For decades, the bidet was a symbol of hygiene and good customs in Portugal. More than a simple piece of equipment, it was present in practically every bathroom. However, new construction and design trends, combined with the evolution of routines and technologies, are dictating new trends and making the bidet ‘disappear’ from modern bathrooms.
In modern homes, a bidet is no longer mandatory or essential. What was once synonymous with cleanliness and comfort is, today, being replaced by more practical solutions adapted to contemporary life. The result is a discreet but profound transformation in the way the Portuguese think about bathroom space, according to the economics portal Ekonomista.
Less space, more functionality
Today’s homes are increasingly smaller and bathrooms follow this trend. Every centimeter counts, and the bidet, which needs its own space and circulation around it, often ends up neglected.
When the choice is between a bigger shower, more storage or just being able to move around comfortably, the bidet is the first to come out of the project.
End of legal obligation
For years, Portuguese legislation required the presence of a bidet in new homes. That rule no longer exists. With the elimination of this obligation, architects and owners gained freedom to design more flexible spaces, focusing on practical and minimalist bathrooms. The bidet, once a certain presence, has now become a mere option, according to the same source.
New habits and new technologies
Hygiene remains a priority, but solutions have evolved. Today, there are modern alternatives that fulfill exactly the same function, taking up less space and offering greater comfort.
Toilets with integrated flushing, hygienic side showers and smart lids with adjustable water jets are increasingly common and, in many cases, are a good replacement for the old bidet.
Modern design calls for simplicity
The contemporary style favors clean lines, large surfaces and fewer visual elements. In this context, the bidet is often seen as a piece that breaks the harmony of the whole. Minimalist and functional bathrooms almost always do without it, opting for a uniform look and integrated solutions.
When it makes sense to keep the bidet
Not all homes should give up the bidet. In large homes, where space is not a problem, and especially in homes with people with reduced mobility, the bidet continues to be useful. It can offer additional comfort and facilitate personal hygiene, says the same source. In other cases, it is simply a habit that is maintained by tradition or personal preference.
What to consider before deleting it
Before removing the bidet, it is worth evaluating some practical points: is it actually used or is it just there out of habit? Does its presence hinder circulation or prevent more useful solutions? Are there modern alternatives that can replace it in a more functional way? And, above all, does the bidet contribute to daily comfort or does it just take up space?
In the end, there is no universal answer, according to . The disappearance of the bidet reflects the evolution of lifestyles and the adaptation of spaces to new needs.
Also read:
