Bidet installation made simple. A step-by-step guide.

A bidet is an extremely useful fixture that provides a high level of hygiene and comfort. More and more people are considering installing this type of unit in their bathroom, but worry that the installation may prove too complicated to tackle themselves. In this article, we show how to fit a bidet smoothly and safely, without having to call in a professional.

Why choose to install a bidet?

A bidet is a sanitary fixture designed primarily for intimate hygiene. In most European homes, you’ll find this type of equipment as a separate piece of bathroom ceramic ware; however, in many countries in Asia and South America it also appears as an additional, functional element of the toilet, mounted directly beside the WC.

The main function of bidets is to provide easy access to personal hygiene, and to make washing easier and more comfortable for people with mobility or health limitations. When you feel less than fresh, a bidet can spare you from having to take a shower, especially when you’re on the go. In turn, the device helps reduce your water bills — good for the environment and for your pocket.

How to install a bidet: essential tips

Although installing a bidet may seem complicated, it’s actually quite straightforward. As long as you have hot and cold water supplies and a waste outlet, the unit is fitted much like a toilet, but without the additional cistern. To make things easier, choose a wall-hung bidet with the waste going into the wall rather than the floor. This model also makes cleaning the bathroom easier and takes up slightly less space.

What do you need to install a bidet?

Before you start installing a wall-hung or floor-standing bidet yourself, make sure you have the necessary tools to hand. You will need:

• A cordless drill
• Tile drill bits
• A laser level
• Eye protection
• A tape measure
• A pencil
• An adjustable spanner
• Silicone sealant

Additionally, you should have suitable water valves, braided stainless-steel hoses, and any other necessary mounting components included with the fittings to hand.

Bidet — installation dimensions

The recommended height for installing a bidet is about 400 mm above the floor. Before installation, make sure the spacing of the mounting bolts in the frame matches the holes in the fixture. Standards allow for two spacings: 18 cm or 23 cm.

How to connect a bidet: step-by-step instructions

First: Choose a location for the bidet

A bidet is usually located next to the toilet. Leave at least 20 cm of free space on both accessible sides of the fixture. For the most comfortable use, keep a distance of 40 cm from other bathroom fixtures. The bidet is mounted with its back to the wall.

Second: Fit the supplies and valves

Installing the pipes supplying water to the bidet is similar to connecting hot and cold water to a bathroom basin. The difference is that for a bidet the supplies should be about 20 cm above the floor, or as per the manufacturer’s specifications. For a wall-hung bidet, you will also need to install an in-wall frame. Next, fit the elbows or valves (depending on the bidet model) to the water inlet points.

Third: Fit the trap and tap

Fitting the tap is similar to installing one on a basin. If you’ve previously fitted a wall-mounted basin, it shouldn’t pose a problem. When buying a trap, make sure it’s the right type for your bidet — traps for floor-standing and wall-hung bidets differ significantly in design.

Fourth: Fix the bidet in place

Fix the bidet to the floor or wall according to the instructions provided. If you bought a unit with a frame, the kit should include all the necessary components. Remember to use a drill bit suitable for bathroom tiles. Don’t forget to seal the base of the ceramic with silicone.

Fifth: Connect the water to the bidet

Once the components are connected, make sure the entire assembly is watertight. If any parts don’t fit properly, replace them. If you don’t, serious leaks can develop quickly.

We hope that thanks to the above tips you now know how to install a bidet. If you still have any doubts, consult a professional. Doing the job correctly will reduce the risk of faults and ensure comfortable use for years to come!