Why 80% of the World Uses Bidets — And Why You Should Too

The Hygiene Gap Nobody Talks About

Here's a fact that surprises most people: over 80% of households in Japan, South Korea, Italy, and the Middle East use bidets as their primary hygiene method. In France, bidet use dates back to the 17th century. In Japan, high-tech toilet seats with bidet functions are standard in homes, offices, and public restrooms.

Meanwhile, much of the English-speaking world still relies almost exclusively on toilet paper — a method that doctors, dermatologists, and hygiene researchers increasingly describe as inadequate.

What the Science Says About Toilet Paper

Multiple peer-reviewed studies have found that toilet paper alone removes only a fraction of fecal matter. A 2010 study published in the Journal of Wound, Ostomy and Continence Nursing found that water cleansing was significantly more effective at reducing bacterial contamination than dry wiping.

Dermatologists increasingly recommend water-based cleansing for patients with:

• Hemorrhoids and anal fissures
• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)
• Postpartum recovery
• Sensitive skin conditions (eczema, psoriasis)
• Urinary tract infection (UTI) prevention

Why Japan Got It Right

Japan's bidet adoption rate exceeds 90% in urban households. The country's famous Washlet toilet seats — first introduced by TOTO in 1980 — transformed bathroom hygiene from a luxury to a daily standard. Today, Japanese airports, train stations, and convenience stores all feature bidet-equipped restrooms.

The result? Japan consistently ranks among the world's healthiest populations, with some of the lowest rates of colorectal disease and bathroom-related infections.

Europe's Long Bidet Tradition

France, Italy, Portugal, and Spain have included bidets as standard bathroom fixtures for centuries. In these countries, a bathroom without a bidet is considered incomplete — the equivalent of a kitchen without a sink.

Post-Brexit UK and North America are now seeing rapid bidet adoption, driven by pandemic-era toilet paper shortages, growing environmental awareness, and increased exposure to global hygiene standards through travel.

The Modern Solution: No Renovation Required

You don't need to renovate your bathroom to join the bidet majority. Modern bidet attachments and portable bidets make the switch effortless:

For Home: EcoAqua Pro S5 Bidet Attachment

Ultra-slim 6mm profile. No electricity. Installs in 10 minutes. Fits any standard toilet. The easiest way to upgrade your bathroom to global hygiene standards.

→ Shop EcoAqua Pro S5 — Join the Bidet Majority

For Travel: EcoAqua Pro S1 Portable Bidet

Maintain your hygiene standards anywhere in the world. USB-C charged, UV-C sterilized, 30-day battery. The travel bidet trusted by frequent flyers.

→ Shop EcoAqua Pro S1 — Hygiene Without Borders

Frequently Asked Questions

What percentage of the world uses bidets?

Estimates suggest 70–80% of people in Japan, South Korea, Italy, France, and the Middle East use bidets regularly. Global bidet adoption is growing rapidly, with North America and the UK seeing the fastest growth rates.

Are bidets more hygienic than toilet paper?

Yes. Multiple studies confirm that water cleansing removes significantly more bacteria and fecal matter than dry wiping with toilet paper. Dermatologists and gastroenterologists increasingly recommend bidet use for patients with sensitive conditions.

Do I need to install plumbing for a bidet?

No. The EcoAqua Pro S5 bidet attachment connects to your existing toilet water supply in under 10 minutes — no plumber, no drilling, no renovation required.

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