Shopping for your first bidet can feel overwhelming. With dozens of models, price ranges from $99 to $1,199, and countless features, how do you know what to choose? This complete buying guide walks you through every step of finding the perfect bidet for your needs and budget.
Quick Navigation
The 6-Step Bidet Buying Process
Decide: Seat or Attachment?
The first decision is fundamental: full bidet toilet seat or attachment that fits under your seat?
Bidet Attachment ($99-$299)
- Clips under existing toilet seat
- Quick 5-15 minute installation
- Budget-friendly
- Perfect for renters
- Portable between homes
Bidet Toilet Seat ($449-$1,199)
- Replaces entire toilet seat
- 30-45 minute installation
- More features available
- Better for permanent homes
- Premium quality
Unsure? Check our Seats vs Attachments guide for detailed comparison.
Set Your Budget
Bidet prices vary widely. Here's what each price range offers:
Budget Tier: $99-$199
What You Get: Basic mechanical or electronic cleaning. No heated water. Simple controls. Perfect for testing if you like bidets.
Best For: Budget-conscious shoppers, renters, first-time users, those testing the concept.
Example: Tushy Classic ($99), Bio Bidet A6135 ($129), Brondell Swash 300 ($189)
Mid-Range Tier: $200-$500
What You Get: Good quality construction, some heated features, better controls, more customization. Sweet spot for value.
Best For: Those wanting more comfort than budget options but not premium prices. Homeowners.
Example: Bio Bidet BB-1000 ($299), GenieBidet GB-3000 ($449), Brondell Swash 1400 ($599)
Premium Tier: $500+
What You Get: All features, heated water, heated seat, air dryer, smart controls, premium materials, longer warranty.
Best For: Premium seekers, those wanting maximum features, smart home integration enthusiasts.
Example: Toto S550e ($799), Coway Bidetmega 400 ($799), Kohler DTV+ ($1,199)
Identify Your Specific Needs
What matters to you? Different people prioritize different things:
Climate Considerations
- Cold Climate: Heated water is essential. Don't skip this.
- Warm Climate: Heated water is nice but not necessary.
- Tropical Climate: Any bidet helps with frequent cleansing needs.
Health Considerations
- Hemorrhoids/IBS: Gentle, adjustable pressure is critical.
- Elderly/Mobility Issues: Easy controls, soft-close lid essential.
- UTI Prevention: Heated water and good cleansing important.
- General Hygiene: Any bidet improves cleansing.
Lifestyle Considerations
- Renter: Get an attachment, not a full seat.
- Small Bathroom: Compact attachment is best option.
- Homeowner: Can invest in full seat.
- Limited Mobility: Easy controls and soft-close are must-haves.
Choose Key Features
Once you know your needs, identify must-have features:
| Feature | Importance | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Heated Water | 🔴 High | Cold water can be shocking. Essential in cold climates. |
| Adjustable Pressure | 🔴 High | Different people need different pressure. Must be customizable. |
| Easy Controls | 🔴 High | Simple buttons better than complex menus. Especially for elderly. |
| Heated Seat | 🟡 Medium | Comfort feature. Nice in winter, not essential. |
| Air Dryer | 🟡 Medium | Reduces toilet paper need. Luxury feature, not essential. |
| Self-Cleaning Nozzle | 🟡 Medium | Good hygiene feature. Most models include this. |
| Soft-Close Lid | 🟡 Medium | Safety feature. Prevents pinching. Good for families. |
| Smart Features | 🟢 Low | App control and voice activation. Nice but not necessary. |
| Warranty | 🟡 Medium | Longer warranty = more confidence. 1 vs 2-3 years matters. |
Compare Your Options
Now narrow down to specific models. Create a comparison based on your priorities:
Quick Decision Tree:
💰 Budget matters most? → Start with Tushy Classic ($99) or Bio Bidet A6135 ($129)
♨️ Want heated water? → Look at Bio Bidet BB-1000 ($299) or Brondell Swash 1400 ($599)
✨ Want premium features? → Consider Toto S550e ($799) or Coway 400 ($799)
🤖 Want smart home? → Check Kohler DTV+ ($1,199)
♿ Need accessibility? → GenieBidet GB-3000 ($449) is best for elderly
Pro Tip: Visit our Reviews page for detailed breakdowns of 10+ models, or check our Comparison Guide for side-by-side feature comparison.
Check Compatibility & Details
Before buying, verify these important factors:
Pro Buying Tips
Where to Buy
- Amazon: Best selection, fast shipping, easy returns. We use Amazon Associates links.
- Wayfair: Good selection, competitive pricing, customer reviews.
- Best Buy: Limited selection but easy returns in-store.
- Manufacturer Website: Sometimes better prices directly.
- Local Bathroom Fixture Stores: Can see in person, immediate purchase.
Getting the Best Price
- Wait for Sales: Black Friday and holiday sales offer 20-30% discounts.
- Use Coupon Codes: Manufacturer sites often have codes.
- Buy Bundles: Some retailers offer package deals.
- Affiliate Links: Using our Amazon links supports our site at no cost to you.
- Price Match: Amazon price matches competitors.
Common Buying Mistakes to Avoid
- ❌ Buying based on price alone: $99 budget option works fine for many, but you might want heated water.
- ❌ Ignoring your climate: Cold climate + no heated water = uncomfortable experience.
- ❌ Not checking toilet compatibility: Wall-mounted toilets are incompatible with most bidets.
- ❌ Forgetting about electricity: Full seats need electrical outlet. Verify outlet location.
- ❌ Jumping to premium without testing: Start budget, upgrade if you like it.
- ❌ Not reading reviews: Amazon reviews reveal real user experiences and common issues.
- ❌ Skipping warranty info: Longer warranty = manufacturer confidence. Often worth extra cost.
Making Your Final Decision
The Perfect Bidet is: What fits YOUR budget, needs, and situation. Not what's most expensive or has most features, but what's right for YOU.
Still Unsure? Use this rule: Start with a budget option, test the concept, upgrade later if desired. Perfect strategy.
Next Steps
After You Decide:
- Check our detailed product reviews for your model
- Read customer reviews on Amazon before buying
- Verify compatibility one more time
- Check return policy
- Make your purchase
- Follow installation instructions carefully
- Give yourself 1-2 weeks to adjust if new to bidets
Questions? We're Here to Help
This guide covers the main buying process, but we know shopping can still feel overwhelming. Check out these additional resources:
- FAQ Page: 30+ common questions answered
- Guides Hub: Specialized guides for different needs
- Comparison Guide: 10+ models side-by-side
- Contact Us: Have a specific question? Get in touch!
Good luck with your bidet purchase! 🎉 We're confident you'll find the perfect model for your needs. Welcome to the bidet experience!