Natural Igusa Rush thrives on three specific environmental factors:

• The Sun: Tatami requires "Vitamin D," but you do not need to move it outdoors. Simply allowing natural sunlight to reach the mat through your windows is sufficient to keep the fibers healthy.

• Natural Air: Avoid keeping the room airtight for long periods. Periodically opening windows allows fresh air to circulate, preventing the buildup of stagnant moisture within the weave.

• Body Contact: Paradoxically, the more you use the mat, the better it becomes. Your natural body oils act as a conditioner, moisturizing the fibers and "seasoning" the mat to a smooth, lustrous finish over time.

How do I prevent mold and mildew in a humid climate?

• Air Circulation: Ensure good ventilation in the room. Open windows, use fans, and consider a dehumidifier to keep humidity levels down.
• Sun Exposure: Tatami loves the sun. Periodically exposing them to natural sunlight (not direct, harsh sunlight for prolonged periods, which can cause discoloration) can help keep them dry and prevent mold.
• Avoid Enclosed Spaces: Do not keep Tatami in dark, unventilated areas like storerooms.
• Wipe Down Moisture: Regularly wipe away any condensation on windows, walls, flooring, or the Tatami itself.
• Mold Treatment: For small mold spots, you can gently wipe with a cloth dampened with diluted ethanol (rubbing alcohol) or a diluted vinegar solution (1 part distilled white vinegar and 3 parts water), always wiping with the grain. Ensure the area dries completely afterward.

Surface Protection

• Do Not Poke: Keep sharp objects away from the weave.
• Do Not Cut: Ensure no abrasive tools are used near the mat.
• Do Not Drag: Never drag heavy furniture or the mat itself across the floor; always lift to move.
• Intentional Usage: Only use the mat for its intended purposes (e.g., sleeping, lounging, meditation, etc.). Heavy, non-human impact can stress the natural fibers.

A natural Tatami product is designed for activity. Its lifespan will significantly shorten if it is treated in the following ways:

• Showcase/Static Placement: Using the product purely as a "showcase" piece with no physical activity leads to the fibers becoming brittle and losing their vitality.

• Storeroom Keeping: Never store Tatami in a dark, enclosed storeroom for months. A lack of light and airflow is the primary cause of premature fiber degradation and pest attraction.

Because Tatami is a natural fiber, it can become overly dry in air-conditioned environments, leading to potential cracking in the weave.

• The Process: Lightly apply a small amount of hair or body-safe olive oil to the surface using a soft cloth.

• Frequency: Every 3 to 6 months.

• The Benefit: This moisturizes the Igusa Rush, keeping the weave supple, preventing cracks, and maintaining the structural integrity of the handmade product.

As every product is individually crafted by a Japanese artisan, slight variations in the natural fiber are normal. These fibers respond to their environment; treating them with tender loving care and proper maintenance ensures that the product remains a functional piece of art for decades.