Bidet Sprays for UK Homes: Savings, Hygiene, and How to Choose One
By James Hargreaves · Updated June 2026 · 8 min read
- A quality bidet spray costs £20–£60 and typically pays for itself within months
- A typical wash uses about half a litre of water — far less than the water needed to produce the toilet paper it replaces
- Most handheld sprays install in 15–20 minutes with no plumber or drilling required
- Fully removable, making them ideal for renters as well as homeowners
Why UK Homeowners Are Switching to Bidet Sprays
If you're tired of spending money on toilet paper and dealing with the waste it creates, a bidet spray could be the simple change you've been looking for. Also known as a shattaf or handheld bidet, this device attaches to your toilet's water supply and uses a gentle stream of water to clean — reducing or even largely eliminating the need for paper.
Bidet sprays have been common in many parts of Europe, Asia, and the Middle East for decades, and they're steadily catching on in the UK. The reasons are straightforward: they save money, cut down on household waste, and many people find them a more thorough clean than dry wiping alone — particularly useful for anyone with haemorrhoids or sensitive skin.
How Much Can You Really Save?
Let's talk pounds and pence. A typical UK family of four spends between £500 and £700 a year on toilet paper. A good quality bidet spray costs between £20 and £60 — a one-off purchase that will last for years. Switch to using the spray for cleaning and just a few sheets for drying, and you can cut your paper use by 70–90%. Within a few months, the spray pays for itself, and the savings continue for as long as you use it.
Keep your old toilet roll receipts or note your monthly spend before switching. Seeing the actual drop in spending after a month is often more motivating than any general savings estimate.
There's also a hidden saving: fewer blocked toilets. Toilet paper, especially thicker "quilted" varieties, doesn't break down as easily as standard paper. Bidet sprays reduce the amount of paper going into your pipes, which can mean fewer call-outs for blockages over time.
Are Bidet Sprays Hygienic and Safe?
Yes — when used correctly, many people find them more hygienic than paper alone. Dry wiping can leave behind some residue, which can contribute to bacteria and occasionally cause itching or irritation. A directed stream of water tends to clean more thoroughly. Most bidet sprays are designed with hygiene in mind: the nozzle doesn't touch your body, and many models have a self-cleaning mode or a retractable design.
In terms of safety, UK-sold sprays must comply with the Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations. Look for a model with an anti-siphon valve or a WRAS approval mark — this prevents any risk of backflow contaminating your household water. Cleaning the nozzle once a week with mild soap keeps it in good condition. For shared bathrooms, each user can simply rinse the nozzle before use.
Easy Installation: DIY-Friendly Options
One of the best things about bidet sprays is how simple they are to install. You don't need a plumber or any special tools — just a standard adjustable spanner. The kit usually includes a brass T-valve that screws onto the water supply pipe behind your toilet. You turn off the water, unscrew the existing hose, attach the T-valve, then reconnect the toilet hose and attach the bidet hose. Turn the water back on, check for leaks, and you're done. The whole job takes about 15–20 minutes.
If you're renting, a handheld sprayer is fully removable — you can take it with you when you move. No drilling, no permanent changes. For those who prefer a wall-mounted look, some models come with a bracket that screws into the wall (you can fill the holes later), but handheld versions remain the most landlord-friendly option.
Environmental Benefits: Less Paper, Less Waste
The environmental case for bidet sprays is genuinely strong. Toilet paper production is resource-heavy: it requires cutting down trees, uses significant water and energy, and often comes wrapped in plastic. A household switching to a bidet spray can save a substantial number of rolls each year.
Water use is modest. A typical bidet wash uses about half a litre — far less than the water estimated to manufacture a single roll of toilet paper from virgin pulp, which is well over 100 litres once the full production process is accounted for. Even accounting for the occasional extra flush, the overall water footprint of switching drops considerably. Toilet paper production is also a meaningful contributor to deforestation and carbon emissions at an industry level, which makes switching to a spray one of the more straightforward ways to reduce a household's environmental footprint without changing much else about daily life.
Choosing the Right Bidet Spray for Your Home
Not all bidet sprays are the same. Here are the key factors to consider:
- Water connection: Most models connect to the cold water supply. That's fine for most people — the water is room temperature, not freezing. If you want warm water, you'll need a model that connects to both hot and cold pipes (more complex) or an electric bidet seat (more expensive).
- Spray pressure: Look for a model with adjustable flow. A simple lever or trigger lets you control the strength, from a gentle rinse to a firmer clean.
- Nozzle material: Stainless steel or high-grade plastic is best. Cheaper chrome-plated brass can corrode over time in a humid bathroom.
- Hose length: A 1.2–1.5 metre hose gives you flexibility to reach comfortably.
For people with limited mobility, a longer hose or a wall-mounted bracket that holds the spray at waist height can be helpful. For very small bathrooms, a compact handheld sprayer with a slim profile is ideal.
Common Concerns — Addressed
"Will it splash?" A little practice is all it takes. Aim the nozzle low and use a gentle squeeze, and the water stays where it's meant to.
"What if the pressure is too strong?" Adjustable models let you start low and increase gradually. Many first-time users are surprised at how comfortable it is once they find the right setting.
"Isn't it unhygienic for multiple people?" The nozzle doesn't touch your body, and you can rinse it under running water before each use for extra peace of mind.
"Do I still need toilet paper?" Yes, but much less — typically just a few sheets to pat dry, or a set of reusable cloths washed after each use for an even lower-waste setup.
Making the Switch: Simple Steps
Ready to try a bidet spray? Here's a straightforward plan:
- Buy a WRAS-approved handheld sprayer from a reputable UK retailer (budget £20–£60).
- Watch a short installation video — it's easier than changing a tap washer.
- Fit the T-valve and attach the hose — around 15–20 minutes of work.
- Use it for a week alongside your normal toilet paper, just to get comfortable.
- Gradually reduce paper use as you settle into the new routine.
Bidet sprays aren't a gimmick. For many UK households, they're a practical upgrade that saves money, reduces waste, and improves day-to-day comfort.