Wash and Dry Toilets: Benefits, Costs and Installation Guide

Maintaining independence in the bathroom can become difficult for people with reduced mobility, limited hand strength, neurological conditions, or balance issues. A wash and dry toilet — sometimes called a bidet toilet, shower toilet, or smart toilet — offers a hygienic, hands-free way to clean yourself after using the toilet.

This guide explains everything UK homeowners need to know about wash and dry toilets in 2025, including:

• What they are and how they work
• Key features
• Who benefits most
• Costs and installation
• Maintenance and lifespan
• Comparison with standard toilets
• How to choose the right model for your home

1. What Is a Wash and Dry Toilet?

A wash and dry toilet is an advanced accessible toilet that automatically:

1. Washes the user with warm water
2. Gently dries them with warm air
3. Removes the need for toilet paper

Designed for people with limited mobility or dexterity, it delivers independence, dignity, better hygiene and reduced risk of irritation or infection.

2. Who Are Wash and Dry Toilets Designed For?

These toilets are ideal for:

✔ Older adults

Who struggle with twisting or reaching.

✔ Wheelchair users

Supports independent personal hygiene.

✔ People with arthritis

Especially hand, wrist and shoulder arthritis.

✔ People with neurological conditions

Parkinson’s, MS, stroke survivors, MND, dementia.

✔ People with limited grip strength

Reduces need for manipulating toilet paper.

✔ Anyone wanting improved hygiene

An increasingly popular choice for modern bathrooms.

3. Key Benefits of Wash and Dry Toilets

3.1 Improved Hygiene

Warm water washing and warm air drying leave the user feeling cleaner and fresher.

3.2 Maintains Independence

Allows private toileting without assistance, even when mobility is reduced.

3.3 Reduces Strain & Pain

Eliminates twisting, bending or reaching.

3.4 Gentle on Sensitive Skin

Perfect for haemorrhoids, IBS, Crohn’s, and postoperative recovery.

3.5 Carer Support

Reduces the need for personal care intervention, preserving dignity.

3.6 Modern Comfort Features

Premium models offer:

• Heated seat
• Deodorisation
• Night lights
• Automatic flush
• Smart sensors
• Remote control operation

4. Features to Look For (Full Breakdown)

4.1 Washing Functions

• Adjustable water pressure
• Adjustable temperature
• Oscillating or pulsating spray
• Front and rear wash

4.2 Drying Functions

• Adjustable warm air drying
• Auto-stop safety sensors

4.3 Seat & Access Features

• Height options (comfort height 480–500mm)
• Soft-close lid
• Remote control or side panel

4.4 Safety Features

• Anti-bacterial coatings
• Automatic cleaning
• Overflow prevention
• Emergency flush backup

4.5 Power and Plumbing

• 230v electrical connection
• Standard cold-water feed
• Some models require a fused spur

5. Wash and Dry Toilet Costs

Costs vary by brand, features and installation needs.

5.1 Toilet Unit Cost

• Entry-level models: £1,800–£2,500
• Mid-range models: £2,500–£4,000
• High-end models: £4,000–£6,000+

5.2 Installation Cost

• Standard Installation: £350–£700
• Electrical work (if needed): £120–£250
• Old toilet removal: included or £50–£100

👉 Typical UK total price in 2025:

£2,200 – £6,800+ installed

6. Installation: What You Need to Know

Most homes can accommodate a wash and dry toilet.

6.1 Plumbing Requirements

• Standard cold feed
• 110mm soil pipe
• Existing WC connection usually fine

6.2 Electrical Requirements

• 230v power supply
• Ideally a fused spur next to the toilet location

6.3 Installation Time

• 2–4+ hours (with plumbing & electrical work)

EA Mobility handles all plumbing, electrics, installation and testing.

7. Wash and Dry Toilet vs Standard Toilet

If independence, hygiene and comfort are priorities, wash and dry toilets are significantly better.

8. Wash and Dry Toilets vs Bidet Attachments

Bidet attachments are cheaper but lack the comfort and safety features of integrated wash/dry systems.

9. Maintenance & Lifespan

Cleaning

• Exterior: clean like a normal toilet
• Nozzles: many self-clean automatically

Servicing

• Optional annual service recommended

Lifespan

• Typically 8–12 years, depending on usage and model

10. Choosing the Right Wash & Dry Toilet (Homeowner Checklist)

Choose based on:

• user mobility level
• independent vs assisted use
• space available
• need for comfort-height toilet
• available electrics
• budget
• preferred controls (remote, side panel)

EA Mobility can assess your bathroom and recommend the best model.

11. FAQ Section

Are wash and dry toilets safe for elderly users?

Yes — they reduce strain, twisting, and reaching.

Can they be fitted in small bathrooms?

Yes. They replace your standard toilet footprint.

Do they increase water use?

Water usage is modest and far less wasteful than excessive toilet paper.

Do they need hot water supply?

No — most models heat water internally.

Conclusion

A wash and dry toilet is one of the most valuable accessibility upgrades for any UK home. It dramatically improves hygiene, reduces reliance on carers, and supports long-term independent living.

EA Mobility provides:

• personalised recommendations
• professional installation
• ongoing support
• high-quality models for every mobility level

Upgrade your bathroom with confidence — your independence matters.