Here are three techniques to help your Shiki Futon last a lifetime:

1. Air out your futon. On a dry, sunny day, lay out your Shiki Futon outdoors. The Japanese say that the hours between 11am to 1pm are the best times for airing. Leaving the futon before or after those times may make your futon damp and would void the purpose of the routine. This allows the natural cotton fibers to breathe fresh air and helps keep the Shiki Futon fluffy and like-new. It's recommended that you air out your futon at least twice a year.

2. Flip your futon. Every other month, flip the Shiki Futon over on its other side. This is to prevent the cotton inside from flattening out and losing support.

3. Beat your futon. Have someone hold up the futon while you beat the futon with a long stick. This will help get all the dust out between the cotton fibers within. Another way is to hold up the futon and drop it several times to achieve nearly the same effect. Whatever works best for you!