How COVID-19 is Affecting Availability For Bathroom Vanities and More

It’s been several months since COVID-19 first began to spread on a global scale. At the time, some thought that any interruptions to daily life would be temporary, and that we’d soon be able to move back to our normal way of doing things.

Now, however, it is clear that we still have a long way to go before things truly return to normal. Even as many states have lifted their stay at home orders or loosened social distancing guidelines, cases have spiked in several parts of the country.

The result is that more people are staying home and finding themselves thinking of ways that they can improve their house. It’s a perfectly normal response to everything going on in the world right now. You may not be able to control the pandemic, but you can control your house by upgrading the bathroom vanities or your shower enclosure.

We at Kitchen & Bath Authority haven’t been immune from the effects of the coronavirus, either. Availability issues continue to impact many of our products. Here’s a closer look at how we got here, and where we stand moving forward.

More Than Just COVID-19

woman wearing face mask for COVID-19

The current stock issues we’re seeing across the industry are largely a result of COVID-19 disrupting the global supply chain. Many bathroom and kitchen products are sourced from China and Vietnam, areas that have been hard-hit by the pandemic. Factories in China were shut down for several weeks, and even though restrictions have been lifted in most areas, it has been hard to get production levels to return to normal.

Even after certain areas had restrictions lifted, factories were unable to return to normal production levels right away because many employees lived in areas that were still subject to stricter lockdowns. 

Another part of the problem is that in a global pandemic, many countries have placed strict limitations on imported products. Even when items can be manufactured, getting them shipped to the United States in a timely manner remains a significant challenge. Worldwide restrictions have affected demand and caused many factories to be less productive than they would normally be.

Factor in the recent reappearance of the coronavirus in Beijing, and it is clear that a full return to normalcy is still a ways off.

In reality, though, current product shortages are actually an extension of previous issues that popped up before COVID-19 shutdowns took place. The coronavirus outbreak and its associated lockdowns surged in China around the time of the Lunar New Year, the country’s biggest holiday. While the official holiday period is about a week long, many factories will shut down for 10 to 14 days to give employees time for travel.

During this two-week period, pretty much every factory in the country is completely shut down. Production grinds to a halt. In a normal year, bathroom vanity manufacturers and others often face temporary shortages after this period, even when they try to plan ahead and order extra stock before the holiday.

Combine a two-week holiday period with weeks of strict lockdowns, and it is easy to see how this could create ongoing availability issues for vanities and other bathroom and kitchen products.

Trade wars and tariffs are further complicating matters. Concerns about how a trade war between the U.S. and China would affect prices on a wide range of products was a major worry over a year ago, and the COVID-19 pandemic hasn’t made things any easier. Now, increased tensions spurred by the coronavirus are causing additional fears that more complications to this trade war may be on the way.

The ever-shifting nature of the trade wars caused many bathroom and kitchen product manufacturers to begin looking for ways to diversify their supply chain to avoid increased costs. Unfortunately, this is a process that takes time, and often leads to a temporary slowdown in manufacturing. Many companies were still in the midst of this process when the coronavirus struck, forcing them to put plans on hold and further slowing down manufacturing.

As you can see, while COVID-19 has certainly created a lot of problems for manufacturing bathroom vanities and other products, it has also complicated other issues that were already affecting overall availability. 

What Items Are Available?

Fresca bathroom vanity

Of course, the big question on everyone’s mind is: What items are actually still available to purchase? Shortly after the outbreak, we saw a big rush on TOTO washlets as toilet paper shortages swept the nation. These washlets are still backordered, and we expect stock issues to continue for a while with them.

At the same time, ICERA offers a similar bidet seat attachment that works great and is not experiencing the same level of stock issues. The ICERA S-11.01 iWASH S-11 Electronic Bidet Seat in Glossy White includes features like an instant water heating system, self-cleaning nozzle, built-in deodorizer, an LED nightlight, and more. If you don’t want to wait to get a bidet seat, this is the best option for getting a quality product sooner rather than later.

Bathroom vanities are another product category that have been hit particularly hard by the COVID-19 disruptions. However, some brands are handling the issues of supply and demand better than others. While pretty much every bathroom vanity brand has experienced some sort of supply issue, Avanity, Fresca, and James Martin seem to be doing better than others. 

While availability is still limited compared to normal, these brands do provide an excellent variety of vanities that could work for several different styles. For example, the Avanity MASON-V48-BKG Mason 48 Inch Vanity Only in Black with Gold Trim MASON-V48-BKG MASONV48BKG offers a sleek, contemporary look.

