Amazing Japan’s [Washlet]

One of the most surprising features for foreign visitors to Japan is the use in toilets. While we Japanese are already familiar with washlet toilets, they are not widely used in other countries due to various issues such as water quality and sanitation.

In this article, I will introduce the appeal and usage of the “Washlet,” which can be called a culture unique to Japan, the Comfortable and Innovative “Washlet.

What is “Washlet”?

Washlet” refers to a toilet seat with a hot-water washing function.

The katakana spelling of the word tends to lead one to believe that it originated in the United Kingdom and the United States, but it originated here in Japan. The penetration rate of Washlet in Japanese households is a whopping 80%.

Basic Usage of Washlet

The basic way to use a bidet toilet is as follows,

(1) Sit deeply on the toilet seat.
(2) After using the toilet, press the button to flush the toilet with warm water.
(3) Gently wipe the toilet with toilet paper.
These are the three steps.

Where are Washlet toilets installed?

Washlet is installed in a variety of places, including hotels, restaurants, and large facilities.

Some manufacturers have showrooms where anyone can try them out.

Reasons why Japanese people use Washlet

Toilet seat is always warm

Toilets are used several times a day. It is important for them to be comfortable. The invention of Washlet in Japan is related to the extraordinary commitment of the Japanese people to their toilets.

One of these insistence is to keep the toilet seat warm at all times.　Even in the coldest wintertime, the toilet seat can be kept just warm enough to feel human skin, so that everyone can use the toilet with peace of mind.

Various cleaning functions

The warmth of the toilet seat and the comfort of the toilet space itself are prerequisites for Japanese people to use Washlet.　However, the most obvious reason for using Washlet is the excellent flushing function itself.

In addition to the ability to flush with warm water, the intensity and position of the flush can be changed to suit each person’s body and preferences, and there is even a flush function specifically for women.

A wide variety of button functions

Rear (Washing)

The basic function of Washlet is to wash the buttocks.　At the push of a button, the nozzle stored in the toilet seat is extended and water is sprayed from it.　In most cases, it is possible to change the intensity and position of the wash, so it is recommended that you adjust it to suit your body and preferences.

However, if the cleaning intensity is too strong, it may damage the skin and intestinal mucosa. Careful attention should be paid to its use.　It is said that to clean the buttocks in the right position, it is best to sit deeply on the toilet seat.

Bidet

A bidet is a special function for women. It is used to keep the vagina clean between menstrual periods and is used in the same way as the regular washing function.

Drying

As the name implies, the drying function is used to dry the washed vagina.　When the dry button is pressed, warm air blows, minimizing the use of paper while keeping the buttocks dry.　This function is very useful for people with hemorrhoids, other bathroom problems, or sensitive skin.　Currently, not all bidet toilets have a drying function, so it is a good idea to check before use.