I’m looking at bidet seats and trying to decide which features really matter. I’ve never used a bidet, but with the toilet paper shortage, I’m seriously considering it. My husband travels internationally a lot and loves the Japanese toilets, which I believe are (or similar to) the Toto brand. I’m not buying a full toilet. Our house is only a year old, so no need to upgrade everything.

There are lots of options available and although we need to install an electrical outlet, I’ve decided on an electric model. From there I’m looking at the BioBidet, Brondell, Toto, & Kohler—although I haven’t completely ruled out other brands. I was leaning towards Brondell until I saw it doesn’t have a hybrid heating system, which puts BioBidet in the lead. I’d rather not spend big bucks on the Toto or Kohler unless some of their features matter. These all have different features...tankless water heater vs. hybrid water heater; 1 nozzle vs. 2; metal vs. plastic nozzel; pre-set functions vs. NO pre-sets; dryer vs.no dryer; auto-open/close seat vs. soft close; etc. I could care less if I have an auto-opening/closing seat cover, but soft close is always nice nice. So for those of you that have used a bidet, which of these features really matter? Also, how hygienic are bidets in a shared guest bathroom? I believe all the models I’m looking at have automatic cleaning/sanitation, but I wonder how clean/dirty they get.

ETA: We have a well with very cold water entering the house.