There's something very special about breathing in the calming citrusy scent of hinoki wood in a hot, steamy bathroom, but keeping wooden products in a wet room can be a challenge at times. Luckily caring for Japanese hinoki Bath Stools & Wash Bowls only takes a few simple steps.
Hinoki cypress is a wood native to Japan, and has been used throughout history in building traditional Japanese baths, as well as ancient and sacred shrines and temples. It is prized for its light tone, straight grain, and natural citrus scent.
When cared for properly hinoki wood items can be cherished for a long time. In order to prolong the life of your hinoki pieces there are a few steps of care to follow.
1. A gentle hand wash in lukewarm water will do the job. Avoid prolonged periods of immersion in water as it may cause cracks due to warping or shrinkage of the wood. Make sure to wash off any excess water or bathroom scale. We love the soft bristles of the palm tawashi brush for this.
2. Thoroughly polish dry with a clean cloth after each use and leave to air dry in a well-ventilated area away from moisture. Make sure bath bowls are tilted on an angle up-side down so moisture is not trapped inside.
3. It is natural for wood resin to appear on the surface of the hinoki wood. This resin is what also imparts a fresh hinoki scent. If you are concerned about the stickiness, it can be wiped off with rubbing alcohol.
4. Exposure to Sunlight
Avoid prolonged direct exposure to sunlight, as this can cause the wood tone to age and shift over time, often darkening the wood.
5. If Ever Needed & Treating Stains
Hinoki wood is a naturally bacteria and mould resistant wood, if however any mould does appear, allow the wood to dry completely. Then lightly sand back the area with fine sandpaper following the direction of the grain, or alternatively try rubbing it gently with a palm tawashi brush.
Additional Steps for the Hinoki Wash Bowl:
Hinoki wood can naturally expand and contract with use, if the copper rings come loose over time, place water inside the bowl and allow the wood to expand to set the rings back into place.
Explore our range of Japanese Hinoki Bath Stools & Wash Bowls.