Last updated: December 27, 2022Bidets became more popular when toilet paper was in short supply during the Covid pandemic year. They have been a thing in Asia and Europe and are steadily growing popular in the US. Bidets are the ultimate eco-friendly and easy-to-use alternative to toilet people for seniors, especially those with limited mobility. In this article, we review the best bidets for the elderly.
Some of the crucial features we considered when creating our list include; material, spray option, control, air dryer, and weight capacity. The features determine the bidets’ build quality and performance. The ALPHA BIDET JX Bidet Toilet Seat topped our list of the 10 best bidets for the elderly because of its superior build quality and senior-friendly features that make it super-easy to use.
Other Features: wireless remote control, white LED nightlight, 3-year warranty, self-cleaning nozzle, power saving economy mode, whisper quiet operation
The ALPHA BIDET JX Bidet Toilet Seat is our top pick because of its top-tier features and ease of use. It comes with a super simple wireless remote that has two auto modes; easy wash and wash & dry. The remote is very straightforward as it has very few settings to choose from. The remote, together with the bidet’s oscillating nozzle, make it a perfect option for seniors with mobility issues. Since it moves back and forth, the bidet provides great coverage. Best of all, the ALPHA JX bidet is inherently resistant to microbial growth thanks to its antimicrobial nanotechnology treatment.
The ALPHA JX Bidet Toilet Seat is perfect for the elderly because of its remote. Unlike Alpha’s GX Wave model, where the controls are attached to the side of the unit, the JX eliminates the need for reaching over. That means you can comfortably operate the bidet without risking an injury. Moreover, the ALPHA JX Bidet comes with one AA battery so that you can use your bidet remote immediately. Once your bidet is installed, you’re good to go with your battery-powered remote.
What stands out?
What cons did we manage to find?
Other Features: 1-year warranty, auto-open and close, remote control, massage cleaning, night light
The WOODBRIDGE B0960S Smart Toilet is a fantastic choice for seniors with serious mobility issues. They would never have to lift a finger to use the bathroom. The smart toilet will automatically open the lid when approaching it and close it when the user leaves. It also activates the self-cleaning bidet automatically and follows with a powerful flush when you leave the toilet. Another feature that makes it a suitable option for the elderly is its instant warming comfort offered by the seat’s special design and warm, powerful air dryer. It guarantees coziness in cold early mornings and during winter.
You can’t go wrong going all out with the WOODBRIDGE B0960S Smart Toilet. Instead of just a toilet seat, you attach to your existing toilet, WOODBRIDGE B0960S is an entire unit that manages itself. As a result, it’s more expensive, but it’s an investment that will save you a lot of trouble later. That’s because the WOODBRIDGE B0960S Smart Toilet is nearly autonomous in its operation. It automatically opens and closes the lid, warms the toilet seat, and flushes itself once you get up. It’s similar in operation to the VOVO STYLEMENT TCB-090S, but WOODBRIDGE B0960S is a lot cheaper.
What makes it stand out?
Which disadvantages must you keep in mind?
Other Features: non-electric, adjustable angle control, self-cleaning nozzle
The TUSHY Classic is the ultimate bidet for seniors who have no mobility issues but hate multiple confusing buttons. The bidet only features one dial for adjusting water pressure. Its streamlined design is simple yet attractive. Also featured is a small nozzle adjuster for getting a customized stream at any angle you desire. Installing the bidet is such a breeze, thanks to its simplicity, plus, you get a 12-year warranty on equipment and parts. Its only downside is that it is a ‘cold-water only’ bidet.
The TUSHY Classic 3.0 Bidet Toilet Seat Attachment is one of the inexpensive bidet options because it doesn’t have bells or whistles. It’s simply a toilet seat attachment with an adjustable bidet spray. Comparing the TUSHY Classic 3.0 Bidet Toilet Seat Attachment to the ALPHA BIDET JX Bidet Toilet Seat might not seem fair. The ALPHA BIDET JX has temperature control, while the TUSHY Classic 3.0 does not. But the TUSHY Classic 3.0 prides itself on keeping things simple: it has a bidet that washes your bottom. And at the end of the day, isn’t that what we want?
What are our favorite features?
What could be better?