Fresca also primarily has contemporary vanities available, like the Fresca FCB31-301230ACA-FC Formosa 72 Inch Floor Standing Double Sink Modern Bathroom Cabinet in Acacia Wood Finish, though more traditional options like the Fresca FVN2302GR-CMB Hartford 24 Inch Gray Traditional Bathroom Vanity are also still available.

James Martin perhaps has the best current availability for traditional or classic-style vanities. Pieces like the James Martin 500-V48-HON Malibu 48 Inch Single Vanity Cabinet in Honey Alder and the James Martin 238-105-V72-CWH Providence 72 Inch Double Vanity Cabinet in Cottage White are just two examples of the varied traditional vanities that are still available.

Other categories, like kitchen faucets and shower doors, are also experiencing shortages, but not as severe as bidet seats or bathroom vanities. Still, as with these other product categories, certain brands and products are in shorter supply than others. If you’re planning a renovation project, your best bet is to place your order sooner rather than later so you can get the items you want.

The ever-changing situation surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic means that our stock situation is changing all the time, as well. While the brands mentioned above are doing better than others, supply is still relatively limited, and we are already low on stock of several of these brands’ products. That being said, we do expect the overall stock situation to gradually improve going forward as more brands resume operations and the supply chain gets back to normal.

With everything that is going on, we are working to keep our website as up to date as possible so you can have a clear idea of what is currently available. If you have questions about a specific product (particularly items listed as “low stock”), we recommend that you call our customer support line. 

Our team can give you more specific information about the item you’re interested in, including backorder status and how soon we expect to have more stock available. We want you to have accurate, up to date information so you can place your order with confidence — even if it means you won’t be getting it as soon as you normally would.

Hope For the Future

hand touching globe

As dire as things may look for many people right now, we are still confident that things will get better. Many places are learning how to go back to work safely so that needed products and services can still be provided during this unique time in our world’s history. Once producers get used to this transition, things should stabilize.

While we expect stock issues to continue for the foreseeable future, we are hopeful that the stock situation should improve significantly (and hopefully be relatively normal) by September. Despite current challenges, we still have a good supply of many items across several product categories. Our wide selection ensures that even if your first pick for a bathroom vanity or kitchen faucet isn’t currently available, you’ll probably find another option that you love just as much.

Many of the things our customers love about Kitchen & Bath Authority are still readily available. You still get free shipping on your orders, and we offer easy, hassle-free returns if there is an issue with your product. Many of our products are available at significant discounts off MSRP, allowing you to save hundreds — and sometimes even thousands — of dollars on each purchase.

If you sign up for our lifetime membership program, you’ll also unlock additional savings, enjoy expedited order processing, and have access to exclusive deals that aren’t available anywhere else.

Your house will still be standing after the COVID-19 pandemic passes. For some people, home renovation projects have helped provide a sense of control and accomplishment during uncertain times. We hope that even with current availability challenges, we can help you find what you’re looking for.

Don’t Wait — Today is the Day to Buy a Bidet!

To say that COVID-19 (or the coronavirus) has disrupted our normal routines seems like a major understatement. From the cancellation of major sporting events to school closures across the country, many are finding themselves forced to make significant changes to their lives in an effort to contain the global spread of this virus.

One side effect of the coronavirus panic is a shortage of consumer goods — particularly toilet paper. Whether people are fearing being placed under quarantine or are simply worried about there not being any supplies left the next time they need to stock up, the toilet paper shortage is becoming a major news item in and of itself.

National news publications are highlighting stores where toilet paper is still available, and in some areas, first responders are even complaining of 911 calls asking for toilet paper.

Needless to say, many households are now closely monitoring their toilet paper usage — or camping out at local grocery stores for the next time shelves are restocked.

But there is one group that is not stressed about the toilet paper shortage. Bidet owners have been enjoying improved bathroom trips for years. Now that toilet paper supplies are running low, an increasing number of homeowners are starting to realize that buying a bidet could be the perfect long-term solution.

The History of the Bidet

painting of woman using bidet

Bidets trace their history to 1600s France, and are now widely used in Europe, Japan, and other parts of the world. While the bidet has been slow to gain popularity in the United States, the number of households using these bathroom products had already been on the rise prior to the recent coronavirus outbreak.

Historically, bidets were a separate fixture that was placed next to the toilet. Users would straddle this wash basin, which featured a faucet that would spray a stream of water to clean themselves after going to the bathroom. This cleaning process was also quite popular for addressing feminine hygiene needs.

It wasn’t until the 1960s that the idea of combining bidet functionality with a standard toilet came into fruition. While early attempts at introducing this product to the United States failed, it helped lead to the development of the TOTO washlet in Japan. The use of control panels and the toilet/bidet combination quickly took off in the country.

