Kabitoru Day — Mold Removal Day

What Is Kabitoru Day?

December 16th is "Kabitoru Day" (Mold Removal Day) in Japan, established by household goods maker Liberta Co., Ltd. The date comes from a pun on "to (10) ru (6)," meaning "to remove." The anniversary is observed twice a year: June 16th, during the mold-prone rainy season, and December 16th, during year-end cleaning season.

Why Focus on "Year-End Cleaning Season"?

During year-end cleaning, people tend to focus on visible, easy-to-reach areas, while mold in hidden spots like the inside of a washing machine drum often goes unnoticed.

• An overlooked spot: the back of a washing machine drum is actually considered one of the dirtiest spots in the entire home
• What lets mold thrive: humidity, warmth, and nutrients like body oils and detergent residue all encourage mold growth
• Two seasonal reminders: the campaign runs twice a year — during the humid rainy season in June and the year-end cleaning season in December — to focus attention on mold prevention

The Message Liberta Wants to Share

The company makes household products including washing machine cleaners, and established this anniversary hoping people will pay attention not just to visible dirt, but to hidden mold as well.

Tips for Marking This Day

• Use a washing machine cleaner to clean the inside of your drum
• Check mold-prone spots like the bathroom and air conditioner
• While doing your year-end cleaning, tackle the spots you'd normally overlook
• Reconsider your ventilation and dehumidifying habits to help prevent mold

The Hidden Spots Deserve Real Attention at Year's End

Mold has a way of quietly spreading before you even notice it. Let December 16th, as the finishing touch on your year-end cleaning, be a chance to properly face the spots you usually overlook and welcome the new year with a truly fresh start.