The Natural Air Purifying Power of "Igusa"
The Igusa plant used for the surface of Tatami acts as a natural air purifier. If you look at a cross-section of an Igusa stem under a microscope, you will see a structure resembling a honeycomb sponge called the "Lamp Wick" (Toshin).
This unique structure gives Igusa three distinct effects:
- Superior Humidity Control: Igusa has an absorption capacity approximately 2.5 times that of cotton. In humid summers, it absorbs moisture to keep the surface cool; in dry winters, it releases stored moisture. A standard Tatami mat (1.62㎡) breathes about 1.8 liters of water, naturally regulating the indoor climate.
- Air Purification: The sponge-like structure traps airborne particles. Studies show Igusa can reduce nitrogen dioxide by up to 98% and formaldehyde (a cause of sick building syndrome) by 78%. It actively filters the air, creating a safe environment for children and allergy sufferers.
- Powerful Deodorization: Igusa neutralizes odors rather than masking them. It reduces chemical components of bad smells—such as ammonia, sweat, and foot odor—by nearly 98%, keeping your living space smelling fresh without chemicals.
- The Scent of Relaxation: The grassy aroma of Tatami contains Phytoncide (the refreshing scent of forests) and Vanillin (the calming scent of vanilla). These components have been scientifically proven to lower heart rates and promote relaxation similar to Shinrin-yoku (Forest Bathing).
Sustainability and the Tatami Cycle
In a world fighting plastic pollution, choosing Tatami is an ethical choice. However, the number of Igusa farmers has plummeted from 1,200 to just 300 in twenty years. We are fighting to save this tradition through "Connected Manufacturing," where our employees work alongside farmers in the fields.
The 1-Year Journey of Your Mat:
- Winter Planting: Planted in the freezing December water paddies of Japan. The harsh winter creates dense, tough fibers.
- Summer Harvest & Mud Dyeing: Harvested in summer and dipped in natural clay (Sendan). This "Mud Dyeing" protects chlorophyll, locking in the green color and creating the distinct aroma.
- Weaving: Woven by local artisans, supporting the regional economy.
- Use: Functions as a zero-electricity air purifier and humidifier for years.
- Disposal: Fully biodegradable. It returns to the earth without leaving microplastics.
Eco-Innovation:
- Recycled Materials: We use recycled non-woven fabric for cushioning, repurposing packaging films to reduce waste.
- Hiba Essence: We coat our products with natural oil from the Aomori Hiba tree, providing chemical-free antibacterial and deodorizing power safe for pets and babies.
The Artisan's Soul: "Connected Manufacturing"
In a world of mass production, our Tatami mats stand apart. They are the result of "Connected Manufacturing" by IKEHIKO (Est. 1886). We grow our own grass and weave it in our own factories, ensuring quality from soil to finish. Each sheet of Igusa is woven by a specialized craftsman.
Meet the masters whose philosophies are woven into every fiber:
- Teruo Yoshitake: A master of the traditional Kakegawa weave, Yoshitake finds his joy in the off-season, experimenting with complex new patterns. His philosophy is simple: "Careful work." His dedication ensures a uniform, smooth texture that feels gentle against the skin.
- Toshiyuki Noguchi: Noguchi operates on a philosophy of absolute integrity. "We ship many mats, but the customer receives only one," he explains. He inspects every piece with the mindset that cutting corners is a betrayal of that customer's trust. His motivation is simply hearing you say, "I'm glad I bought this."
- Ichiro Kabashima: With over 50 years of experience, Kabashima treats his looms as living partners. "To check the machine, you need all five senses," he says. He listens to the rhythm and even smells the oil to ensure the loom is happy, treating it with the same care one would a human being.
