How to take care of tatami mats (flooring)

One of my criteria when I was selecting my apartment was that I wanted it to be all flooring--i.e.no tatami. Still, I'm sure there are many people with tatami rooms, so here are some of the key points for tatami care/maintenance:

• keep tatami dry--unless you want mold/mildew
• don't wear shoes on tatami (most Japanese even take off slippers before stepping on tatami)
• always wipe (with only slightly damp cloths--no harsh cleaning solutions) or vacuum along the weave of the tatami (going against the weave may damage the tatami or cause dirt to get trapped in it)
• use the weak (弱) or tatami (畳) setting for vacuuming
  
• avoid leaving carpet over tatami as it creates a moist environment for mold and ticks
• place wooden boards on top of tatami under heavy objects (piano, TV, etc.)
• clean and air out the tatami regularly--dry and sunny fall/spring days are best for airing
  

Links/Sources:

• Tatami mat care info (PDF- illustrated)
• WARAKU - How to refresh tatami
• Tatami care (Japan Times Online)