The 8 Best Kotatsu Tables
This wiki has been updated 21 times since it was first published in May of 2020. The low-lying Kotatsu table is ingrained in Japanese culture. During summer, it sits atop a tatami mat with an air of oriental minimalism, while in colder periods a thick blanket is slotted between the worktop and the frame to trap the warmth that's generated from an integrated heater. They're a great place to gather for meals or board games, as well as being an inexpensive heating solution. When users buy our independently chosen editorial choices, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.
1. Yamazen ESK-751
2. Azumaya Japan Folding
3. LZG Blue Jacquard
Editor's Notes
October 06, 2020:
Kotatsu tables are a great way to keep your lower body warm during cold periods, however, there are a few things to note before purchasing and using your own heated table. Firstly, it is not recommended to sleep under the Kotatsu table. This is owing to the fact that during sleep we often experience unconscious movement, which may result in body parts touching the heater, or the blanket getting caught up in the heating elements. There is also a risk of dehydration and overheating. For the same reasons, children and pets should not be left unattended around the Kotatsu table. It is not recommended to dry clothes, or cook on the table, nor should you leave the table switched on when you leave the house. With the exception of the MustMat Kotatsu, all of the items on our list use 100 or 220 volts, so you will likely need a voltage converter to use them in the USA.
You'll notice that most of the items on our list are sold without the accompanying quilt or floor mat. If you wish to create your own Japanese-style setup in your home, you can combine the Kotatsu table with a quilt of your choosing and a beautiful tatami mat to establish an arrangement that suits your decor. In this category, the Yamazen ESK-751 caught our eye due to its sturdiness and reasonable price. It features a reversible tabletop, so you can switch between light or dark gray depending on the season or the blanket you choose. If you only intend to use your table occasionally, the Azumaya Japan Folding is an excellent option as the legs conveniently collapse for storage. Similarly, the supports of the Azumaya Corona-120 can also be folded away when not in use. This one is also worth a look if you intend to host four people at your table.
If you'd prefer to purchase a complete set, the Tables Coffee Kotatsu and the LZG Blue Jacquard are decent options. Both sport polyester blankets, include mats with non-slip bases to help prevent them from sliding around on hardwood flooring or carpet, and their wooden tables feature heating units with protective guards. However, the former is considerably more expensive than the latter.
Special Honors
Oriental Furniture Tatami Chair If you're not sure that sitting on the floor is for you, a legless chair might be the answer. The cushioned seat comforts your derriere, while the padded backrest provides support. This selection is has a black wooden frame, which folds in half for convenient storage. target.com
4. Azumaya KT
5. Azumaya Corona-120
6. Tables Coffee Kotatsu
7. MustMat Kotatsu
8. Yamazen HFL-754H
Building PCs, remodeling, and cooking since he was young, quasi-renowned trumpeter Christopher Thomas traveled the USA performing at and organizing shows from an early age. His work experiences led him to open a catering company, eventually becoming a sous chef in several fine LA restaurants. He enjoys all sorts of barely necessary gadgets, specialty computing, cutting-edge video games, and modern social policy. He has given talks on debunking pseudoscience, the Dunning-Kruger effect, culinary technique, and traveling. After two decades of product and market research, Chris has a keen sense of what people want to know and how to explain it clearly. He delights in parsing complex subjects for anyone who will listen -- because teaching is the best way to ensure that you understand things yourself.