While you may be searching for a “Kawada mattress,” the renowned Japanese company Kawada is not primarily a mattress manufacturer. Instead, Kawada is a world-leading producer of exceptionally high-quality down and feathers used in luxury bedding like duvets, pillows, and mattress toppers.
It’s a common point of confusion, as the Kawada name is synonymous with premium comfort in Japan. This guide will clarify what Kawada is famous for, what bedding products they are associated with, and what to look for when shopping for their high-end materials.
Who is Kawada and What Do They Make?
Kawada Feather Co., Ltd. (河田フェザー株式会社) is a prestigious Japanese company with a history dating back to 1891. They are not in the business of making innerspring or memory foam mattresses. Their global reputation is built on one thing: processing the finest, purest down and feathers in the world.
Their expertise lies in sourcing premium raw materials and using a meticulous, proprietary cleaning process to create down fillings that are unmatched in terms of cleanliness, loft, and insulating power.
What Makes Kawada Down So Special?
Products filled with Kawada down are considered luxury items because of the incredible quality of the filling. The key differences are:
- Premium Sourcing: Kawada sources its down from mature waterfowl raised in pristine environments. Mature down clusters are larger, stronger, and more resilient, leading to a longer-lasting and more comfortable product.
- Advanced Cleaning Process: The company uses ultra-pure, mountain-sourced water and unique, Japanese-developed machinery to wash the down. This process removes virtually all dust, dander, and impurities, making the down exceptionally clean, odorless, and hypoallergenic.
- High Fill Power: Kawada is known for producing down with a very high “fill power.” This is a measure of loft or “fluffiness.” High fill power down traps more air, providing superior insulation while being incredibly lightweight.
Can You Buy a “Kawada Mattress”? Exploring the Bedding Options
While you won’t find a traditional mattress with the Kawada brand name, you can find luxury bedding products that might be what you’re looking for.
Down Mattress Toppers & Featherbeds
This is the closest product to a “Kawada mattress.” A down mattress topper (or featherbed) is a thick, soft layer filled with down and/or feathers that you place on top of your existing mattress. It is designed to add a plush, luxurious layer of comfort and softness to your bed. High-end bedding brands often use Kawada’s materials for these products.
Duvets and Comforters (Kakebuton)
This is what Kawada is most famous for. Their premium down is the filling inside some of the world’s most luxurious and lightweight duvets. If you are looking for the ultimate sleeping experience associated with the Kawada name, a duvet is their signature product category.
Japanese Futons (Shikibuton)
While traditional Japanese futons are typically filled with cotton, some modern or luxury versions may incorporate other materials for comfort. It is conceivable to find a high-end futon that uses a layer of Kawada down, but this is less common.
How to Find Products with Kawada Down
When shopping for high-end bedding, you won’t be looking for the Kawada brand on the packaging. Instead, you’ll be looking for products from other luxury bedding manufacturers that specify they use Kawada down as a filling.
- Check the Product Label: Look for the “Kawada Feather” or “KWD” logo or a mention in the product description. This is your guarantee that the down inside has been processed by Kawada in Japan.
- Shop at High-End Retailers: Products with Kawada down are typically sold at luxury department stores (especially in Japan, like Isetan or Takashimaya) and specialized online bedding retailers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Kawada make memory foam or spring mattresses?
No. Kawada’s expertise is exclusively in natural down and feather fillings. They do not manufacture foam, latex, or innerspring mattresses.
Is Kawada bedding expensive?
Yes. Due to the exceptional quality of the raw materials and the intensive cleaning and processing, products filled with premium Kawada down are considered a luxury item and are priced accordingly.
How do I care for a Kawada down duvet or topper?
You should always follow the specific care instructions on the product’s label. Generally, premium down products should be protected with a cover, aired out regularly, and professionally cleaned when necessary.
What is ‘fill power’?
Fill power is a measure of the loft or “fluffiness” of down. A higher number (e.g., 700, 800, or 900+) means the down is of higher quality and can trap more air, providing better insulation with less weight. Kawada is famous for producing very high fill power down.
Conclusion
In summary, while you cannot buy a traditional “Kawada mattress,” you are likely searching for a luxury bedding product that offers the supreme comfort associated with the Kawada name. To find this, you should look for down mattress toppers, pillows, or duvets from high-end brands that proudly advertise the use of premium, Japanese-processed Kawada down as their filling.
