Caring for Your J-Life Kakefuton

What is a kakefuton / kakebuton?

The complete Japanese sleep system consists of 7 elements, the primary 2 being the shikifuton (敷き布団) and kakefuton (掛け布団). The shikifuton can be thought of as the Eastern equivalent of a mattress, while the kakefuton is equivalent to a duvet. Each has a coordinating cover as well; the shikifuton cover functions like a fitted sheet would on a traditional Western bed, and the kakefuton cover serves the same purpose as a duvet cover.

How to clean your J-life Kakefuton

To get the most life out of your Japanese duvet, we recommend spot clean only. If needed, the kakefuton may be cleaned by a professional dry cleaner that specializes in cleaning silk. Avoid dry cleaning your kakebuton too often as this will damage the delicate silk over time.

All of our custom-made cotton kakebuton covers should be machine washed cold and line dried. Cotton will shrink in the dryer and in hot water. Washing with heat regularly will also degrade the fabric over time.

For our washable silk kakefuton covers, please refer to our silk bedding care instructions.

Why can’t my kakefuton be washed like a regular comforter?

The J-Life kakebuton is made with a soft and durable polyester shell, then filled with strands of 100% hand-pulled mulberry silk. This type of silk is considered the highest quality variety and, like all silk, is a delicate material. Machine washing this fine material - especially when it’s in something as large as a kakebuton comforter - can damage the silk, cause shrinkage and fading, and ruin the overall integrity of the product over time.

Why silk?

Dating back centuries, silk has been the traditional filling found in kakefutons. A product of domesticated silkworms, silk offers a plentitude of health benefits as a bedding choice. It is naturally hypo-allergenic, meaning that it is a great choice for asthmatics and allergy sufferers. Pure mulberry silk, in particular, is one of the best varieties for asthma and allergy sufferers because it repels many environmental allergens such as dust mites, mold, mildew, bed bugs, and bacteria.

In addition to being beneficial for those with allergies, silk possesses natural temperature regulating properties. This means that a silk duvet is able to warm and cool you simultaneously, thus making silk suitable for every climate; perfect for both winter and summer, north or south. Similarly, silk can also help regulate body temperature. It is highly breathable, making it a popular choice amongst people who suffer from hot flashes or are hot sleepers.

Each of our soft, thick kakebuton comforters is quilted to guarantee that the silk filling does not shift while you sleep. The J-Life Silk Sleeping Pillow features all of the aforementioned wonderful benefits of silk, just in the form of a pillow.

Be sure to see our other J-Life product care blogs.