Installing a Bidet: The Cleanest DIY Project for Your Bathroom

Hello friends! We often receive DIY inquiries about how to upgrade a traditional toilet with a modern and eco-friendly bidet attachment. Well, you're in the right place because I'll be guiding you through this process with some best practices so you could transform your throne. So, grab your tools, leave your fears behind and let's get started!

What You'll Need

To ensure you're equipped for the adventure ahead, you will need:

1. A Bidet Attachment: There are many types available on the market. Ensure you have the one that best fits your toilet shape and style.
2. Adjustable Wrench or Pliers
3. Teflon Tape: Helps prevent leaks and ensure a sturdy connection.
4. Screwdriver

Preparation: Set The Stage

Step 1: Turn Off The Water

Before any plumbing project, always turn off the water supply first to prevent any mini indoor floods. The water valve is typically located on the wall behind your toilet.

Step 2: Empty The Tank

To further avoid unwanted water splashes, flush your toilet once or twice until the tank is completely empty. A dry workspace is what we need.

Let the Assembling Begin

Step 3: Remove Your Current Toilet Seat

With a screwdriver, remove the toilet seat by unscrewing the bolts that hold it in place. Keep these bolts safe, as we'll be using them again later!

Step 4: Install the Bidet Attachment

Now, place your bidet attachment onto the toilet bowl where your seat used to be. The holes in the attachment should align with the holes the seat was previously attached. This step might require a bit of maneuvering and refining!

Step 5: Put the Seat Back

Let's bring back the dethroned king – the toilet seat! Place it over the bidet attachment, aligning both sets of holes, and then secure it back in place using the bolts we set aside earlier. This step will sandwich the bidet attachment in between the toilet bowl and the seat.

Plumbing: Fiddling with Pipes

Step 6: Disconnect the Water Supply

With our adjustable wrench, disconnect the water supply line from the toilet tank. Be cautious! There might be few water droplets eager to jump out.

Step 7: Connect The Bidet

Most bidet attachments will come with a T-Adapter that splits your water line between the toilet and the bidet. Connect this adapter to your toilet and use that Teflon tape for a tight seal, then reconnect the water supply line to the bottom of the adapter.

Step 8: Attach the Bidet Hose

Next, attach the bidet hose to your attachment and the T-Adapter. Once secured, turn the water supply back on and check for leaks. Tighten as necessary.

The Final Test

Step 9: Kitchen Paper Test

I call this the 'Kitchen Paper Test'. Fold a piece of kitchen paper a few times, place it over the bidet nozzle, and then let it spray. If the paper gets wet evenly without getting sniped across the bathroom, then congrats! You've installed it correctly.

Step 10: The Throne Awaits

Finally, the moment of truth. Test the bidet while sitting on the throne. You'll quickly get a sense if everything is working as it should.

Tips for a Smoother Installation

1. Take a photo of your toilet's setup before you start the installation process. It will be a huge help if you need to backtrack any steps.
2. Double-check your bidet attachment fits your toilet model and shape before purchasing.
3. Teflon tape is your best friend to avoid leaks. Use it whenever you're connecting pipes or hoses.

Finishing Up Your Royal Upgrade

And there you have it! A successfully installed bidet attachment to your existing toilet, all done by yourself. You've not only upgraded your bathroom but also your DIY skills. Now, sit back, enjoy your new throne, and bask in your accomplishment. Give yourself a pat on the back, you DIY champion!

Remember, whether it's a king's castle or a DIY project, it's all about taking it one step at a time. Happy DIY-ing, my friends!