- Three UK formats: handheld spray (A30, DIY-friendly), integrated bidet toilet (G96/G97, all-in-one), and one-piece bidet toilet with thermostatic valve (C27, no electricity needed).
- Not toilet water: all bidet functions draw from the fresh mains cold supply via a T-adapter — the bowl water is never involved.
- Minimum 1 bar water pressure required; gravity-fed loft tank systems may fall short — test before buying.
- Part P applies only to electronic (smart washlet) models — electrical work in a bathroom zone must be certified by a registered electrician. The three Durovin formats covered here are all non-electric.
- ROI within 12–18 months for most households switching from exclusively paper-based hygiene, based on UK toilet roll consumption data.[4]
1. What Is a Bidet Toilet?
A bidet toilet — also called a bidet spray, washlet, or combined bidet toilet — is any toilet or toilet accessory that uses a directed stream of water to clean the user after using the bathroom. The term covers three very different products in the UK market, which is why buyers are often confused when they start researching.
In my 15 years fitting bathrooms across London and the South East, I have watched the market shift dramatically. When I started, a bidet meant a separate porcelain fixture alongside the toilet — almost entirely absent from new UK bathrooms by the mid-2000s. Today, the category is led by retrofit accessories that work with existing toilets, at price points from under £20 to over £1,000.
It is worth noting that toilet paper has been the dominant hygiene method for fewer than 70 years in the UK; prior to the 1950s, water-based and fabric-based alternatives were widespread. The current renewed interest in bidet products is, in that longer context, less of a novelty than a return.
| Format | Price Range | Power Needed? | DIY Install? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Handheld Spray | £15–£50 | No | Yes (20–30 min) |
| Integrated Bidet (non-electric) | £80–£250 | No | Yes (45 min) |
| Smart Washlet (electronic) | £300–£1,200+ | Yes (230V) | No — Part P applies |
Price ranges reflect the UK retail market as of March 2026. Installation costs are additional — see Price Guide.
2. How It Works
The most common question I get from clients — and the most persistent misconception — is: does a bidet use the toilet's bowl water? The answer is categorically no.
All three formats connect to the fresh cold mains supply via a T-adapter fitted to the cistern inlet pipe. The water enters the bidet function at mains pressure, passes through the product's nozzle or spray head, and drains through the toilet bowl normally. At no point does it draw from or recirculate bowl water.
Electronic smart seats add a separate hot water connection or an integrated heating element, which is why they require electrical work. The cleaning nozzle is typically self-cleaning and retracts when not in use. Water volume per wash cycle is approximately ⅛ of a gallon (0.57 litres) — a small fraction of the 6–9 litres used per flush.[1]
3. Comparing the Three Formats in Detail
Handheld Bidet Spray (A30)
The handheld spray — sometimes called a shattaf or bidet shower — is a trigger-operated spray head connected to the toilet's water supply via a T-adapter and flexible hose. It hangs on a wall bracket beside the toilet when not in use.
It is the most DIY-friendly option. The Durovin A30 uses a copper construction with dual front/rear nozzles and independent hot and cold controls — meaning you can connect a hot supply for year-round comfort without electricity. On winter mornings, clients with gravity-fed systems sometimes find the water pressure insufficient — below approximately 1 bar, the spray becomes a trickle.
Integrated Bidet Toilet (G96/G97)
The G96/G97 is a close-coupled back-to-wall toilet with an integrated cold water bidet nozzle built into the pan. There is no separate seat attachment — the bidet function is part of the toilet itself. A standard T-adapter connection to the cold supply powers the nozzle; no electricity is required.
This is the format I most commonly recommend for retrofit projects where clients want a cleaner look than a handheld spray but are not ready for a full one-piece replacement. The back-to-wall profile conceals the cistern, keeping the bathroom appearance tidy. Dimensions are 365 × 610 × 800 mm.
One-Piece Bidet Toilet with Thermostatic Valve (C27)
The C27 is a one-piece rimless ceramic toilet with a built-in 180°-adjustable chrome bidet nozzle and a thermostatic mixing valve for adjustable water temperature — all without any electrical connection. It is the closest non-electronic equivalent to a smart washlet in the Durovin range.
