A bidet is a bathroom fixture designed to clean your undercarriage after using the toilet. It is commonly used in Europe, Asia, and South America. There are several types of bidets, including:

• Standalone bidet: This is a separate porcelain fixture that stands near the toilet. To use it, you use the toilet first, then move over to squat or sit on the bidet for cleaning. This type of bidet is most frequently seen in Europe.

• Bidet toilet seat: This is a high-tech, toilet and bidet combo that is added onto an existing toilet with a simple DIY installation, replacing the toilet seat. You use the bidet function while still sitting on the toilet. A hygienic nozzle extends beneath you to spray, then retracts inside the seat when not in use. Bidet toilet seats are easy to install and have become popular in American bathrooms.

• Bidet attachment or sprayer: These are other bidet add-on options for your toilet. They are powered only by water pressure and are the most economical. Bidet attachments install underneath your toilet seat instead of replacing it. You control the nozzle spray by turning a dial on the attachment arm.

Bidets are designed to promote personal hygiene and are used after defecation, and before and after sexual intercourse. They can also be used to wash feet, with or without filling it up with water. Some bidets are becoming increasingly popular with the elderly and disabled.

To use a bidet, you should first use the toilet as usual, then straddle the bidet and use the water to clean yourself. The exact method of use will depend on the type of bidet you have.