Other Features: auto dual flush, wireless remote control, auto deodorizer, UV LED sterilization
The VOVO STYLEMENT TCB-090S Integrated Smart Toilet is another incredible eco-friendly alternative to toilet paper. It provides a hands-free operation and a ton of premium bidet features. The toilet has a smart sensor that detects the user and distinguishes between a small and big flush. It offers unmatched comfort with the heated seated and self-cleaning stainless steel nozzle that produces warm water. You can have a feminine wash, turbo wash, or posterior wash with a simple press of a button on the wireless remote controller. As if that’s enough, the toilet boasts a tankless flushing system that cleans the bowl powerfully with a direct water supply from the pipe.
The VOVO STYLEMENT TCB-090S Integrated Smart Toilet and the WOODBRIDGE B0960S Smart Toilet have a lot in common. They’re both smart toilets that operate with minimal user input. But unlike the WOODBRIDGE B0960S, the VOVO STYLEMENT TCB-090S can cost over $1,500. That price difference can make or break a budget when planning for bidets for the elderly. If features are not a problem, you can’t go wrong with either smart toilet. But if you want one with advanced sensors that will really cater to the user, then the higher price tag on the VOVO STYLEMENT TCB-090S might be worth it.
Why are we impressed?
What negatives must you be aware of?
Other Features: wireless remote control, night light, 3-in-1 nozzle, smart seat sensor
BioBidet is one of the most popular bidet brands in the market. The BioBidet Bliss BB2000 is one of the brand’s best-selling model. You can have a satisfying front, rear, or vortex wash with warm, hot, or cold water. Besides the temperature, you can adjust the water pressure and nozzle angle to suit your needs and preferences. Further, the seat is comfortable and heated so you can be cozy even on the coldest days. The best thing about the BioBidet Bliss BB2000 is that you don’t need a plumber to set it up. You can easily install it yourself with the manufacturer’s instructions.
If you’re looking for a bidet toilet seat from trusted brand Bemis, then you should shell out for the BioBidet Bliss BB2000. It has a nice chrome finish near the hinge that adds elegance to your bathroom, and its stainless steel nozzle is guaranteed to last. But perhaps its biggest advantage over the BioBidet BB-600 is its remote. Unlike the BioBidet BB-600 where the controls are attached to the side, the BioBidet Bliss BB2000 has a remote. No more twisting and turning just to get yourself washed.
What makes it stand out?
Which disadvantages must you keep in mind?
Other Features: dual nozzle, side panel control
The BioBidet BB-600 is one of the best budget-friendly bidets you can get for your elderly loved one. It offers almost all the features that its higher-end peers have. The bidet has front and rear wash settings and you can adjust the water temperature and pressure to fit your needs. A single button press of the side control panel will get you cold, hot, or warm water in your most preferred angle. Installing the bidet toilet seat is a breeze, you wouldn’t need a plumber. It comes with all the instructions and connectors needed.
BioBidet BB-600 is your best option if you want to rely on the trusted Bemis reputation without spending a fortune. This bidet seat has everything you need: a heated seat, warm water, and adjustable water pressure, among many others. With the controls attached to the side of the toilet seat, you’ll always have what you need within reach. However, this is not recommended for those with limited mobility or back problems. That’s because unlike the BioBidet Bliss BB2000, the BioBidet BB-600 doesn’t have a remote. You always have to make sure you can reach the controls with this seat.
Why are we impressed?
What negatives must you be aware of?
Other Features: side control panel, self-cleaning nozzle
The Barumi Electric Bidet Smart Toilet Seat is an exceptional low-budget pick. The bidet allows you to wash with warm, cold, or hot water in 5 different levels. The tri-nozzle system allows you to choose a suitable water pressure. The bidet’s spray nozzle cleans itself before, and after every use, so you can use it worry-free. Moreover, the bidet features an adjustable air dryer that you can set to low, medium, or high heat for optimum comfort. You can also adjust the heated seat’s temperature to any of the 5 levels depending on the weather.
If you want a bidet seat that also contrasts your bathroom, the Barumi Electric Bidet Smart Toilet Seat is what you need. It has an all-white profile with a contrasting black interface for controls. Unlike other smart toilet seats, such as the TUSHY Classic 3.0 or the ALPHA BIDET JX, Barumi’s black control panel ensures your eyes will always see it without having to adjust to it. And it’s not lacking in features either; it has everything you need despite its simplistic, low-key appearance.
What makes it stand out?
Which disadvantages must you keep in mind?