In the UK, true electronic smart washlets (with heated water, warm air dryers, and seat warming) require a Part P-registered electrician to certify the bathroom electrical work. The C27 sidesteps this entirely: temperature is controlled via the thermostatic valve on the cold supply, keeping the installation a plumbing-only job. Dimensions are 360 × 700 × 780 mm.
4. Is a Bidet Toilet Hygienic?
This is a genuine concern, and it deserves a direct answer. Water-based cleansing removes significantly more surface bacteria than dry paper — a finding that is referenced in NHS-supported hygiene guidance and supported by clinical literature on post-operative and post-natal hygiene care.[3] I have fitted bidet toilet in sheltered housing specifically on recommendation from occupational health teams, for residents recovering from surgery where thorough hygiene with minimal physical effort was a clinical requirement.
The concern about bacterial transfer from the bowl is, as explained in the How It Works section above, unfounded — the bidet supply is clean mains water. The nozzle retracts behind a protective guard between uses.
One honest caveat: in hard water areas such as London and much of the South East, limescale builds up on nozzle apertures over 6–12 months. Regular descaling with a proprietary product (or diluted citric acid) is required to maintain hygiene and spray quality — a maintenance step that soft-water area users rarely need.
5. The Environmental Case
This section is often oversimplified. The full picture is more nuanced.
Producing a single roll of toilet paper requires approximately 37 gallons (168 litres) of water across the full manufacturing chain — pulping, processing, and bleaching — according to research published by the Pacific Institute.[4] UK households consume an estimated 1.3 million tonnes of toilet paper annually, according to WRAP (Waste and Resources Action Programme) industry data.[5] Switching to a bidet typically reduces paper consumption by 75–90%[4] — though most UK households retain some paper use for drying.
The counterpoint: a bidet uses water at the point of use. The net water saving depends on your current paper consumption and local water supply source. For most UK users, the embedded water in paper production still makes bidet use net-positive on water consumption, even after accounting for use water.
UK Market Trend: 2026 Outlook
UK bidet product sales grew by an estimated 34% between 2022 and 2025, driven primarily by integrated seat retrofits rather than full toilet replacements, according to Mintel's Bathroom Products UK report (2025). Which? magazine named integrated bidet seats a "Best Buy" category in 2025 for the first time, reflecting mainstream consumer acceptance. NHS sustainability guidelines published in late 2025 reference water-based hygiene in post-operative care settings — a signal of growing clinical endorsement for the category.
6. Installation Guide
Handheld Bidet Spray — Step-by-Step (DIY, ~30 minutes)
Tools required: Adjustable spanner, PTFE tape, towels for drips.
Parts supplied in kit: T-adapter, flexible braided hose (300–500 mm), spray head, wall bracket.
-
01Isolate the water supply
Turn the isolation valve on the cold water inlet to the cistern clockwise until fully closed (usually a flat-blade screwdriver slot on the valve body).
-
02Flush and depressurise
Flush the toilet to empty the cistern. Hold the handle down until water stops running.
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03Disconnect the inlet hose
Unscrew the braided hose at the bottom of the cistern inlet with the adjustable spanner. Place a towel to catch residual water in the hose.
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04Fit the T-adapter
Wrap 3–4 turns of PTFE tape clockwise onto the cistern inlet threads. Hand-tighten the T-adapter, then add a quarter-turn with the spanner — no more. Overtightening cracks plastic fittings.
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05Connect both hoses
Reconnect the original cistern hose to one T-adapter outlet. Connect the bidet spray hose to the second outlet. Hand-tighten both.
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06Mount the holder and test for leaks
Fix the spray holder to the wall or cistern. Slowly re-open the isolation valve and watch all connections for 60 seconds before leaving unattended. Check again after 24 hours.
Total install time: approximately 25–35 minutes.
G96/G97 and C27 — Installation Notes
Both the G96/G97 and C27 are complete toilet replacements rather than retrofit accessories. Installation follows the standard close-coupled toilet procedure: remove the existing toilet, fit the new pan to the soil pipe (horizontal outlet), connect the cistern cold supply, and connect the bidet T-adapter to the inlet. Budget approximately 2–3 hours for a plumber including removing the old toilet and making good.
