Electric Bidets Vs. Non-Electric Bidets: Compare the Pros and Cons

If you are new to the world of bidets, you may get overwhelmed when facing so many choices. To make things easier, you should decide whether you need an electric bidet or a non-electric bidet. 

electric vs. non electric bidet

Which one is better? There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. You should decide based on your needs, budgets, bathroom layout, and other circumstances.

To help you out, I will compare all the pros and cons of electric and non-electric bidets in this post. After reading it, I am sure you will know which one suits you best.

Pros of electric bidets

Different spray modes – meet your various cleaning needs

Powered by electricity, electric bidets often come with a lot of features that a non-electric bidet can’t have. There are an array of spray modes to clean your nether region in different ways.

For example, the “feminine wash” mode often features a wide and gentle spray suitable for cleaning the genitals. Some electric bidets contain an “enema mode,” aiming to promote bowel movement by a powerful water stream. The “child mode” could cater to the needs of your kids.

Beyond that, you are able to modify the nozzle position to fit your body better. If you use a non-electric bidet, you have to change your position to get the water stream aim at the right place.

Adjustable water temperature – no more cold water

Most non-electric bidets make use of the household’s water supply directly, meaning that the water is not heated. It would not be a big issue if you live in a warm place, but it could be problematic for those living in a cold area or using it in winter.

Some dual-temp non-electric models could use the hot water in the hot water line and mix it with the tap water. But you should make sure there is a sink nearby, and your landlord allows you to drill a hole on the cabinet wall to let the hose go through. 

As for electric bidets, the internal heater could heat the tap water according to the setting. You can enjoy comfortable, warm water spray without installing an extra valve and hose on the plumbing.

Heated seat – good for people living in cold areas

Sitting in an icy toilet seat is a nightmare for many people. With an electric bidet, it will never happen again. You can adjust the temperature and even turn it off in summer. 

Even though you don’t need to wipe after using a bidet, you will need some TP to dry you off. For those who want to ditch TP forever, you should get an electric bidet with an air dryer. In this way, you can wait for a while to let it dry your butt. 

Non-electric bidet can’t do it because there is no power to warm the air.

Auto and close lid – great for elderly and people with mobility issues

This is a feature often seen in advanced models. For seniors or people with disabilities, this feature would bring them a hand-free experience, allowing them to keep independence without asking for help. 

Remote control – you don’t need to bend over

When using a non-electric bidet, you are likely to bend over and look to access the side panels or stand up to get the sprayer head. 

A number of electric bidet seats come with a remote control so that you can modify the settings while doing your business. It even has a user preset function to store your preferences.

Cons of electric bidets

Expensive

An electric bidet may not be a good option if you are working on a budget. You will expect to spend more than $200 to get a proper one. In addition, it would increase your electricity bill somewhat. 

Non-electric bidets have a much budget-friendly price. You can get a good one for under $100. If you don’t care about those bells and whistles mentioned above, go for a non-electric bidet and save some money.

On top of it, electric bidets are more susceptible to malfunctions as so many electric parts are involved. Fixing it would be costly.

You need an outlet nearby

To make an electric bidet work, you need a GFCI outlet nearby which is not always available in your bathroom. You may use a bidet extension cord, but it could be dangerous in some cases. Or you need to talk to an electrician and ask them to install an outlet.

Possible hazards

When using electric bidet seats, you have to take care of the dangers of electricity near water. Even though the risk is very low, you’d better check the cord and other parts frequently to ensure it is in good shape. 

It may not fit every toilet

Some models are for elongated toilets, and others are for round toilets. Therefore, it may not fit the toilet in your new place after relocating to another apartment.

Pros of non-electric bidets

Cost-effective

As mentioned above, non-electric bidets are tagged with a low price tag. The power of bidet lies in the simple magic: a splash of water. Non-electric bidets could spray different pressurized water and clean your butt thoroughly. They don’t have many features compared to electric ones, but they get the job done. 

Universal

Usually, non-electric bidets refer to non-electric bidet seats, bidet attachments, and bidet sprayers. Like electric bidet seats, non-electric bidet seats may not fit specific toilets. However, it would not be an issue for bidet attachments and sprayers. Bidet sprayers can hook on any toilet, and attachments can fit under almost any toilet.

High water pressure

Some people complain about the “low water pressure” of electric bidets even though it is powerful enough to wash away all the waste. If it is the case, you should try a non-electric bidet. 

Non-electric bidets utilize the home’s water supply pressure directly. Therefore the water pressure is relatively higher than the electric ones controlled by internal motors.

Cons of non-electric bidets

Fewer features

You always get what you pay for. Non-electric bidets have much fewer features than electric bidets. They don’t have heated seats and various spray modes. If you have any mobility issues, you still need to bend over to access the side panel or hold the spray heads while using them. So I don’t recommend seniors or people with disabilities to get a non-electric model.

Again, you should consider your needs. It is fine if you think these bidets without power could meet your needs. 

Electric vs. non-electric bidets: make up your mind now!

I enumerated most pros and cons of electric and non-electric bidets in this post.

Electric bidets seems a great choice for everyone as they have heated seat, adjustable water pressure, and temperature, air dryers. Some models even come with auto open and close lids, remotes, and electrolyzed water. However, it is relatively costly, needs an outlet nearby, and may not fit your next toilet.  

Compared to electric bidets, non-electric bidets have limited features. But they are affordable and have high water pressure. 

Therefore, the one other peoples like may not fit you. You need to compare these pros and cons and decide your own decision.

Electric or non-electric bidets? If you have made up your mind, check these best electric bidet seats and the best non-electric bidet seats right now!

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Kevin Chow is an enthusiast of home improvement. He is an engineer and likes to test all the tech gadgets on the market. He starts to use bidet seats after his journey to Japan and he had tried a few brands.