Some manufacturers of linen mats substitute viscose fiber for flax fiber to cut costs or compensate for insufficient production technology. As a result, certain products contain more than 70% synthetic fibers. These products can easily mislead consumers in the market due to their similar appearance. When purchasing, you can use the following four methods to determine the authenticity of a linen mat.

1. Visual Inspection

High-quality pure linen has a natural, clear texture with strong tensile strength and a soft, subtle sheen. In contrast, synthetic fibers tend to have an overly shiny and artificial look. Pay attention to the overall appearance—real linen often has a more organic feel compared to man-made alternatives.

2. Light Transmission Test

If you hold the fabric up to a light source, real linen may show small cloud-like patterns or even tiny bits of hemp particles. This is a natural characteristic of genuine flax fibers and is rarely found in synthetic materials.

3. Touch Test

Pure linen feels cool to the touch, has a slightly heavy weight, and may wrinkle easily when handled. It also offers a slight resistance when squeezed, giving it a firm yet comfortable grip. Synthetic fabrics, on the other hand, tend to feel smoother and less textured.

4. Burning Test

Take a small piece of the fabric and burn it. If it smells like burning paper and leaves behind fine, white ash, it’s likely made of real linen. However, if it emits a strong, chemical odor and forms hard, spherical ash, it's probably a synthetic fiber. This method is very effective but should be done carefully to avoid damage or fire hazards.

By using these simple techniques, you can better identify whether a linen mat is truly made from natural flax or contains a high percentage of synthetic materials. Always be cautious when buying online or in stores, and don’t rely solely on price or appearance. A little bit of knowledge can go a long way in ensuring you get a genuine product.