independent cleaning solution for individuals with limited mobility, post-surgery recovery, or other conditions.
Requires Proper Maintenance: To avoid potential bacterial risks, bidets must be used properly, and nozzles should be cleaned regularly.

The Hygiene Debate: Water vs. Paper

For most of the Western world, the dry paper wipe has long been the standard for personal sanitation after using the toilet. However, bidet advocates, along with a growing body of evidence, challenge this practice by comparing it to cleaning mud off your hands with only a dry paper towel. The primary argument is that water is simply a more effective and gentle cleaning agent than paper. Wiping with paper can spread residual fecal matter rather than removing it completely, potentially leading to bacterial transfer and less-than-ideal cleanliness. Bidets, by using a stream of water, rinse the area more thoroughly, providing a cleaner and fresher feeling that can't be achieved with paper alone.

Health Benefits of Using a Bidet

The hygienic advantages of bidets extend beyond a simple feeling of freshness to offer several tangible health benefits.

Reduced Skin Irritation: For individuals with sensitive skin, hemorrhoids, or anal fissures, the abrasive nature of dry toilet paper can cause significant irritation, bleeding, and discomfort. The gentle, soothing spray of a bidet eliminates this harsh friction, providing a more comfortable and therapeutic cleaning experience.
Decreased Risk of Infections: Bidets can help prevent the spread of bacteria, thereby reducing the risk of conditions like urinary tract infections (UTIs). A study published in the Journal of Water and Health found a significant reduction in hand contamination with fecal microbes among those who used bidets. For women, a properly used bidet with a front wash feature can help ensure better hygiene during menstruation and reduce the risk of infection.
Improved Accessibility: Bidets offer greater independence for people with mobility issues, limited dexterity, or who are recovering from surgery or childbirth. The hands-free operation of many models allows for effective and dignified self-cleaning without strain.

Potential Downsides and Considerations

While bidets are a superior option for many, they are not without potential considerations that users should be aware of.

Risk of Bacterial Growth: Like any bathroom fixture, bidets require regular cleaning. A 2018 study from a Japanese hospital found that bidet nozzles could harbor bacteria, especially in shared toilets. Modern bidets often include self-cleaning features, but regular manual sanitization is essential to prevent this risk.
Disruption of Vaginal Flora: Some research has explored the effects of habitual bidet use on women's vaginal health. One study in 2010 suggested that frequent use might disrupt normal vaginal flora, potentially leading to infections. However, other studies have found no link between bidet use and increased risk of bacterial vaginosis. It is advisable for women to use a gentle, front-to-back washing motion and moderate water pressure to avoid issues.
The Drying Process: The bidet's use of water leaves the user wet, requiring a drying method. While some high-tech models feature warm air dryers, many users opt to pat dry with a small amount of toilet paper or a dedicated, washable towel.

Comparison: Bidet vs. Toilet Paper


Aspect	Bidet	Toilet Paper
Cleaning Effectiveness	Superior; uses water to rinse away residue completely.	Ineffective; smears fecal matter rather than removing it.
Skin Health	Gentle, soothes sensitive skin, and helps with hemorrhoids.	Can be abrasive, causing irritation, micro-abrasions, and aggravating conditions.
Environmental Impact	Highly eco-friendly; significantly reduces toilet paper consumption.	Harmful; production contributes to deforestation and high water usage.
Cost	Higher initial investment, but long-term savings on toilet paper.	Low individual cost per roll, but higher lifetime cost due to constant repurchasing.
Germ Spread	Minimizes spread of bacteria by reducing direct hand-to-skin contact.	Can spread bacteria to hands and surfaces during and after use.

Environmental Impact: A Greener Clean

Beyond the personal hygiene benefits, bidets offer a significant environmental advantage. An average American uses over 140 rolls of toilet paper per year, which translates to a massive demand for wood pulp, water, and energy. The production of just one toilet paper roll requires approximately 37 gallons of water. In stark contrast, a bidet uses only about a pint of water per wash, drastically reducing the strain on natural resources. Switching to a bidet is a simple yet impactful way to contribute to a more sustainable and greener lifestyle.

How to Use a Bidet Hygienically

To reap the full hygienic benefits of a bidet, proper usage is key. The process is straightforward, but a few simple steps ensure optimal cleanliness.

Step 1: Finish Your Business. Use the toilet as you normally would.
Step 2: Engage the Bidet. While seated, activate the bidet using the controls. Adjust the water pressure and temperature to a comfortable setting. Allow the stream of water to rinse the area thoroughly for about 20-30 seconds.
Step 3: Pat Dry. Use a minimal amount of toilet paper or a small, dedicated washable towel to pat the area dry. Using a patting motion rather than a wiping one is recommended to avoid irritation.
Step 4: Clean the Nozzle. Many modern bidets have a self-cleaning function for the nozzle, but it is important to regularly clean the device manually with a sanitary wipe or cleaner to maintain hygiene.
Step 5: Wash Your Hands. Always finish your bathroom routine by washing your hands with soap and water.

Conclusion

While personal preference and cost are factors, the evidence strongly suggests that using a bidet is more sanitary than wiping. The superior cleaning power of water removes residue more effectively, reduces the risk of skin irritation and infection, and offers significant environmental benefits by cutting down on toilet paper consumption. For optimal results, combining bidet use with a gentle pat-dry method and proper device maintenance is recommended. The initial investment in a bidet can lead to long-term health, comfort, and eco-friendly rewards, transforming a daily routine into a more hygienic and refreshing experience.

Visit Healthline for more on the health benefits of bidets.

Frequently Asked Questions

While bidets dramatically reduce the need for toilet paper, most people still use a small amount for patting dry after washing. Some advanced bidet models have a built-in warm air dryer, which can eliminate the need for paper entirely.

If properly cleaned and maintained, a shared bidet is hygienic. Many modern bidets have self-cleaning nozzles. Regular manual cleaning, particularly of the nozzle and surrounding areas, is important to prevent bacterial buildup.

Using a bidet properly reduces the risk of infection by providing a more thorough clean. However, misuse, such as using excessive water pressure or failing to clean the device, could potentially lead to issues. Some studies on habitual use in women have mixed findings regarding effects on vaginal flora, so gentle use is recommended.

Most bidet attachments and bidet toilet seats are designed for easy installation and hook up to your toilet's existing freshwater supply line. They do not require a separate hot water line or complex plumbing modifications.

Bidet options range widely in price. Simple, non-electric attachments are very affordable, while advanced electric models with features like heated seats and warm dryers are more expensive. Considering the long-term savings on toilet paper, the investment can be cost-effective.

The gentle stream of water from a bidet cleans the area without the abrasive wiping of toilet paper, which can irritate hemorrhoids. This can reduce pain, inflammation, and potential bleeding, promoting healing.

After the bidet's washing cycle, you can use a small amount of toilet paper or a dedicated, soft cloth towel to pat the area dry. Patting is preferable to wiping to avoid irritation. Some high-end bidets include a built-in air dryer.