While the separate bidet basin remains a common fixture in bathrooms throughout much of Europe, in Japan and the United States, modern consumers are much more likely to find either a toilet with a pre-integrated bidet system, or a bidet toilet seat attachment that can be used to replace the standard toilet seat.

How Does the Bidet Work?

TOTO Neorest bidet

A bidet replaces the need to wipe with toilet paper by sending a jet of clean water to your rear. This isn’t the same water that is in your toilet — the water used by a bidet comes from your normal water supply, so you don’t have to worry about potential contamination.

Modern bidet systems typically use a “wand” for the cleansing process. Various settings allow you to adjust the spray for the type of cleaning you need. In addition to choosing whether you need a front or rear cleanse, you can also select an oscillating or pulsing flow, and even make adjustments to the volume and warmth of the water. The spray wand is self-cleaning, ensuring sanitary conditions while minimizing your cleaning and maintenance needs.

Historically, people would use one or two squares of toilet paper to dry off after the cleaning, but many modern bidets also feature an air dryer to further improve the bathroom experience. As with the water, users can select from one of several temperature settings for a comfortable drying experience.

Most modern bidet toilets and electronic bidet seats are designed to offer a high-end bathroom experience. For example, TOTO Neorest products use auto open/close lids, auto flush mechanisms, heated toilet seats, and even an air deodorizer and nightlight to improve accessibility and keep the bathroom smelling nice. The TOTO Neorest also pre-mists the bowl with electrolyzed water to help sanitize the bowl without the need for harsh chemical cleaners.

To make the whole setup even more convenient, users can control settings with a handy remote. This allows you to set the seat to your preferred wash settings for future use. Most bidets with this feature can save multiple user settings, so everyone who uses the bathroom can quickly access their preferred cleaning setup.

Benefits of Using a Bidet

toilet paper

Though switching from the normal bathroom routine of wiping with toilet paper may initially take some getting used to, there are many good reasons to purchase a bidet — and not just because you won’t have to worry about toilet paper shortages any more!

First is the fact that bidets actually provide a more sanitary way to clean up after going to the bathroom. Toilet paper is typically not able to get rid of all waste residue. You will still have some waste left on your skin. Plus, if you think about it, the biggest risk factor for your hands getting dirty comes when you wipe. This is an easy avenue for spreading germs and disease, especially if you don’t wash your hands thoroughly after going to the bathroom. Even if you think you do a good job washing your hands, you probably aren’t doing enough. In fact, one study found that only five percent of people wash their hands properly to kill harmful bacteria.

While you should still wash your hands after using a bidet, you are less likely to expose your hands to fecal waste because you won’t have to reach down to wipe. In a time when concerns over the spread of disease have led to an increased emphasis on hand-washing, this can help give you much-needed peace of mind.

Dry toilet paper can also be rough on your skin, resulting in additional discomfort. This can be especially uncomfortable for people suffering from conditions like hemorrhoids or an anal fissure. The use of clean water is a much more sanitary way to clean, and it also greatly reduces discomfort for people with sensitive skin and other similar issues. Total control over water volume and temperature ensures that users can find the perfect setting for their needs.

Using a bidet can also have a major environmental impact. According to Scientific American, United States citizens use over 36 billion rolls of toilet paper per year. The production of all this toilet paper consumes 15 million trees, over 470 billion gallons of water, and 253,000 tons of chlorine. Those numbers don’t account for the energy costs that go into manufacturing and transporting toilet paper.

While washing with a bidet does consume water, that amount is actually less than the amount that goes into toilet paper production. Most bidets only use about one-eighth of a gallon of water per use, as opposed to the 37 gallons of water that can go into manufacturing a single roll of toilet paper.

Many toilet/bidet models go the extra mile in eco-friendliness by using centrifugal force to complete the flush with less water than a standard toilet. This further reduces your household water consumption, minimizing your impact on the environment and lowering future water bills.

Toilet paper doesn’t just create environmental issues during the manufacturing process. The waste itself can also contribute to various problems. Many households use plush toilet paper that doesn’t dissolve easily in water. Worse still, some homes send “flushable” wipes down the drain. Despite the claims made on their packaging, such wipes should never be flushed, as they can cause significant blockages in the pipes. Even regular toilet paper can increase your risk for clogs over time.

With a bidet, you don’t have to worry about dealing with surprise plumbing clogs. The cost of a repair visit from a plumber could add up quite quickly. By using a bidet, you will save money in the long run by no longer needing to buy toilet paper and by avoiding potential plumbing mishaps.

Installation Considerations

Bio Bidet wand

While installing a bidet will certainly be quite beneficial for your household, there are a few things to keep in mind before you make your purchase. If you are buying an electronic bidet seat, you will need to check the dimensions of your toilet to ensure that your new seat will fit properly. Even something as simple as knowing whether your toilet has an elongated or round bowl will affect whether the bidet seat you buy fits properly or not.

