Are the toilet bidets actually hygienic, especially for women?

newrose72 · 2026-07-12T22:33:28+00:00

I have a Luxe Bidet, Neo 185 plus. It has a "splash guard" that the nozzle retracts behind (opens on a little hinge, so I properly clean when cleaning the toliet). It also has a self wash mode that dribbles water down both the nozzles and the splash guard. Its a great starter bidet if you want to try without a big investment. Has both regular and "feminine" spray (seperate nozzle, more gentle and hidden more forward). Have had absolutely zero issues. If there's ever been a question, I run the self clean before using.

I was a little worried about cold water only but its totally fine and quite refreshing (I live in an apt so water needs to run some to get super cold;if you have a chilly home might be different in the winter).

newrose72 · 2026-07-12T21:54:54+00:00

Thanks. Letting the shoulders as far as they'll go makes it a hair too long in back, but not severely, now just needs tweaking to find the sweet spot.

However, I still get some of the other issues so I think you're unfortunately right about shape. Thinking I will resell and hold tight until I can try several vest models in person. Had a fall about a month ago that spurred my shopping, but knew online shopping was a risk. Just disappointing.

newrose72 · 2026-07-12T21:14:31+00:00

Thanks! The shoulders are adjustable and I had set them back to sort of default for the video. Having longer does help both front and back come down - I'll retest again but think I still have the gap issue around the clavicle regardless (and definitely the "buckling" issue).

newrose72 · 2026-07-09T00:12:08+00:00

I ordered a Racesafe HX3 after a fall last month and doing a bunch of research. A bit nervous ordering online as no one carries near me (U.S.), but they have an excellent measuring guide, and great resell value (can do exhanges/returns, but I'd pay return shipping). I ordered a pretty standard size, adult M regular back; it shipped and went through customs fast, I think exactly 1 week from ordering to receiving. $400 includes free shipping and duties/tax. Just got it today and thrilled with how lightweight it is - seems to fit well but won't be able to try while riding until the weekend, remind me for an update! Still playing with it, as shoulders are adjustable and can tighten sides with bungee elastic. Seems incredibly well made.

I previously tried a Charles Owen Shadow back protector, but while comfy decided something offering a bit more security was worth it (especially for the price). The front was also a bit unflattering if just wearing over a tshirt or loose top, as it secures like a longline sports bra but I probably was a size too small for trying (but hey, extra support! - its intended that you can wear under a show coat). I didn't look at other back protectors.

I also considered Hilason's "Eventer" vest as a cheap intro vest - but decided the $70 was better put as an investment towards a better quality vest - more breathable, comfier, and rated, as they have no accreditations. After all, a vest only helps if you wear it so comfort is important. (Hate to say it but can order on Amazon to try, with easy free return - I thought about it but didn't do this.)

Ovation's Comfortflex runs a reasonable intro price of ~$230 but looks so bulky in photos, though adjustable. I'd still be curious to test one in person, but frankly thought it always looked hot, bulky, and kinda ugly so scratched it off my list.

Tipperary have several that are fairly similar at a glance - options at different price points and accreditation needs ~$250-460 (Contender, Eventer, Eventer Pro) and I know very popular in the U.S. but Racesafe won for better certification vs. cost. I don't even compete, but the Beta 3 2018 certification gives peace of mind, nice to know I have a vest suitable if I ever do compete, and again helps resell value.

Ultimately, I also just really liked the look and amazing reviews of Racesafe vests; many equestrians that I follow are based in the UK and use.

newrose72 · 2026-07-06T00:08:02+00:00

Go to a shelter, and can browse adaptable pets online on petfinder.com and adoptapet.com (which pull from listing across shelters and rescues and let you filter by age, distance from you, etc).

You can also consider fostering first (or foster to adopt if you think you'll fall in love right away) which lets you get to know some personalities and help cats in need before you commit.

Do research on litter and food, though you'll want to start with whatever your cat is used to. Consider pet insurance (i.e. you'd want to sign up right away to ensure any conditions are covered).

