A shikibuton folds into thirds, so it stores in a closet and moves more easily than a mattress on a frame. Store it clean and completely dry in a breathable cover, off the floor and away from damp walls, and air it before sleeping on it again.
Folded sizes and weights
| Model | Size | Width × length × thickness | Weight | Folded in three | In local bed terms |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| HIMARI | Japanese Standard Single | 210 × 100 × approx. 10 cm · 82.7 × 39.4 × 3.9 in | Approx. 5 kg | Approx. 70 × 100 × 30 cm | The same width as an Individual bed, but longer. |
| HIMARI | Comfort Single | 210 × 120 × approx. 10 cm · 82.7 × 47.2 × 3.9 in | Approx. 6 kg | Approx. 70 × 120 × 30 cm | Between an Individual and a Matrimonial: more room for one sleeper. |
| HIMARI | Extra-Wide Single | 210 × 140 × approx. 10 cm · 82.7 × 55.1 × 3.9 in | Approx. 7 kg | Approx. 70 × 140 × 30 cm | About the width of a Matrimonial bed. Still an Extra-Wide Single: spacious for one, and can suit two smaller sleepers. |
| SORA | Japanese Standard Single | 200 × 100 × approx. 12 cm · 78.7 × 39.4 × 4.7 in | Approx. 6 kg | Approx. 67 × 100 × 36 cm | The same width as an Individual bed, but longer. |
| SORA | Extra-Wide Single | 200 × 140 × approx. 12 cm · 78.7 × 55.1 × 4.7 in | Approx. 8 kg | Approx. 67 × 140 × 36 cm | About the width of a Matrimonial bed. Still an Extra-Wide Single: spacious for one, and can suit two smaller sleepers. |
Common Mexican bed widths: Individual 99 cm · Matrimonial 137 cm · Queen 152 cm. Measure your floor, platform, or frame before ordering.
- HIMARI 日葵: approx. 70 × width × 30 cm folded; approx. 5, 6 or 7 kg for the 100, 120 or 140 cm width.
- SORA 宙: approx. 67 × width × 36 cm folded; approx. 6 or 8 kg for the 100 or 140 cm width.
Everyday storage
In Japanese homes the folded shikibuton goes into a closet during the day. Leave a little space around it, and avoid putting it away while it is still warm and damp from the night; let it air for a while first.
Longer storage
- Air it thoroughly and make sure it is completely dry.
- Use a breathable cotton storage bag rather than an airtight plastic one.
- Store it on a shelf or slatted surface, not directly on a cold floor, and place a moisture absorber in the closet in humid climates.
- Avoid keeping it compressed in a vacuum bag for long periods, which can reduce its loft.
Moving house
Fold it, bag it to keep it clean and dry in transit, and air it after you arrive before the first night in the new home.