What are the reviews and reputation of foldable tatami mats? A tatami shop perspective on floor heating and moisture control

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I want to lay tatami in a room with flooring, but regular tatami is heavy and seems difficult to store.

Many people are likely thinking this and looking for a foldable tatami mat that can be spread out only when needed.

With a foldable tatami mat, you can easily enjoy the scent and feel of tatami even in a home without a Japanese-style room.

In addition to placing it under a futon, there are many ways to use it, such as creating a space to lie down in a corner of the living room or combining it with bedding for guests.

On the other hand, since you cannot check the actual product when buying tatami mats online, you might be concerned about the quality of the rush grass, fraying on the surface, the hardness when lying down, or the development of mold.

I was once asked to repair a foldable tatami mat that was being used at a nursery school.

It seemed to be a product purchased from some online store, and the request was to repair it because the folding parts had become damaged after long-term use.

However, to be honest, I could not repair it as neatly as a regular tatami mat.

Foldable tatami mats are made by connecting multiple core materials and surface materials so that they fold at specific positions.

Because the structure is significantly different from regular tatami, it is not easy for a tatami shop to perform surface replacement or partial repairs.

Most tatami shops would likely refuse the repair, or even if they could repair it, it would be difficult to restore it to a brand-new appearance.

Therefore, if you want a foldable tatami mat, the most realistic method is to purchase a finished product online from the start.

The product introduced here is EMOOR's foldable tatami mat, which uses 100% natural rush grass.

The queen size is approximately 160cm x 200cm, which is close to the size of two tatami mats. Despite this, the selling price at the time of checking was about 14,000 yen.

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Even from a tatami maker's perspective, having folding processing and anti-slip processing at this size is quite a good value.

In this article, while checking the reviews and reputation posted on Amazon, I will explain from the perspective of a tatami craftsman about the 'i-gire' (rush grass breakage) seen on the surface of natural rush grass, precautions when using it with floor heating, and how to use it to suppress moisture and mold.

In this article, we will explain:
1. Reviews and reputation of foldable tatami mats 2. Evaluation of price and quality from a tatami shop perspective 3. Precautions when using with floor heating 4. Maintenance methods to prevent moisture and mold

about these topics.

■ Are foldable tatami mats recommended from a tatami shop perspective?

In conclusion, for those who want to easily create a tatami space in a Western-style room, this is a product worth considering.

What I find particularly appealing is the size of approximately 160cm x 200cm and the structure that allows it to be folded and stored when not in use.

It uses natural rush grass and has a non-slip backing.

However, it is not exactly the same as authentic tatami.

It is thin at about 1.3cm, so you cannot expect the same thickness or durability as new tatami made with a traditional tatami core.

Also, because there are many folding points, there is a possibility that the connection parts and areas near the creases may become damaged after long-term use.

If you understand these characteristics and prioritize price and ease of storage, it can be considered a user-friendly product.

・Foldable tatami mats are difficult to make at typical tatami shops

Standard tatami mats are finished by stretching a tatami cover over a tatami core and sewing tatami borders onto both sides.

On the other hand, foldable tatami mats must be processed by connecting multiple core materials with fabric or backing material so that they can fold in a specific direction.

Even if the position of the fold is slightly off, there is a possibility that steps or gaps will occur when unfolded.

The tatami cover on the surface also moves in accordance with the folds, making it a more complex structure than regular tatami.

While tatami shops have the equipment to produce standard tatami mats, they do not necessarily have production equipment dedicated to foldable products.

Even if you consult with them about making a custom order, the number of tatami shops that can accommodate you will be quite limited.

Even if they could produce it, I think it would be difficult to keep the price as low as mail-order products.

Foldable tatami mats are products that can achieve affordable prices precisely because they are mass-produced to the same specifications in specialized factories.

・160cm x 200cm is about the size of 2 tatami mats

The queen size introduced here is approximately 160cm wide by 200cm deep.

A standard Edo-ma tatami mat is approximately 88cm x 176cm per mat.

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Although tatami dimensions vary by region and housing, a 160cm x 200cm mat can create a tatami space roughly equivalent to two mats.

It is spacious enough for one adult to lie down on, and the dimensions make it easy to combine with futons or queen-size bedding.