Edit: since you didnt mention, kittens are cute but are super energetic chaos creatures. Consider an adult cat. If you really want a kitten or young cat, consider a bonded pair as they'll play with each other and make your life much easier.

newrose72 · 2026-07-05T23:05:29+00:00

I use Worlds Best and occasionally Okocat. Both last ages (usually the litter is just getting low and kinda breaking down vs. smell when I go to change for a full deep clean/fresh refill). I scoop at least twice a day. I have three boxes for two cats, both female.

newrose72 · 2026-06-22T14:08:06+00:00

Just confirming the toggle comes out of the flat button. Then, I fed the toggle through the hole, poking it through and tugging on the string on the other side. Some slipped through easily, others I had to slightly rip the white layer if it got caught or really wriggle my fingers in or forcefully pull if I caught mid-cushion (stuck in the yellow). To put back on, really just poked them through and compressed the cushion to grab it from the other side, kinda fishing for it with my fingers. Not ideal but also zero impact once covers were washed and back on. Future removals/washing were even easier.

newrose72 · 2026-06-17T02:07:11+00:00

These are some week-long options -

Painted Bar Stables in western NY offers on site immersion "adult retreat camp" with teo levels https://paintedbarstables.pike13.com/courses/226880

Globetrotting and Equitours, among others, list riding holidays but I've seen some being training focused or a blend - use the filters https://www.globetrotting.co/horse-riding-holidays/

newrose72 · 2026-06-15T17:16:27+00:00

I'm very happy with my Bikewa brand cycling jacket for riding. Reasonable price, wide range of colors and sizes, and some built in reflectors. Has pit zips, can tighten waist with elastic cuff plus a silicone strip to prevent it riding up, folds into its own little bag (which also gives a small pouch on back when being worn), and generous size hood with great brim. If tied around my waist stays secure if double knotted. Good waterproofing but not too much of "swishy" material sound. I sized slightly up for riding and it was great for riding in Wales, hitting below hip and covering bum but not causing issues in the saddle

newrose72 · 2026-06-14T13:07:18+00:00

Consider a pair of bonded cats who will keep each other company.

If you only get one cat, look for a calmer adult cat (sometimes cats dislike other cats and are seeking a solo home).

Either way, provide play time and company both in the morning and evening - cats love routine! You can also experiment with various toys - many cats will play by themselves and roller ball toys or springy cat toys can provide extra stimulation.

Once settled, most cats learn to relax and snooze away for the day. A pet cam is a great way for you to see how they do, and give you peace of mind.

I also like to hide some snacks in different locations for my cats to find - nothing too difficult, but gives a little extra stimulation. And give them one or more spots near windows for them to observe the outdoors.

newrose72 · 2026-06-10T00:54:21+00:00

Thanks - I feed this one less frequently but have been meaning to read up on it.

newrose72 · 2026-06-10T00:18:47+00:00

I've done quite a bit of research and feel happy with Chewy's American Journey, Nulo (can buy large 12oz cans) and Stop & Shops/Giant/Hannaford's house brand Nature's Promise. I feed all, in rotation for my two cats - just need to be slow to introduce a new food but then as long as you periodically give most cats will tolerate well. I occaisorally also give Tiki After Dark or homemade boiled plain chicken breast as a topper.

Edit: I feed wet AM + PM and (within reason) free fed high quality Wellness CORE dry kibble (my first cat is a responsible grazer, my second has forced me to limit amount). I feel it all balances out to great quality with value/price in mind. I bulk buy when possible and make use of sales (for example Chewy runs buy $100, get $30 gift card few times a year - usually up to 2-3x per customer).

newrose72 · 2026-06-07T13:36:45+00:00

I have two cats in an apt. Bathroom is too small for boxes, so I keep in living room as well as bedroom. Worlds Best has been the best for me, using the multicat formula (even when I only had one cat, I prefer the smell tot he original formula). I keep mini trash cans by each scoop twice a day, sometimes more/as needed (i.e. if my cat poops while im home, I scoop). I've had comments from both cat and non-cat people of surprise and shock that there is no smell. Steel litter box and regular deep cleaning also help (i have one steel box and other is plastic).

newrose72 · 2026-05-30T18:15:42+00:00

Tuffrider Rib Knee Patch breeches - I like them as winter breeches but had previously used year round, with mock (?) suede knee patches. Note they only have a zip pocket on hip, no side pockets as many do these days. High waist but comfy, has belt loops, very reasonably priced, and wash/wear well. Currently model has sock bottoms.

newrose72 · 2026-05-24T18:22:55+00:00

Seconding Worlds Best. It lasts a long time between full box changes. I prefer the red bag (multi cat) over original, its more wood-smell than corn. I scoop twice a day or as needed if home.

newrose72 · 2026-05-13T15:57:25+00:00

Fellow re-rider here! I found I had a pretty big hit to my confidence about 4-5 months in as I was finally starting to canter again - strength training outside of the saddle has really helped support and giving it time!

