Comfort and Style: Japanese Bedroom Slippers
Whether you reside in Japan or simply prefer a home where people don't wear shoes, wearing slippers inside the home is a great way to keep your space clean without sacrificing your comfort. Furthermore, Japanese bedroom slippers come in a variety of designs, allowing you to find a pair that fits your style. Use our guide to learn more about Japanese bedroom slippers, from the history to the materials.
A Brief History of Japanese Bedroom Slippers
Japanese bedroom slippers first appeared at the beginning of the Meiji era. During this time, Japan opened its country to outside visitors. Unfortunately, those visitors would wear their shoes inside homes and hotel rooms. The slipper was invented to prevent dirt and damage to the flooring while providing comfort for those who did not wish to walk around in socks. Additionally, bedroom slippers became a way to welcome those from other backgrounds.
The Unique Design and Materials of Japanese Slippers
Some Japanese slippers feature a low-back or backless design to easily slip them on and off. Others feature a bootie design to keep your feet warm during winter. The materials used depend on the design of the slipper. Slippers with low or no back may be made of cotton, polyester, EVA, and polyurethane, or just cotton and linen. Booties may be made with wool and polyester with Sasawashi fabric lining. Some slippers are made by experienced craftspeople who take the time to design, cut, and sew the products out of high-quality materials.
Why Japanese Bedroom Slippers Are Perfect for Everyday Wear
Japanese bedroom slippers are perfect for daily wear because they prevent dirt, debris, and damage to the floors. The slippers are soft and breathable to keep you comfortable throughout the day. Slippers designed for colder months are made of lining or insulation for warmth. Slippers also prevent slips and falls, which can occur when wearing only socks. Some slippers are durable enough to wear both inside and outside the home, but it's best to check the care instructions before wearing them outside.
The Role of Slippers in Japanese Culture and Home Life
As a host, it’s customary to provide slippers for your guests. You also want to provide separate toilet slippers, as guests must leave the other slippers outside the washroom. As a guest, you must remove your shoes before entering the home. You should also bring a pair of socks, as it's considered impolite to enter someone's home barefoot unless it's an informal occasion. Use the separate toilet slippers when entering the washroom, and put your bedroom slippers back on afterward. The same rules apply to household members as well. Slippers should not be worn inside rooms with tatami flooring.
Choosing the Right Japanese Slippers for Your Style and Needs
If you're living outside Japan, start by checking our slipper size chart. For instance, Japanese sizing is different from sizing in the United States. Next, consider when you'll be wearing your slippers. If you're preparing for winter, you want a pair that's insulated or lined to keep your feet warm. For summer, you need a breathable, lightweight pair to prevent sweating. As for design, we provide bedroom slippers in various colors and styles to help you choose a pair that looks and feels great.
Caring for Your Japanese Bedroom Slippers
It's essential to check the care instructions for your Japanese bedroom slippers. Most of our slippers are made of a soft sole, so they're not appropriate for outdoors or rough surfaces. While most of our slippers are machine washable, there are certain rules to follow for different pairs. For instance, our booties should be washed separately to prevent possible color loss from damaging other clothing. You want to use a neutral detergent and avoid chlorine bleach. Finally, the booties should be shaped by hand and air-dried in the shade after washing.
Experience Comfort and Elegance with Rikumo's Japanese Slipper Collection
Japanese slippers are perfect for keeping your home clean and healthy while staying comfortable. We are pleased to offer soft, stylish slippers for everyday wear. Be sure to check out our Japanese life store to find our collection of comfortable, elegant bedroom slippers.