Part natural wonder, part national treasure, the hinoki cypress has helped build the rich history of Japan. Renowned for its strength and relaxing aroma, hinoki wood was used to craft ancient temples that can still be visited today. An exceptionally high-quality timber, the hinoki cypress has been used to make everything from incense to bathtubs you can spend all day in.

To keep your hinoki pieces looking (and smelling!) their best, we've rounded up our tips and tricks for how to care for hinoki wood... 

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HINOKI WOOD REQUIRES SOME EXTRA TLC 

Most likely, the majority of the wood furniture in your home has been treated in some way to protect it from everyday stains (i.e. guests who don’t use coasters). Hinoki wood is left untreated to preserve the natural beauty of its light hue, incredibly soft feel, and aromatic scent. While incredibly strong and durable, hinoki is just a bit more vulnerable to stains or marks than your average piece of furniture, so hinoki furniture requires a bit more care. 

CARING FOR HINOKI BATH FURNITURE

We don’t like to play favorites, but there’s something about stepping out of a hot shower onto a hinoki bath mat and breathing in the calming scent that hinoki wood is known for. It’s the fastest way to turn your bathroom into a zen retreat. Luckily, caring for hinoki bath furniture only takes a few simple steps.

• While hinoki is naturally mold-resistant, it should not be left to soak for long periods of time. To avoid mold or mildew, wipe your bath mat or bath stool dry with a damp cloth. From time to time, allow your hinoki wood to dry completely in a well ventilated area. 

• Over time, untreated hinoki wood can release a sticky sap which may appear as black spots. Don't worry - you can remove this excess resin by gently wiping with lukewarm water.

• For mild stains, pour lukewarm water on to the area and gently wipe down with mild detergent. For harsh stains, gently rub away the stain using fine sandpaper. 

• If your hinoki furniture does develop mold or mildew, allow the piece to completely dry and then pour a small amount of bleach on a piece of cloth or rag and gently rub clean. Once the mold spot disappears, wipe away the area with a clean towel and rinse thoroughly to remove any excess bleach. Allow the hinoki wood to completely dry before using again.

• Be sure to avoid exposure to direct sunlight or extreme temperatures. This can cause your hinoki wood to warp, crack, or darken over time.  

Hinoki furniture is truly unlike any other.

The natural beauty of hinoki wood goes beyond the bathroom. Whether it’s a counter stool, side table, bench, or even a ladder, hinoki furniture is an incredible way to add an organic touch. A quiet statement piece in any space, the light, elegant grain of hinoki wood makes it extremely versatile. 

A few general tips for taking care of your hinoki wood pieces:  

• Avoid exposure to extreme temperatures which can cause the wood to bow, crack, or warp over time. 

• Avoid placing in direct sunlight, as natural wood can darken over time.

• Always use coasters with drinks to avoid any undesired staining.

• Spot treat mild stains with lukewarm water, wiping gently with a mild detergent. For harsher stains, gently rub the stain away using a very fine sandpaper.

• Do not use abrasives, such as a steel brush, when cleaning your hinoki furniture.

• Do not use bleach or any harsh chemicals on hinoki furniture. Opt for lukewarm water and mild detergent for cleaning. 

Artisan Spotlight: Handcrafted in Japan

“We’re entrepreneurial. Whether it’s designing a new product or creating a new production tool, we look for opportunities to innovate every step of the way.” - Aya, President of Okawa Hinoki Workshop

Discover the people and places behind our beautiful hinoki furniture, crafted with precision and care at a small workshop Okawa, Japan.

Ready to shop our Hinoki Collection?

We can help with that. Shop all hinoki furniture here.