NAVAL AIR FACILITY ATSUGI, Japan — As Japan approaches the hot, steamy rainy season, swarms of creepy-crawlies and slimy fungi begin their race to the closets, bathrooms and even teddy bears of homes across the nation.

Armed with a shelf full of repellent and tips for prevention, Yuji Ogura, intercultural relations coordinator and training technician at the Fleet and Family Support Center, is ready to help — and just in time.

“For Japanese people, this is the time to prepare,” he said.

Ogura has created a class geared for those living off base to combat all the icky things that thrive in closed, hot and humid spaces. He plans to talk about how traditional Japanese buildings are designed to reduce the problems from mold, mildew and the bugs that follow and how people in modern houses can cope.

The class will go to a Japanese store to learn about the products available to alleviate the problem.

Ogura said that in the past, Japanese houses were made to breathe, using paper walls, vents and woven tatami floors. Modern houses have begun incorporating more western — and often less breathable — materials, which makes taking precautions more important. Americans also tend to have large, heavy furniture, which is difficult to clean around and doesn’t “breathe,” he said.

Ogura also plans to discuss how to keep bugs out of homes. Insects eat mold and mildew, so reducing the fungus also cuts down on the critters, he said.

The class is scheduled for 1 to 3 p.m. May 31 in the FFSC classroom. Call DSN 264-3628 for more information.

Keeping out mildew

Prevention: To prevent mildew and mold in off-base housing, air out rooms as much as possible. Open windows and doors, as well as drawers and closets. After showering, keep a window open for at least an hour.

Make sure there is space around and under items in closets to let air circulate. Place items on a sunoko, or raised wooden platform, sold at many stores this time of year.

Make sure vents aren’t obstructed and clean under and behind furniture often.

Wipe tatami mats and allow to air dry well. Don’t cover mats with carpets, or remove carpet to allow them to air out periodically.

Cleaning up: Never vacuum mold or mildew. Doing so can disperse the spores. Use bleach or other products designed for killing mildew. Clean bathrooms and kitchens and other wet areas with such products. Don’t mix chemicals — many are dangerous when combined.

Wash and dry clothes well to remove mildew. If the item is delicate, bring it to Japanese dry cleaners, who are well-practiced in mildew removal.

— Juliana Gittler