While climate change keeps surprising us, and things weather-wise may seem uncertain, there is no doubt that it is better to prepare for any winter ahead than regret one’s recklessness during the cold days. While the majority of people would get cozy clothes and blankets, you might want to think ahead and get yourself a kotatsu! ‘What is the kotatsu?’ you may wonder, and what are you supposed to do with it? No worries, we’ve got you covered. Read along to find out more about this Japanese heated table and understand if kotatsu is actually worth it.
Kotatsu Table – What it Is and Where it Came From
Japan is very popular for many great things – from entertaining anime to magnificent cherry blossoms and Mount Fuji. And somewhere in between, there was a choice to keep oneself warm and yet save energy; that is how the kotatsu Japanese heated table was invented and became a part of everyday life for many people in this island country. This special table’s history dates back to the fourteenth century when it all started with the cooking hearth (japan. irori) and was mostly used for cooking and heating the household. At some point, a seating platform was added to the irori, and it was no longer a space for preparing a meal; a blanket on top helped to accumulate the heat of the charcoal burner. This improved irori had become hori-gotatsu, which was slightly changed in the seventeenth century and these days was finally transformed into a well-known ‘kotatsu’.
How Does Kotatsu Work?
Basically, a kotatsu is a space heater that keeps you and your guests warm due to the electric heaters built into the table. It contains the base and a tabletop and usually comes in separate forms when ordered online. There is a small heater under the base that pumps out toasty air accumulated under the blankets, which are advised to give the guests. Tablecloths can be used instead of blankets; though they may not be as effective, they might look more elegant.
Is Kotatsu Table Safe?
Although the risk of catching fire if left working for long seems to be reduced, there is still a possibility for the fire to break out. Therefore, it is best to carefully check the kotatsu Japanese table while purchasing and ensure the relevant parts are all present. On top of that, do be alert when the table is operating, and do not allow yourself to sleep while sitting under the blanket.
Knowing all the disadvantages it may be challenging to relax and enjoy such a purchase. Hence, if you feel uncertain about the kotatsu but badly want to keep yourself, your loved ones, or guests warm in the most energy-efficient way, Wingo heated tables would be a fantastic solution.
Are Kotatsu Worth It?
Numerous restaurants implemented kotatsu table sets in their venues, and thousands of people did the same in their homes. However, it is good to remember that dining requires using blankets or any other cover, which may spoil the overall view and might become dangerous at some point. Therefore, you may want to find something more presentable yet eco-friendly for your terrace, cafe, or restaurant. With that being said, the choice is yours – and you certainly deserve the warmest and most appealing energy-efficient heated table. So, which one would that be?