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Summer season in Japan brings in the rainy season called “tsuyu” (梅雨). The rainy season usually starts from early June and ends on the third week of July. It doesn’t happen every day, nevertheless, there can be days when the skies are consistently gray and overcast.

During the rainy season, coupled with high humidity, molds can become prevalent in your apartment. These stubborn contaminants add to the challenges of managing the wet weather and rising humidity levels.

Luckily, there are affordable and readily available products and ways that can help in managing humidity and removing mold, bacteria and other pollutants.

1. Dehumidifying Agents

In Japan, popular products like Mizutorizou-san (水とりぞうさん) are widely used. These come in various types such as tank type, sheet type, and tetra type, suitable for spaces prone to mold like closets and shoe boxes. Other brands like ドライペット and ドライウェル also offer effective moisture-absorbing solutions.

2. Desiccant Packs

The most common desiccant is silica gel, which are the small white packets you usually see in dried food products – even on newly bought shoes or shipped furniture.

Utilize desiccants like silica gel, commonly found in small white packets. These absorb moisture from the air, helping to reduce humidity levels and prevent mold in enclosed spaces such as closets, shelves, and drawers.

3. Mold Killing Products

Use specialized mold-killing products or gels like “kabitoru desu” in areas prone to moisture buildup, such as kitchen and bathroom sinks.

4. Ethanol

Ethanol is ideal for tackling stubborn mold on carpets or tatami mats. Prevent mold growth on these surfaces by spraying ethanol, wiping it clean, vacuuming any remaining dirt, and applying a second coat of ethanol. Lastly, wipe until the area is completely dry.

5. Natural Solutions

White vinegar and baking soda can be used as natural alternatives for killing mold. They are effective and safe for most surfaces.

6. Dehumidifier Machines

While more expensive, dehumidifiers are effective for controlling humidity levels throughout larger areas or entire rooms.

7. Squeegee

Use a squeegee to remove excess water from bathroom surfaces after showers to prevent mold growth.

8. Screen Doors

Installing screen doors can help improve ventilation and airflow, reducing humidity levels indoors. You can purchase a magnetic screen door and easily install in your home.

9. Bedding Pad

Ensure bedding pads are kept dry and aired regularly to prevent mold and mildew buildup.

We, the staff, in cooperation with the share house residents aims to prevent mold growth during the wet season in Japan.

For single people living in Kobe, we recommend staying at a share house.

And if you’re a family, a couple, or even friends, we will serve you information about our monthly furnished apartment.

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