Other Features: 2-year warranty, self-cleaning nozzle, energy saving mode
The Lotus Smart Bidet ATS-500 is another great low-budget bidet toilet seat. It installs easily with the manufacturer’s instructions. The bidet’s most outstanding feature is its energy-save mode which reduces electricity consumption significantly. You don’t have to worry about catching germs from the previous use as the bidet cleans itself after every use. With temperature control, you can enjoy a feminine, turbo, or child wash with warm or cold water. The air dryer with temperature control will keep you dry, and the heated seat will keep you warm and comfortable when it’s freezing.
The Lotus Smart Bidet ATS-500 was the company’s best-selling product in 2017, and for a good reason: it blends in with your toilet while elevating your experience. Its attached side controls have two distinct sides: white on the left for the main buttons and black on the right for other adjustments. The controls are easy to distinguish with just a glance, unlike the Barumi Smart Toilet Seat, where the controls are all black. The Lotus Smart Bidet ATS-500 doesn’t cost a fortune either, and it can accommodate elongated and round toilets.
What makes it special?
What cons did we find?
Other Features: side control panel, energy saving mode
The SmartBidet SB-2000 Electric Bidet Seat is the ultimate bathroom addition for an elderly person. It offers multi-wash functions and a self-cleaning nozzle for great hygiene. You can adjust the water pressure to 5 different levels and the temperature to 3 levels. The 5 nozzle positions will give you the perfect stream angle. The air dryer is also adjustable to 5 levels for added comfort. Moreover, the bidet has a heated seat with 3 temperature levels. The seat has an on/off sensor that activates the bidet only when you are seated. The energy-saving mode will help to keep your electricity bill in check.
The SmartBidet SB-2000 Electric Bidet Seat can accommodate rounded or elongated toilets, unlike the cheaper SB-100R model. The SB-2000 also has a slim profile, but unlike the SB-100R, which has a remote, this one has controls attached to the side. That means you don’t have to worry about losing the remote or operating it with a dead battery. You can sit down knowing that your bidet will work whenever you need it. And for just a few dollars more than the SB-100R, the SB-2000 has a dryer, so you can get out of the bathroom clean and dry.
What makes it special?
What cons did we find?
Other Features: wireless remote control, 3-in-1 nozzle
The SmartBidet SB-100R is among the best electric bidet seats that money can buy. It comes on itself when you sit on the toilet seat. The bidet comes with a remote control and an equally intuitive panel on its right, in case you forget to sit with the remote in your hands. You can customize the bidet’s functions to suit your needs, from adjusting the water pressure and temperature to set the seat’s temperature for great comfort. Moreover, the tri-nozzle system self-cleans before and after every use, and you can easily remove its cap for cleaning and maintenance.
If you want a bidet seat for elongated toilets, then the SmartBidet SB-100R Electric Bidet Seat is perfect for you. It has a slim profile with a simple design, and you can access its controls with a remote instead of an attached panel. It’s just as easy to install as the other SmartBidet seats and has a removable nozzle cap for easy cleaning. But unlike the SmartBidet SB-2000 model, the SB-100R has no dryer. Despite that, the SB-100R still has all the other features you need but without the higher price tag.
Why did it make our list?
What is not ideal about it?
A bidet is a bowl or basin designed to be sat on to wash the body’s bottom regions after using the toilet or whenever you feel like freshening up. Instead of using toilet paper to wipe, you sit on the bidet, turn on its faucet, and a stream of water cleans you well. The bidet is designed for personal hygiene and is commonly used after toilet use and before or after sexual intercourse.
According to an article by Healthline, bidets are only gaining popularity in the US as they are common in Europe, Asia, and South America. Nearly every modern bathroom in these areas has a bidet.
Bidets come in different forms, including; freestanding, handheld, and built-in models.
Bidet attachments usually have fewer features than bidet seats. Because they don’t require electricity, you won’t get a heated seat or heated water, though some connect to your faucet’s hot-water supply.
A freestanding bidet is the traditional type of bidet. In modern bathrooms, freestanding bidets are placed next to the regular toilet. They look like large, low sinks, and some come equipped with jets. Many Freestanding bidets usually have water rising to the surface of the bowl.
A bidet attachment, on the other hand, is a bidet feature attached to a regular toilet. It can be a handheld bidet that allows you to control the positioning of the water stream or a toilet seat that comes with a control panel and remote control for adjusting the water settings. Bidet attachments sit underneath the standard toilet seat, and bidet seats replace your toilet seat. Most bidet attachments are non-electric, so you don’t have to connect them to your main power supply. Bidet seats may be electric or non-electric. Coldwater-only bidet attachments are easier to install than warm-water attachments. Some models only require you to follow the manufacturer’s instructions to set up. A freestanding bidet can only be installed by a plumber.
