Here’s a Tatami Maintenance Checklist you can use to ensure your tatami mats remain clean, fresh, and long-lasting — perfect for your home or rental apartment like those from UR.
✅ Tatami Maintenance Checklist
🧹 Daily / Weekly Maintenance
- Vacuum tatami along the grain (not across) to avoid damaging the surface.
- Avoid walking on tatami with shoes or slippers — go barefoot or use socks.
- Keep sharp or pointed furniture legs away or use protectors.
🌬️ Monthly Maintenance
- Move heavy furniture (like beds or carpets) slightly to let the tatami breathe.
- Open windows and doors on sunny days to allow airflow and reduce moisture.
- Avoid direct sunlight for long periods (use curtains to prevent fading).
🛏️ Furniture Placement Care
- Use rubber mats or felt pads under bed legs.
- Consider a legless bed or wide bases to avoid denting.
- Place a thin carpet or rug between bed/furniture and tatami.
- Regularly lift and air out carpets placed over tatami.
💧 Moisture Control
- Never clean tatami with a wet cloth – use a dry or well-wrung soft cloth.
- Avoid using humidifiers excessively near tatami.
- Use a dehumidifier or moisture absorber during rainy seasons.
- Watch for early signs of mold or mites – clean with a dry brush and ventilate.
🛠️ Periodic Repair & Replacement
- Turn over (Ura-gaeshi) tatami every 2–3 years.
- Replace tatami surface (Omote-gae) every 2–5 years.
- Replace entire tatami mat (Shincho) every 10–15 years, or sooner if worn.
- Contact UR apartment management before making changes.
⚠️ Things to Avoid
- Don’t use floor cleaners or chemicals.
- Don’t leave wet clothes or items directly on tatami.
- Don’t block airflow for extended periods with large furniture or plastic sheets.