If you lay it out in the living room, it can also be used as a tatami space for the family to sit on.

It has a wide range of uses, such as a play area for small children, a base for guest futons, or a place for stretching and napping.

When not in use, it can be folded into eight sections, and the storage size is approximately 80cm wide x 50cm deep x 10.8cm thick.

Trying to store two standard tatami mats is difficult not only in terms of finding a place to put them but also in terms of carrying them.

In that respect, the foldable structure is a major advantage for those who want to use tatami in a Western-style room only when needed.

・Cheaper than buying new tatami mats from a tatami shop

If you order two new tatami mats from a typical tatami shop, depending on the tatami surface and core used, even inexpensive products can cost around 20,000 to 30,000 yen in total.

If you choose domestic rush grass or a highly durable tatami core, the price will go up even further.

Of course, the strength of new tatami mats made by a tatami shop is that they are manufactured to fit the dimensions of the room, so they can be installed without gaps.

In terms of durability and ease of repair, standard new tatami mats are also superior.

However, you cannot fold two regular tatami mats into a small size.

Also, since they do not come with non-slip backing as standard, you need to prepare separate non-slip material if you intend to use them on top of flooring.

The queen size from EMOOR was priced at approximately 14,000 yen at the time of checking.

It is made of 100% natural rush grass, covers an area of about two mats, and includes an eight-fold structure and non-slip processing.

While the purpose differs from authentic new tatami, it is attractive for those who prioritize convenience and price.

■ Features and sizes of foldable tatami mats

Although the product name says tatami mattress, it is not a product like a thick urethane mattress.

It is a thin tatami mat using natural rush grass, designed to be placed between flooring and a futon, or used as a rug.

To avoid finding it thinner than expected after purchase, be sure to check the material, thickness, and size when folded.

・100% natural rush grass used on the surface

The surface uses a tatami facing made of 100% natural rush grass.

The weaving method is morome-ori (double-eye weave).

Morome-ori has wider intervals between weaves than standard residential tatami facings and is often used for floor coverings, rush grass rugs, and tatami mats.

Because it uses natural rush grass, you will be able to smell a scent close to that of new tatami immediately after opening.

Rush grass has the property of absorbing moisture and releasing it when the surroundings become dry.

However, there is a limit to the amount of moisture it can absorb.

If high humidity persists or if a wet futon is left on it for a long time, mold can occur even with natural rush grass.

The product is treated with an anti-mold finish, but having an anti-mold finish does not mean it will never grow mold.

It is important not to leave futons laid out and to regularly air out both sides of the tatami mat.

・The underside has a non-slip finish

The material on the underside is polypropylene, which has been treated with a non-slip resin coating.

When standard tatami mats are placed directly on flooring, they may shift when you sit on them or get into your futon.

With a non-slip finish, it becomes easier to prevent the tatami mat from sliding, making it more convenient for daily use.

On the other hand, regarding this non-slip feature, there were also reviews stating that it stuck to the floor when floor heating was used at high temperatures.

According to purchasers, when the tatami mat was moved, the floor was sticky in streaks, suggesting that the non-slip part on the underside may have changed due to heat.

If you are unsure whether this product is officially compatible with floor heating, it is best to avoid leaving it laid out on a hot floor for long periods.

If you are going to use floor heating, it is safer to check the product description or instruction manual and inquire with the seller about whether it can be used.

・At about 1.3 cm thick, it can feel hard on its own

The thickness of the tatami mat is approximately 1.3 cm.

Although it is thin, it has a certain amount of cushioning, but it does not have the softness of a typical futon or urethane mattress.

Some people may feel the hardness of the flooring if they lie down on it as is.

Product reviews also included opinions that it feels somewhat hard when lying down at a thickness of 1.3 cm.

For short naps or lounging, some people may find that hardness comfortable.

However, if you are using it as bedding at night, it is recommended to layer a futon or mattress on top of the tatami mat.

Conversely, there are reviews stating that when placed on top of a bed mattress that was too soft, it provided a moderate level of firmness that made it easier to sleep.

For those who dislike a soft sleeping surface, it may also be used as an auxiliary mat to adjust the firmness of your bedding.

・Choose from 5 different sizes

Foldable tatami mats are available in the following 5 sizes.