Also, if your bidet attachment is electric, you may need the help of an electrician, especially if you don’t have an electrical outlet within your toilet’s reach.
Can be especially helpful for those with hemorrhoids, provide a hygienic and hands-free way to clean up after using the toilet for those with dementia issues who may not always remember to wash their hands after.
Bathroom trips are an exhausting and dangerous challenge for the elderly, especially when they begin to lose flexibility, strength, and balance. When using the bathroom becomes a chore, the elderly become prone to poor hygiene, falls, and urinary tract infections. Since many seniors prefer to remain in their homes as they age, it’s important to provide them with safe bathroom solutions that allow them to be more independent.
Here are some of the top benefits of bidets for the elderly;
Safe and easy bathroom experience: Bidets are a safer and easier alternative to toilet paper. Seniors who have mobility issues would have an easier time with bidets, especially if they have automatic functions. Some models come with remote controls that make cleansing and drying a button away. Others have skin sensors for 100% hands-free operation. When the elderly don’t have to move around to clean up, their risks of falling and getting injured reduce.
Protecting delicate skin: Wiping with tissue paper can be harsh for elderly skin. A continuous warm or cold wash would do a better job, improving their hygiene without stressing their skin.
Improved hygiene: According to a research study by the National Library of Medicine, wash and dry toilets improve comfort and cleanliness in toileting among the elderly. The research was conducted in a nursing home, and half of the residents and staff members reported the toilet to have a positive effect on toileting. Bidets are comfortable and easy to use, making the elderly more willing to make bathroom trips as they no longer feel like a chore.
Lower risks for hemorrhoids: According to WebMD, using a bidet with medium to low water pressure can help relieve pressure on the anus, thereby reducing the risk of hemorrhoids.
Here are the most valuable features to look for when choosing a bidet for the elderly;
Bidet attachments are usually made of plastic, which is pretty practical.
Bidets are made with different materials. The materials determine the bidet’s durability and ease of cleaning and maintenance. Choose a bidet with sturdy materials that can hold up well to regular use and withstand different weights. The best materials for a freestanding bidet’s base are ceramic, fiberglass, or porcelain. Many seat bidets are made with plastic, ceramic, or treated wood. Plastic is the best seat material as it is long-lasting and easy to clean.
As for the spray nozzle, stainless steel is the best material. Stainless steel is resistant to corrosion and is easier to clean and maintain.
Many bidets produce cold water for rear-end cleaning because they spray a stream of water by splitting the toilet’s water line. Since your toilet water line is cold, you cannot get warm water from your bidet. A few models offer continuous warm water cleansing from their heated water reservoirs. The water from the toilet’s water line is heated in the reservoirs with electricity. The heated water reservoir is a feature only available on electric bidets.
You can also get warm water in your bidet from the sink. If your toilet is positioned close to your sink, you can opt for the sink water line instead of the toilet line to get warm water. If your sink doesn’t have warm water, you have no choice but to get an electric bidet with a heated water reservoir.
All bidets have spray and pressure settings. Many models provide a dial or knob for adjusting the water stream’s pressure. Some models have different wash functions for the rear and front parts so you can cleanse efficiently. If you are buying a bidet for a female senior, consider one that has the feminine wash function, so they can comfortably cleanse their front parts. Higher-end models like ALPHA BIDET JX Bidet Toilet Seat have additional spray options like an oscillating stream or a pulsating stream that moves back and forth for full-coverage cleaning.
Many bidets also allow you to customize your spray so you can get a specific position and angle.
An air dryer is a fantastic bidet feature. It eliminates the need for toilet paper or towels after cleansing. It makes toileting a breeze experience for the elderly, as they wouldn’t need to move or fumble looking for something to wipe the water after cleansing. Choose a bidet with an air dryer that has adjustable settings for maximum comfort. You should be able to set the dryer’s temperature and speed to fit your needs. If you live in a cold area, be sure to go with a bidet that has a warm air dryer like the VOVO STYLEMENT TCB-090S Integrated Smart Toilet.
Modern bidet toilet seats are controlled by either an attached side control panel or a wireless remote control.
Control is a crucial aspect to consider when choosing a bidet for the elderly. Seniors have little to zero tolerance for sophistication. Choose a bidet with very straightforward controls that would give any senior an easy time. Bidets that only have a few buttons or dials on the remote control and control panel are the best.