If adding an electronic bidet seat to your toilet, you will need to turn off the toilet’s water valve, then flush the toilet to drain all water. After removing the existing water hoses and toilet seat, you will place the new bidet seat on the toilet. Connecting a T-valve to the water hose will allow water to run to both the toilet and the bidet seat. Connect the bidet seat’s inlet to the water supply hose, and reconnect the toilet’s water hose.

Both bidets and electronic bidet seats often require electricity to activate all functions (such as the air dryer and night light). This requires access to a 120VAC outlet. If your bathroom does not already have an outlet conveniently located near the toilet, you will need to have a professional electrician install new wiring. Do not attempt any electrical work yourself, as this can be quite dangerous without proper safety equipment.

If you are installing a bidet as part of a full bathroom renovation, make sure that your remodeling plans account for both the plumbing and electrical needs of your new unit. 

Buy a Bidet Today!

If you’re worried about running out of toilet paper, it’s clear that buying a bidet will offer a great long-term solution. Best of all, when you buy your bidet from Kitchen & Bath Authority, you can enjoy significant savings on your purchase.

We offer a great selection of electronic bidet seats from Bio Bidet and TOTO, with some models available for under $400. We also sell toilets that come with an integrated bidet seat, such as the TOTO Neorest 700H. The vast majority of these products are available at significant discounts off MSRP, allowing you to save hundreds or thousands of dollars on your purchase.

In addition to our already-discounted prices, you can save even more with coupon codes, free shipping, and our membership program. Our lifetime membership program requires no credit card to join, and instantly unlocks additional savings on items throughout our digital store.

Great prices are backed by our in-house experts’ commitment to guaranteed fitment and easy, hassle-free returns. We want you to be able to transform your bathrooms according to your wishes. With great products, prices, and services, we know that this is possible.

While toilet paper supplies may seem to be in flux in the coming weeks, households that are adequately prepared will have one less thing to worry about. By buying a bidet, you will be ready for current events and whatever the future might bring.

Give Your Bathroom a Boost With the Latest TOTO Washlet!

When discussing ways to improve your bathroom, most homeowners focus on areas like the shower enclosure or the bathroom vanity. While upgrading these features can certainly go a long way in improving the aesthetics and functionality of this area, you can’t overlook one of the most essential fixtures of any bathroom: the toilet. 

True, the toilet may not be the most desirable topic of conversation, but there is no denying that it is one of the most frequently used fixtures in the home. With a TOTO Washlet, you can help make your bathroom more luxurious than ever before by giving your toilet a much-needed upgrade. 

Whether you are attaching a Washlet to a pre-existing toilet or installing one of TOTO’s toilets that incorporates Washlet+ functionality, the unit’s wide range of features will greatly streamline your bathroom experience.

Here is a closer look at what the Washlet is, and how it can make an impactful difference in your bathroom.

First Things First: Understanding Bidets

bathroom

The TOTO Washlet is much more than just a toilet seat. It provides the complete functionality of a bidet, as well as several additional luxury features. For many American buyers, however, the idea of a bidet is likely to spark confusion, rather than excitement. Though many misconceptions about bidets continue to exist, they have been gaining popularity in the United States, and for good reason. Here is a closer look at bidets in general.

A traditional bidet is a low oval basin, similar in shape to the toilet. Standard bidets are typically placed next to the toilet. After going to the bathroom, a person would then move to the bidet, which uses water jets to wash the buttocks and genital areas (in lieu of using toilet paper).

As it turns out, using a bidet offers several advantages over using toilet paper. According to Scientific American, roughly 15 million trees are pulped to make toilet paper in the United States each year. In addition to the trees themselves, over 473 billion gallons of water, 253,000 tons of chlorine, and 17.3 terawatts of electricity are used to produce toilet paper. By comparison, the average bidet consumes approximately 1/8th of a gallon of water with each use. Switching to a bidet can have a dramatic positive impact on the environment by conserving precious natural resources.

Toilet paper doesn’t just consume natural resources. When it doesn’t dissolve properly, it can easily contribute to clogs in the sewer system. Using a bidet will eliminate the risk of such clogs. You also won’t have to worry about the recurring expense of buying toilet paper.

Bidets also provide a more effective form of cleaning than toilet paper. In addition to being a less abrasive and more comfortable way to clean, bidets are better equipped to fully remove residue from your skin. This makes bidets especially beneficial for individuals who suffer from conditions that make it painful to use toilet paper, such as hemorrhoids.

While the idea of a bidet may sound unusual to some, it is actually extremely commonplace on a global scale. The bidet is widely used in much of Europe, Asia, and parts of South America. In fact, in countries like Italy and Portugal, bidet installations have been mandatory in newly constructed homes for several decades.

