Washing Guide

Here you'll find instructions on how to wash Sodateru Fukin for the first time, tips for thorough cleaning, and answers to frequently asked questions.

BEFORE USING SODATERU FUKIN

1. Starch removal
When you buy Sodateru Fukin , it has starch on its surface. This starch is used to stiffen the fabric so it can be sewn.
Before using it, rinse it in a bucket of hot water to remove the starch, then put it in the washing machine. You'll notice it becomes softer and its absorbency will improve with each use.

2. After Washing
You can dry your Sodateru Fukin either in the dryer or by air-drying, each method offers a slightly different experience.

If you choose the dryer, you’ll notice a natural slight shrinkage in the fabric, but it will instantly become softer, with that signature "cloud-like" texture that makes it so special.

If you prefer to air-dry it, it might feel a bit stiff at first. However, with daily use and continued washing, it will gradually become fluffier and more pleasant to the touch.

Both methods are perfectly fine. Choose the one that best suits your lifestyle and let your Sodateru Fukin evolve with you.

3. Washing recommendation
 After removing the starch, we recommend hand-washing periodically with mild dishwashing detergent. If washing in a washing machine, use a mesh bag, like the one we use for underwear, and a liquid detergent without bleaching agents or oxygen-based bleaches.



THOROUGH DISINFECTION

If over time and use there is persistent dirt that cannot be removed with washing, perform a special disinfection by boiling or bleaching.

1. Boiling
 Add a little salt and vinegar to boiling water, dip the cloth in it, and boil it for about 5 minutes.

2. Whitening
The second option is to use oxygen-based bleaching detergents. We don't recommend using chlorine-based bleaches because they will bleed colors.


FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

1. I feel like it has lost its absorption capacity
 If you use solid or powdered detergents, the fibers can gradually clog and reduce their absorption capacity. Grease and oil residues can cause the same effect.

If you hand-wash them periodically with liquid dish soap, they will clear blockages and restore their absorbency. Also, avoid using fabric softeners, as they reduce absorbency.
2. Why are they “hard” even after washing them?
 All of our towels are surface-starched upon completion of manufacturing. When you wash your towels, the remaining starch may harden as they dry.

Although we use cornstarch, which is not harmful if it comes into contact with the body or mouth, we recommend the following methods to make the cloths softer:

  • Boil water and submerge the towel for 15 minutes.
  • Rub the towel with warm water and rinse until the water runs completely clear. Repeat the washing and rinsing process several times to remove the starch.

*Note: Even after repeated washing and rinsing, some starch may remain:

  • Dry them completely.
  • If some starch remains after drying, the fabric may feel a little stiff. In this case, rub the cloth with your hands while it's dry to make it softer and more pleasant to the touch.

3. It has shrunk, is this normal?
It's completely normal for Sodateru Fukin to shrink after removing the starch . From now on, you'll appreciate how it becomes softer and more pleasant to the touch with each wash. We hope you enjoy having a little bit of Japan in your own home. Arigatou gozaimasu!