Bidet Use & Health: Tips for Safe & Hygienic Cleaning

The bidet, once a niche bathroom fixture, is rapidly becoming a mainstream convenience, even a necessity, in many households. Increasingly found not only in homes but also in hospitals and public facilities, bidets are particularly valued by seniors and individuals with limited mobility.

Rising Popularity and Usage

Data from a 2025 Korean Gallup ‘Market70’ survey indicates that 55% of Korean households now have a bidet, exceeding the halfway point of all families. This represents a consistent increase from 46% in 2022 and 50% in 2023, demonstrating a clear trend toward wider adoption.

Did You Know? In 2025, over half of all Korean households—55%—reported having a bidet.

Potential Health Considerations

While bidets offer enhanced hygiene and convenience, improper use can lead to skin irritation or damage to mucous membranes. Experts emphasize the importance of adhering to basic usage guidelines, including appropriate water pressure and temperature control.

Water Pressure and Temperature

A Japanese study by Kurokawa and colleagues found that 26% of 3,541 patients (932 individuals) experienced perianal skin inflammation linked to excessive bidet use. Maintaining a low water pressure is crucial; strong pressure or a narrow stream can cause pain or injury. Prolonged use of high-pressure ‘turbo’ functions may increase the risk of discomfort and damage.

Water temperature should be maintained at a lukewarm level, between 38 and 40°C. The Sasaki research team in Japan recommends limiting wash times to under 5 seconds and using a wide spray pattern. Bidets should ideally be used only after bowel movements, avoiding habitual use.

Expert Insight: The increasing prevalence of bidets highlights a growing focus on personal hygiene, but also underscores the need for user education to prevent potential adverse effects.

Maintaining Bidet Hygiene

Regular cleaning is essential to prevent bacterial growth. Bidet manufacturers recommend cleaning the nozzle every 1-2 weeks. This typically involves activating a self-cleaning function, then gently wiping the extended nozzle with a soft sponge, brush, cloth, or unused toothbrush.

Expert Recommendations

According to Yu Seung-beom, a colorectal surgeon at Seoul National University Hospital, using excessively high water pressure or habitually using a bidet can cause injury to the anus or nerve damage. He advises using warm water at low pressure, with the water stream lightly touching the area. If even minimal water pressure causes pain, bidet use should be discontinued.

Frequently Asked Questions

What percentage of households have bidets?

According to a 2025 Korean Gallup survey, 55% of households have bidets.

What did a Japanese study find regarding bidet use?

A study by Kurokawa and colleagues found that 26% of patients experienced perianal skin inflammation linked to excessive bidet use.

What water temperature is recommended for bidet use?

Experts recommend a water temperature between 38 and 40°C.

Considering the growing adoption of bidets and the potential for misuse, how can public health initiatives best promote safe and effective bidet usage?