I have received the tatami a few weeks ago. There is some discoloration. Is this normal?

[Inquiries from customer]

I have received the tatami a few weeks ago. There is some discoloration. Is this normal? Will they disappear after some times? Right now they ate quite visible

[Reply ]

Upon delivery of the tatami mats

For tatami mats made with natural rush:
Some mud (“sendo”) from the mud-dyeing process adheres to the surface of tatami mats made with natural rush. Please wipe it away with a dry cloth before using the mats. Avoid wiping with a moistened or wet cloth; any excess moisture that seeps into the mats can cause the growth of mold.

When vacuuming, run the vacuum cleaner in the same direction as (parallel to) the weave of the tatami mat.

The mud adhering to the surface of tatami mats is completely safe.
New tatami mats come with some soil adhering to their surface.
This soil is called “sendo,” and comes from the mud-dyeing process applied to tatami mats made with natural rush. It prevents the oxidation of chlorophyll, and helps to keep the rush green and fresh. Furthermore, the distinctive fragrance of rush tatami mats would not be possible without mud-dyeing. In short, “sendo” is indispensable for producing quality tatami mats made with natural rush.

The color of the tatami mats has changed and I was a little confused.

It is completely normal for the color of the mats to change over time.

The surface of the tatami mats are made from plant material.

The rush straw starts out green, but with normal use the color gradually changes.

After 2-3 years, it will change to an all golden color.

Tatami is a type of matting that can be enjoyed as it changes with aging.

The tatami mats can have a long life of use if they are set to avoid direct sunlight and there is moderate ventilation.

If the tatami mats are used in a room with strong direct sunlight, the color will change quickly and the color will turn darker. The use of curtains to avoid direct sunlight or placement in the shade will help to ensure that you end up with beautiful golden colored tatami mats.