Despite this popularity on a global scale, traditional standalone bidets have never really caught on in the United States. While some have theorized that this stems from anti-French sentiments held by the English which were then transferred to the United States, there are also practical matters to consider.

A standalone bidet is roughly the same size as a toilet. Most bathrooms in the United States simply don’t have the space for an additional fixture of this size. Even larger bathrooms typically don’t have a layout that would easily accommodate the addition of a bidet. When performing a bathroom renovation, a homeowner is much more likely to prioritize additional storage space or a more luxurious shower enclosure than a bidet.

While cultural and practical limitations have kept traditional bidets from catching on in the United States, TOTO has worked to bring bidets stateside in a more accessible manner.

What is TOTO?

Founded in 1917 in Japan, TOTO has become the largest toilet manufacturer in the world. It should come as no surprise, then, that the brand is also one of the respected leaders in the industry, in large part thanks to a continuing drive for innovation and technology integration in the bathroom. 

The brand is about much more than producing luxurious, easy to use products. An emphasis on environmental responsibility has resulted in TOTO being named a Water Efficiency Leader by the Environmental Protection Agency. By committing to a high standard of quality that emphasizes water conservation, the brand is actively striving to make the bathroom better suited for today’s eco-conscious world.

How the TOTO Washlet Works

TOTO Washlet

While adding a standalone bidet would require some extensive bathroom renovations, TOTO makes it easy to enjoy the benefits and functionality of a bidet with its Washlet line. These heated toilet seats can be installed directly on top of a standard toilet, providing a wide array of features without the hassle of a typical bidet installation..

TOTO Washlets utilize a specialty water wand that is located below the seat. The nozzle’s settings are operated via remote control, allowing you to choose from an oscillating or pulsating spray, while also selecting the water volume and temperature. The Washlet allows you to set your preferred temperature between 86 and 104 degrees Fahrenheit, providing a warm, soothing wash. Both rear and front cleansing are available.

While keeping the unit clean is a common concern with a standalone bidet, you won’t have to worry about such maintenance with a Washlet. The system utilizes a self-cleaning function that fully sanitizes the bidet nozzle before and after use. The Washlet uses electrolyzed water (also referred to as eWater+) to clean both the nozzle and the toilet bowl. By pre-misting the toilet bowl, the electrolyzed water also ensures more effective elimination of waste. The eWater+ also eliminates bacteria, ensuring that you won’t need to use harsh cleaners as frequently.

After the bidet nozzle has finished its job, the system’s warm-air dryer activates. This hands-free feature offers five different temperature settings for your comfort. Once you’ve found the cleaning settings that you like best, you can actually program them to the Washlet’s memory. Each TOTO Washlet can store personal settings for up to two people.

TOTO Washlets offer much more than bidet functionality. The contoured heated toilet seat also features adjustable temperatures to help you find the perfect comfort settings. A built-in air filtering and purifying system helps deodorize the bathroom, eliminating the need for chemical air fresheners. A night light feature makes it easy to get to the toilet if you need to go in the middle of the night.

While all Washlet models feature a soft-closing lid to prevent accidental slams, models like the TOTO SW3056#01 Washlet S550E also utilize an auto open/close feature for the lid. This sensor detects when you are approaching or leaving the toilet and responds appropriately.

Perhaps best of all, TOTO Washlets are easy to install. The Washlet seats feature a compact, slim design with a docking station that allows for easy installation to your existing toilet. Multiple models are available to match different toilet bowl shapes. 

While you will need a 120 VAC outlet located behind the toilet to utilize the Washlet’s features, no other renovations are necessary. TOTO also produces its own line of full-size toilets, many of which integrate the Washlet as part of their design for a more streamlined installation. As a result, it has never been easier to enjoy the functionality of a bidet in your own home.

New Innovations With the Washlet+

TOTO Legato Washlet+ Kit

While the previously mentioned list of features may seem great in and of itself, the TOTO brand is continuing to innovate and look for new ways to improve its Washlets and toilets. At the beginning of 2019, TOTO added a new auto flush feature to its Washlet+ bidet seats and toilets.

This sensor operated system comes into play as soon as a user stands up and walks away from the toilet. No additional actions are needed to activate the flushing mechanism. Of course, if you still prefer a traditional manual flush, the trip lever or push buttons (depending on the toilet model) can still be used.

Washlet+ integration is available on several toilet models, such as the TOTO MW4463056CEMG#01 Aquia IV Washlet+ Kit and the TOTO MW6243056CEFG#01 Legato Washlet+ Kit. Seamless integration of the Washlet+ further improves aesthetics by concealing the water supply hose and power cord used by the Washlet+ within the base of the toilet.