• Compact Short: approx. 65cm x 180cm

• Small Twin: approx. 90cm x 200cm

• Single: approx. 100cm x 200cm

• Double: approx. 140cm x 200cm

• Queen: approx. 160cm x 200cm

The Compact Short, Small Twin, and Single sizes fold into four sections.

The Double and Queen sizes are designed to fold into eight sections.

When placing it under bedding, choose a size close to the width of the futon or mattress you are currently using.

If you want to create a tatami space in a corner of your room, it is best to measure not only the installation area but also the storage space for when it is folded.

The weight of the Queen size is approximately 5.85kg.

While it is easier to handle than two standard tatami mats, some people may find it a bit heavy to take out and put away every day.

It is important to consider not only storage but also ease of lifting when choosing a size.

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■ Good reviews and reputation for foldable tatami mats

On Amazon, there are positive evaluations regarding the scent of the rush grass, ease of use, and moisture levels when placed under futons.

However, comfort, how the scent is perceived, and the occurrence of moisture can vary depending on the region and the room's environment.

Use reviews as a reference to understand the features and trends of the product.

・Enjoy the scent of rush grass

A prominent point in the positive reviews is the evaluation of the rush grass scent.

Comments include that it smells like tatami and feels Japanese, and that one can enjoy a tatami atmosphere even on flooring.

Because it uses natural rush grass, it features a natural scent that is difficult to experience with resin-based tatami mats.

Even in homes without a Japanese-style room, simply laying it in the living room or bedroom can create an atmosphere close to a space with tatami.

However, while this is a plus for those who like the scent of rush grass, it may feel strong to those who are sensitive to smells.

Since there are also reviews stating that the scent of new tatami is strong, if you are concerned about the smell immediately after opening, it is recommended to air it out in a well-ventilated room before use.

・Easy to create a tatami space on flooring

There were also reviews mentioning that it is used by laying it in a corner of the living room.

General new tatami mats are made to fit the dimensions of a room, so once installed, they cannot be easily moved.

With a foldable tatami mat, you can spread it out where needed and fold it up to move it when you are finished using it.

Even if you cannot build a full-scale Japanese-style room, such as in a rental property, you can incorporate a tatami space without major floor construction.

In addition to using it as a place to relax in the living room, it is also easy to utilize as a play area for children, for yoga or stretching, or as a space for futons when guests visit.

・There are reviews saying the underside of the futon was less damp

A customer who purchased a queen size mentioned in their review that the underside of their futon was less damp compared to when they laid the futon directly on the flooring.

They had previously used a foldable slatted base, but since it broke, they switched to this tatami mat.

After using it with a futon for several days, they highly rated it, noting that they did not feel any dampness on the underside when they lifted the futon.

Natural rush grass has moisture-absorbing properties, so by placing it between the flooring and the futon, it may have temporarily absorbed the moisture.

However, it is dangerous to look at this review alone and assume that mold will not occur just by laying it down.

To allow the moisture absorbed by the tatami mat to escape, it is necessary to lift the futon and let air pass through the underside of the tatami mat as well.

Because it is foldable, it is important to use it in a way that involves standing it up periodically to dry.

・Some people find a firmer sleeping surface suits them

There was also a review stating that because a bed mattress that was too soft was putting a strain on their lower back, they laid a tatami mat on top of it, which resulted in just the right level of firmness.

While the tatami mat itself does not contain thick cushioning material, it can be useful for the purpose of suppressing the sinking of soft bedding.

On the other hand, some people may find it hard when laying it directly on flooring and lying down on it.

The reason opinions on firmness vary is that the comfort depends on what you place under the tatami mat and what kind of bedding you layer on top.

While it is suitable for those who prefer a firmer sleeping surface, those seeking a plush feel should consider using it in combination with a futon or mattress.

■ Negative reviews and reputation of foldable tatami mats

Although the product is highly rated overall, some concerning opinions were also found in Amazon reviews.

Points to check in particular include the smell of the rush grass, fraying on the surface, mold caused by moisture, and the effectiveness of the non-slip backing when using floor heating.

Products made with natural materials have different considerations compared to resin mats.

To avoid regret after purchase, be sure to check not only the positive reviews but also the usage locations and maintenance methods.

