The traditional Japanese way is to lay the shikibuton on the tatami to sleep, then stand it up to ventilate or fold it away on rising. Many homes outside Japan use a storage platform rather than true tatami — when using a shikibuton on these, still prioritise airing and keeping the underside dry.
For buyers researching shikibuton, shikifuton or a Japanese floor mattress, the key point is how this bedding is used: on a firm, ventilated surface, folded away when needed, and cared for as part of everyday Japanese living.