In addition to the auto flush feature, purchasing one of these toilets gives you access to TOTO’s signature Tornado Flush technology. This system uses two nozzles to create a centrifugal flush that more effectively eliminates waste. These toilets also use CeFiONtect glaze to keep waste particles from sticking to the interior ceramic surface. By only using either 0.8 or 1.28 gallons of water per flush, this system will help you reduce water usage while also keeping your bathroom clean.

With the latest upgrades available from the Washlet+, you will have a more luxurious bathroom experience than ever before. From the use of a bidet to the implementation of an auto flush system, these are the kinds of upgrades that you will soon wonder how you ever lived without.

Parting Thoughts

Whether you want to upgrade your existing toilet with a Washlet+ bidet toilet seat or go for a high-quality TOTO toilet with Washlet+ integration, you can find what you’re looking for here at Kitchen & Bath Authority. With a wide range of TOTO products available, you will have no trouble finding the right fit for your bathroom.

Even more importantly, we’ll help you make these exciting upgrades at a price you can afford. We offer significant discounts off MSRP on all TOTO washlet seats, as well as many of the brand’s luxury toilets. You can save as much as 48 percent on select models!

These low prices are further complemented by our free shipping and financing options. Affordable monthly financing programs allow you to transform your bathroom in a way that fits within your family’s budget.

You can get even more benefits when you sign up for a membership. In addition to exclusive member discounts that allow you to save even more on our already-discounted products, members also enjoy expedited order processing so you can get your shipment even sooner.

The toilet may not be the most glamorous part of the bathroom, but it is still a vitally important part of the overall bathroom experience. By upgrading with a TOTO Washlet+ from Kitchen & Bath Authority, your trips to the bathroom will feel more luxurious and enjoyable than ever before.

Why the Bio Bidet USPA 6800 Luxury Bidet Seat is Right For You

If you’ve spent much time outside of the United States, you’ve likely come across bidets. Though the very concept of a bidet may seem strange at first to those who are used to toilet paper, these washing basins are extremely popular throughout the rest of the world. Bidets are typically installed next to a toilet to provide thorough, quality cleaning using jets of water after you go to the bathroom.

Though bidets are yet to fully jump to the mainstream in the United States, there is no denying that they are becoming increasingly popular. Of all the bidet options currently available to American consumers, few compare to the Bio Bidet USPA 6800 Luxury Bidet Seat. By making this type of bathroom installation more readily accessible, more people can come to experience the unique benefits of a bidet for themselves.

Why Use Bidets?

There are several reasons why bidets are so prominent in Europe, Japan, and elsewhere. As Scientific American notes, “Americans use 36.5 billion rolls of toilet paper every year, representing the pulping of some 15 million trees.” The production of the paper also consumes over 473 trillion gallons of water and 17.3 terawatts of electricity per year. 

These numbers do not account for additional materials and energy costs associated with packaging and transportation. Needless to say, the simple act of using toilet paper uses up a lot of natural resources.

Toilet paper isn’t just wasteful. It is also a common contributor to sewer clogs in the home, particularly in households that rely on a septic tank. Switching to a bidet can help eliminate such issues so you can avoid unnecessary plumbing repairs. Better still, you will save money in the long run by not needing to buy toilet paper all the time.

In addition to its environmental and financial benefits, many individuals prefer bidets due to the improved comfort and cleaning in comparison to toilet paper. Bidets remove residue from the skin without the irritation that can be triggered by wiping with toilet paper — something especially beneficial for those who suffer from hemorrhoids or other similar conditions. Instead, the use of warm water provides a soothing cleaning experience that gently and thoroughly removes waste residue.

Improved comfort and cleanliness, as well as reducing your impact on the environment, make a bidet a smart choice for any household. But the potential benefits are sometimes overshadowed by the perceived hassle of installing a bidet in the home.

Installation Troubles?

Despite its inherent advantages to the bathroom routine, bidets are yet to see widespread adoption in the United States. Some of this is cultural, but other issues are more practical in nature. After all, a standard bidet requires the installation of a completely separate basin, which would require additional plumbing and renovation work. Most American bathrooms simply do not have adequate space for an additional toilet-sized basin. It’s hardly convenient to knock out part of your counter/cabinet space to make room for a bidet.

Granted, if you are already planning a major bathroom renovation, you could also incorporate plans for a bidet washbasin to be placed next to the toilet. But not everyone has the right layout for such an addition. And many others are satisfied with their bathroom layout as-is, despite wanting a bidet.

For such situations, the Bio Bidet USPA 6800 Luxury Bidet Seat offers the perfect solution. Rather than requiring a completely separate bidet basin installation, this bidet seat attaches to the top of your current toilet for easy use. It essentially replaces your old toilet seat.

