Editorial policy

Editorial policy

Kako US buys reviewed products at retail with the desk’s own funds and does not accept free samples, payment for reviews or sponsored review content. Editors assess Japanese homeware and kitchen goods against the relevant hands-on tests and supporting research.

Every rating uses the full five-point scale and explains the material, use conditions and evidence behind it. The research editor checks sourcing and material claims; manufacturer care and heating instructions remain distinct from test observations. Affiliate links are disclosed and do not determine the result.

Factual errors and score changes receive a dated explanation on the affected article. A changed product or new test is identified as an update or retest rather than silently replacing the original result.