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The “No-Hands” Bathroom: How a Wash & Dry Toilet Restores Dignity
For many of our clients, the most difficult part of aging or reduced mobility isn’t the walking; it’s the loss of privacy in the bathroom.
Struggling to twist, turn, or wipe due to Arthritis, MS, or limited dexterity often means relying on a carer or partner for the most intimate tasks. This can be embarrassing and demoralising.
Enter the Wash and Dry Toilet (also known in the industry as a “Shower Toilet” or “Japanese Toilet”).
At EA Mobility, we install these systems daily. They are not just a luxury gadget; they are a medical necessity that restores 100% independence. Here is the honest truth about how they work and if they are right for you.
What Exactly is a “Shower Toilet”?
It looks like a standard modern toilet, but hidden inside the ceramic rim is a retractable spray arm and a warm air dryer.
How it works (The 3-Step Clean):
- The Wash: You press a button (or use a remote/voice control). A nozzle extends and sprays a gentle, aerated jet of warm water to clean you.
- Note: It feels like a soft spa treatment, not a garden hose!
- The Dry: A stream of warm air gently dries you, removing the need for toilet paper.
- The Self-Clean: The nozzle rinses itself with fresh water and retracts back into the rim, ensuring total hygiene.
The 3 Main Benefits
1. Total Independence (No Carer Needed)
If you cannot wipe effectively due to shoulder pain or balance issues, this toilet handles it for you. It allows you to use the bathroom privately, which is vital for mental well-being and dignity.
2. Superior Hygiene & Skin Care
Water cleans better than paper.
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For Elderly Skin: Dry paper can be abrasive and cause soreness. A warm water wash is gentle, soothing, and prevents irritation.
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Infection Control: It creates a “hands-free” environment, significantly reducing the spread of bacteria (E. coli) on hands.
3. Ease of Use (One Touch)
Modern units like the Geberit AquaClean are designed for users with poor eyesight or weak grip. They can be operated via:
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Large button remote controls.
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A “Touchless” wall panel (wave your hand).
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An app on your phone.
Types of Smart Toilets: Integrated vs. Bolt-On
| Feature | Bolt-On Bidet Seat | Integrated Shower Toilet (Recommended) |
| What is it? | A seat that sits on your old toilet. | A complete replacement toilet unit. |
| Aesthetics | Can look bulky/wired. | Looks like a luxury standard toilet. |
| Seat Height | Raises height (can be an issue). | Standard or Comfort Height. |
| Cleaning | Harder (gaps between seat/pan). | Easy (Rimless design). |
| Cost | Lower (£1000 – £2000) | Higher (£4,500 – £6,500+) |
Our Verdict: We almost always recommend the Integrated Unit. It is sturdier, cleaner, and lasts longer.
Installation: The Technical “Must-Haves”
You cannot just swap this for your old loo. It requires specialist installation.
- Electricity (Part P): You need a Fused Spur (electrical connection) next to the toilet. This must be installed by a qualified electrician to “Zone 2” bathroom safety standards.
- Water Feed: It needs a cold water supply (the unit heats the water instantly).
- Wall Strength: If you choose a Wall-Hung model (great for cleaning the floor), we may need to reinforce the wall with a steel frame to take the weight safely.
How Much Do They Cost? (2026 Prices)
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Integrated Smart Toilet: £3,500 – £5,500+ (Depending on features like heated seats, auto-lids, and night lights).
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Installation: £500 – £1,000 (Including electrics and plumbing).
Can I get Funding?
Yes. Because this is a major aid to independence:
- VAT Exemption: If you have a chronic condition (e.g., Arthritis), you save the 20% VAT immediately.
This is the most important financial detail.
If you are installing a walk-in shower for a medical reason (e.g., Arthritis, Disability, Chronic Illness), you do not have to pay VAT.This is HMRC Notice 701/7. It is not means-tested (unlike a grant). It doesn’t matter how much money you have in the bank.
Example:
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Standard Price: £6,000 + VAT (20%) = £7,200
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Price for You (VAT Free): £6,000
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Total Saving: £1,200
You do not need to claim this back later. At EA Mobility, we deduct it from your invoice before you pay.
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- Council Grants (DFG): Many councils will fund a Wash & Dry toilet if an Occupational Therapist deems it “necessary and appropriate” to keep you independent.
*Note: Grants wording along the lines of Grant applications can be complex and lengthy, often taking 1-2 years to process and requiring detailed eligibility and project criteria. Therefore, we are unable to support these processes and thus our services are focused on clients funding their projects personally so that we can work in a reasonable timescale to offer our clients the best service. We recommend you contact your local council for assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Will the water spray hurt?
A: No. The water is aerated (mixed with air bubbles) to make it soft and gentle. You can adjust the pressure and temperature to your exact liking.
Q: Does it dry you completely?
A: The warm air dryer works well, but it takes a minute or two. Some users prefer to “pat dry” with a small amount of tissue to speed it up, but it isn’t strictly necessary.
Q: Is it hard to keep clean?
A: It is actually easier than a normal toilet. Most models are Rimless (nowhere for germs to hide) and the nozzle cleans itself automatically before and after every single use.
Regain Your Privacy
You shouldn’t have to ask for help in the bathroom. A Shower Toilet is an investment in your dignity and future independence.
Book a Free Home Assessment
We can survey your bathroom to check the electrical and plumbing requirements for a smart toilet installation.
