Beyond Clean: The Science Behind the American Standard Advanced Clean 3.0 SpaLet

Update on Feb. 15, 2025, 5:08 p.m.

A Refreshing Revolution: Rethinking Bathroom Hygiene

For generations, North Americans have relied on toilet paper as the primary means of cleansing after using the toilet. But is it truly the best, most hygienic option? Consider this: if you got mud on your hands, would you simply wipe it off with a dry paper towel? Probably not. You’d use water, and likely soap, to ensure a thorough clean. The same logic applies to bathroom hygiene. Bidet seats, long popular in Europe and Asia, are finally gaining traction in North America, offering a superior level of cleanliness and comfort. And leading the way is the American Standard Advanced Clean 3.0 SpaLet Electric Bidet Seat (Model: 8018A60GRC-020).
 American Standard 8018A60GRC-020 Advanced Clean 3.0 SpaLet Electric Bidet Seat

Beyond Paper: The Science of Water Cleansing

The fundamental principle behind a bidet is simple yet profound: water cleans more effectively than dry paper. Water helps to dissolve and wash away fecal matter and bacteria, rather than just smearing it around. This not only leaves you feeling cleaner, but it also significantly reduces the risk of irritation, infection, and the spread of germs. Think of it like washing dishes – you wouldn’t just wipe a dirty plate with a paper towel and call it clean, would you?

Inside the American Standard Advanced Clean 3.0: Engineering a Better Clean

The American Standard Advanced Clean 3.0 SpaLet isn’t just a basic bidet; it’s a sophisticated piece of engineering designed to optimize hygiene, comfort, and convenience. Let’s explore some of its key features and the science behind them:

Warmth on Demand: The Magic of Instantaneous Heating

Imagine stepping into a shower and instantly having perfectly warm water, without the wait. That’s the beauty of the Advanced Clean 3.0’s instantaneous water heating system. Unlike older bidet models that relied on bulky, energy-consuming water tanks, this system uses a powerful ceramic heating element. As cold water flows through a specially designed channel, it comes into contact with the heated ceramic. Because ceramic is an excellent conductor of heat, it rapidly transfers thermal energy to the water, raising its temperature almost instantly. This means you get warm water on demand, without wasting energy keeping a tank of water constantly heated. This is thermodynamics in action – the efficient transfer of heat energy from one object (the ceramic heater) to another (the water). And, with six different temperature settings, from a refreshing cool to a soothing warm (approximately 89.6°F to 104°F), you’re in complete control.
 American Standard 8018A60GRC-020 Advanced Clean 3.0 SpaLet Electric Bidet Seat

Targeted Cleansing: The Two-Nozzle Advantage

The Advanced Clean 3.0 features a dual-nozzle system, a significant upgrade over single-nozzle bidets. Why two nozzles? Simple: optimal hygiene and personalized comfort. One nozzle is dedicated to posterior (rear) cleansing, while the other is designed for feminine (front) cleansing. Each nozzle is positioned and angled differently to ensure thorough and comfortable cleaning for all users. This design also minimizes the risk of cross-contamination.

The nozzles themselves are more than just simple spouts. They’re carefully engineered to deliver a precise stream of water, utilizing principles of fluid dynamics. The shape and size of the nozzle openings, along with the water pressure, determine the spray pattern and coverage. The Advanced Clean 3.0 offers both oscillating and massage spray options, further enhancing the cleansing experience. The oscillating spray moves the nozzle back and forth, covering a wider area, while the massage spray alternates the water pressure, providing a gentle pulsating sensation.

Pressure Perfected: Finding Your Ideal Flow

Speaking of water pressure, the Advanced Clean 3.0 gives you complete control. With six different pressure settings, you can customize the water stream to your liking, from a gentle wash to a more powerful cleanse. This isn’t just about preference; it’s also about sensitivity. Individuals with hemorrhoids or other sensitive conditions may prefer a lower pressure, while others might find a stronger stream more effective.

Hygiene Hero: Self-Cleaning Nozzles and Antimicrobial Materials

Maintaining hygiene is crucial, and the Advanced Clean 3.0 takes this seriously. The nozzles automatically rinse themselves with water before and after each use. This self-cleaning feature, combined with the dual-nozzle design, helps to prevent the buildup of bacteria and ensure a consistently sanitary experience. The seat itself is made from a durable plastic that resists staining.

A Gentle Breeze: The Comfort of Warm Air Drying

After cleansing, the integrated warm air dryer provides a comfortable and hygienic alternative to toilet paper. With three adjustable temperature settings (ranging from approximately 104°F to 131°F), you can find the perfect level of warmth. This not only leaves you feeling fresh and dry but also further reduces the need for toilet paper, contributing to a more sustainable lifestyle.

Fresh Air, Always: Understanding the Deodorizer

The Advanced Clean 3.0 includes a built-in deodorizer that uses a clever application of air pressure. Rather than simply masking odors with fragrance, it actively draws air from the toilet bowl, creating a negative pressure zone. This prevents unpleasant smells from escaping into the bathroom. The air is then passed through a filter before being released, effectively neutralizing odors at their source.
 American Standard 8018A60GRC-020 Advanced Clean 3.0 SpaLet Electric Bidet Seat

The Bidet: A Global Perspective and a Greener Future

While bidets might seem like a modern innovation, their roots actually go back centuries. Early versions appeared in France in the 17th century, and they’ve long been a standard fixture in bathrooms across Europe, Asia, and South America. North America is catching on, as more and more people discover the benefits of water cleansing.

Beyond personal hygiene, bidets also offer environmental advantages. By reducing or eliminating the need for toilet paper, they help to conserve trees, water, and energy used in the manufacturing and transportation of paper products.

Beyond the Basics: Smart Features for Modern Living

The American Standard Advanced Clean 3.0 SpaLet also includes thoughtful features like a slow-closing seat and lid, preventing jarring slams and adding a touch of elegance to your bathroom. It also incorporates a power-saving mode, which reduces energy consumption when the seat is not in use.
 American Standard 8018A60GRC-020 Advanced Clean 3.0 SpaLet Electric Bidet Seat

Conclusion: Embracing a Cleaner, More Comfortable Tomorrow

The American Standard Advanced Clean 3.0 SpaLet Electric Bidet Seat represents a significant advancement in bathroom hygiene and comfort. It’s a fusion of thoughtful engineering, scientific principles, and user-centric design, offering a truly superior cleansing experience. By embracing this technology, we can move beyond outdated methods and embrace a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable future. For more information, visit the American Standard website.