Get ready to experience heartwarming tranquility! Mitsuru Hattori’s beloved manga, “Wash it All Away” (Kirei ni Shite Moraemasu ka), is officially getting an anime adaptation set to air in 2026. Fans of slice-of-life stories, prepare to be captivated by the serene world of Wakana Kinme and her unique laundry service in the charming seaside town of Atami.
A Fresh Spin: From Manga to Anime
The announcement has sparked excitement among manga and anime enthusiasts alike, especially those familiar with Hattori’s previous works, such as the zombie-comedy “Sankarea: Undying Love.” “Wash it All Away” presents a delightful departure from the supernatural, offering a more grounded and soothing narrative.
What’s the Story Behind “Wash it All Away”?
“Wash it All Away” centers around Wakana Kinme, a dedicated and skilled laundress who runs Kinme Cleaning in Atami, a picturesque resort town. For the past two years, Wakana has immersed herself in her work, earning the respect and admiration of the locals. She finds joy in making friends and exploring the town’s hot springs, building a fulfilling life.
However, Wakana’s life is shrouded in mystery. She has no memories of her past beyond the last two years. Despite this, she pours her heart into her cleaning services, believing that she is safeguarding the precious memories imbued within her customers’ belongings. Each chapter explores Wakana’s interactions with the residents of Atami, showcasing her exceptional work ethic and the deep satisfaction she derives from solving their laundry-related problems.
The manga is a gentle exploration of finding peace and happiness in the present, even when the past is uncertain. It delves into themes of community, memory, and the quiet beauty of everyday life.
Meet the Creative Minds Behind the Anime
The anime adaptation is being brought to life by a talented team:
- Director: Kenta Ōnishi (known for “The Hidden Dungeon Only I Can Enter”)
- Studio: Okuru to Noboru
- Script & Series Composition: Tōko Machida (“The Reincarnation of the Strongest Exorcist In Another World”)
- Character Design: Azuma Tozawa (sub-character designer for “Even Given the Worthless ‘Appraiser’ Class, I’m Actually the Strongest”)
- Voice Cast: Sayumi Suzushiro as Wakana Kinme
With Kenta Ōnishi’s direction, Tōko Machida’s writing, and Azuma Tozawa’s character designs, the anime promises to capture the essence of Hattori’s manga while adding its own unique flair.
Who is Mitsuru Hattori?
Mitsuru Hattori is a Japanese manga artist born on October 8, 1977. He graduated from the Yoyogi Animation Academy and debuted as a manga artist in 2000 with “Inu Neko Jump!”. He is best known for his works “Kenko Zenrakei Suieibu Umisho” and “Sankarea: Undying Love,” both of which were adapted into anime television series.
Hattori’s works often blend humor, heartwarming moments, and unique premises. His art style is characterized by clean lines and expressive characters, making his stories visually appealing and emotionally engaging.
Other Notable Works by Mitsuru Hattori
- Inu Neko Jump!: Hattori’s debut work, a romantic comedy about a boy and a girl.
- Otogi no Machi no Rena (Rena in the Strange Town): A series serialized in Uppers.
- Concerto: A collection of short stories serialized in Young Animal.
- Kenko Zenrakei Suieibu Umisho (Kenkō Zenrakei Suieibu Umishō): A comedy series about a group of high school students in a nudist swimming club.
- Love Fool: A one-shot manga published in Tsubomi volume 1.
- Sankarea: Undying Love (Sankarea): A zombie-themed romantic comedy that gained significant popularity and was adapted into an anime.
- Imperfect Girl: Hattori provided the art for the manga adaptation of NisiOisin’s novel.
- Kaiju-iro no Shima (Monster-Colored Island): A manga series about a mysterious island.
“Wash it All Away”: A Departure and a Return to Form
While “Wash it All Away” might seem like a stark contrast to Hattori’s earlier zombie-filled romantic comedy, “Sankarea,” both series share a common thread: a heartfelt exploration of yearning and the search for peace. In “Sankarea,” the character Rea sought solace by escaping her family through becoming undead. In “Wash it All Away,” Wakana finds fulfillment in her laundry business, dedicating herself to her craft despite her amnesia.
Rebecca Silverman of Anime News Network notes that both young women share a similar outlook: the need to find happiness in the best way possible. This theme resonates throughout “Wash it All Away,” making it more than just a relaxing slice-of-life story.
Slice-of-Life: A Genre That Cleanses the Soul
“Wash it All Away” falls firmly into the slice-of-life genre, a category that has seen a surge in popularity in recent years. These stories focus on the beauty and tranquility of everyday experiences, offering a comforting escape from the chaos of modern life.
The manga’s premise lends itself perfectly to the genre. Wakana’s laundry service provides a natural framework for interacting with the diverse residents of Atami, each encounter offering a glimpse into their lives and the memories attached to their cherished belongings. Hattori’s detailed depiction of the laundry process, from stain removal to delicate fabric care, adds a layer of appreciation for the often-overlooked art of cleaning.
What to Expect from the Anime Adaptation
While details about the anime adaptation are still emerging, fans can anticipate a faithful and visually stunning representation of Hattori’s manga. The anime will likely highlight the following:
- The Serene Atmosphere of Atami: The anime will capture the beauty of the seaside resort town, with its scenic landscapes, charming streets, and inviting hot springs.
- Wakana’s Dedication to her Craft: The anime will showcase Wakana’s meticulous approach to laundry, highlighting her skills and the care she puts into each item she cleans.
- Heartwarming Interactions with the Locals: The anime will explore Wakana’s relationships with the residents of Atami, each episode featuring new characters and their unique stories.
- The Mystery of Wakana’s Past: The anime will subtly hint at the mystery surrounding Wakana’s lost memories, leaving viewers intrigued and eager to learn more about her past.
Anticipation Builds for 2026
As the premiere date draws closer, anticipation is building for the “Wash it All Away” anime adaptation. Fans of Mitsuru Hattori, slice-of-life stories, and heartwarming tales of community will undoubtedly find something to love in this upcoming series.
Prepare to immerse yourself in the tranquil world of Kinme Cleaning and experience the soothing power of a well-done load of laundry. “Wash it All Away” is set to be a refreshing and uplifting addition to the anime landscape in 2026.
