Bidets At UofT — A Call for Inclusivity and Hygiene

The biggest culture shock of coming to Canada as an international student was the lack of bidets in the washroom. Having grown up in the Middle East, where bidets are the norm, the lack of it felt extremely foreign, unhygenic and stressful. Thousands of students and staff at UofT, many of whom come from regions where bidets are the norm, face the same daily discomfort.

Bidets are not a luxury— they are a basic necessity.

This is not about religion, international status, or cultural differences. This is about promoting diversity, inclusion, and respect for the needs of UofT’s globally diverse community.

Bidets were implemented as a pilot at UTSC. Though we are grateful, that is not enough! We need bidets in every building, across campuses.

Here’s why bidets are essential:

1. Cultural Inclusivity and Comfort:

UofT prides itself on being a leader in diversity and inclusion, attracting a richly multicultural population of students and staff. For many, the absence of bidets represents a daily challenge, affecting their comfort and well-being. Providing bidets would be a meaningful way to demonstrate respect for cultural practices and enhance the campus experience for all.

2. Hygiene and Sanitation:

Bidets are widely recognized as more hygienic than toilet paper. Those accustomed to bidets are often forced to carry bottles of water to manage their hygiene, a practice that is neither sanitary nor convenient. By installing bidets, UofT can help students and staff maintain high standards of hygiene, an essential aspect of well-being.

3. Accessibility and Inclusivity for All:

Bidets improve accessibility for individuals with disabilities by offering a hands-free solution to bathroom hygiene. For students and staff with limited mobility or dexterity, bidets are not just a convenience but a necessity, making campus washrooms more inclusive and functional for everyone.

4. Mental and Spiritual Well-being:

Adjusting to life without familiar hygiene practices can add unnecessary stress to students’ and staff’s already demanding lives. Cleanliness is a cornerstone of mental health and spiritual practices for many. Installing bidets would ease this adjustment and contribute positively to mental health and overall campus experience.

5. Environmental Sustainability:

Bidets reduce toilet paper usage, cutting down on waste and promoting environmental sustainability—values that align with UofT’s commitment to combating climate change and reducing its ecological footprint.

6. A Leadership Opportunity for UofT:

As a globally recognized institution, UofT has the power to inspire meaningful change across North America. By taking this step, UofT can set a precedent for other universities and public institutions to prioritize inclusivity, sustainability, and hygiene.