Housing tips

🗑️ Garbage & Recycling Guide for International Residents in Iwakuni City

Welcome to Japan!Iwakuni City requires all residents to separate household waste carefully. Trash must be placed in Iwakuni’s official paid garbage bags and only on the correct collection day at the designated pickup spot.These rules may be very different from what you know in your country, so please read this carefully. ♻️ 1. Waste Categories in Iwakuni(1) Combustible Waste (Burnable...

What to Do When Your Kitchen Sink or Drain Is Clogged or Smells

If your kitchen sink drains slowly or you notice an unpleasant smell from the drain, here are some simple steps you can try before contacting the management company.Why Japanese Drains Behave Differently Than OverseasMany overseas homes—especially in the U.S.—use larger drainage pipes and stronger chemical cleaners.In Japan, pipes are often narrower, and some heavy-duty foreign cleaners can be too...

Effective Bathroom Ventilation in Japan

Proper bathroom ventilation helps prevent mold, mildew, and condensation—and it's especially important in Japanese homes, where humidity levels can be high. Here’s a clear, user-friendly guide to ventilating your bathroom effectively.1. Why Ventilate After Bathing?Warm, moist air from a hot bath or shower easily condenses on cooler surfaces such as walls, ceilings, or ventilation ducts. This...

How to Deal with Cockroaches in Japanese Housing

In Japan, finding the occasional cockroach or two in your house is often inevitable.  The hot and humid summers here create their ideal environment to thrive.Here are a few methods and suggestions as to prevent cockroach infestation, as well as what to do in the case you were to find any in your home.Tips for preventing cockroach infestation:1. Do not leave trash unattended. Cover any trash cans to...

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