Rental housing in Japan includes Western-style rooms (yōshitsu) where you'd place a bed, as well as Japanese-style rooms (washitsu) where you lay out a futon to sleep. Many properties also have a distinctive storage space called an oshiire, and people living in Japan for the first time can find its use a bit puzzling. Here, we'll go over the difference between futons and beds, how to use an oshiire versus a closet, and the basics of moisture control. Since first-time residents in particular often find the oshiire confusing to use, it's reassuring to have the basics down.
- It's common to use a futon in a Japanese-style room and a bed in a Western-style room, but it's also possible to place a folding bed in a Japanese-style room.
- An oshiire has plenty of depth, making it well suited for storing not just futons but seasonal appliances and bedding for guests as well.
- Leaving a futon laid out all the time traps moisture easily, so it's important to make a habit of folding it up or airing it out regularly.
- Using a sunoko (slatted wood board) or a moisture-absorbing sheet helps control humidity in an oshiire or closet, and some products can be used repeatedly.
- A futon dryer or a coin laundry's dryer lets you manage moisture even in a setting where sun-drying isn't practical.
The Difference Between Futons and Beds, and How to Choose
It's typical to pair a futon with a Japanese-style room and a bed with a Western-style room, but this isn't a fixed rule. You can place a folding bed in a Japanese-style room, or lay out a futon and sleep in a Western-style room instead. It's worth checking the size of the room and the path for carrying furniture in before choosing what suits your lifestyle. Some rental properties prohibit bringing in a bed altogether, so it's reassuring to confirm this before signing the contract.
The Structural Difference Between an Oshiire and a Closet
An oshiire is typically quite deep and has a shelf board dividing it into upper and lower sections. Beyond futons, it's well suited for storing things together like seasonal appliances or bedding for guests. A closet, on the other hand, is usually built around hanging clothes and is shallower than an oshiire. Depending on the property, you may have one, the other, or both. The shelf board in the middle of an oshiire can sometimes be removed, letting you adjust the space to fit the height of what you want to store.
The Habit of Putting Away and Airing Out Your Futon
Leaving your futon laid out on the floor every day traps moisture between it and the floor or tatami, which can lead to mold and dust mites. Make a habit of folding it up in the morning and putting it away in the oshiire, or airing it out somewhere with good airflow. This calls for particular care when using a futon on tatami, since moisture tends to build up underneath it easily. Guest futons and out-of-season bedding in particular can be stored more compactly using a compression bag.
Using a Sunoko or Moisture-Absorbing Sheet
Laying a sunoko or a moisture-absorbing sheet where you spread out your futon, or on the lower shelf of the oshiire, creates a path for air to pass between it and the floor, making it harder for moisture to build up. These are available at reasonable prices from home centers and furniture stores, so it's worth considering if humidity is a concern. Combining this with measures against winter condensation and mold makes it even more effective. Some moisture-absorbing sheets are sold as reusable types that can be dried in the sun periodically.
The Habit of Using a Futon Dryer or Sun-Drying
Airing your futon in the sun on a fine day is considered effective for driving out moisture and keeping dust mites from multiplying. If you don't have a balcony, or sun-drying is otherwise difficult, using a futon dryer or a large dryer at a coin laundry is another option. Making a habit of releasing moisture regularly is the key to keeping your bedding comfortable. During seasons like the rainy season when sun-drying is difficult, it's worth using a futon dryer more often.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it okay to put a Western-style bed in a Japanese-style room?
In most cases it's fine, but if you're concerned about scratching the floor (tatami) or the weight putting strain on it, it's reassuring to check with the management company beforehand.
What should I do if a room has neither an oshiire nor a closet?
You can make up for it with freestanding storage furniture, such as a tension-rod hanger rack or clothing storage cases.
What should I do if I can't air my futon in the sun?
You can use a futon dryer or a coin laundry's dryer instead. Try to make a habit of driving out moisture on a regular basis.
Summary
Futons and beds, and oshiire closets and Western-style closets, each differ in their role and structure. Given that moisture tends to build up easily in Japanese homes, making a habit of frequent airing and using moisture-control products helps you keep your bedroom comfortable. If you're ever unsure how to use a storage space, consulting your real estate agency or management company is one option. Small daily habits like these add up to a more comfortable life.