Brondell to take on Toto in techtoilet tackle

Like so many other imports that just haven't been able to break America, Toto ever remains on the list of companies we probably won't ever see selling well—enter the Swash (400/600) by Brondell, a Toto Washlet workalike (you know the Washlet, it's kind of like a mini-bidet) with a heated seat and mechanical opening/closing mechanism to handle all your "posterior & feminine wash[ing]" needs. Did we mention this toilet accessory was created by ex-Spinner.com founder David Samuel? (As if that will change your opinion.)

[Via SFgate]

[brunoflipper @ Dec 19th 2005 1:04AM]

ummm.... toto toilets are everywhere and a major US vendor... just not the fancy electro-mp3-funky ones

[David Samuel @ Dec 19th 2005 1:04AM]

Why such an offbeat product after Spinner? It is the only product that I have ever experienced that can be used by every man, woman & child on this earth ... and it makes 'the experience' better. I have had hundreds of friends & customers experience the product ... and i have only heard positive feedback. The nice thing about the american market: there are ~250 million toilet seats ... so Brondell will be a very successful company by hitting just a small piece of that market.

In the end, it's all about experiencing the product. You are invited any time to visit Brondell HQ's ... we're right in SF. stop by and visit & experience the swash. As i've said b4, who wants to sit on cold porcelain toilet seats?

[John Philips @ Dec 19th 2005 1:04AM]

Bottom line is... dry toilet paper does not clean. Water does.

[Chris Whatley @ Dec 19th 2005 1:04AM]

I've was exposed to Toto's in Japan, but never bought since they won't fit on my Kohler toilets. So, when I learned about this product, I actually went and bought one of these things. Big disappointment in terms of form. The hardware at the rear of the seat is so bulky that it is hard for even tiny people to sit on the toilet comfortably (e.g., my 110lb. wife). I have the elongated one and I can't imagine the regular size one being at all usable.

Regarding function, I'm unable to comment - not due to Brondell, I must say. Still trying to find a supply hose so I can get the water supply hooked up. They could provide a little more pre-sales information about the installation and saved me a lot of trouble (i.e., stopped me from buying).

I'm moving soon and my next bowl will surely be a Toto unless Brondell finds some way to get some more ass space in their next design. Recommendation: flatten out the innards and make the seat thicker.

Another recommendation is that the company needs to put their cards on the table and not just show the product from only flattering angles. I feel a bit decieved in this regard. If I'd seen the massive bulge on the site, I would not have bought in the first place.

I wish I could return it, but they won't take it since the rubber has already hit the road (so to speak). I guess that aspect of the return policy is understandable.

Also, had a good experience with their customer service though they did stop short of actually sending me the virtually impossible to find part that is needed to get my Swash to work in my particular bathroom.

[Carmi @ Dec 19th 2005 1:04AM]

This will fly in America right around the same time Osama rides the convertible down Main Street on July 4th.

Americans and toilet hygeine: not exactly the world's coziest combination.

Carmi
http://writteninc.blogspot.com

[Lucas @ Dec 19th 2005 1:04AM]

Toto washlets are available in America. I don't see why these toilets aren't more popular, they work really well. Too bad Inax doesn't market their toilets in America, some of them are better than the washlets. If you're browser can handle Japanese, check Inax out: http://www.inax.co.jp/ If these Brondells hook up easily I'd definately get one.

[scott epstein @ Dec 19th 2005 1:04AM]

I own one of these and it is incredible. After using it for a few weeks, anything else is a disappointment. Promise.

[Gadget Freak @ Dec 19th 2005 1:04AM]

Good thing the keypad is wall-mounted.

What if >!splash!< you drop the remote control down *there*?!?

Somehow my life is so incomplete!

[bcase @ Dec 19th 2005 1:04AM]

Why don't we have these in Effingham Il. David, nice article in Newsweek.

[Samuel Lago @ Dec 19th 2005 1:04AM]

Clip on cheap rubbish, its looks really ugly too. If your going for a clever toilet then it needs to be the real deal and that means the whole thing.

I want my toilet to be networked, to tell my doctor what my signs are, to tell my computer what im lacking in foods like vitamin A and then give me a list of RECIPIES not pills or individual ingredients, which I can then cook.

The real deal is the whole thing, networked and clever.

[Bruce Santhuff @ Dec 19th 2005 1:04AM]

Bottom washing is about to become the next "Pet Rock". Once enough people try one, word of mouth will spread like wildfire. Wiping is stone age. Everyone can appreciate a gentle spray of warm water... and it cleans better. Isn't that the point? Check out www.Spaloo.com same type of product different manufacturer.