Models for both elongated and rounded toilet bowls are available. Most homeowners can install the bidet seat on their own, without the help of a plumber, in less than an hour. No additional hub connections are required, making it quite easy to install.

That being said, you will need an electrical outlet located relatively close to your toilet to use the Bio Bidet USPA 6800, as it is an electric bidet seat. However, hiring an electrician to install a single electrical outlet (if necessary) will be far less expensive and time-consuming than the extensive plumbing work required for a standard bidet installation.

After that, the bidet seat itself can be installed on the top of your toilet basin just like a regular toilet seat. As a result, your new and improved toilet won’t look all that different from before. Instead, subtle lines and oblique edges give the Bio Bidet USPA 6800 Luxury Bidet Seat a sleek, modern look that is perfect for modernizing your bathroom. 

And this is only the beginning of what the Bio Bidet USPA 6800 has to offer.

Keeping Warm

Though bidets are supposed to use warm water to provide comfortable cleaning, many systems take some time to warm up. As a result, the initial splash of water can be uncomfortably cold, resulting in an experience that is far from relaxing.

The Bio Bidet USPA 6800 Luxury Bidet Seat circumvents this common issue by using a built-in tank reservoir for heated water. Water is stored and heated in the tank, so that it is ready for use whenever you go to the bathroom. Once you are ready to use the bidet seat, you simply select the desired water temperature on your remote. With no shocking blast of cold water to worry about, bathroom trips will be far more comfortable. 

Keep in mind, however, that the water tank in this seat can only hold and heat a limited amount of water at any given time. You won’t get an unlimited supply of warm water, which means you might run out if you program a lengthy cleaning cycle.

This emphasis on providing adequate warmth is found throughout your use of the Bio Bidet USPA 6800. A warm air dryer provides fast and efficient drying after the washing is complete. The warm air isn’t just comfortable — it also allows you to completely eliminate the use of toilet paper within the home. Other bidets do not include an air drying mechanism, which means you would still need to use a small amount of toilet paper to dry off after washing.

Rounding off the heating elements available from the Bio Bidet USPA 6800 is the heated seat. No need to worry about cold porcelain or plastic giving you chills when you take a seat on a cold winter morning! The heated seat will give you a cozy, comfortable sensation each time you sit down. A slow-closing seat and lid further enhance the bathroom experience.

Dual Nozzle Improvements

Each person has unique bathroom preferences — so it makes sense that this would apply to the way they use the bidet as well. Fortunately, the Bio Bidet USPA 6800 offers no shortage of washing options to ensure you get a thorough and comfortable cleaning. This all starts with the seat’s dual nozzle design, which features both a front feminine nozzle and a posterior nozzle with his/her configurations.

Rather than being driven by water pressure, these nozzles are controlled via an internal motor. This motor actually improves the overall washing experience by allowing for faster movement and more precise positioning. The nozzles are also self-cleaning, ensuring that your bidet is completely clean and sanitary after each bathroom trip. 

While both nozzles require minimal maintenance due to their self-cleaning feature, they can also be easily removed if they need to be replaced or cleaned manually. In fact, the entire bidet seat has a quick release feature for when a deeper clean is needed, making it far easier to care for than other bidet models. 

Varied Washing Options

A dual nozzle system ensures that the Bio Bidet USPA 6800 Luxury Bidet Seat offers the best experience in terms of versatility and comfort.

The unit’s feminine nozzle has seven nozzle holes that allow for a more even dispersement of the water, resulting in a gentler cleaning. The posterior nozzle uses a more direct stream, which also allows it to be used for intensive impulse pulsation washes. Sometimes also called a “massage wash” because of the way this setting switches between hard and soft water streams, these washes can help relieve constipation and other bowel issues by stimulating your bowel movements.

Primary washing options include posterior and feminine washes, auto wash, oscillating and pulsating water stream patterns, and even a “kid’s wash.” The oscillating wash is especially helpful when a more thorough cleaning is needed, moving the nozzle back and forth to provide greater coverage. In-between settings, such as a “wide cleaning” wash, allow users to find the right level of customization between standard and oscillating sprays.

Regardless of which option you prefer, you can count on the Bio Bidet USPA 6800 to provide a steady, yet soft stream of water. Users also have the option for aeration, or bubble infusion, which injects air bubbles into the water stream to create a stronger flow of water. This feature is unique to Bio Bidet products.

Selecting a washing mode isn’t the only way you can customize your wash settings. The Bio Bidet USPA 6800 Luxury Bidet Seat allows users to select their preferred nozzle position to further improve their bathroom experience. Each member of the family can adjust their preferences each time they sit down.

