The 2025 Irish Guide to Japanese Toilets and Smart Bidet Seats
While still a niche luxury in Ireland, the Japanese-style smart toilet (or "washlet") is setting a new standard for personal hygiene and comfort. These advanced toilets offer a superior cleaning experience, heated seats, and warm-air drying, all in one sleek unit. This guide explores the models available in Ireland, their costs, and why more Irish homeowners are considering this significant upgrade for their bathrooms
What is a ‘Shower Toilet’ and Why Are They Gaining Popularity in Ireland?
A ‘shower toilet’, also known as a Japanese toilet or bidet seat, is an advanced bathroom fixture that combines the functions of a traditional toilet with those of a bidet. These high-tech toilets typically feature a built-in water spray for cleansing, heated seats, and air-drying capabilities. In Ireland, their popularity is growing due to increased awareness of personal hygiene, environmental concerns, and the desire for luxury bathroom experiences.
The primary appeal lies in the superior cleanliness they offer compared to traditional toilet paper. The precise, adjustable water spray ensures a thorough clean, while the warm air dryer eliminates the need for paper altogether. This not only improves personal hygiene but also reduces household paper waste, appealing to environmentally conscious Irish consumers.
The Cost of a Smart Toilet in Ireland: A 2025 Price Guide
Smart toilets in Ireland range from basic models to high-end luxury units. Entry-level bidet seats that can be attached to existing toilets start at around €300-€500. Mid-range integrated smart toilets typically cost between €1,000-€2,500. High-end models with advanced features like automatic lid opening, night lights, and customizable user profiles can reach prices of €3,000-€6,000 or more.
| Product Type | Price Range (€) | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Bidet Seat | 300-500 | Water spray, adjustable temperature |
| Mid-range Smart Toilet | 1,000-2,500 | Heated seat, warm air dryer, deodorizer |
| High-end Smart Toilet | 3,000-6,000+ | Auto functions, personalized settings, luxury design |
Prices, rates, or cost estimates mentioned in this article are based on the latest available information but may change over time. Independent research is advised before making financial decisions.
The Green Choice: How a Japanese Toilet Reduces Household Paper Waste
Japanese toilets significantly reduce household paper waste by eliminating or greatly reducing the need for toilet paper. A typical Irish household uses about 127 rolls of toilet paper per year. By switching to a smart toilet, this consumption can be cut by up to 75%, resulting in substantial paper savings and reduced environmental impact.
Moreover, the reduction in paper use translates to fewer trees cut down, less water used in paper production, and reduced energy consumption in manufacturing and transportation. For environmentally conscious Irish consumers, this aspect of smart toilets is particularly appealing, aligning with broader sustainability goals.
A Plumber’s Guide: Installing a Smart Toilet in an Irish Home
Installing a smart toilet in an Irish home typically requires the expertise of a professional plumber. The process involves removing the existing toilet, ensuring proper electrical and plumbing connections, and securing the new unit. Most Irish homes will need an electrical outlet installed near the toilet, which should be done by a certified electrician.
The installation process generally takes 2-4 hours, depending on the complexity of the model and any necessary modifications to the bathroom. It’s crucial to check that your home’s water pressure meets the minimum requirements for the smart toilet, usually around 1.4 bar. Some older Irish homes may need plumbing upgrades to accommodate these modern fixtures.
Best Smart Toilet Brands Available in Ireland (and Where to Find Them)
Several reputable brands offer smart toilets and bidet seats in Ireland. TOTO, a Japanese company known for pioneering the technology, is widely regarded as a top-tier option. Other popular brands include Geberit, Grohe, and Villeroy & Boch, which offer models specifically designed for European bathrooms.
| Brand | Key Features | Where to Find |
|---|---|---|
| TOTO | Advanced cleaning technology, luxury designs | Specialized bathroom retailers, online stores |
| Geberit | European designs, water-saving features | Plumbing supply stores, select DIY chains |
| Grohe | German engineering, sleek aesthetics | High-end bathroom showrooms, online retailers |
| Villeroy & Boch | Traditional European styling with modern technology | Luxury bathroom suppliers, authorized dealers |
These brands can be found at specialized bathroom retailers, high-end plumbing supply stores, and select online marketplaces that ship to Ireland. Some DIY chains are also beginning to stock more affordable smart toilet options.
How Smart Toilets Are Changing Bathroom Design in Irish Homes
The integration of smart toilets is influencing bathroom design trends in Ireland. Homeowners are now considering factors like electrical outlet placement and overall bathroom layout to accommodate these high-tech fixtures. There’s a growing trend towards minimalist bathroom designs that showcase the sleek profiles of smart toilets.
Smart toilets are also driving the adoption of other smart bathroom technologies, such as digital shower controls and smart mirrors. This holistic approach to bathroom design is creating more cohesive, technologically advanced spaces in Irish homes. As awareness grows, architects and interior designers in Ireland are increasingly incorporating smart toilets into their plans for new builds and renovations, signaling a shift in how we approach bathroom functionality and comfort.
In conclusion, while Japanese toilets and smart bidet seats are still emerging in the Irish market, their benefits in terms of hygiene, comfort, and environmental impact are gaining recognition. As prices become more competitive and awareness increases, it’s likely that more Irish households will embrace this bathroom revolution in the coming years.
