Shikibuton is usually stuffed with cotton batting and is wrapped in shikifu (sheets). Japanese uses different types of futon, depending on the season, such as light ones in summer and heavy ones in winter. Futon made from down feathers is light and comfortable but is the most expensive. Kakebuton is covered by kakebuton cover. The traditional Japanese pillow (makura) is filled with red beans or buckwheat chaff.
Futon is supposed to be put away during the day in the closet called oshiire. The oshiire closet has sliding doors and usually divided into two shelves. It is best to keep futon on the upper shelf. Japanese houses are usually small and do not have many rooms. One room is often used for dual purposes. During the day, a room can be used as workroom or guestroom after futon is stored in the oshiire. It is very convenient.
It is important to occasionally dry futon under direct sunlight to prevent mold from forming and to kill dust mites in futon. It's called futon-hoshi. You may ruin your futon if you keep them in the closet or spread on the floor all the time. Remember that Japan is very humid especially in rainy season. Don't forget to do futon-hoshi. Or, you can use futon dryers (futon kansouki) available in Japan. Well-dried futon helps you sleep well.
Also, it is commonly said that sleeping on futon is better for the back than sleeping on a soft bed. The hardness of tatami floors seems to be good for people who have back problems.
There are places where you can purchase and view different types of Japanese futon online.
- Fujisan.com
- Futon-watako.com (Japanese version)
- Nichibei-Bussan- Japanese Funiture
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