America is known for its freedom, so it can be said that you can find almost anything here. However, if you ever visit the U.S., remember to try their restroom experience to realize that they are missing something incredibly important.
In English, this sprayer is called a bidet (specifically a bidet sprayer), and it was created solely for the purpose of “washing the necessary areas” after using the toilet.
Currently, the global trend is leaning toward using a sprayer instead of toilet paper, primarily for environmental reasons. Moreover, in terms of hygiene, using a sprayer is much cleaner.
So why don’t Americans use it? In fact, there isn’t a clear answer to this. However, experts have come up with a few plausible theories, which you’ll find out about shortly.
Theory 1: The British Contempt
The term “bidet” originates from France, and initially, it was not a sprayer like the ones we see today. The first bidet was simply a water basin placed next to the toilet, so after using the toilet, one could sit and wash.
Traditional bidet (left)
In the 18th century, the British looked down upon the French aristocratic lifestyle and, as a result, also disliked their habit of washing with water. Since America was heavily influenced by British culture due to being a former colony, it’s possible that this “prejudice” originated from there.
Theory 2: The “Sprayer Stigma” During World War II
Before World War II, American soldiers found the French bidets strange. Their only experience with a “bidet” was seeing French soldiers use them in brothels.
Because of this, many people argue that Americans developed a prejudice against the sprayer, associating it with “immoral” values.
Theory 3: The Way the Sprayer Is Used
This seems to be the most reasonable theory. As mentioned earlier, the original “bidet” was just a water basin, meaning the user had to scoop water and wash with their hands.
Even after the sprayer was introduced, Americans still stigmatized it.
Clearly, compared to toilet paper, the bidet was seen as a much worse option. And Americans rejected using the bidet, even when it was later replaced with a sprayer.
This stigma persists to this day, with most restrooms in the U.S. lacking a sprayer. For Americans, toilet paper remains the absolute, irreplaceable choice.
