Futon

Like most folks in Japan, this household has hung their futon out to bask in the sun. For those who dont know what a futon is, the best description I can give it is "Japanese Mattress" ^^;

The futon is usually hung over a balcony to absorb the suns rays for many reasons - killing of fleas, maintaining original shape, getting rid of sweaty smells or to dry any other liquids/solids discharged from your body.

When the sun has gone in, the futon is usually beaten with what looks like a flat bat - you can see the woman in the video below about to beat the futon to get rid of the dust. The announcer says its bad for the futon though ^^;

I used to have a futon back in the UK too - personally felt more comfortable sleeping in the floor. Do you sleep on a futon?
Below: How to maintain a futon.