3 Simple Steps to Maintain the Natural Aroma and Beauty of Hinoki Wood
Yet, like all things natural and beautiful, Hinoki requires care. With simple and mindful maintenance, its aroma and aesthetic can last for decades preserving not only its appearance but also the sense of calm it brings to your home or wellness space.
Here are three simple steps to maintain the natural aroma and beauty of your Hinoki wood products.
Step 1: Gentle Cleaning — Keep It Pure and Breathable
Hinoki wood is naturally resistant to mold, mildew, and bacteria thanks to its essential oils. However, regular cleaning helps maintain its purity and sheen without stripping away its natural oils.
How to do it :
- Use a soft cloth or sponge dampened with lukewarm water.
- Avoid harsh chemicals or synthetic detergents instead, use mild, natural soap if needed.
- Wipe gently following the wood grain to lift any dirt or residue.
- Dry the surface with a clean, soft towel to prevent excess moisture.
Why it matters :
Hinoki’s surface needs to “breathe.” Overuse of cleaners or moisture can seal its pores, dulling the aroma and finish. Keeping it simple and gentle helps the wood retain its natural oils the source of its fragrance and smooth texture.
Step 2: Refresh the Aroma — Awaken the Spirit of Hinoki
Over time, especially with frequent use in saunas or humid areas, the aroma of Hinoki wood may fade slightly. But its essence never truly disappears — it can be revived easily with a bit of care.
How to do it :
- Lightly sand the surface using fine-grit sandpaper (400–600 grit) to expose fresh layers of wood.
- After sanding, gently wipe with a dry or slightly damp cloth to remove dust.
- Allow it to air dry in a shaded, well-ventilated space.
Alternative methods :
If you prefer not to sand, you can wipe the wood with warm water or place it briefly in a steamy environment (like during a sauna session). The heat and moisture help activate Hinoki’s essential oils, releasing that familiar calming aroma.
Why it matters :
This refreshing process reawakens the wood’s natural oils, restoring its bright scent and renewing your sensory experience every time you step into your Hinoki sauna or use your bath.
Step 3: Proper Airflow and Light — Preserve Its Natural Glow
Hinoki thrives in natural environments — just as it grows under sunlight and wind, it also needs good air circulation when used indoors.
How to do it:
- Place your Hinoki wood furniture, bathtub, or sauna in a well-ventilated area to allow natural airflow.
- Avoid prolonged direct sunlight, which can cause discoloration.
- Keep the humidity balanced — not too dry and not overly damp.
For outdoor or semi-outdoor use (like saunas and bathtubs), ensure regular drying periods to let the wood breathe after exposure to water or steam.
Why it matters:
Proper ventilation and moderate light prevent mold growth, warping, and uneven color changes. This balance helps Hinoki age gracefully, developing a warm, honey-like tone over time — a patina that tells the story of its use and care.
With these three simple steps gentle cleaning, aroma refreshing, and mindful airflow you can preserve the timeless elegance and calming fragrance of Hinoki for years to come.
Let your Hinoki wood remind you that natural beauty thrives best when nurtured with respect and calm.