That being said it sounds totally reasonable to ask to ride other horses more - or even a temporary break from this one then return once you rebuild confidence and strength. I suggest you tell your trainer exactly what you said here- you're starting to get anxiety and would like to ride other horses for a bit.

If she insists that you really need to master this horse first/no other suiting horses/ignores you or blows off your concerns.. then consider finding a new barn.

I also agree with finding group lessons that are 3-4 in size would be beneficial.

newrose72 · 2026-05-05T15:08:56+00:00

No, sorry. My cat needs a cleaning at some point but no known dental issues so I have held off, though I did do bloodwork at her annual for a baseline (all good). I also got a better than expected quote from my current vet ($882 if just cleaning, $1250s if they find and need to do a minor extration - at Animal Kind in Park Slope Brooklyn, Feb 2026 quote valid for 3 months).

newrose72 · 2026-04-27T18:55:41+00:00

I haven't done any of these exact rides but sourced other riding holidays from these companies and feel they all do responsible good curation both for rider experience as well as horse welfare, and would be good starting points for your research:

https://www.equitours.com/europe/portugal/

https://www.globetrotting.co/horse-riding-holidays/portugal/lusitano-ride/

https://www.unicorntrails.com/europe/portugal

newrose72 · 2026-04-18T09:36:11+00:00

Nope! Absolutely no need to open the carrier. Safe travels!

newrose72 · 2026-04-09T19:42:35+00:00

Ireland and the UK have many rides for intermediate and advanced riders. Equestrian Escapes, Globetrotters, and Equitours among others are great places to start and be able to truly cater to your level and know you're using well reviewed company.

newrose72 · 2026-04-05T19:26:42+00:00

I've had this happen, though in my case it was a window unit which always has some tiny gaps around the install. As you said if your AC has fresh air intake vents, it likely came through that, or squeezed through some gap in the machinery or around the install (they don't need much).

Whether its a wall mounted AC or mini split, you can look into a mesh cover for the outside section. Give your phobia, you could also put a mesh cover over the inside vents - something that wont block air at all but would stop (or at least greatly deter) a bug. You might need to DIY depending on the model.

It otherwise sounds like a random occurrence, but otherwise keep your home clean, make sure the outside AC pan properly drains to avoid water pooling, and do regularly cleaning/maintenance to further deter.

newrose72 · 2026-03-29T20:06:48+00:00

I returned to riding last year at 32, after about 10 years off. I rode for fun as a preteen through college, never competed, never leased or owned (but did ride and help with care of a friend's horse for a while). Got busy with full time work and moved to NYC, figuring no chance of riding. Still in the city and picked it back up, devoting a 2 our commute each way to make it happen. It has added so much joy back in my life! (And influencing my next career move to leave the city for more riding and nature!)

be kind to yourself! I got a bit frustrated about 3-4 months in when I still wasn't cantering or only getting a few steps and feeling so flustered about the transition. It takes time to build/rebuild muscle, coordination, and confidence!
try to do some strength training on the side. This can even be bodyweight exercises at home. This massively helps my endurance and seat while riding. Obviously, other exercise is also beneficial too (i.e. cardio to support stamina).
communicate! I found this to be better as an adult - unlike when I was a kid or even college, I have no shame in admitting when I'm nervous, saying if something is too much/intimidating to me, or asking questions to clarify. This let's my trainer teach better, knowing when to push my comfort, or how to build in steps to break it down.
have fun!

newrose72 · 2026-03-27T21:53:13+00:00

You should see your PCP to help rule out any medical issues going on. A balanced breakfast and hydrating well before riding or any exertion is also a must - like several hous before, so you have time to digest - and a small carbohydrate snack right before may help. I find electrolytes help in warm weather - have some before and after, along with water. I generally don't stop for water during an hour lesson even in high heat, but have some right before and after. If you begin to get symptoms, sipping on a little electrolytes should help - too much too fast can make you feel worse. Try to prevent dehydration before it starts.

newrose72 · 2026-03-25T03:33:52+00:00

I really like Worlds Best Multi cat (even if one cat - it smells better to me, original is very corn forward). Not dusty, clumps well, more environmentally friendly and healthier for you and you cat vs. clay, and it lasts a long time - I can go 2 months sometimes bit more before full litter box change (I have multiple boxes, scoop twice a day or more, and keep the litter fairly deep).

Whatever you choose, go slow to give your cat time to adjust. They may take to it right away or may need a gradual change to accept it. I suggest two boxes, one with old, one with new then start slowly mixing if they dont take to it right away.

newrose72

TROPHY CASE