Differences Between Bidet Seats, Washlet Seats

Generally speaking, the difference between a bidet and a Washlet may be the name. There are plenty of manufacturers of self-cleaning, heated, and drying bidet-toilet seats on the market. But TOTO, the makers of the Washlet, have been doing it the longest.

TOTO is the most widely used brand in Japan, where the bidet-toilet seat is most popular, and the company has a number of patents on the technology used. However, the entry model has no air dryer or air purifier, and costs around $400. At the high end, with separate controls and a sleeker look, you'll end up spending over $1,000.

The Real McCoy v. the New Thing
Imitation brands can get you air purifiers and heated drying for around $500, and some even have two cleansing wands, both self-cleaning like the TOTO brand. One wand is for general cleaning, called the "family wand," the other is for feminine cleaning. Most models boast a completely hands-free procedure, but it is always recommended to have some standard hygienic paper around, in case the drying or washing doesn't go as planned.

The choice is ultimately up to you. TOTO's Washlet does have the reputation and uses top-notch technology that keeps the seat, water, and drying air all at a temperature that you choose. Other models claim to do similar things, but providing such performance in a device small enough to fit on top of your toilet bowl seems like it would be expensive. If you want these features, it would probably be best to go with the Washlet, considered by most to be the gold standard.