If you've ever wondered what a portable bidet is, how it works or why people use one, you're in the right place.
While bidets might be new to some of us in Australia, they're nothing new around the world. In countries like Japan and Italy, using water to clean yourself after going to the toilet is a normal part of everyday life. It's also a familiar hygiene practice across many parts of Asia and the Middle East. [1][2]
So, why don't we talk about it more here?
Let's get into it.
What is a portable bidet?
A portable bidet is a small, handheld device that uses water to rinse your intimate area after using the toilet. Think of it as a mini bidet you can take anywhere, whether you're at home, at work or travelling.
The idea is simple: rinse with water, then gently pat dry if needed.
Think about it this way. When your hands get dirty, you wash them with water. When you get something on your skin, you wouldn't usually rely on dry paper alone to clean it. So why should cleaning yourself after using the toilet be any different?
Toilet paper is familiar and convenient, but water cleansing is another simple way to feel clean and fresh.
How do portable bidets compare to other bidets?
Not all bidets look or work the same way. Here are four common types.
1. Traditional standalone bidets
These are separate bathroom fixtures, usually found beside the toilet. They're common in parts of Europe, including Italy and Portugal.
2. Bidet toilet seats
These attach to your existing toilet and use a built-in nozzle to spray water. Some models also offer adjustable water pressure and temperature.
3. Handheld bidet sprayers
These are small sprayers connected to your bathroom's water supply, usually installed beside the toilet. You control the water stream using the handheld nozzle.
4. Portable bidets
Portable bidets are designed to go wherever you do. Manual versions work by squeezing a water-filled bottle, while electric versions use a motor to produce the water stream. Some electric models, like aéneti, connect to a standard water bottle.
Unlike installed bidets, portable versions don't require plumbing or bathroom modifications. Just bring your own water, and you're ready to rinse.
Why do people use portable bidets?
Everyone has their own reasons, but it often comes down to one thing: feeling clean and comfortable.
Some people simply prefer rinsing with water rather than wiping with toilet paper alone. Others find it especially helpful during their period, while travelling or when they want to freshen up between showers.
And with a portable bidet, you don't have to be at home to enjoy that feeling.
It can also help reduce how much toilet paper you use, depending on your routine.
You don't have to change everything about your existing hygiene routine. It's simply another option to have when you want it.
How do you use a portable bidet?
Using a portable bidet is easier than you might think. Here's how to use your aéneti bidet.
Step 1: Fill with water or connect your water bottle
Fill the reservoir with clean water and attach it to your aéneti bidet unit.
Step 2: Position the nozzle
Position the nozzle comfortably so you can rinse the external area where needed.
Step 3: Rinse gently
Turn on your bidet and start with its gentlest setting. You can increase the pressure if you prefer. Angle the nozzle forward and rinse from front to back to help avoid carrying bacteria from the anal area towards the vaginal opening.
Step 4: Pat dry
Gently pat the area dry with toilet paper or a clean, dedicated drying cloth.
Step 5: Clean and store
Clean the nozzle with an antibacterial wipe and allow entire unit to fully dry. Store your aéneti bidet in its carry case until you need it again.
That's it. No complicated setup, no plumbing and no special bathroom required.
Is using a bidet safe?
Yes, gently rinsing the external genital and anal area with water is a straightforward hygiene practice for most people. The key is using your bidet correctly.
A few things to keep in mind:
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Rinse from front to back. This helps reduce the risk of transferring bacteria from the anal area towards the vaginal opening.
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Keep water external. Avoid directing water into the vagina. The vagina is self-cleaning, and internal washing can disrupt its natural balance. [3]
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Use gentle pressure. You don't need a strong stream to rinse effectively.
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Keep your bidet clean. Follow the manufacturer's cleaning and storage instructions.
You also don't need scented products or harsh cleansers to feel fresh. Australian health guidance recommends gentle care of the vulval area and avoiding products that may cause irritation. [3]
When might you use a portable bidet?
There's no special occasion needed. A portable bidet can fit into your everyday routine in more ways than you might expect.
During your period
Whether you're changing your pad, dealing with menstrual blood or simply wanting to freshen up, a portable bidet gives you a way to rinse with water when a shower isn't available.
While travelling
Long flights, road trips and unfamiliar bathrooms can make your usual routine a little harder. A portable bidet lets you bring a familiar part of your hygiene routine along with you.
At work or out for the day
When you're spending hours away from home, having the option to rinse with water can make a shared or public bathroom feel a little more comfortable.
At home between showers
A bidet offers targeted cleansing after using the toilet. It doesn't replace your regular shower, but it's a convenient way to freshen up throughout the day.
Are portable bidets worth it?
It really comes down to your preferences and lifestyle.
If you're happy with your current routine, you may not feel the need to change anything. But if you prefer rinsing with water, want an easier way to freshen up during your period or spend a lot of time away from home, a portable bidet is worth considering.
Meet aéneti
We created aéneti to make water cleansing easier to bring into everyday life.
Compact enough to slip into your bag and quiet enough for shared bathrooms, the aéneti bidet is designed to fit around your routine. It's rechargeable, connects to a standard water bottle and starts with a gentle setting designed for intimate use. The matching carry case keeps it neatly tucked away between uses.
Because feeling clean shouldn't have to depend on being at home.
Frequently asked questions
Do you still need toilet paper if you use a bidet?
You may still want toilet paper or a clean, dedicated drying cloth to pat yourself dry after rinsing. Whether you use toilet paper for cleaning as well is entirely up to you.
Are bidets only for women?
Not at all. Bidets can be used by people of any gender to clean the external genital and anal area after using the toilet.
Can you use a bidet during your period?
Yes. You can use a bidet to gently rinse the external genital area during your period. Keep the water external, use gentle pressure and rinse from front to back.
Do portable bidets need to be charged?
Some do, and some don't. Manual portable bidets work by squeezing a water-filled reservoir, while electric models use a motor to produce the water stream. The aéneti bidet is electric and rechargeable.
Is a bidet the same as a shower?
No. A bidet is designed for targeted external cleansing after using the toilet, while a shower cleans your body more broadly. They serve different purposes and can work together as part of your hygiene routine.
Sources
[1] Government of Japan, Fresh and Clean: Creating a New Toilet Culture. Read the article
[2] Swiss National Museum, The bidet – furniture designed for cleansing the ‘delicate parts of the body’. Read the article
[3] Healthdirect Australia, Personal hygiene. Read the guidance