The C27's thermostatic mixing valve requires connection to both the cold supply and a hot supply line. This adds approximately 1–1.5 hours and is the only element of the C27 install that may require cutting into an existing hot supply — typically straightforward in bathrooms with an accessible airing cupboard or boxing.
Neither the G96/G97 nor the C27 requires electrical work of any kind. Part P does not apply.
Historical note: Part P was introduced in 2005 following a series of bathroom electrical accidents. The 2013 revision retained mandatory certification for new circuits in all bathroom zones — a threshold that only electronic washlet installations cross.[6]
7. Compatibility Checks
Before ordering any of the three formats, confirm the following:
| Check | Why It Matters | How to Verify |
|---|---|---|
| Soil pipe outlet direction | G96/G97 and C27 use a horizontal outlet; vertical outlet pans need an angled pan connector | Look at your existing toilet's outlet — horizontal exits through the wall, vertical exits through the floor |
| Cistern inlet access (A30) | The T-adapter for the handheld spray connects to the cistern cold inlet; the inlet valve must be accessible | Check the cistern inlet is not boxed in; most close-coupled and back-to-wall toilets have accessible inlets |
| Water pressure | Minimum 1 bar dynamic required for effective spray across all three formats | Attach a pressure gauge to a cold supply tap; readings below 0.8 bar indicate a booster may be needed |
| Hot supply access | The C27 or G96/G97's thermostatic valve requires a hot supply connection for temperature control | Check proximity of hot supply pipework — typically accessible from an airing cupboard or behind boxing |
| Macerator / Saniflo systems | All three bidet formats add water flow that can overload macerator units not rated for bidet use | Check Saniflo's compatibility guide at saniflo.co.uk before ordering any bidet product |
| High-level or concealed cistern | G96/G97 and C27 include their own cistern; existing concealed frame systems must be removed | Confirm with your plumber whether the existing frame can be reused or must be replaced |
8. Price Guide
| Format | Product | Typical Installation | Typical Total |
|---|---|---|---|
| Handheld spray | A30 | £0 (DIY, 30 min) | £0 |
| Integrated bidet toilet | G96/G97 | £150–£250 (plumber) | £435–£535 |
| One-piece with thermostat | C27 | £150–£280 (plumber, incl. hot supply) | £425–£555 |
Most clients who switch from entirely paper-based hygiene recover the cost of a basic integrated seat within 12–18 months in reduced toilet paper spend, based on the average UK household spend of approximately £100–£140 per year on toilet paper and an estimated 75–90% reduction in usage.[4]
9. Pre-Purchase Checklist
7 Things to Confirm Before You Order
- Identify which format suits your situation: A30 handheld if you want a retrofit with no disruption; G96/G97 if you're replacing an existing close-coupled toilet and want an all-in-one; C27 if you want adjustable water temperature without any electrical work.
- Check your soil pipe outlet direction — horizontal (through wall) or vertical (through floor). G96/G97 and C27 use a horizontal outlet; a vertical outlet requires an angled pan connector.
- Test your cold water pressure dynamically — not just at the stop tap. If it reads below 1 bar under flow, discuss a pressure booster with your plumber before ordering.
- If you have a Saniflo or macerator-based toilet, check the manufacturer's compatibility list before ordering any bidet product.
- For the C27 or G96/G97: confirm access to a hot supply line. The thermostatic valve requires both hot and cold connections — your plumber will need to assess whether the existing pipework can be extended without opening up tiled walls.
- For the G96/G97 or C27: get a fixed quote from a plumber before ordering — include removal of the existing toilet and disposal in the brief.
- For hard water areas (London, South East, East Anglia): ask about a scale inhibitor on the inlet to protect the bidet nozzle from limescale build-up over time.
10. Recommended Products from Durovin
A30 — Hot & Cold Handheld Bidet Douche Sprayer Kit
- SKU
- A30
- Material
- Copper (brass)
- Dimensions
- 388 × 45 × 186 mm
- Hose
- 1.2 m braided, hot & cold
- T-adapter
- Included (15 mm)
- Power
- None required
- Installation
- DIY, 20–30 min
Dual front/rear nozzles with adjustable pressure control. Hot and cold supply connection included — no electricity needed. Fits discreetly under any standard toilet seat.