For seniors with mobility issues, choose a bidet with a skin sensor, so they wouldn’t need to fumble with the remote control or control panel. The skin sensor will get the automated functions running the moment they sit on the toilet.
You must consider weight capacity when buying a bidet toilet seat. Build material affects the weight capacity. Many bidet toilets have a maximum weight capacity of 300 pounds. Bidets made with high-quality materials or durable plastic can support weights anywhere between 250 and 400 lbs. ABS plastic is the hardest and most reliable. It wouldn’t crack in the middle like most cheap plastics when sat on by a heavy person.
Many people expect bidets to be in toilets; therefore, bidet toilet seats and side mounts are more common. If you are particular about hygiene or in need of a bidet for a senior with a lower immune system, consider a bidet sprayer mounted on a wall next to the toilet that can be cleaned with sanitizer daily.
The bidet’s mount type will determine if you are paying for a professional hand or if you are doing the installation yourself. Luckily, many bidet attachments are super easy to install, and you would not need a plumber. All you have to do is follow the manufacturer’s instructions. If you have a low budget, consider getting a model that installs easily, like the Barumi Electric Bidet Smart Toilet Seat. For a freestanding bidet, you have no choice but to get a plumber.
Also, you will need an electrician if your toilet water system is cold and you would like warm water from your bidet.
Choose from a variety of settings, including rear wash, front wash, and vortex wash, for the perfect cleansing freshwater spray to fit your needs.
Once you have all the essential features in check, you can look for a few bonus features for maximum comfort and safety like;
LED lights: As mentioned earlier, seniors are prone to bathroom accidents because of mobility issues and visual impairments. A bidet with lights would go a long way in preventing falling and injuries, especially when it is dark.
Self-cleaning and self-sanitizing features: a self-cleaning nozzle is a crucial feature, as cleaning wands can get soiled over time and become unhygienic. Most bidet attachments come with effective self-rinsing wands. Some high-end electric models self-clean their nozzles with an anti-microbial solution. Others clean the toilet bowl automatically after each use with a cleaning solution that prevents streaking.
Heated seats: Heated seats are a common feature even on the cheapest bidet models. A heated seat with adjustable temperature can be handy in the cold months. Many users claim that a heated seat is not only comfortable but also helps relieve constipation by relaxing the sphincters and muscles that control bowel movement.
Deodorizers: Deodorizers will take care of foul odors in the bathroom. Instead of masking foul odors like air fresheners, deodorizers use a small fan to draw air through a carbon filter that breaks down odorous compounds, thus keeping the bathroom fresh and clean.
You must consider the bidet’s size and weight. Choose the right dimensions that will perfectly fit your toilet and bathroom space. If you are getting a bidet toilet seat, ensure you get your toilet seat measurements, so you can buy the perfect fit. Also, ensure you choose a bidet seat that matches your toilet’s shape. An elongated bidet seat would not fit an oval toilet. If you will be doing the installation yourself, ensure the weight is manageable.
Ease of use should be your top consideration when choosing a bidet for the elderly. Choose a bidet that has a straightforward control system. For seniors with mobility or vision issues, choose a bidet with automated functions like the VOVO STYLEMENT TCB-090S Integrated Smart Toilet.
A bidet, if not cleaned and sanitized, can collect all sorts of bacteria, especially if it is on a shared toilet. The unhealthy bacteria can cause infections in users over time. However, if kept clean and sanitized, bidets are safe.
You may or may not need a plumber, depending on the type of bidet you get. Toilet seat bidets and most bidet attachments are easy to install, and you can do it yourself by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Freestanding bidets and some handheld hose bidets will require a plumber’s skills.
Choosing a bidet for your elderly loved one should be easier after reading our detailed buying guide. Although the market is filled with plenty of exceptional bidets, the ALPHA BIDET JX Bidet Toilet Seat is our best overall pick. It has plenty of senior-friendly features like simple control and great cleaning coverage with oscillation.
Our second-best pick, the WOODBRIDGE B0960S Smart Toilet is the best bidet for the elderly with mobility issues. It offers a hands-free operation with a toilet lid that opens and closes automatically after use and an air dryer with adjustable temperature.
Our third option, the TUSHY Classic 3.0 Bidet Toilet Seat Attachment, is the best bidet you can get if you are concerned about ease of use. It comes with one dial and knob for adjusting the water settings. Since the elderly have little patience for sophistication, this easy-to-use bidet seat is a fantastic choice.
