Does Real Silk Have a Smell? Understanding Silk Quality

How to Test for Real Silk: The Burn Test

If you want to be 100% certain your silk is real, there’s an old-school test for that: the burn test. This method has been used for years by professionals to determine if a fabric is genuine silk or a synthetic copy. But don’t worry—we’re not suggesting you torch your brand-new scarf. This test is more of a last resort if you have some spare threads to work with.

How to Do the Burn Test?

Grab a small thread: Find a tiny, unnoticeable piece of the silk, maybe from the inside hem or a spare bit of thread.

1. Light it carefully: Using a lighter or match, set the thread alight and observe what happens.
2. Watch the burn: Real silk will burn slowly and leave behind a fine ash that smells a bit like burnt hair. This is because silk is made of natural proteins, similar to our hair or nails. It will not melt or form a hard residue like synthetic fabrics do.
3. Check for the smell: When burning, real silk gives off a scent that’s quite similar to burning hair or feathers, a clear indication that you’re dealing with a natural fibre.

Just remember, don’t burn your entire scarf! This is meant to be a small, controlled test, typically done by professionals or if you’re absolutely unsure about the fabric’s authenticity.

What Makes High-Quality Silk?

So, you’ve established that your silk is real—but is it high-quality? Silk comes in different grades, and while all real silk has its charm, high-quality silk has certain characteristics you can easily identify.

Key Features of High-Quality Silk

• The Feel: Premium silk feels incredibly smooth and soft, almost like it's gliding over your skin. If it feels stiff, rough, or even plastic-like, it’s either a lower grade of silk or not silk at all.
• The Sheen: Real silk has a natural, subtle sheen that changes slightly depending on the light. High-quality silk will have a soft glow, while synthetic silks often appear overly shiny or look flat in the light.
• The Weight: The weight of the silk also matters. Heavier silks are usually higher quality because they have a tighter weave. Silk fabrics are often measured in "momme" (mm), with higher momme numbers indicating thicker, more luxurious silk.

Caring for Real Silk to Keep It Smelling Fresh

Even though silk has a faint natural smell, it’s important to care for it properly to maintain its fresh, clean feeling. Real silk is delicate, but with the right approach, you can keep it looking and feeling like new for years.

How to Care for Silk Scarves

1. Hand Wash Only: To keep your silk fresh and avoid damage, hand wash your scarf in cold water with a mild detergent made for delicates. Avoid using harsh chemicals, which can ruin the fibres and leave behind unwanted smells.
2. Air Dry: After washing, lay your silk scarf flat to dry in a shaded area. Never tumble dry silk—it’s far too delicate for that kind of rough treatment.
3. Store Carefully: Keep your silk scarves in a cool, dry place. Folding them neatly and storing them in breathable cotton bags will help them stay fresh. You can even add a sachet of lavender to your drawer to keep them smelling beautiful without introducing strong chemicals.

When to Worry: What Does Synthetic Silk Smell Like?

If you’ve bought a silk scarf and notice a strong chemical smell right out of the packaging, it could be a sign that the scarf isn’t made from real silk. Synthetic fibres like polyester can have a plasticky or chemical odour, especially if they’ve been treated during manufacturing. Always check for the smell and texture to confirm if your silk is authentic.

Final Thoughts: Trust Your Senses When It Comes to Real Silk

Real silk does indeed have a slight smell, but it’s faint, natural, and a sign of its authenticity. By learning to recognise these small details—like how the fabric feels, its subtle sheen, and its unique smell—you’ll become an expert at spotting real, high-quality silk in no time. And when in doubt, there’s always the burn test (or better yet, just buy from trusted suppliers!).

Taking good care of your silk will ensure it remains a key piece in your wardrobe, smelling fresh and feeling luxurious for years to come. For a complete guide to caring for your silk, check out our guide on caring for silk here.