Introduction to Japanese Hinoki Cypress

Hinoki (檜) is an ancient cypress wood that is native to central Japan. It is one of Japan’s most revered trees, due to its durability, antimicrobial qualities and unique citrus scent. Hinoki is characterised by a lustrous white body and straight grain, with a lifespan of more than a thousand years. As a prized material that is believed to have purifying qualities, hinoki has long been used as a classic material in traditional Japanese baths due to its high resistance to humidity and natural oil content which repels water.

How to Treat and Care for Hinoki

Hinoki wood products are left uncoated and untreated to bring out their best features. If treated correctly, they can last a very long time. Please ensure the following steps to take proper care of hinoki wood products. 

• Hand wash only with lukewarm water.

• Wipe thoroughly with a dry cloth after each use and leave to air dry in a well-ventilated area. 

• Hinoki wood owes its unique fragrance and antimicrobial properties to its natural oil and resin content. Over time, untreated hinoki wood products release a sticky sap which may appear as black spots. To remove excess resin, wipe gently with lukewarm water.

For Hinoki Bath Bowls

• Hand wash and use with water only.

• Wipe with a dry cloth after each use and leave to air dry in a well-ventilated area.

• If the copper ring becomes loose, place the bath bowl in water to allow the wood to expand and set the ring back into place.

How to Clean Stains

Hinoki wood products may stain if it is left to soak in water for long periods of time or if it is exposed to harsh colours. If staining occurs, please ensure the following steps to clean stains.

• Pour lukewarm water on to the area and gently wipe down the product with mild detergent.

• For harsh stains, gently rub away the stain using fine sandpaper.

How to Clean Mould 

While hinoki is naturally resistant to humidity and rot, it should not be left to soak in water for long periods of time as this may permanently damage the wood. If left without proper care and treatment, hinoki wood products are subject to mould growth. Please ensure the following steps to remove mould.

• Allow the wood to dry completely before gently removing the stain using fine sandpaper in the direction of the grain.

• To remove mould that has been left untreated, pour a small amount of bleach on a piece of cloth or rag and rub with gentle force.

• Once the mold spot disappears, wipe away the area with a clean towel.

• Rinse thoroughly under running water to remove any excess bleach.

• Allow the wood to dry completely before use. While this treatment does not damage the wood at first, it should not be repeated more than three times per year.

Caution

• Avoid exposure to extreme temperatures such as direct sunlight as the material may bend, warp or crack.

• Do not leave to soak for long periods in damp or wet conditions as it is subject to mould growth.

• Do not use bleach or any harsh chemicals.

• Do not use abrasives such as a steel brush.