I Saw These Earthy Tatami Mats Everywhere in Japan − They're Natural Deodorizers and Fill Rooms with a Calming Natural Scent
Plus, they support better sleep
If there's one thing you'll see almost everywhere in Japan, it's tatami mats. The traditional flooring solution, laid side by side and made of woven soft rush grass and compressed rice straw, is firm, breathable, and beautifully aromatic.
Those fragrant qualities also make them excellent natural deodorizers − something I've noticed since introducing them into my bedroom.
Why Tatami Mats Are Ideal for Creating a Soothing Atmosphere
If you've ever perused Japanese-inspired interiors or Japandi bedroom ideas, you're likely familiar with tatami mats. But why exactly are they so good for creating that signature, serene, and soothing atmosphere?
Maiko Shimazaki, the founder of Revitalist15, a New York-based wellness brand rooted in Japanese relaxation rituals, explains, 'The top layer of tatami mats is made from woven igusa, also known as rush grass. The natural aroma of igusa contains phytoncides that help reduce stress hormones and promote relaxation.
'It shifts the body into a parasympathetic, “rest and digest” state, similar to the calming effect of forest bathing. It also helps clear the mind and helps improve focus and mental clarity.'
As a non-toxic way to make your home smell nice, igusa also helps to regulate indoor humidity owing to its naturally absorbent qualities. 'By controlling moisture, it prevents the buildup of mold and unpleasant odors,' adds Maiko, 'effectively keeping the air feeling clean and fresh.'
How Tatami Mats Support Sleep
Our hotel room in Kii-Katsuura featured this traditional tatami mat flooring. The table seen in the centre of the room was pushed aside at night, with our futons rolled out directly on the tatami mats.
Tatami mats aren't just an easy and design-forward way to make your home smell nice, either − they may also help you to sleep better, too. In fact, I had one of the most comfortable nights' sleep ever on a traditional Japanese futon set on them, and I find they support my sleep back home, too, where I have a bedframe which uses tatami mats to support the mattress.
'The subtle scent of igusa can help stabilize heart rate and encourage natural sleepiness, supporting deeper rest,' advises Maiko. 'Its breathable, moisture-regulating properties create a more comfortable sleep environment, while its firmness supports easier movement during sleep and reduces physical strain.
'For optimal back support, it’s best paired with a moderately thick, supportive mattress or futon.' For example, the 4" Thick Japanese Floor Mattress, available at Wayfair, is a good option.
What to Shop
If you'd like to introduce tatami mats into your own sleep space, I've rounded up a selection below, all of which are available for direct shipping straight to the US. You don't have to go the full way, either − small tatami details can bring that same sense of biophilic calm to your space, without the commitment.
All prices were correct at the time of publication.
This tatami mat is lightweight and hypoallergenic and is handwoven from natural ingredients. They can be used as flooring or for a firm sleep surface.
We also saw these floor chairs everywhere in Japan, usually set upon tatami mats. These ones are conveniently foldable for storage and offer comfortable back support.
This tatami bamboo wall paneling is easy to cut to size and install, and features a flexible mesh backing that reinforces the paneling material. It's made of high-quality, premium-grade bamboo.
This Japanese floor mattress is made of comfortable, plush microfiber and memory foam. It can be rolled and conveniently stored in the provided storage bag.
While traditional tatami mats tend to be very heavy, this one is designed to be easy to manoeuvre and store. As it's made of natural Japanese Igusa rush, it still features that same aromatic scent I know and love.
This foldable, memory foam mattress features a medium firmness and cooling technology and is the ideal solution for flexible sleep. It's also perfect for providing extra bedding when guests come to stay.
Meet the Expert
Maiko is the founder of Revitalist15, a New York-based wellness brand rooted in Japanese relaxation rituals. She was born and raised in Japan and lived there until age 19, before moving to New York. In particular, Revitalist15 is dedicated to making rest simple, effortless, and restorative, and is inspired by Japanese self-care traditions.
If you're interested in learning more from Maiko, her Japanese sleep secrets are guaranteed to inspire better rest.
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