High-Tech Features

While a wide array of washing options is one of the best attributes of the Bio Bidet USPA 6800 Luxury Bidet Seat, this seat goes the extra mile by offering several extra features.

One of the most convenient is the inclusion of a wireless remote. With easy to understand button settings and an LCD window, this remote makes it easy to select your desired settings each time you use the bidet. The LCD screen allows you to see your unit’s current settings so you can make quick adjustments as needed. The small remote can easily be held in one hand, though it can also be wall-mounted with the assistance of included mounting brackets. 

Families with young children often worry about the potential for their little ones to cause problems by turning on the bidet while unsupervised in the bathroom. That isn’t an issue with the Bio Bidet USPA 6800 thanks to its digital seat sensor. This built-in sensor allows the bidet seat to detect when someone is actually sitting on the unit. If a seated position isn’t detected, the bidet wash features won’t activate, even when command inputs are sent from the remote.

This doesn’t merely prevent an unsupervised child from flooding the bathroom. The system’s advanced sensors even ensure that it will shut off mid-cycle if a user stands up from the seat before the cleaning cycle is complete.

The bidet seat’s deodorizer unit ensures that you’ll never need to use air fresheners or scented plug-ins again! The deodorizer unit uses a fan and active carbon filter to absorb over 99 percent of foul odors from your bathroom air, leaving the room smelling fresh and clean. The use of an active carbon filter means you’ll never need to replace the filter, either, giving you one less maintenance task to concern yourself with.

Despite its many high-tech features, you don’t have to worry about the Bio Bidet USPA 6800 Luxury Bidet Seat driving up your utility costs. As with other bidets, the Bio Bidet USPA 6800 only uses about one-eighth of a gallon of water per washing — far less than is used when you flush the toilet. An automatic power save feature also minimizes the unit’s electrical consumption by entering into a power save mode during low use periods.

Generous Warranty

Another great advantage of the Bio Bidet USPA 6800 Luxury Bidet Seat is its three-year limited warranty. This is an industry-best warranty that offers free repair and/or replacement of defective parts and products for up to three years after your original date of purchase.

Naturally, this warranty is only valid if the bidet seat was properly installed and has only been subjected to normal use. The warranty doesn’t cover defects that result from abuse of the Bio Bidet USPA 6800, or damage that is the result of a natural disaster or issues caused by your home’s water system.

Despite these exceptions, the warranty for the Bio Bidet USPA 6800 Luxury Bidet Seat covers most situations that the average user might encounter. Thankfully, such defects are unlikely, as Bio Bidet has a strong track record for manufacturing high-quality products that are built to last. After all, part of the reason the company is willing to offer such a generous warranty is because it has confidence that the bidet seat will stand the test of time.

A Few Things to Consider

While the Bio Bidet USPA 6800 Luxury Bidet Seat is clearly one of the best bidet seats available on the market today, there are a few minor issues you may wish to consider before buying. 

First, make sure that you have accurately measured your toilet — including the distance between seat mount holes. The Bio Bidet USPA 6800 is designed for toilet bases with seat mount holes that are eight inches apart. If your toilet’s seat mount holes are ten inches apart, this bidet seat will not fit.

The Bio Bidet USPA 6800 also does not include a night light, a feature that is becoming increasingly popular in smart toilets and other modern bathroom upgrades. Though not a big issue, this simply means you will likely need to place a night light somewhere nearby if you don’t want to turn on the overhead lights during midnight bathroom trips.

The good news is that such issues are hardly deal-breakers. By planning for these minor issues in advance, you can ensure that your new bidet seat installation will mesh perfectly with the rest of your bathroom.

Order Your Bidet Seat Today!

While there are many bidet seats now entering the market, it is clear that the Bio Bidet USPA 6800 Luxury Bidet Seat stands apart from the rest. With its easy installation and wide range of convenient features and customizable wash settings, this product is sure to completely revolutionize your bathroom routine.

Here at Kitchen & Bath Authority, you can get the Bio Bidet USPA 6800 and other luxury bathroom products at significant discounts off their suggested retail value. Additional online coupon codes can get you even more savings at checkout, and our free shipping on this and other products further ensures a streamlined and cost effective purchase.

Even with these financial benefits, buying a bidet seat can be a big investment. Because of this, we also allow you to finance your purchase so you can divide the cost into affordable monthly payments! Our programs allow you to spread your payments out between three and 36 months at competitive interest rates, and with no prepayment penalties, you can pay off your loan whenever works best for your financial situation.

With the high level product quality that you will find in the Bio Bidet USPA 6800 Luxury Bidet Seat and the great service we provide at Kitchen & Bath Authority, you can’t go wrong with this purchase! Order your bidet seat online today, and you will be amazed at how it transforms your bathroom.