Walk into any luxury home in Oman and you will likely find a bidet beside the toilet. Once considered a European exclusive, the bidet has become a global symbol of superior bathroom hygiene and refined living — and for good reason. It cleans more thoroughly than toilet paper, reduces waste, and elevates your bathroom from functional to exceptional.
Whether you are fitting out a new villa in Muscat, renovating a family bathroom in Sohar, or simply curious about upgrading your daily hygiene routine, this guide covers everything you need to know about the bidet — what it is, how to use it, the different types available, and why it belongs in every modern Omani home.
What Is a Bidet?
A bidet (pronounced bih-DAY) is a bathroom fixture designed for washing your intimate areas with water after using the toilet. It sits beside the toilet — or in some modern versions, it is integrated directly into the toilet seat. The result is a cleaner, fresher feeling that toilet paper alone simply cannot match.
Bidets are standard in bathrooms across Southern Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. In Oman, they are a natural part of bathroom culture — combining the tradition of water-based cleansing with modern, premium fixtures that suit today’s luxurious interiors.
Types of Bidet: Which One Is Right for You?
Not all bidets are the same. Choosing the right type depends on your bathroom size, your budget, and the level of luxury you want. Here are the four main types:
1. Wall-Hung Bidet
Mounted directly to the wall with concealed plumbing, the wall-hung bidet is the most popular choice in premium Omani bathrooms. It creates a clean, floating appearance and is easy to clean underneath. Perfect for modern and minimalist bathroom designs.
2. Floor-Standing (Pedestal) Bidet
A classic option where the bidet rests on the floor on its own base. Easy to install without wall reinforcement and suits traditional or heritage-inspired bathroom styles common in Nizwa and older villas across Muscat.
3. Bidet Toilet Seat (Electronic)
An electronic seat that replaces your existing toilet seat and adds bidet functionality — warm water spray, heated seat, air dryer, and adjustable pressure settings. The ideal solution when space is limited or a full bidet installation is not practical.
4. Handheld Bidet Spray (Shattaf)
The shattaf — or bidet spray — is a handheld hose attached to the toilet area. Widely used across Oman and the wider Gulf, it is affordable, simple to install, and highly practical for families.
5 Key Benefits of Using a Bidet
- Superior Hygiene – Water cleans more effectively than dry paper, reducing bacteria and irritation
- Eco-Friendly – Dramatically cuts down on toilet paper use, supporting Oman’s sustainability goals under Vision 2040
- Gentle on Skin – Ideal for people with sensitive skin, haemorrhoids, or post-surgical recovery
- Cost-Effective – Reduces long-term spending on toilet paper significantly
- Luxury Experience – Elevates your daily routine and adds a premium feel to your bathroom
How to Use a Bidet
Using a bidet for the first time is simple. Here is a quick step-by-step guide:
- Step 1 – Use the toilet as normal
- Step 2 – Move onto the bidet (or activate the bidet seat function)
- Step 3 – Adjust the water temperature and pressure to your comfort
- Step 4 – Position yourself so the water stream reaches the area you want to clean
- Step 5 – Pat dry with a small towel or toilet paper — you will need far less than usual
Frequently Asked Questions About Bidets
What is the purpose of a bidet?
A bidet is designed to clean your intimate areas with water after using the toilet. It provides a more hygienic, thorough clean than toilet paper and is gentle on the skin.
Is a bidet hygienic?
Yes — a bidet is actually more hygienic than toilet paper. Water removes bacteria more effectively than dry wiping. Modern bidets are designed with easy-clean ceramic surfaces that resist bacteria buildup.
Which type of bidet is best for Oman homes?
Wall-hung bidets are the most popular choice in Oman’s luxury and mid-range bathrooms due to their sleek look and easy maintenance. The handheld bidet spray (shattaf) is widely used in traditional and family homes for its simplicity and affordability.
Can I install a bidet in an existing bathroom?
Yes. A handheld bidet spray can be installed in minutes without any major plumbing work. A wall-hung or floor-standing bidet requires professional plumbing installation, which Al Fanar Group can advise on through our showroom consultants.
Are bidets suitable for children and elderly people?
Absolutely. Bidets are ideal for all ages. For elderly individuals or those with limited mobility, a bidet toilet seat with electronic controls is especially beneficial, offering a hands-free, comfortable hygiene solution.
Where can I buy a premium bidet in Oman?
Al Fanar Group, Oman’s exclusive Grohe dealer, stocks a full range of premium bathroom sanitary ware including bidets across showrooms in Muscat, Muscat City Center, Sohar, and Nizwa. Visit us for an in-person consultation and to see live displays.
Does using a bidet save money?
Yes. A bidet significantly reduces your household’s toilet paper consumption. For families, this translates into meaningful savings over time while also being the more environmentally responsible choice.
Ready to Upgrade Your Bathroom? Visit Al Fanar Group
A bidet is no longer a luxury — it is a smart investment in your daily hygiene, your comfort, and your home’s long-term value. Whether you prefer the elegance of a wall-hung bidet, the practicality of a handheld spray, or the innovation of an electronic bidet seat, Al Fanar Group has the right solution for every Omani home and budget.
As Oman’s exclusive Grohe dealer, we bring world-class sanitary ware directly to you. Visit our nearest showroom in Muscat, Sohar, or Nizwa — or explore our full bathroom collection at alfanar.om. Our expert consultants are ready to help you design the perfect bathroom.