How to Install a Bidet: A Step-by-Step Guide
Installing a bidet is a fantastic way to upgrade your bathroom for improved hygiene, comfort, and environmental sustainability. The good news is, you don’t need to hire a plumber to install most bidets. Whether you’ve chosen a standalone bidet, a bidet seat, or a bidet attachment, you can often complete the installation yourself with just a few simple tools.
This step-by-step guide will walk you through how to install a bidet, helping you bring all the benefits of this bathroom upgrade to your home.
Tools and Materials You’ll Need
Before you begin, gather the following tools and materials:
- Adjustable wrench
- Screwdriver (if needed for your toilet seat)
- Teflon tape (for sealing threads)
- T-valve (usually included with bidet kits)
- Flexible water supply hose (if not included)
Now that you’re equipped with the necessary tools, follow these steps based on the type of bidet you’ve chosen.
Installing a Bidet Attachment
Bidet attachments are a popular and affordable option for adding a bidet function to your existing toilet without replacing the entire seat. Here’s how to install one:
Step 1: Turn Off the Water Supply
Locate the water supply valve behind your toilet and turn it off by twisting it clockwise. This will prevent water from flowing to the toilet while you install the bidet.
Step 2: Remove the Toilet Seat
Using a screwdriver, remove the bolts securing the toilet seat to the toilet. Set the seat aside for now. You’ll reinstall it later over the bidet attachment.
Step 3: Install the Bidet Attachment
Place the bidet attachment on the toilet bowl where the seat was previously located. Align the attachment with the bolt holes. Most attachments are adjustable to fit different toilet models, so ensure it lines up properly.
Step 4: Reattach the Toilet Seat
Place the toilet seat back over the bidet attachment and re-secure it with the bolts you removed earlier. Tighten the bolts securely but not too tightly to avoid damaging the toilet seat.
Step 5: Connect the Water Supply
Disconnect the toilet’s water supply hose from the fill valve on the toilet tank. Install the provided T-valve onto the fill valve and attach the water supply hose to the lower part of the T-valve. Then, attach the bidet’s hose to the other connection point on the T-valve.
Step 6: Turn On the Water Supply
Turn the water supply valve back on and check for any leaks. Make sure the bidet attachment is functioning correctly by testing the water spray.
Installing a Bidet Seat
A bidet seat is a more feature-rich option, replacing your existing toilet seat with one that includes bidet functions. Here’s how to install a bidet seat:
Step 1: Turn Off the Water Supply
As with the attachment installation, begin by turning off the water supply to the toilet.
Step 2: Remove the Old Toilet Seat
Using a screwdriver, remove the bolts holding the existing toilet seat and lift the seat off the toilet.
Step 3: Install the Bidet Seat Mounting Plate
Most bidet seats come with a mounting plate that needs to be attached to the toilet bowl. Place the plate over the bolt holes and secure it using the provided bolts. Make sure the plate is secure but not over-tightened.
Step 4: Attach the Bidet Seat
Slide the bidet seat onto the mounting plate until it clicks into place. Most bidet seats are designed to easily lock onto the plate, making installation simple.
Step 5: Connect the Water Supply
Just like with a bidet attachment, disconnect the water supply hose from the toilet tank’s fill valve. Attach the T-valve to the fill valve, reconnect the water supply hose to the bottom of the T-valve, and connect the bidet hose to the T-valve’s side connection.
Step 6: Plug in the Bidet Seat (If Electric)
If you’re installing an electric bidet seat, plug it into a nearby outlet. Many modern bidet seats have additional features like heated seats and air dryers, which require electrical power.
Step 7: Turn On the Water Supply
Turn the water supply valve back on and test the bidet seat functions, such as the water spray, temperature control, and any other features like a dryer or deodorizer.
Installing a Handheld Bidet Sprayer
Handheld bidet sprayers are another affordable and versatile option. They allow you to direct water where you need it most, providing more control over your cleaning. Here’s how to install a handheld sprayer:
Step 1: Turn Off the Water Supply
As with other bidet types, begin by turning off the water supply to your toilet.
Step 2: Disconnect the Water Supply Hose
Disconnect the hose that connects the water supply valve to the toilet’s fill valve.
Step 3: Attach the T-Valve
Install the T-valve onto the fill valve on the toilet tank. Reconnect the water supply hose to the bottom of the T-valve.
Step 4: Attach the Bidet Hose
Connect the bidet sprayer’s hose to the side connection on the T-valve. Make sure all connections are secure, and use Teflon tape on the threads if necessary to prevent leaks.
Step 5: Mount the Sprayer
Most handheld sprayers come with a wall or toilet tank mount for easy storage. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to mount the sprayer in a convenient location near your toilet.
Step 6: Turn On the Water Supply
Turn the water supply back on, and check for any leaks. Test the handheld bidet sprayer to ensure the water pressure is appropriate and the sprayer works as expected.
Installing a Standalone Bidet
Standalone bidets are separate fixtures installed next to the toilet and are most common in European bathrooms. These installations are more complex and may require professional help if plumbing alterations are needed, but here’s a simplified overview:
Step 1: Turn Off the Water Supply
As with any installation involving water, turn off the water supply to your bathroom.
Step 2: Install the Bidet Fixture
Place the bidet in the desired location near your toilet. Ensure that it is positioned properly according to your bathroom’s plumbing layout.
Step 3: Connect the Water Lines
Standalone bidets require both hot and cold water connections. Connect the water lines to the bidet’s faucets, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
Step 4: Attach the Drain
Connect the bidet’s drain to the bathroom’s plumbing system. This step is crucial to ensure proper drainage and prevent leaks.
Step 5: Test the Bidet
Turn on the water supply and test the bidet’s functions, including water pressure and temperature control. Make sure everything is securely connected and working properly.
Final Thoughts
Installing a bidet can be a simple, cost-effective upgrade that greatly enhances personal hygiene and comfort. Whether you choose a bidet attachment, seat, handheld sprayer, or standalone unit, the installation process is usually straightforward and can often be completed in under an hour.
By following these step-by-step instructions, you’ll be able to enjoy all the benefits of a bidet in no time, from improved cleanliness to reduced toilet paper consumption and environmental impact. Happy installing!