・The smell of new tatami may be felt strongly

There was a review on Amazon stating that the smell of the new tatami was strong.

Since it is a tatami mat made with natural rush grass, it is not unnatural for it to have the characteristic scent of rush immediately after opening.

While this is appealing to those who like the scent of new tatami, it may feel strong to those who are sensitive to smells or those using it in a bedroom.

Rather than placing it under a futon immediately upon arrival, it is a good idea to open the packaging first and spread it out in a well-ventilated room.

However, if natural rush grass is exposed to strong direct sunlight for a long time, the color may change quickly or it may become too dry.

If your goal is to remove odors, it is recommended to air it out in the shade or in a well-ventilated room rather than leaving it under strong sunlight.

・Some people may find the 1.3cm thickness too hard

Since the thickness is about 1.3cm, you may feel it is hard if you lay only the foldable tatami mat on the flooring and sleep on it.

If you imagine the thickness of a typical foldable mattress from the product name 'tatami mattress,' you will likely find it thinner than expected.

It is easier to think of this product as a tatami mat to be placed between the flooring and a futon, rather than as something that completes your bedding on its own.

While you can use it as is for napping or short breaks, it is generally intended to be used in combination with a futon or mattress when sleeping at night.

Conversely, for those who want to prevent their bedding from sinking in too much because it is too soft, this thinness and firmness may be a good fit.

Whether it is hard or soft is not determined solely by the product itself, but also changes depending on the flooring underneath and the bedding placed on top.

・Mold may occur in high-humidity environments

There were also reviews on Amazon stating that mold occurred during humid seasons.

Although the product is treated with anti-mold processing, this does not prevent mold from occurring permanently.

Natural rush grass absorbs moisture from the air.

While this is a benefit of rush grass in moderate humidity, if it remains in a state where it cannot release the absorbed moisture, it actually becomes easier for mold to grow.

You should be especially careful when using it by leaving the flooring, tatami mat, and futon stacked together for a long time without moving them.

People sweat while they sleep.

When that moisture transfers from the futon to the tatami mat and accumulates between it and the flooring, moisture remains not only on the surface of the tatami mat but also on the underside.

During the rainy season, in rooms prone to condensation, or in bedrooms with poor ventilation, it is important to lift your futon every day.

・There may be cases where rush grass breakage or fraying is visible on the surface

One-star reviews included comments about rush grass sticking out from the surface, making it painful to touch in some areas.

I checked the posted photos, and from what I could see, it feels close to what is generally called rush breakage.

Rush breakage is a condition where the rush grass is not long enough during the weaving of the tatami surface, causing the short ends of the grass to appear on the surface.

Since natural rush grass varies in length and thickness, not every strand continues from one end to the other at the same length.

Especially in tatami surfaces up to a mid-range grade, it is common to see a few instances of rush breakage.

Of course, this is different if there are too many instances or if the weave is falling apart over a wide area.

However, if there are only about two spots like the ones shown in the photo, I do not consider it a major problem for a product in this price range.

■ Can you fix rush breakage on a foldable tatami mat yourself?

When short rush grass sticks out from the surface, you might feel tempted to pull it with your fingers.

However, I do not recommend pulling out the protruding rush grass forcefully.

This is because it can cause the surrounding weave to shift, potentially causing the fraying to spread further.

・Trim protruding rush grass with scissors or nail clippers

If only a few strands of rush grass are sticking out from the surface, you can handle it by trimming them short with sharp scissors or nail clippers.

Please cut them little by little near the base so that they are level with the surface of the tatami mat.

Nail clippers are easy to use because they can grip small strands of rush grass and are less likely to damage the surrounding area.

There is no need to rub the cut area vigorously or force it down.

Once cut to the same height as the surface, it will hardly be noticeable during normal use.

・It is natural for natural rush grass to have some differences in color and thickness

Unlike industrial resin materials, natural rush grass is not uniform in color, thickness, or length.

The parts near the edges of the tatami mat may sometimes look whitish.

This is because the parts near the base or tip of the rush grass are used, and it does not necessarily mean it is sun-bleached or defective.

The product description also states that the white edges of the tatami are due to the inherent properties of rush grass.

The fact that the surface color is not perfectly uniform and that there are slight splits in the rush are also characteristics unique to natural materials.

