Are you wondering how to keep your tatami mats clean and in good condition? Tatami mats are a traditional Japanese flooring option. They are known for their natural beauty, antibacterial properties and comfort. However, like any flooring, maintaining them requires some care.

You need to do proper care and maintenance to ensure they remain in pristine condition. In this guide, we’ll explore easy-to-follow steps for cleaning and preserving your tatami mats. This can help you maintain their integrity for years to come. We’ll also dive into a brief history of tatami and its crucial role as a staple flooring in traditional Japanese homes. 

What Is Tatami Made of? 

Before diving into the cleaning process, it’s essential to understand the main components and characteristics of tatami mats. Traditionally made from dried igusa (rice straw) and carefully wrapped in woven rush grass, tatami mats are recognized for their natural resilience and breathability regardless of the season.

The standard size of a tatami mat is approximately 1.8 meters by 0.9 meters, although variations may exist. Each mat consists of a core layer of straw covered by a tightly woven grass surface which creates a firm yet comfortable flooring surface for sitting and sleeping.

Historically, tatami mats were reserved for the homes of aristocrats and nobility in Japan. They greatly symbolized social status, elegance, and a strong bond to nature. Over time, their use expanded to encompass a broader range of households including commoners and lower-class families. Eventually, they evolved into a staple feature of traditional Japanese homes, known as washitsu (Japanese-style rooms).

The standard size of a tatami mat is based on the traditional unit of dimension known as a ken, which is approximately 3.3 square meters. This measurement has remained the same over centuries. This allows for uniformity in room dimensions and architectural design for many traditional Japanese-styled homes. However, variations in size and shape are also available to accommodate different room layouts to make it customizable.

The Appeal of Having Tatami Mats

Tatami mats offer several benefits beyond just their aesthetic appeal. They are known for their natural insulation properties as they help regulate temperature and humidity levels within a room. With that, they create a comfortable and inviting atmosphere year-round.

The soft and resilient surface of tatami mats provides good support for sitting, kneeling, and sleeping on futons. This makes them versatile for various activities. For example, hosting guests, tea ceremonies, and family get-togethers.

In addition, tatami mats are closely associated with traditional customs and etiquette. For example, the layout of tatami mats within a room often follows specific guidelines based on social hierarchy and protocol.

The arrangement of tatami mats can indicate the seating arrangements of the guests during formal gatherings. The host typically occupies the space farthest from the entrance, known as the kamiza (top seat). Guests are seated closer to the entrance are, known as the shimoza (lower seat).

How to Clean Tatami Mats? 

Tatami mats are not just a flooring option but a reflection of Japanese culture and tradition. Regular maintenance is key to keep them looking their best. 

Here’s how to care for your tatami mats while offering practical tips and advice to help you preserve their beauty and functionality over long periods.

Reminders

• Gently caring and regularly cleaning mats using appropriate methods and tools are essential for prolonging their lifespan.
• Avoid harsh chemicals and abrasive tools that could damage the delicate grass fibers.

To maintain the cleanliness and durability of your tatami mats, it’s important to follow a regular cleaning routine. 

1. Remove shoes: Start by making it a habit for everyone entering your home to remove their shoes before stepping onto the tatami mats. This minimizes the accumulation of dirt and debris. It is recommended to wear soft sole padding for your indoor slippers or walk barefoot or in socks while stepping on the mats.
   
2. Vacuum gently: Incorporate gentle vacuuming into your routine using soft vacuum bristles or set your handheld vacuum cleaners to the lowest setting. This will effectively remove surface dust and debris without causing damage to the delicate rush grass fibers.
   
3. Damp cloths for stains: In the event of spills or stains, address them immediately by blotting the affected area with a clean, damp cloth. Avoid rubbing the stain, as this can further spread it across the mat’s surface. 

By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your tatami mats remain clean and well-maintained for years to come.

Deep Cleaning Tatami Mats

Deep cleaning is usually performed by Japanese households every few months. In most scenarios, deep cleaning is done after every season, symbolizing a new beginning and welcoming a new period of the year. For a more thorough cleaning, follow these steps periodically:

1. Mat Removal: If possible, take the tatami mats outside to clean them more thoroughly.
   
2. Gentle Beating: Use a soft brush or carpet beater to gently tap the mats and remove any embedded dirt.
   
3. Sun-Drying: Lay the mats flat outdoors on a sunny day to air them out and naturally sanitize them. Make sure not to leave them out for more than six hours, especially in the middle of summer. Doing so can severely damage the properties of the tatami.
   
4. Spot Treatment: For stubborn stains, use a mild detergent diluted in water to spot-clean the affected areas.
   
5. Complete Drying: Ensure the mats are completely dry before returning them indoors and installing them back to prevent the possibility of mold from growing.

In addition to regular cleaning, it’s essential to maintain proper humidity levels in the room. This prevents the tatami mats from becoming too dry or damp in the summertime. Try to use a dehumidifier or humidifier as often as needed to achieve ideal humidity levels. Typically, this should be between 40% and 60%, depending on the season and climate.

The Importance of Maintenance

Additionally, rental properties with tatami mats require them to be in the same shape and quality as they were when before they were provided to the tenant moved-ins. If the tatami mats are poorly maintained upon inspection, the tenants may need to pay an additional fee for the replacement of the tatami mats before moving out.

With proper care and attention, your tatami mats can remain a beautiful and functional part of your home for years to come. By following these simple maintenance tips, you can preserve the integrity of your tatami mats and continue to enjoy their timeless appeal.

Read more like this: Japan’s akiya houses or our guide to pain medication in Japan.