What Are the Downsides of Using a Bidet? The Hidden Issues You Should Know

Bidets: The "Modern" Solution That May Not Be For Everyone

Bidets are often touted as the cleaner, more environmentally friendly alternative to traditional toilet paper. In fact, many people swear by them, claiming they offer superior hygiene and comfort. But hold on—before you rush out to buy one, let’s talk about the downsides. While bidets are popular in many countries, they aren’t without their drawbacks.

Honestly, I was super excited when I first tried a bidet during my trip to Europe. Everyone talks about how refreshing they are, right? But, after a few uses, I started to realize there are some things I didn’t really consider. And trust me, I think it’s important to be realistic about what you're getting into.

The Uncomfortable Adjustment Period

1. Getting Used to the Water Pressure

Let’s get one thing straight—the first time you use a bidet, you might be in for a shock. I’ll be honest, the water pressure can feel a bit... intense. It's like, you're sitting there, and suddenly—BAM! Water in places you didn’t expect! And if the pressure’s too high, it can even be uncomfortable or borderline painful.

A friend of mine, Sarah, had a similar reaction when she tried one for the first time. She described it as “like a mini water cannon.” Now, imagine that feeling every time. Yeah, not so great, right?

2. Potential for Improper Use

Not everyone gets it right at first. Bidets are fairly easy to use, sure, but you’ve got to aim the nozzle just right. Otherwise, you might end up wet in places you didn’t intend to be. It’s an awkward learning curve, and you’ll likely feel like a newbie at first. That feeling of uncertainty can be off-putting for some, especially if you don’t feel totally comfortable with the idea.

Hygiene Concerns (Yes, Really)

1. Not Always as Clean as You Think

Okay, hear me out here. Many people think a bidet is the ultimate hygiene tool. And while it does clean, the reality is a bit more complicated. Water alone, depending on your setup, may not always do a thorough job. Some bidets don’t have a strong enough water jet, and they leave you feeling like you’re just splashing around a bit. And if you’re using it incorrectly (e.g., too much or too little water), it can leave you less than clean.

I had a situation where, after using a bidet, I didn’t feel as fresh as I had expected. Honestly, it made me realize that there’s a reason people still rely on toilet paper to finish the job.

2. Cross-Contamination Risks

It sounds a little alarming, but hear me out. If the bidet isn’t properly cleaned, it can actually introduce germs and bacteria rather than remove them. Bidets in public restrooms or even in your own home need regular cleaning to ensure they don’t harbor harmful bacteria. Plus, some older models or poorly maintained bidets might not have the most effective filtration systems for the water, which raises concerns about hygiene.

I mean, imagine you're sitting there, and suddenly the idea of using an unclean nozzle crosses your mind. Not exactly a pleasant thought, right?

Installation and Maintenance Hassles

1. Cost and Installation

One of the main reasons bidets aren’t as widespread in many places is the cost. Sure, you can get a basic bidet attachment, but the really fancy ones with heated seats, adjustable pressure, and air dryers? Those can cost a pretty penny. Plus, installation can be a hassle if you’re not handy or don’t want to pay a plumber.

When I first looked into getting a bidet for my own bathroom, I was taken aback by the installation costs. It wasn’t just the price of the bidet itself—it was also the additional plumbing work involved. Not everyone wants to deal with that.

2. Ongoing Maintenance

Even the best bidets require maintenance. You need to clean them regularly, especially around the nozzle, to prevent buildup. If you don’t take care of them, they can start to smell bad or get clogged. Some of the higher-end models might even require professional servicing if something goes wrong.

I learned this the hard way when I didn’t clean mine properly. Let’s just say it didn’t end well. The water pressure dropped, and the whole thing became a bit of a mess. It’s definitely not as low-maintenance as you might think.

The Social and Cultural Stigma

1. Awkwardness in Shared Spaces

While bidets are common in many parts of the world, they’re still a bit of a rarity in others. If you’re renting or using public bathrooms, you might feel a bit awkward using a bidet, especially if it’s not something people around you are used to. In some cultures, there’s still a bit of a stigma surrounding bidets, making the whole experience uncomfortable or embarrassing.

I had this conversation with my friend Tom, who was traveling abroad. He said that, although he loved the idea of bidets, he felt super awkward using one in a shared hostel bathroom. It’s not the kind of thing you want to do without first understanding the local norms!

2. Learning Curve for Guests

Imagine hosting a guest who’s never used a bidet before. Yeah, that could get a little awkward, right? You’re in the middle of a dinner party, and someone’s asking you how to use the thing. It can create unnecessary tension, and not everyone is comfortable trying new things in someone else’s home, especially when it comes to bathroom habits.

Conclusion: Is the Bidet Really Worth It?

So, what’s the final verdict? Well, like anything, bidets have their pros and cons. While they offer a cleaner, more eco-friendly alternative to toilet paper, they come with their own set of downsides. From uncomfortable adjustments and maintenance hassles to hygiene concerns and cultural stigma, it’s important to weigh all factors before making the switch.

Would I recommend a bidet to everyone? Maybe not. But if you’re someone who’s already intrigued by the idea, and you’re prepared to deal with the potential issues, then go for it. Just don’t go in blind—make sure you’re ready for the commitment and, well, the occasional awkward moment!

Is 165 cm normal for a 15 year old?

The predicted height for a female, based on your parents heights, is 155 to 165cm. Most 15 year old girls are nearly done growing. I was too. It's a very normal height for a girl.

Is 160 cm too tall for a 12 year old?

How Tall Should a 12 Year Old Be? We can only speak to national average heights here in North America, whereby, a 12 year old girl would be between 137 cm to 162 cm tall (4-1/2 to 5-1/3 feet). A 12 year old boy should be between 137 cm to 160 cm tall (4-1/2 to 5-1/4 feet).

How tall is a average 15 year old?

Average Height to Weight for Teenage Boys - 13 to 20 Years

How to get taller at 18?

Staying physically active is even more essential from childhood to grow and improve overall health. But taking it up even in adulthood can help you add a few inches to your height. Strength-building exercises, yoga, jumping rope, and biking all can help to increase your flexibility and grow a few inches taller.

Is 5.7 a good height for a 15 year old boy?

Generally speaking, the average height for 15 year olds girls is 62.9 inches (or 159.7 cm). On the other hand, teen boys at the age of 15 have a much higher average height, which is 67.0 inches (or 170.1 cm).

Can you grow between 16 and 18?

Most girls stop growing taller by age 14 or 15. However, after their early teenage growth spurt, boys continue gaining height at a gradual pace until around 18. Note that some kids will stop growing earlier and others may keep growing a year or two more.

Can you grow 1 cm after 17?

Even with a healthy diet, most people's height won't increase after age 18 to 20. The graph below shows the rate of growth from birth to age 20. As you can see, the growth lines fall to zero between ages 18 and 20 ( 7 , 8 ). The reason why your height stops increasing is your bones, specifically your growth plates.