Side Controls

Seeking a shower-fresh bidet clean without any extra accessories? Side control bidet seats put the bidet controls at your fingertips with no need to make room for – or keep track of – a separate remote control. 

Side control operated bidets build all the controls directly into the seat using either a control panel or dial, so you’ll never have to worry about losing or dropping a remote. And there are no batteries to replace in a bidet seat that uses a side control. 

Bidets with side controls also eliminate any concerns about connectivity issues. While these problems are uncommon, they can happen with infrared remotes in small or dark bathrooms. Radio frequency remotes offer dependable operation in any space, but are typically only available with higher-end bidets. 

If your bathroom is really small – or your toilet is tucked away in a small water closet – side control operated bidets offer a reliable, budget-friendly solution. And since remotes are meant to be attached to a wall or vanity, bidets with side controls are also a helpful option in bathrooms without a convenient mounting location near the toilet.

While there are some clear advantages to bidet seats with side controls, there are also downsides. Most importantly, reaching and adjusting the bidet controls requires a fair amount of twisting and turning. Plus, since the controls aren’t at eye level, it may be challenging to see all the options. If you have mobility concerns or low vision, we highly recommend bidets with remotes.

If you’re looking for the best of both worlds – plus all the premium bidet features you could ever want – the Ultra NOVA can be operated with either its sleek radio frequency remote control or classy side-mounted dial.

Pros and Cons of Side Bidet Controls

Pros:

• All the features are available directly on the seat – no worries about misplacing a remote (or kids dropping it in the toilet!)
• No batteries to replace
• Reliable operation in any space
• No need for a nearby wall or vanity to mount a remote control

Cons:

• Users with limited mobility or vision may find it difficult to access and manipulate the controls
• Controls are in the “splash zone” and may get dirty or be less hygienic
• Side mount can crack over time if too much pressure is placed on the control panel
• Control panel may be difficult to access if the toilet is very close to a wall
• Can’t be operated from a distance, compromising privacy and dignity for caregivers and their loved ones
• Bulkier and less streamlined than remote-operated bidets