If even slight differences bother you, resin or Japanese paper tatami mats might be more suitable for you.

・Conditions where you should consult about an exchange or return

While you can handle minor splits in the rush yourself, not every condition is acceptable.

If the product arrives in the following condition, it is best to consult the retailer before use.

• The weave of the tatami surface is damaged over a wide area

• The surface is significantly torn

• The tatami border is coming off

• The fold lines are split

• The anti-slip backing is significantly peeling off

• There are signs of mold or water stains upon opening

• There is heavy dirt or foreign matter attached

If you cut or repair it yourself, it may become difficult to exchange or return the item.

If there is obvious damage, please take photos before making any alterations and contact the retailer.

■ Precautions when using foldable tatami mats with floor heating

What particularly caught my attention in this review was the claim that the anti-slip backing adhered to the floor when floor heating was used.

It is possible that the anti-slip resin applied to the back, rather than the rush grass on the surface, was affected by the heat.

・There is a review stating that the anti-slip material left streak-like residue

The purchaser apparently noticed the stickiness on the floor when moving furniture after using it for several months.

Streaks similar to the anti-slip pattern on the back of the tatami mat remained on the floor, and they suspected it was caused by the floor heating being used at a high temperature.

The person who wrote this review was also satisfied with the product itself and explained that they had not been careful enough about the floor heating.

However, if resin adheres to the flooring material, it may not be easily restored just by cleaning.

In homes that use floor heating, you need to check not only the price and the material of the tatami surface, but also the heat resistance of the backing.

・Do not leave it laid out if it is not labeled as compatible with floor heating

If the product page or instruction manual does not explicitly state that it is compatible with floor heating, it is safer not to leave it laid out on top of floor heating for long periods.

Even with floor heating, the surface temperature varies depending on the type of flooring material, the set temperature, and the heating method.

It cannot be guaranteed that problems will not occur just because the temperature is low.

If you intend to use it, please check with the seller and also review the precautions provided by the flooring manufacturer.

It is also important to periodically lift the tatami mat to check for deformation or stickiness on the backing, or discoloration of the floor.

If you notice anything unusual, do not continue to use it.

・Dehumidifying sheets are not specialized products for blocking floor heating heat

One way to deal with moisture is to use a dehumidifying sheet together with the mat.

However, placing a dehumidifying sheet in between does not necessarily prevent changes to the anti-slip backing caused by the heat of the floor heating.

Dehumidifying sheets are products designed to absorb moisture, and their purpose is different from that of insulation or heat-resistant sheets.

If you are using them over floor heating, please check that both the tatami mat and the dehumidifying sheet placed in between are compatible with floor heating and verify their heat resistance temperatures.

If you cannot confirm compatibility, it is safer to move them to a location without floor heating or use them while the floor heating is turned off.

■ Moisture and mold prevention for foldable tatami mats

To use a natural rush grass tatami mat for a long time, it is necessary not only to let it absorb moisture but also to periodically release the moisture it has absorbed.

Even for products with anti-mold treatment, the basic rule is not to leave futons laid out.

・Lift the futon after waking up to let the moisture escape

A futon immediately after waking up still contains sweat and moisture from while you were sleeping.

Instead of folding it up and putting it in the closet right away, first lift the futon and let air reach the surface of the tatami mat.

If possible, move the futon to another location and leave only the tatami mat.

Even if it is difficult to put it away completely every day, simply lifting half of the futon and then lifting the other side after a while will make it easier for moisture to escape.

Reducing the time it is left laid out is the simplest way to prevent mold.

・Utilize the folding structure for drying as well

Foldable tatami mats are not only easy to store, but they also have the advantage of being easy to dry.

Before folding them completely for storage after use, fold them into a mountain shape or lean them against a wall to let air pass through the underside.

Using an electric fan or a circulator will make it easier to dry both the tatami mat and the flooring.

However, avoid folding them while they are still damp and putting them into a closet or storage area.

Moisture will have a hard time escaping, and there is a possibility that mold will grow in the folded parts.

・Be careful of condensation on the flooring as well

Check not only the surface of the tatami mat but also the moisture on the flooring side.

