Bidets once were considered an oddity in American homes. But they're becoming increasingly common as more people seek a hygienic and sustainable alternative to toilet paper or a hand managing certain physical conditions. Bidets even earned a moment in the national spotlight last month when New York City’s new mayor, Zorhan Mamdani, said he hoped to have them installed in the bathrooms of Gracie Mansion. Medical professionals sometimes recommend bidets for patients with hemorrhoids, in recovery from surgery, or who have limited mobility due to age or disabilities. But experts say bidets are not best for everyone and need to be used properly to prevent infections and other problems.
