Nakata Shichibei Shoten's kaya-ori dishcloths are perfect for daily kitchen tasks such as wiping dishes and countertops.
At Craft Cafe, we carry both the large, thin "Hana Fukin" (flower dishcloth) and the moderately thick "Kaya-ori Fukin" (mosquito net weave dishcloth) that fits comfortably in your hand.
Although both are made from kaya-ori fabric, they differ in size, number of layers, and optimal use cases.
Compare their features and find the perfect one for your lifestyle.
What is "Kaya-ori"?
Kaya-ori is a loosely woven, thin fabric originally used for mosquito nets.
Its coarse weave allows air to pass through easily, making it quick to dry after washing. It absorbs water well and can be used comfortably for daily kitchen tasks.
While it may feel a bit stiff at first, with repeated washing and use, it will soften into a fluffy, gentle texture.
3 delightful features for everyday use
◾️ Dries quickly
The coarse weave allows air to circulate,
making it dry quickly after washing.
◾️ Highly absorbent
Quickly absorbs water from dishes
and countertops.
◾️ Softer with each wash
With continued use,
it develops a soft, familiar texture.
The charm of kaya-ori dishcloths lies in their quick-drying nature, absorbency, and the way they soften with use.
Because they are washed and used repeatedly every day, you can appreciate their ease of handling and the pleasant sensation of them gradually conforming to your hand.
"Kaya-ori Fukin" vs. "Hana Fukin"
The Kaya-ori Fukin is a comfortable-to-hold size of approximately 40x30cm, made with 5 layers of kaya-ori.
The Hana Fukin is a large size of approximately 58x58cm, crafted with two thin layers of kaya-ori.
There are differences not only in size but also in thickness and how they feel in your hand.
*Sizes and specifications may vary by product. Please check each product page for details.
The "Kaya-ori Fukin" that fits in your hand
The Kaya-ori Fukin is a comfortable 40x30cm size, made with 5 layers of kaya-ori.
When folded, it fits easily in your hand, and its moderate thickness makes it easy to use when wiping countertops or tables.
Another appeal is the wide variety of designs available, from plain to fun motifs featuring animals and picture books.
Large and thin "Hana Fukin"
The Hana Fukin is a large dishcloth, approximately 58x58cm, yet it's thin due to being made with two layers.
It's easy to wipe large plates and pots by wrapping them, and you can change how you use it – spreading it out, folding it, or wrapping things – depending on the purpose.
Beyond wiping dishes, it's useful for a wide range of kitchen tasks, such as draining vegetables and tofu, straining dashi, and wrapping bento boxes.
Which one to choose?
If you prioritize a size that fits comfortably in your hand and a moderate thickness for wiping, the Kaya-ori Fukin is recommended.
If you prioritize versatility and a large size, the Hana Fukin is recommended.
Both can be used for various purposes such as wiping dishes and countertops. Please choose according to the size, thickness, and your preferred usability.
Regarding the use of bleach
The type of bleach and whether it can be used varies depending on the product specifications, such as color, pattern, and print.
When cleaning, please be sure to check the precautions on each product page and the care instructions included with the product.
Care instructions
【Care before first use】
New Hana Fukin has starch applied.
Before use, rinse it in lukewarm water to remove the starch.
With use, it will become softer and fluffier, and its absorbency will also improve.
【Care for stubborn stains】
For stains that are difficult to remove with regular washing, boiling disinfection is recommended.
Add a small amount of salt and vinegar to water, bring to a boil, then add the dishcloth and boil for about 5 minutes.
◼️ Kaya-ori Fukin
【3 colors】Nakagawa Masashichi Shoten Greeting Kaya-ori Dishcloth 100% Cotton 40x30cm [1401-0449]
550 yen