When you place a futon or tatami mat on a cold floor in winter, condensation may form on the underside due to the temperature difference between the air warmed by your body heat and the floor surface.

Even if you cannot see it, the floor may be damp when you lift the tatami mat.

You need to be especially careful in areas near exterior walls, north-facing rooms, and floors on the first floor that tend to get cold.

Simply moving the tatami mat periodically and wiping the floor surface dry is enough to check its condition.

・Use a dehumidifying sheet together

If you are concerned about moisture on the flooring or sweat from your futon, you can also use a dehumidifying sheet for bedding.

For example, the Kumori dehumidifying sheet is a product about 4mm thick that uses moisture-absorbing fibers.

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It features anti-mite, antibacterial, odor-resistant, and deodorizing functions, and also comes with a sensor to check the moisture absorption status.

It is convenient because it is easy to visually confirm when moisture has accumulated, making it easy to decide when to dry it.

Although it depends on the usage environment, the product description recommends air-drying or sun-drying it about once a week.

During the rainy season or in rooms with high humidity, it is better to dry it at shorter intervals.

Note that this dehumidifying sheet is not machine washable.

If it gets dirty, you should wipe it lightly with a damp cloth or hand-wash only the soiled areas.

Just like with tatami mats, it is important not to leave the dehumidifying sheet laid out indefinitely and to dry it periodically.

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・Deal with mold promptly if it appears

If you find small spots of mold on the surface, please deal with them before they spread.

First, move it away from futons or other bedding to a well-ventilated area.

If you scrub it hard while the surface is damp, you may spread mold spores to the surrounding area or damage the rush grass.

Let it dry thoroughly before checking the condition of the surface.

For light mold, one method is to dampen a cloth with rubbing alcohol, gently wipe the surface, and then let it dry.

Do not spray a large amount directly onto the tatami mat; instead, test it on an inconspicuous area to ensure it does not cause discoloration before proceeding.

If it has turned black, the mold has spread over a wide area, or a strong odor remains on the underside, it is better not to force yourself to continue using it.

■ Who is a foldable tatami mat recommended for?

This foldable tatami mat is not a product for creating an authentic Japanese-style room.

However, it is suitable for those who want to incorporate the feel of tatami into a Western-style room while keeping costs down.

・People who want to easily create a tatami space in a Western-style room

You can create a space with tatami just by spreading it out in a living room or bedroom with hardwood floors.

Since no construction or room measurements are required, it is easy to incorporate even in rental housing.

Because you can change where you use it, you can also use it in the living room during the day and in the bedroom at night.

・People who want to store it when not in use

Regular tatami mats are large and difficult to put away when not in use.

This product folds into four sections for the single size, and eight sections for the double and queen sizes.

The structure is also easy to use for those who only want to unfold it when guests arrive or when children are playing.

・People who want to keep costs lower than new tatami mats

The queen size is approximately 160cm x 200cm, which is nearly the size of two tatami mats.

The price at the time of checking was approximately 14,000 yen.

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Compared to having two new tatami mats made at a tatami shop, I feel this price is quite impressive, especially considering it includes folding processing and anti-slip features.

It offers good value for those looking for a tatami mat that is easy to use and does not need to fit perfectly into a room.

・People who like the scent of natural rush grass

Since the surface is 100% natural rush grass, you can enjoy a scent close to that of new tatami even in a room with hardwood floors.

It is better suited for those who prefer a natural texture and a Japanese atmosphere over resin-based tatami mats.

However, please be aware that the scent can be quite strong immediately after opening, so those sensitive to odors should take note.

■People for whom foldable tatami mats are not recommended

While they are attractive for their price and storage convenience, they may not be suitable depending on how you use them.

Before purchasing, make sure that what you are looking for matches the features of the product.

・People looking for a thick mattress

The thickness is approximately 1.3 cm.

This is not a product that offers fluffy cushioning or a sleeping comfort that wraps around your body.

If you are looking for a mattress to sleep on all night by itself, you should choose thicker bedding.

・People who want to leave it laid out on top of floor heating

Since there are reviews stating that the non-slip backing adhered to the floor, those who want to use it constantly on top of floor heating need to make a careful decision.

If you cannot confirm with the seller that it is compatible with floor heating, we do not recommend using it by leaving it laid out directly.

