Futon and kotatsu: where to find them?

[Destroyer2000]

Does anyone know of any good wholesalers for either futon beds and kotatsu tables? I'm looking to get both. And by futon, I mean the Japanese style futon; my apartment is currently small, and having a bed of that style would free up quite a bit of space, as would a table of that sort. I've done some looking, but what I've found is slightly sketchy. Any websites or wholesalers would be great, thanks. Also, does anyone have experience using these?

[TWWK]

I'm not sure, but Lauren Orsini owns one and has blogged about it. You might find some information on her blog. She's also very friendly and would respond to a tweet or email.

[Destroyer2000]

Awesome, thank you for the help.

[Kaori]

I can’t help you with finding a way to acquire a futon, but I can tell you a little bit about using and caring for them.

First off, there are two types of futon. The shikibuton is the one that you sleep on top of; depending on the thickness, some people will layer two of them together (futon are used on a tatami floor, which has a bit of yield to it, so you might want to consider getting two, especially if your floor is a hard surface). Then there is the kakebuton, which you sleep under; it’s just like a comforter.

Also, you need a futon cover, at the very least for the kakebuton. Neither kind of futon can be washed in a washing machine, so this is to protect it from getting dirty. If you can’t get a futon cover for the shikibuton, then you can put a flat sheet on top of it and wrap the sheet under the edges, and that will serve the same purpose. The futon cover can be taken off and washed in a washing machine.

The futon also needs to be aired out periodically; Japanese people hang them out on their balconies, and this kills dust mites and prevents mold from growing. Even on days when you don’t air the futon outside, it’s supposed to be folded up neatly; it isn’t just left lying out flat. Folding up or airing out the futon is a daily routine for Japanese people, so if you are planning to get one, you should be prepared to commit to that routine.

Yuki-Anne might be able to tell you in more detail about the usage and care of a futon. I’ve slept on futon several times, but in my apartment I have a bed, so I’m not extremely familiar with the details of caring for a futon.

[Shao Feng-Li]

http://www.japanesestyle.com/catalog/homedishware/furniturehome-d%C3%A9cor?page=2