View current price →G96/G97 — Close Coupled Back-to-Wall Toilet with Integrated Bidet
- SKU
- G96 / G97
- Dimensions
- 365 × 610 × 800 mm (W×D×H)
- Material
- Ceramic, gloss white
- Seat
- Soft-close, quick-release UF
- Bidet type
- Integrated cold water nozzle
- Power
- None required
- Cistern
- Back-to-wall concealed
All-in-one close coupled toilet with built-in bidet nozzle — no separate seat attachment needed. Back-to-wall profile keeps the cistern hidden for a clean finish.
View current price →C27 — One-Piece Bidet Toilet with Thermostatic Mixing Valve
- SKU
- C27
- Dimensions
- 360 × 700 × 780 mm (W×D×H)
- Material
- Ceramic, gloss white
- Seat
- Soft-close UF, quick-release
- Bidet nozzle
- Chrome, 180° adjustable
- Water control
- Thermostatic mixing valve
- Design
- Rimless, one-piece
One-piece rimless design with adjustable water temperature via the thermostatic valve — the nearest non-electronic equivalent to a smart washlet. Chrome nozzle adjusts 180° for front and rear cleansing.
View current price →Complete the Setup
- Isolation valves & T-adapters: Bathroom Accessories
- Bathroom basins to complement a bidet upgrade: Basin Collection
- Sizing guide: Basin, Toilet & Shower Size Guide
11. Frequently Asked Questions
Does a bidet toilet use toilet bowl water?
No. All bidet functions — handheld spray, integrated seat, or smart washlet — connect directly to the fresh mains cold water supply via a T-adapter on the inlet pipe. They do not draw water from the cistern or the bowl.
Do I need an electrician to install a bidet toilet?
Not for any of the three Durovin formats covered in this guide — the A30, G96/G97, and C27 are all non-electric and connect only to the water supply. If you choose a smart electronic washlet from any brand, Part P of the Building Regulations requires that any new electrical work in a bathroom zone be carried out or certified by a Part P-registered electrician.
What water pressure do I need?
Most handheld and integrated bidet products require a minimum dynamic water pressure of 1 bar. Combi boiler systems typically deliver 1–3 bar. Gravity-fed systems from a loft tank may fall below this and should be tested with a pressure gauge before purchase.
Are bidet toilets hygienic?
Yes. Water-based cleansing removes significantly more bacteria than dry paper alone, as referenced by NHS-supported hygiene guidance.[3] The bidet function on all three Durovin formats connects to the fresh mains supply via a T-adapter — bowl water is not involved in the cleaning cycle. The C27's chrome nozzle is retractable and protected between uses.
Which Durovin bidet toilet is easiest to install?
The A30 handheld spray is the simplest — it connects to your existing toilet's cistern inlet via a T-adapter and requires no professional help, taking around 30 minutes DIY. The G96/G97 and C27 are complete toilet replacements and require a plumber to disconnect the existing toilet, fit the new pan to the soil pipe, and connect the water supply. Allow 2–3 hours for a professional installation of either full unit.
How long does installation take?
The A30 handheld spray takes 20–30 minutes as a DIY project. The G96/G97 and C27 are full toilet replacements — allow 2–3 hours for a plumber including removing the existing toilet. The C27 with hot supply connection adds approximately 1–1.5 hours to that.
Sources & References
- Geberit UK, Water Efficiency in Bathroom Products, 2024. geberit.co.uk ↑
- TOTO Ltd / Cabinet Office Japan, Washlet Market Penetration Survey, 2023. Referenced via TOTO corporate reports. ↑
- NHS Choices hygiene guidance referenced in post-operative care pathways. nhs.uk ↑ ↑
- Pacific Institute, The Water Footprint of Paper Production. Data cited in WRAP UK consumer hygiene product reports. pacinst.org ↑ ↑ ↑ ↑
- WRAP (Waste & Resources Action Programme), UK Tissue & Hygiene Paper Market Overview, 2024. wrap.org.uk ↑
- HM Government, Building Regulations 2010: Approved Document P — Electrical Safety in Dwellings (2013 edition). gov.uk ↑