・People who find it difficult to put away their futon every day

Natural rush grass has moisture-regulating properties, but if the absorbed moisture is not released, it can cause mold.

It is not suitable for use where the futon is left laid out for long periods without being moved.

You need to lift the futon regularly and dry both the front and back of the tatami mat.

・People who are concerned about individual differences in natural materials

Natural rush grass has variations in color and thickness, and you may see some broken rush strands in several places.

If you are someone who would be bothered if the surface is not perfectly uniform, or if you feel that even a slight protrusion is a defective product, a resin-based tatami mat might be more suitable for you.

■ Foldable tatami mats are attractive in price even from a tatami shop's perspective

Foldable tatami mats have a unique structure, and it is not easy for a typical tatami shop to make the same thing or neatly repair damaged parts.

I was once asked to repair foldable tatami mats used at a nursery school, but I could not fix them in the same way as regular tatami mats.

Therefore, for those who need foldable tatami mats, purchasing a finished product online is the realistic approach.

The product introduced this time is a queen size, approximately 160cm x 200cm.

It covers an area close to two tatami mats, is made of 100% natural rush grass, folds into eight sections, and even comes with an anti-slip backing.

The selling price at the time of checking was approximately 14,000 yen.

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If you purchase two new tatami mats at a general tatami shop, even inexpensive products can cost a total of around 20,000 to 30,000 yen.

While regular new tatami mats are superior in terms of durability and ease of repair, considering the functionality of being able to fold and store them, I feel this tatami mat has appeal beyond its price.

Amazon reviews praised the scent of the rush grass, the ease of use on hardwood floors, and the fact that futons are less likely to get damp.

On the other hand, since it is about 1.3cm thick, it may feel hard on its own.

In humid environments, you need to be careful about mold, and you should not overlook reviews mentioning that the anti-slip backing adhered to the floor when floor heating was used at high temperatures.

Lifting the futon every day and folding the mat to let air reach the underside is the key to using it for a long time.

If you are concerned about moisture, use a dehumidifying sheet as well, and be sure to dry both the tatami mat and the dehumidifying sheet regularly.

Although it may not be worth the cost of creating a full-scale Japanese-style room, this is a product worth considering for those who want to easily incorporate a tatami space into a Western-style room.

・ Summary of: What are the reviews and reputation of foldable tatami mats? A tatami shop perspective on floor heating and moisture control

✓ Foldable tatami mats are products that make it easy to create a tatami space in a Western-style room.

✓ The queen size is approximately 160cm x 200cm, which is about the size of two tatami mats.

✓ It feels like a good value as it includes folding processing and a non-slip backing for about 14,000 yen.

✓ The surface is made of 100% natural rush grass.

✓ Since the thickness is about 1.3cm, it may feel hard on its own.

✓ It is suitable to use in combination with a futon or mattress when sleeping at night.

✓ There are positive reviews about being able to enjoy the scent of rush grass.

✓ The ability to easily create a Japanese-style space on flooring is highly rated.

✓ There are also reviews stating that the underside of the futon did not get damp easily.

✓ Even with anti-mold treatment, there is a possibility of mold if left laid out constantly.

✓ It is important to lift the futon and let air circulate on both sides of the tatami mat.

✓ Light fraying on the surface can be handled by trimming it short with scissors or nail clippers.

✓ If there is extensive damage or mold, you need to consult the retailer.

✓ There are reviews stating that the non-slip backing stuck to the floor when used with floor heating.

✓ For those who prioritize price and storage, this is a product worth considering even from a tatami shop's perspective.

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[Introduction to Maeda Tatami Shop]
60 years of trust and experience in Morioka!
For tatami, fusuma, shoji, wallpaper, and screen door replacement and renovation, we have
a first-class tatami manufacturing technician, tatami training instructor, and first and second-class wall covering technicians on staff at
Maeda Tatami Shop / Interior Maeda


[Contact Us]
9-16 Tenshoji-machi, Morioka City, Iwate Prefecture
019-647-3555
Business hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
(Saturdays until around 3:00 PM)
Closed: Sundays
m.masa.tatami@gmail.com
For urgent inquiries, please use email or LINE.
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Website http://www.eins.rnac.ne.jp/~maeda-t

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