Bidets are used by straddling the bowl while facing the controls and the wall. Both hot and cold water must be provided. The bidet has a spray faucet spout (horizontal stream) or vertical spray in the center of the fixture (Figure 6.59). A pop-up stopper allows the bidet to be used more like a sink for a foot bath or hand washables. While the bidet looks similar to a toilet, it works like a sink.
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The bidet provides cleansing for the pelvic area. Women may find the fixture particularly useful for douching and cleansing during their menstrual periods. The bidet also provides a cleansing for
both women and men that can help reduce irritation and heal rashes. The fixture may be especially useful for adults who have difficulty cleaning themselves. If a separate bidet cannot be included in the design, consider a toilet with an integrated bidet system or an add-on bidet system (Figure 6.60). These systems may have added features such as heated seats, lighting, air dryer, and air filters.
Clearances
The Bathroom Planning Guidelines 4 and 20 recommend clearances for the bidet that are the same as for the toilet (Figure 6.61). That is, 30 inches (762 mm) of clear space in front of the bidet, with the bidet placed 18 inches (457 mm) on center from the nearest wall, obstacle, or adjacent toilet. Minimum clearances are 21 inches (533 mm) of clear space in front of the bidet, with the bidet placed 15 inches (381 mm) on center from the nearest wall, obstacle, or adjacent toilet.
Storage and Towels
Some storage should be supplied close to the bidet. It is important to have towels and soaps located next to this fixture (Bathroom Planning Guideline 22).
