Can You Install a Bidet in an Apartment?
Introduction: Bidet Benefits in Small Spaces
Living in an apartment doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice comfort or hygiene — especially when it comes to your bathroom. Bidets are no longer reserved for luxury homes or custom renovations. Thanks to compact designs and renter-friendly installation options, apartment dwellers across the U.S. are making the switch.
In this guide, we’ll explore the best types of bidets for apartments, how to install one without violating your lease, and why it’s one of the smartest upgrades you can make to your bathroom in 2025.
Are Bidets Apartment-Friendly?
Modern Bidet Designs for Small Bathrooms
Today’s bidets are designed with flexibility in mind. You’ll find low-profile bidet seats, non-electric attachments, and even portable bidet options that are perfect for tight or temporary spaces. Whether your bathroom is a master suite or a tiny half-bath, there’s a solution that can work.
What Landlords Typically Allow
In most cases, landlords don’t object to non-permanent upgrades like bidet attachments or electronic seats — as long as they don’t damage plumbing or require structural changes. The key is reversibility. Many renters install bidets and simply remove them when they move, leaving no trace.
Still, it’s a good idea to check your lease or contact your property manager before installation — especially if you're considering models that require electrical access or water line extensions.
Types of Bidets You Can Install in Apartments
Non-Electric Bidet Attachments
These are the easiest and most renter-friendly bidets. They mount between your existing toilet seat and the bowl, connect directly to your water supply, and don’t require power. Models like those from SoftSpa and Go Bidet are discreet, affordable, and effective — perfect for apartments.
Electric Bidet Seats
Electric bidet seats offer luxury features like heated seats, warm water, air dryers, and self-cleaning nozzles. As long as you have a GFCI electrical outlet near the toilet, these can be installed just as easily in apartments as in houses. TOTO and Alpha Bidet offer excellent low-profile electric options ideal for renters.
Handheld and Portable Bidets
If you're not allowed to modify fixtures or want something ultra-flexible, handheld or travel bidets are a great alternative. These compact tools require no plumbing changes and are excellent for short-term stays or very small bathrooms.
Water and Power Requirements
Do You Need a Plumber?
For most bidet models — especially non-electric attachments — you do not need a plumber. These units connect directly to your toilet’s existing water supply using T-adapters that come with the product. If you can use a wrench and follow simple instructions, you can handle the install on your own.
Only integrated bidet-toilet systems or custom plumbing upgrades would require professional assistance, which are generally not recommended in rental units.
Do You Need an Electrical Outlet?
If you’re installing an electric bidet seat (like the TOTO Washlet or Brondell Swash), you’ll need a GFCI outlet within a few feet of your toilet. Most newer apartments already include this in the bathroom. If not, a licensed electrician may be able to add one with landlord permission.
Portable or non-electric bidets don’t require power at all, making them ideal for plug-restricted spaces.
Installation Guide for Renters
Step-by-Step for Non-Electric Models
- Shut off your toilet’s water supply valve.
- Remove the toilet seat (usually 2 bolts).
- Place the bidet attachment on the bowl and realign the seat over it.
- Connect the T-adapter to the water line and attach the hose to the bidet.
- Turn the water back on, check for leaks, and test!
Total install time: 15–30 minutes. No drilling, plumbing, or stress involved.
How to Install an Electric Bidet Seat
- Turn off water and remove your existing toilet seat.
- Attach the electric bidet seat using the included mounting plate.
- Connect the water hose and plug the unit into a nearby outlet.
- Turn on water, program your settings, and enjoy!
Just make sure your power outlet is GFCI protected to meet safety codes.
Can You Install a Bidet Without Damaging Anything?
Reversible Installations Explained
Yes — nearly all apartment-safe bidet options are designed to be 100% reversible. That means no holes in your fixtures, no permanent alterations to plumbing, and no risk of losing your security deposit. You can uninstall the unit, wipe it down, and the bathroom will look just like it did before.
How to Avoid Lease Violations
Stick to products that don't modify walls or internal pipes. Avoid hardwired units or anything that permanently alters your bathroom layout. If in doubt, opt for non-electric attachments or portable solutions — they deliver great results with zero risk.
Best Bidet Options for Apartment Living
Compact, Low-Profile Designs
Apartment bathrooms are often short on space, so a low-profile design makes all the difference. Bidet seats like the TOTO Washlet S7A and Anzzi Dive are slim, stylish, and don’t require a bulky water tank — ideal for tighter toilet layouts.
Top Recommended Models in 2025
- TOTO Washlet S7A: Affordable electric bidet seat with warm water, heated seat, and nightlight
- Bio Bidet BB2000: Luxury, comfort, and cutting-edge hygiene technology that installs in minutes
- SoftSpa 9500 (available soon with Premium Bidet) : Simple, sleek, and great for beginners
- Bio BIdet Discovery DLS Bidet Seat: Perfect balance of price and performance for renters
All of these models offer high performance in compact forms — making them easy to install, easy to remove, and perfect for apartment life.
What to Do If You’re Not Allowed to Install a Bidet
Portable and Travel Bidet Options
If your landlord strictly prohibits plumbing adjustments, don’t worry — you still have options. Portable bidets like the Go Bidet or travel-sized squeeze bottles are ideal for maintaining hygiene without altering any fixtures.
Temporary Bidet Solutions
Clip-on bidets that attach with suction or reusable adhesives offer another non-invasive route. While they don’t have the features of full bidet seats, they can be removed in seconds — making them excellent for very short-term housing or lease-restricted situations.
Benefits of Installing a Bidet in Your Apartment
Improved Hygiene and Comfort
Let’s be honest: toilet paper can’t match the cleanliness of warm water. Even a basic bidet can drastically improve your hygiene, reduce irritation, and elevate your daily routine — all without sacrificing square footage.
Eco-Friendly and Water Saving
Bidets help reduce toilet paper use by up to 75%, saving trees and lowering your carbon footprint. And despite using water, they consume far less than the paper-making process. Going bidet is one of the easiest sustainable changes apartment renters can make.
FAQs About Apartment Bidet Installation
Q: Can I install a bidet if I live in a rental?
A: Yes! Most landlords allow removable, non-invasive bidet attachments or seats. Always check your lease or ask first.
Q: Will installing a bidet damage my apartment bathroom?
A: No. Most models are designed for 100% reversibility and won’t damage fixtures or plumbing.
Q: Do bidets require special plumbing?
A: No special plumbing is needed. Most connect directly to your toilet’s water line using standard fittings.
Q: Can I use a bidet without electricity?
A: Yes! Non-electric and portable bidets work great and don’t require a power outlet.
Q: What’s the easiest bidet to install in an apartment?
A: Non-electric attachments like the Bio Bidet BB-70 or SoftSpa 9500 install in under 30 minutes and are ideal for renters.
Conclusion: Yes, You Can — and Should!
Living in an apartment doesn’t mean missing out on comfort and hygiene. With renter-friendly models like non-electric bidets, compact electric seats, and even portable options, installing a bidet is easier than ever — and completely worth it.
Whether you’re upgrading your studio bathroom or renting long-term, a bidet offers better cleanliness, reduced paper waste, and a smarter bathroom experience.
Ready to try one? Take our Bidet Quiz or explore our Top Apartment-Friendly Bidets to find your perfect match.
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