Japanese secrets to a healthy home

Even if you can't see mold or mildew in your home, excess indoor moisture can trigger breathing issues and even damage furniture and clothing. The solution: time-honored strategies from one of the most humid and house-proud countries on Earth!

- by KATIE ALBERTS

PREVENT MILDEW with a mini machine

Japanese homes almost always have a standalone dehumidifier—or several mini versions throughout the house—to fight moisture. They're so popular, you'll find mini dehumidifiers shaped like cats, bunnies and other cute creatures. To get your own, check out Eva-Dry's selection of small cordless dehumidifiers (about $15) that will absorb 6 ounces of water at a time.

FRESHEN UP SMALL SPACES with charcoal

Since the 1600s, binchotan charcoal has been used to eliminate odors in Japanese homes, thanks to its microscopic cavities that absorb moisture. Azumi Uchitani, author of