Japanese Bedding – Simple Guide to Futons, Tatami & Bedroom Comfort
If you’ve ever wondered why Japanese rooms feel so calm and tidy, the secret is often the bedding. A Japanese futon (shikibuton) rolls out on a tatami mat, folds away at night, and leaves the floor free for other activities. It’s cheap, easy to move, and can make a small room feel bigger. In this guide we’ll show you how to choose the right futon, match it with tatami, and keep everything fresh without fuss.
Choosing the Right Futon
First, think about how you’ll use the futon. If it’s mainly for sleeping, go for a thicker cotton or wool blend – 4‑6 inches gives solid support. For a dual‑purpose couch‑bed, a 3‑inch foam core works well because it’s firm enough to sit on but still soft enough to sleep on. Look at the cover material too; a breathable cotton or linen cover helps with temperature control, while a polyester blend resists stains. Finally, check the stitching. Double‑stitched seams mean the futon will hold up to daily folding and unfolding.
Matching Futons with Tatami Mats
Tatami mats are the traditional floor surface for Japanese bedding. They’re made of woven straw or compressed wood chipboard, covered with a rush grass surface. A standard tatami is about 90cm wide and 180cm long – the perfect size for a single futon. If you have a larger room, you can place two mats side by side for a double‑size set. When buying, make sure the tatami thickness (usually 5‑6cm) matches the futon height so the bed feels level. Adding a thin rug or floor runner can give extra cushioning if the tatami feels too hard.
Keeping the tatami clean is easy: vacuum lightly, then spot‑clean any spills with a damp cloth. Avoid soaking the mat – too much water can warp the straw. A simple air‑dry in the sun once a month will keep any odor at bay and preserve the natural scent of the grass.
Maintaining and Styling Your Japanese Bedding
Futons need a little care to stay fresh. Air them out every week by laying them flat in sunshine for a few hours; this kills dust mites and reduces humidity. If you notice a stain, a quick brush with a soft broom followed by a light sprinkle of baking soda does the trick. For deeper cleaning, use a low‑temperature washer on a gentle cycle – most futon covers are removable.
Styling doesn’t have to be complicated. Add a few low‑profile pillows with simple patterns, and you’ll have a cozy look that still feels airy. Light wood nightstands or storage boxes under the futon keep the room tidy while giving you space for books or blankets. If you want a pop of colour, choose a throw that contrasts with the neutral tatami – a navy or deep green works well without overwhelming the space.
When you’re ready to store the futon during the day, roll it tightly and tuck it into a breathable linen bag. This protects it from dust and keeps the shape intact. The roll‑up process also makes it easy to move the futon around for cleaning or rearranging the room.
Japanese bedding is all about simplicity, flexibility, and a calm vibe. By picking the right futon thickness, matching it with the proper tatami size, and giving both a regular air‑out, you’ll enjoy a comfortable sleep surface that’s easy on your wallet and your space. Give it a try – you might find that rolling your bed away each morning feels as good as sleeping on it.
